We visited Kerala as a family for a three week break over the New Year celebrations.
Having travelled before but only to European destinations, this holiday was going to be a completely new experience for us.
We arrived in Trivandrum just as dawn was breaking, and as we left the cool interior of the air-conditioned airport terminal, our first impressions of Kerala were incredible.
Even in my wildest imagination, I could not have guessed how it would be.
The heat and the noise, the colours and the smiling people - so many of them, and as we exited the airport, an elephant walking up the main road on her way to work in the fields!
The local people call their region ‘God’s Own Country’, and since we have been there, we understand why. It truly is the most amazing, green and beautiful place that I have ever seen. The people are happy, kind and helpful, and have a remarkable grace and serenity.
We travelled widely throughout the region, experiencing opulent and luxurious hotels in beautiful exotic surroundings. The food we ate was delicious – local fresh and spicy, prepared to an exceptional standard. We were treated like royalty where ever we went, by discreet, charming and unobtrusive staff who appeared genuinely delighted that we were visitors in their beautiful country.
The beaches were fantastic. White sand and warm blue sea, fringed with coconut palms – a paradise!!
The backwaters were tranquil and restful, with spectacular sunsets every night.
The towns were busy and noisy, full of colour and so many people- the most fascinating places with every kind of industry, markets, churches and vehicles.
We loved all of it!!
We had the most wonderful holiday. It was restful and relaxing as well as interesting and cultural. We saw amazing and fascinating things every day - from rubber plantations to temples, modern water parks to elephant sanctuaries.
The price for all of this you may think would be extortionate – but not so!
Our 3 weeks in India experiencing 5 star luxury throughout Kerala cost substantially less than I could believe. It was an experience that we will never forget and we can’t wait to go back again.
