Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa

"This former Portuguese colony south of Mumbai on the Arabian Sea coast provided the British designer Simeon Halstead with a wealth of architectural motifs: canals crossed by stepped bridges, Baroque churches and fountains, a lively central plaza—all of which come into play, reinterpreted with a sense of whimsy and, above all, drama. The 251-room resort looks even better at night, thanks to theatrical lighting by Babu Shankar. Another integral part of the hotel’s charm is the unusual array of activities: reputedly the largest swimming pool in India, an adorable chocolate box of a theater presenting international art films and live shows, a cooking school, and an Ayurvedic spa. The food is superb in all five eateries, including a signature Goan restaurant, an Italian trattoria, and a California-style grill. Oh, yes, and the beach is flawless."