Patricia and her family run two guest houses in Pondicherry. The first is Patricia Colonial Heritage Guesthouse. The second, smaller property, is just around the corner and is called Patricia Guest House III. Both are expertly run by energetic, friendly and vivacious Patricia and her sons.

My wife and I spent three nights at the latter guest house and were enchanted. In this world of five, six and seven star international hotels, luxury can be easily found. What is much more elusive, however, are opportunities to stay in places which have real character, which are linked to the identity and history of the place you are visiting. In both of these guesthouses, the family is passionate about preserving French architectural and colonial history and showcasing Tamil and Hindu culture.

Both houses are veritable Hindu/Tamil art galleries--every room features colorful, eclectic and beautiful sculptures, bronzes, tapestries and all manner of antique furniture. My wife... more