Pondicherry&rsquos French Quarter now has another plush hotel The Richmond from the Residency Group of Hotels. Set in a heritage building, the hotel heightens the colonial feel of the town, which is already made charming by its French history and tree-lined boulevards. At variance with its bright yellow exterior though, it has 14 air-conditioned rooms done up in a spare, modern style. It enjoys a happy location &mdash it&rsquos close to the Aurobindo Ashram as well as the beach. Contact 0413-2346363, www.theresidency.com