In Kerala we spent our first day cruising the backwaters of Alleppey in a houseboat. A popular tourist activity, the houseboats lumber in great clusters past peaceful fishing and farming villages. We enjoyed eating and lounging on the boat but our sleeping arrangements weren't quite up to snuff. I would suggest that if anyone wishes to experience a Kerala houseboat for themselves to skip the overnight trip and just go for a day cruise. Spend your night in a nice hotel you'll be happier in the morning. After the houseboat we spent a few days in Cochin seeing the sights and relaxing in a body rejuvenating hotel. Everyone appreciated retiring to the Ramada after long hot days to lounge by the pool and pamper our stressed out nerves. Comforted by the serenity of the hotel grounds my Dad and I were able to face shopping excursions that would have normally left us dead in the gutters. Megan and my mother are equipped with a special battery designed for foreign markets and they never seemed fazed by the dogged techniques of street vendors. It was a good trip for all: some relaxation for the guys and non-stop shopping punctuated by cultural novelties for the girls. I am glad we had this time with my folks and we are now anticipating the trip we have planned with Megan's parents.
Bo
(photos by Megan)