Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

A Day of Serenity on the Kerala Backwaters

As the sun began its ascent, painting the sky with hues of gold and rose, I knew today was going to be special. Leaving behind the familiar buzz of Berlin for the tranquil embrace of Kerala's backwaters was a decision I wouldn't regret. This morning, Lena, Sophia, and I were set to explore Alleppey, a town often dubbed the 'Venice of the East'. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, and I couldn't wait to share the experience with my family.

Our day commenced with a hearty breakfast at the Indian Coffee House. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of local delicacies filled the air. Sophia, ever the adventurous one, opted for a masala dosa, while Lena and I chose a classic South Indian breakfast of idli and vada. The food was simple, yet incredibly flavorful, providing the perfect start to our day. It's amazing how a familiar cup of coffee can make you feel at home, even thousands of miles away.


Experience the rich flavors of South India at Indian Coffee House in Alappuzha – where tradition meets taste.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Alleppey Backwaters. The plan was to immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the waterways through a backwater cruise. As we boarded our traditional houseboat, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The gentle rocking of the boat and the picturesque views that unfolded before us were mesmerizing.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Alleppey Backwaters, where serene lakes and vibrant culture create unforgettable memories.

The Alleppey Backwater Cruises took us through a labyrinth of canals, each turn revealing a new and captivating scene. Lush green paddy fields stretched along the banks, swaying coconut trees offered shade, and vibrant birds flitted across the sky. The scenery was straight out of a postcard, and I found myself reaching for my camera every few minutes to capture the beauty. Sophia was particularly thrilled, pointing out the different birds and asking endless questions about the local life.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Kerala's backwaters with Alleppey Backwater Cruises, a unique blend of nature and local culture.

The beauty of the backwaters lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, but in the way of life it sustains.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the cruise was witnessing the daily life of the locals. We saw fishermen casting their nets, women washing clothes by the water's edge, and children playing with carefree abandon. It was a glimpse into a world where life moved at a slower, more deliberate pace, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Berlin. It reminded me of simpler times growing up in Charlottesville, where community and connection were at the heart of everyday life.

As lunchtime approached, our houseboat docked at Venattukad, a charming family restaurant nestled along the backwaters. The restaurant exuded a rustic charm, with its thatched roof and wooden furniture blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. We were greeted with warm smiles and an array of traditional Kerala dishes. We indulged in a delicious spread of fresh seafood, fragrant rice, and spicy curries, each dish bursting with authentic flavors. Sophia, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish curry, declaring it her favorite meal so far. Lena and I savored every bite, appreciating the culinary delights of Kerala.


Experience family-friendly adventures in Venattukad - Kerala's enchanting backwaters await your exploration.

After a satisfying lunch, we continued our cruise, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the backwaters. The sun was high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape. I found myself lost in thought, reflecting on the beauty of nature and the importance of cherishing these moments with my family. Lena and I shared stories of our travels, reminiscing about our time in Berlin and dreaming of future adventures.

As the day drew to a close, we made a stop at Mattancherry Bar for a relaxing evening. While technically in Ernakulam, it was a highly recommended spot to unwind after a day on the water. The bar offered a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere, perfect for socializing. I enjoyed a glass of local beer, while Lena opted for a refreshing cocktail. Sophia, of course, stuck to her favorite mango juice, and was quite content playing with a new friend she had made.


Experience the exquisite ambiance and local flavors at Mattancherry Bar, your perfect retreat in Kochi's Taj Malabar Resort & Spa.

For dinner, we decided to try Swargam, a restaurant known for its beautiful ambience and delicious Kerala cuisine. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering a heavenly dining experience. We sat by the lake, enjoying the cool breeze and the stunning views. The food was exceptional, with a range of traditional dishes that tantalized our taste buds. I particularly enjoyed the Swargathile beef, a local delicacy that was both spicy and flavorful. Lena loved the fresh seafood, while Sophia devoured a plate of chicken biryani.


Discover the flavors of Kerala at Swargam Cafe - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.

As we savored our meal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible day. From the serene backwaters to the delicious food and the warm hospitality, Alleppey had captured my heart. It was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature and with each other. As we headed back to our accommodation, I knew that this was a memory we would cherish for years to come.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit Punnamada Lake, famous for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, and Alleppey Beach. I'm particularly excited to see Punnamada Lake, and I'm hoping we'll get a chance to learn more about the traditional boat races. Sophia is already looking forward to playing on the beach, building sandcastles and splashing in the waves. We also plan to visit Kasavu Aalayam Handlooms, a local shop known for its traditional Kerala sarees. Lena is keen to buy a saree as a souvenir, a reminder of our time in this beautiful part of India.

As I reflect on our day in Alleppey, I'm reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. The backwaters taught me that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, and that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones that are unplanned. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my family, and I look forward to discovering more of Kerala's hidden gems in the days to come.

December in Alleppey is proving to be quite the experience. I'm eager to see what tomorrow brings, and I'm excited to share it all with you, my readers. Until then, happy travels!