A Sleepy Place Called Cochin
Traditional Chinese fishing nets being hauled for demonstration.
Cochin, India Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Situated on beach-side, Kochi is a bustling commercial port with a trading history that dates back to at least 600 years, and is till today the financial capital of Kerala. This cosmopolitan town has upmarket stores, art galleries and some of the finest heritage accommodations. Cochin is India's exotic landscape that draws global attention.
Culture, history, landscapes blend together in Cochin and it houses everything from numerous beautiful temples to holy mosques and ancient churches. Some of the must-visit religious sites in the city include: Santa Cruz Basilican: Counted amongst the oldest churches in Kerala, Santa Cruz Basilican is the Cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin.
No trip to Cochin is complete without a visit to Kerala. Named as one of the ten paradises of the world by National Geographic Traveler, Kerala is famous especially for its ecotourism initiatives and beautiful backwaters. Its unique culture and traditions, coupled with its varied demography, have made Kerala one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Our outing was timed so we can have lunch in Kerala. The backwater regions of Kerala are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The scenic backwaters of Kerala comprise a serene stretch of lakes, canals and lagoons located parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea. The boathouse accommodations are stunning. The service are impeccable with white gloved.
Our boat tour brought us face to face with egrets, sunlight filtering through palm fronds. Men are throwing fishing nets similar to what I've seen in Colombo and Hongkong. Its amazing what you can see in this backwater.
Tea are welcome drinks The boat offers a luxury -rustic feel with thatched roof and a shower. As I tucked into and trademark chicken curry I caught Bert staring at the vast water. We have hot water, a toilet, a generator. The very best feature is the view gliding past our porch. Fish jump, birds flutter and take flights through palm trees rising from the mist.
The rippling water reflects the sky. There was a sense of timelessness, of deep serenity settling around us. At this moment, I begin to grasp what living here must feel like. The tranquil backwater cruises are a once in a lifetime experience. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer make the experience even more enjoyable.
The serene atmosphere, the stunning beauty of nature and the tranquil waters are a great combination. It gives you a calm ambience which helps you to forget every worry of the life!
