Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

Backwater Bliss

Today was a day of gentle exploration and delicious discoveries along the Kerala Backwaters. As our family adventure nears its end, we soaked in the serene beauty of the region, creating memories that I know we'll cherish long after we return to Berlin. It's amazing how quickly Sophia has adapted to this different pace of life, trading her screen time for the sights and sounds of nature. Lena, as always, was in her element, appreciating the architecture and the way of life here.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Backwater Cafe. I opted for a traditional Kerala breakfast of appam and stew, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt. Sophia, predictably, went for the pancakes. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Lake Viewpoint.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Viewpoint in Kerala, where serene waters and lush landscapes create a perfect retreat for nature lovers and photographers.
The drive to the viewpoint was an experience in itself. The roads wound through lush greenery, with glimpses of the backwaters peeking through the trees. We passed vibrant villages, each with its own unique charm. It was a stark contrast to the busy streets of Berlin, and I found myself appreciating the slower pace of life here. It reminded me a bit of the countryside around Charlottesville, where I grew up, but with a distinctly tropical twist.

At the Lake Viewpoint, we were greeted with panoramic views of the serene waters. The lake stretched out before us, dotted with small islands and fringed with coconut palms. The air was fresh and clean, a welcome change from the city smog. Sophia was fascinated by the local fishermen casting their nets, and Lena couldn't stop taking photos of the breathtaking scenery. I tried my hand at capturing the scene with my camera, hoping to do justice to the natural beauty.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like watching the sunset paint the backwaters in hues of gold.

After soaking in the views, we decided to explore the Kochi Backwaters.


Explore the serene beauty of the Kochi Backwaters, a unique network of lagoons and canals in Kerala, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
We opted for a traditional boat ride, gliding along the tranquil waterways. The gentle rocking of the boat, the sounds of the birds, and the sight of the lush green landscape created a sense of peace and tranquility. We passed small villages, where locals went about their daily lives. Children waved at us from the shore, and women washed clothes in the river. It was a glimpse into a world far removed from our own, a reminder of the simple joys of life.

Lena was particularly interested in the local architecture, pointing out the traditional Kerala houses with their tiled roofs and wooden carvings. She even started sketching some of the designs in her notebook, inspired by the local craftsmanship. Sophia, meanwhile, was busy spotting different types of birds. She's become quite the little ornithologist on this trip, thanks to the abundance of wildlife in the backwaters.

For lunch, we stopped at Karma Waterside Restaurant, a place Lena had read about in a travel magazine.


Experience exquisite dining at Karma Waterside Restaurant in Kumarakom, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking backwater views.
The restaurant lived up to its reputation, with stunning views of the backwaters and an infinity pool that seemed to blend seamlessly with the water. The food was delicious, a mix of local and international flavors. I had the Alleppey Fish Curry, a local specialty, while Lena opted for a seafood salad. Sophia, of course, stuck to her usual pasta. We spent a leisurely afternoon at the restaurant, enjoying the food, the views, and each other's company.

In the late afternoon, we decided to indulge in something sweet at Prakriti Bakes.


Discover the sweet delights of Prakriti Bakes, a delightful cake shop and café in the heart of Kumarakom, Kerala, perfect for every sweet craving.
This bakery was a delightful surprise, offering a range of cakes, pastries, and other treats. Sophia was in heaven, choosing a colorful cupcake with extra sprinkles. Lena and I shared a slice of mango cheesecake, which was absolutely divine. The perfect end to a perfect day.

For dinner, we decided to try Swargam, a restaurant known for its traditional Kerala cuisine and charming ambiance.


Discover the flavors of Kerala at Swargam Cafe - where tradition meets taste in a picturesque setting.
The restaurant was located in a traditional Kerala house, with a courtyard filled with plants and flowers. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including biryanis and fresh seafood, all bursting with flavor. It was a fitting end to a day filled with culinary delights.

As I reflect on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. This trip to the Kerala Backwaters has been an incredible experience for our family. We've seen stunning landscapes, tasted delicious food, and learned about a different way of life. More importantly, we've spent quality time together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Kumarakom backwaters and Thanneermukkom-Vembanad Lagoon View Point, and perhaps enjoy a drink at the Half Moon Lounge Bar. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this beautiful part of the world. It's hard to believe that our trip is coming to an end, but I know that we'll be leaving with hearts full of memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of the Kerala Backwaters.