Located a few kms from the Kovalam airport is 'The Leela' which is a luxury hotel. The hotel provides airport pick up and drop facilities. It is situated on a rocky mountain over looking the sea. It has facilities like 3 swimming pools, 2 restaurants, a private beach and a spa. The private beach is extremely beautiful. Sunset lovers would not want to miss the changing colors of the sky visible from there. There are cottages with a garden view, as well as sea view. The restaurant serves various high quality delicacies. I got an opportunity to stay there for 6 days in August 2012. I stayed in the garden view cottage. The rooms are neat and clean. The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. Special ‘buggies’ are used to transport guests from one part of the resort to the other. Not very far from the city, it is easy to go around and explore. The best part of the hotel is the bar, which is located over looking the sea and beautifully arranged. When at the Leela, one has to visit the spa and get the extremely relaxing massages done. Depending on the guests’ requirements, the massages are booked. On some days there is live music at the restaurant facing the sea. The swimming pools are clean and the view of the sea is breath taking. Grand property and pure bliss. Lastly, I ll let the pictures do the talking. One thing- if you are looking for sheer brilliance in service and luxury, Leela Kovalam is the perfect place to go.