We had a lot of fun in Varkala. The Taj lived up to our expectations. It is surrounded by palm trees, with a nice pool area and a spectacular cliff beach close by. The guests were mostly from Europe, and the food was adjusted to the expectations of the "Westerners" ("not too spicy"). It is a truly spectacular place, and if you check out local places along the cliff, you can get the real Indian food and flair as well.