A Photo Essay: Kerala- God’s Own Country
Having visited the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) a few years ago, I was so struck by India that I was determined to go back. I specifically wanted to visit South India- Kerala in particular. I had heard beautiful things about it. I like busy cities, but I also like to chill, so I made sure that we had a bit of both during our trip.
We flew into Cochin and spent a few nights there, at Taj Malabar, which is an absolutely stunning hotel- right on the harbour. We also went to Kumarakom, a small town situated right on the backwaters, and stayed at a less than fabulous hotel called Zuri. We planned the trip quite late and literally every resort in Kumarakom was booked out, so we were forced to book presidential pool villas at Zuri. We had our own private pool and lawn with a view of the backwaters which was nice, but given the price we paid, I felt that we didn’t get our money’s worth as the room and service were shoddy.
Nevertheless, we had a magical time relaxing at the resort in Kumarakom, and exploring Cochin. There’s not too much to say because the real appeal of these places is the culture and beauty of the surroundings, so I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.
We had a great time learning to cook traditional Kerala style food at chef Nimmy Paul’s house. She also provided insight into the Kerala way of living, so it was a great way to spend an afternoon. This is her famous spicy prawn.
In Kerala, one of the must do attractions is to spend a night on a houseboat. I wasn’t too keen on this because, well, what do you do in a houseboat for 24 hours? We opted to go on a sunset cruise instead, which allowed us to see the beautiful scenery in just 2 hours. All that was missing was a Savanna Light 
The unspoilt, lush scenery made for great sunset pics.
Other Kerala highlights included celebrating my birthday on 30 December, plus NYE in Cochin. I’m usually in JHB during my birthday and it’s always such a fail because all my friends are away plus all Jozi’s best restaurants are closed. It was really nice to be on holiday. 
I hadn”t spent NYE with my mother in over a decade, so it was special to do that this year. It’s been a trying year for her and even though the trip brought back some sad memories of my dad, I’m glad to have spent quality time with her. Taj Malabar hosted a banquet dinner on NYE which was great fun. We got there at around 8pm but started feeling sleepy by 10:30pm, so went up to our rooms to have a power nap, before waking up just before the countdown. Whatevs, NYE is overrated anyway
If, like me, you’ve visited more popular areas of India already (like Mumbai and Delhi), I’d absolutely recommend that you experience Kerala. If you have time on your hands and don’t mind driving, consider trekking up to Munnar, where you can visit stunning tea plantations. Kerala offers a very different experience of India, and it exposes a completely unique aspect of this splendid country. You need to go with an open mind and accepting heart, and then you’ll have the time of your life.
x
H
Feb 10, 2014 @ 18:03:11
I’d also highly recommend a trip to the spice plantations (they usually include info on tea-making, a good overview of what grows in the area and some yummy food)
Feb 11, 2014 @ 10:31:58
“You need to go with an open mind and accepting heart, and then you’ll have the time of your life” I try to keep this in mind when I travel as well and it really makes all the difference as well as enjoying the time with the special people you are with. My sister and hubby and a few friends went on holiday in India ( it felt like they were there for ages) but they did the north and south and she loved the South.
Glad you got a special birthday and spent some time with your mum
Mar 27, 2014 @ 08:01:09
We share both a love of Kerala and a birthday! I famously hate my birthday and am determined to be nowhere near South Africa and the inevitable disappointment of an empty city this year. I want to be on a beach somewhere in Asia, coconut water in one hand and perhaps a holiday fling in the other.
Mar 27, 2014 @ 08:02:25
Haha- I know, an after Christmas December birthday sucks. It’s also tough to travel because things are double the price, but I think you have a pretty awesome plan for this year
Apr 10, 2014 @ 03:23:35
Seems like we were in India around the same time. I was in Kerela on a house boat around Christmas. My love asked for my hand in marriage on the boat. The setting could not have been more perfect. I explored Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Cochin and Kerela on this trip. India gives you an amazing sense of belief and gratitude. I will definitely visit again!
Apr 10, 2014 @ 03:34:15
Hey Chantal, wow, congrats! Those are all special places and yes, agree, india is a holiday like no other