Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

Arrival in Alleppey: The Venice of the East

After a long journey from Toronto, Priya, Aarav, and I finally arrived in Alleppey, eager to explore the famed backwaters of Kerala. The air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to Toronto's dry summer heat, but the scent of spices and the promise of adventure filled us with excitement. This trip has been a long time coming, and I couldn't wait to share this experience with my family. As an immigration consultant, I spend most of my days helping people navigate new beginnings, and now it was my turn to dive into a new culture and environment.

Our first order of business was to find some breakfast. We headed to Halais Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to start their day with a hearty meal. I ordered a traditional breakfast of appam and stew, while Priya opted for idli and sambar. Aarav, ever the adventurous eater, decided to try a dosa. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of spices and flavors that awakened our senses. The waiter even had a great sense of humor, making the experience even more enjoyable.


Experience the authentic taste of India at Halais Restaurant in Alappuzha, offering diverse halal options and delightful local specialties.

With our bellies full, we were ready to explore the Alleppey Backwaters. We hired a traditional houseboat for the day, a decision I knew would be the highlight of our trip. As we glided along the serene canals, I couldn't help but marvel at the natural beauty that surrounded us. Lush green paddy fields stretched out on either side, dotted with coconut trees and quaint little villages. The gentle sound of the water lapping against the hull of the boat was incredibly soothing, a welcome change from the constant noise of city life. Aarav was particularly fascinated by the local fishermen casting their nets, their small boats bobbing gently on the water.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Alleppey Backwaters, where serene canals and lush landscapes await in Kerala's enchanting waterways.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

Priya, with her nursing background, was interested in the local flora and fauna, constantly pointing out different species of plants and birds. I tried my hand at capturing the scenery with my camera, hoping to preserve these memories forever. As someone who left Mauritius to seek new opportunities in Canada, I always appreciate moments like these, where I can connect with nature and immerse myself in a different way of life. It reminds me of my roots, and the importance of sharing these experiences with my family.

For lunch, we stopped at Aramana Restaurant, another highly recommended local spot. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, blending traditional Kerala architecture with modern touches. We tried a variety of dishes, including Chicken Kondattam and Beef Roast with Kerala Porotta, all of which were flavorful and well-prepared. Aarav especially enjoyed the crispy chicken wings, while Priya savored the traditional seafood delicacies. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great value for money.


Experience authentic Kerala flavors at Aramana Restaurant in Alappuzha - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

After lunch, we continued our journey through the backwaters, making a stop at Pulickattil Handicrafts. As someone who appreciates art and culture, I was eager to explore this shop, known for its wide variety of traditional Kerala handicrafts. The shop was bustling with tourists, all eager to find unique souvenirs to take home. We spent a couple of hours browsing through the various items, from intricate wood carvings to vibrant textiles. Aarav was particularly drawn to the wooden toys, while Priya admired the handcrafted jewelry. I ended up buying a small wooden sculpture of an elephant, a symbol of good luck and prosperity.


Explore the vibrant world of traditional crafts at Pulickattil Handicrafts in Alappuzha, Kerala, where every piece tells a story.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to THAFF Delicacy Restaurant YMCA Alappuzha for dinner. The restaurant was known for its traditional Kerala cuisine, as well as its Chinese and North Indian dishes. We decided to try the Kerala thali, a platter of various local delicacies. The food was delicious, a perfect way to end our first day in Alleppey. Aarav, tired from a day of exploring, fell asleep in Priya's arms as we finished our meal.


Experience authentic Keralan flavors blended with Chinese cuisine at THAFF Delicacy Restaurant in Alappuzha.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to explore a new part of the world with my family. As an immigration consultant, I often see the challenges and struggles that people face when moving to a new country. This trip, however, was a reminder of the beauty and richness that different cultures have to offer. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit the Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple and the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum. And perhaps, I'll even sneak away for a quick drink at THE HARBOUR Bar & Beer Parlour.

Back in our temporary accommodation, I realized I had forgotten to pack an umbrella. A minor oversight, but something I'll need to rectify tomorrow, especially given the monsoon season. Despite the occasional drizzle, Alleppey in August has been nothing short of magical. The gentle downpours have only added to the charm, creating a lush green landscape that is a feast for the eyes. I look forward to sharing more of our adventures in the days to come.