Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

Coastal Charms and Bioluminescent Dreams

Today was a day of exploration and simple pleasures, a gentle reminder of why we embarked on this Kerala adventure in the first place. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, Lena, Sophia, and I sought to immerse ourselves in a world that moves at a different pace, a world where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly. Today, we ventured into the heart of that world, and it did not disappoint.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Cheenavala Restaurant. The aroma of spices hung heavy in the air, a fragrant promise of the culinary delights to come. I opted for a traditional Kerala breakfast, eager to fuel up for the day's adventures. Sophia, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by trying (and enjoying!) a small portion of fish curry. Lena stuck to her usual idli and sambar, a classic South Indian staple.


Discover the authentic taste of Kerala at Cheenavala Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

After breakfast, our first stop was Kumbalangi Kavaru Spot. I had read so much about the bioluminescent waters, a phenomenon I was eager to witness. As we arrived, the sun was already high, casting a golden glow over the tranquil backwaters. Unfortunately, December isn't the prime time to witness the bioluminescence. While we didn't see the water sparkle with light, the serene beauty of the surroundings was captivating enough. We took a leisurely boat ride, gliding through the calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery. Sophia was particularly thrilled, pointing out the various birds and fish we encountered along the way.


Experience the tranquil beauty and rich culture of Kumbalangi Kavaru Spot, a hidden gem in the backwaters of Kerala, ideal for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The experience at Kumbalangi Kavaru Spot was a gentle reminder that travel isn't always about ticking off must-see attractions or chasing after Instagram-worthy moments. Sometimes, it's about embracing the unexpected, finding beauty in the ordinary, and simply being present in the moment. As we floated along the backwaters, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, a feeling of connection to nature and to each other.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

For lunch, we headed to Kebab Ki Dukaan at the Club Mahindra Cherai Beach Resort. The resort itself looked inviting, nestled between the Arabian Sea and the backwaters. The food was delicious, a welcome change from the traditional Kerala cuisine we had been indulging in. Sophia devoured her chicken kebab, while Lena and I savored the flavors of the biryani. The relaxed atmosphere and the stunning views made it a perfect midday break.


Experience authentic Indian flavors at Kebab Ki Dukaan - a must-visit restaurant within Club Mahindra Cherai Beach Resort in Kerala.

Our afternoon was dedicated to history and coastal views at the Pentagon Lighthouse in Valiyazheekkal. This unique five-sided lighthouse stands tall against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, a beacon of guidance for sailors and a fascinating landmark for tourists. We climbed to the top, the wind whipping through our hair as we gazed out at the panoramic views. The coastline stretched out before us, a tapestry of sandy beaches, swaying palm trees, and fishing villages.


Explore the Pentagon Lighthouse in Valiyazheekkal for breathtaking views and a glimpse into Kerala's maritime heritage.

Sophia was fascinated by the lighthouse, peppering me with questions about its history and purpose. I did my best to answer, sharing stories of sailors and shipwrecks, of storms and safe harbors. As we stood there, high above the ground, I felt a sense of awe and respect for the power of the sea and the ingenuity of those who navigate it.

Before dinner, we made a quick stop at Sarayu Fashions. I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs for friends back in Berlin, and Lena was keen to add to her collection of Indian textiles. We found a beautiful silk scarf for my mother and a colorful kurta for Sophia. It's these little mementos that help us keep the memories of our travels alive long after we've returned home.


Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Kottayam at Sarayu Fashions, where tradition meets contemporary fashion and local artistry.

Dinner at Lucka'S Open Restaurant was the perfect end to a fulfilling day. The restaurant lived up to its name, with an open-air setting that allowed us to soak in the beauty of the Kerala backwaters. The food was delicious, a mix of traditional Kerala dishes and international favorites. The fish curry was a standout, perfectly spiced and bursting with flavor. As we ate, we watched the sunset over the water, the sky ablaze with color. It was a magical moment, a perfect ending to a day of serene discoveries.


Experience authentic Kerala cuisine at Lucka's Open Restaurant with stunning backwater views and a warm atmosphere.

As I reflect on today, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Kerala with my family. It's been a journey of discovery, not just of new places but also of ourselves. I'm reminded of why I love to travel, why I love to share my experiences with others. It's about connecting with the world, with different cultures, with nature, and with each other.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our Kerala adventure. We plan to visit the Kalathara backwater view point and Kadamakkudy Islands View Point. We'll have breakfast at Backwater Cafe, lunch at Swargam, and a farewell dinner at Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a drink at Vembanad, Kumarakom Lake Resort, savoring the last moments of our Kerala adventure. It’s hard to believe our journey is almost over, but I know the memories we’ve made here will last a lifetime. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a chance to reconnect with my family and immerse ourselves in a new culture. As we prepare to head back to Berlin, I’m already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

For now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, the bioluminescent dreams, the coastal charms, and the simple pleasures of being together in this beautiful corner of the world. As we prepare to leave this serene paradise, I know we'll carry a piece of Kerala with us, a reminder of the beauty and simplicity that exists beyond the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives.