Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

A Day of Discovery in Alleppey

Today was all about embracing the heart of the Kerala Backwaters. We dove headfirst into the local culture and natural beauty, creating memories that I know Lena, Sophia, and I will cherish for years to come. From serene lakes to bustling beaches, and even a bit of shopping, Alleppey certainly didn't disappoint!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Backwater Cafe. I had read some mixed reviews, with some people mentioning cleanliness issues, but we decided to give it a try, and I'm glad we did. The ambiance was lovely, especially with the colorful lights reflecting on the water. We fueled up with some traditional South Indian breakfast fare – dosas, idlis, and some strong, aromatic coffee. Sophia, of course, opted for something a bit milder, but even she enjoyed the change of pace from our usual Berlin breakfasts.


Discover authentic Kerala flavors at Backwater Cafe, where every meal is a journey through local culinary traditions amidst stunning natural beauty.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Punnamada Lake. The lake is expansive, a part of the larger Vembanad Lake, and the atmosphere was incredibly peaceful. We debated whether to take a houseboat cruise, but with only one day in Alleppey, we opted for a shorter shikara boat ride instead. It was the perfect way to soak in the scenery – the lush greenery, the tranquil waters, and the glimpses of local life along the banks. I could imagine spending days exploring the backwaters, but for now, this little taste was enough to whet our appetites.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Punnamada Lake, a serene haven in Alappuzha, Kerala famous for its houseboat rides and picturesque backwaters.

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

Next on our list was Alleppey Beach. Knowing that the Alleppey Marine Expo is running until mid-January, Sophia was especially excited, and I was curious to see what it was all about. The beach itself was lively, with families enjoying the sunshine and the waves. The Expo added another layer of excitement, with various stalls, rides, and even a mermaid show! Sophia was mesmerized by the robots roaming around and insisted on trying some of the games. Lena and I enjoyed watching her have so much fun, and I even managed to win a small prize for her at one of the game stalls – a little stuffed elephant that she promptly named 'Ellie'.


Discover the pristine beauty of Alleppey Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Kerala known for its stunning sunsets and vibrant backwater experiences.

Of course, no trip to Alleppey would be complete without a bit of shopping. We made our way to Kasavu Aalayam Handlooms, a local shop known for its traditional Kerala clothing. Lena was on a mission to find a traditional Kasavu saree, and I was hoping to pick up a few kurtas. The shop was a treasure trove of handloom textiles, with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Lena found a beautiful saree with a delicate gold border, and I managed to find a couple of comfortable kurtas in natural cotton. Sophia even got a small, matching outfit. The staff was incredibly helpful, and we left with our bags full and our hearts happy.


Discover the rich textile heritage of Kerala at Kasavu Aalayam Handlooms, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern elegance.

For lunch, we decided to try Lucka's Open Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its lakeside views and Kerala cuisine. It was quite busy when we arrived, but we managed to snag a table with a great view of the water. We ordered a variety of dishes – fish curry, prawn fry, and some vegetable thoran. The food was delicious, flavorful, and authentic. Sophia, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish curry, although she did ask for a milder version. Lena and I savored every bite, appreciating the spices and the fresh ingredients.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort for dinner. This resort is located right on the banks of Vembanad Lake, and I had read great reviews about its restaurant, Citrus Cafe. We weren't disappointed. The ambiance was elegant, the service was impeccable, and the food was outstanding. We opted for a mix of Indian and Continental dishes, and everything was cooked to perfection. Sophia was thrilled with her pasta, and Lena and I enjoyed the seafood. The view of the lake at night was simply magical, with the stars reflecting in the water.


Experience luxury amidst nature at Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort - your gateway to Kerala's serene backwaters.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Thottappally Backwaters and Munroe Island Canal. I'm particularly excited about Munroe Island, as I've heard it's a hidden gem with stunning natural beauty. We'll also be trying out Cheenavala Restaurant for breakfast and perhaps enjoying a drink at The Sky Bar in the evening.

Today was a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Alleppey has truly captured our hearts, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these, exploring new places with my family, that make me appreciate the life I've built, both in Berlin and beyond. Though I sometimes miss the familiar comforts of Charlottesville, I know that this journey, with Lena and Sophia by my side, is exactly where I'm meant to be. I'm also glad I didn't forget the sunblock; the December sun in Kerala can be quite strong! Now, if only I had remembered the insect repellent…

Tomorrow, we'll delve deeper into the backwaters, seeking out more hidden gems and local experiences. Stay tuned for more adventures from the heart of Kerala!