Friday, July 2, 2010

Kerala Hotels, Luxury Hotels,Budget Accommodation,Homestays

KERALA

Kerala is a small strip of scenic land situated at the Southwestern tip of India. “God’s own country” as it is lovingly called is one of the most toured places in the world.. If you are a fact-finder, then it would interest you to know that National Geographic Traveler recommends it as one of the 50 destinations of a lifetime and one of the thirteen paradises in the world. Facts and credits aside, I totally root for the warm fuzzy feeling it gives me each time.

A tourist visiting Kerala is welcomed by a bouquet of surprises - salubrious climate, stretches of greenery , lot of rustic beauty, quiet backwaters, misty hill stations, beaches, wildlife., traditional art forms, vibrant festivals, unique cuisines, Ayurveda and a versatile shopping experience. Kerala has a lot of hidden treasures embedded across its length and breadth . I have handpicked some of my favorite destinations and detailed about the nuances that set it apart from the rest, yet intricately connect them all together through a thread of wistfulness. Join me in this journey of discovery….

Five Things not to miss when you are in Kerala

Crunchy banana chips – Raw or ripe bananas diced and fried in oil is a popular snack. It can get a little addictive though. You put one into your mouth and you would need a handful.  Goes best with hot tea

Thattu kadas – Traditional tea shops where the simple village folks gather, drink tea, read newspapers and  talk. Everything ranging from international politics to local gossip is dissected and analysed at length. Steamed cake (puttu) and Kadala (black gram) is the mostly ordered breakfast.  They also serve hot , spicy or sweet evening snacks.

Kathakali –  This  traditional dance of Kerala is definitely a unique experience. Elaborate costumes complete with head gear and  vibrant colours are sure  to fascinate tourists. The dancers enact different stories on stage and communicate through facial gestures. That said, this is no everyone’s cup of tea. Ayurveda – Do not miss a chance to get an Ayurvedic session while you are at Kerala. It is rejuvenating, relaxing and revives your senses. Wrap off your holiday at one of the many Ayurvedic Resorts here.

Sadya – What is a trip to Kerala without sampling its cuisine  . The Sadya is traditional vegetarian meals served on a Plantain leaf. There are a host of  side dishes and the Sadya is often wrapped off with Payasam, a sweet dish.

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