Took a 12 hour bus ride to Kerala to enjoy the backwaters for a few days. The backwaters are a chain of canals that make up 1500km. There are approximately 38 rivers and 5 big lakes. It can be explored by boat and/or by foot. We opted for a homestay (Greenpalm Homes) on land, didn't want to be stuck on a boat for 4 days. There are no cars in the backwaters, and very few motorbikes. Majority of the people either walked or rode bikes. It made for a very peaceful and tranquil environment.
The bus dropped us right outside of a gas station at 8am. It was a long ride. Once off the bus, I asked Henry where we went next, to that he answered "I don't know." I was not thrilled with the answer as you might guess, but for some reason Henry likes get lost and figure out how to get to our destination. He phoned over to the place we were staying to find out how to get there. In the meantime, we found a tuk-tuk driver and had him speak with the host at the homestay. Next thing you know, we were on our way. The driver had to stop and ask directions a few times, then he dropped us off at a water crossing and we took a canoe to our final destination. We were greeted with a warm and inviting welcome.
The morning we arrived, we were both utterly exhausted, but managed to pull off a smile for the camera.
Finally, the keys to our room.
These little bananas are packed with a ton of flavor.
We took a cooking class, but we merely watched the food being made. The best part was that it was going to be our lunch.
We were joined by another girl who was staying at our homestay and three of us went out exploring after lunch. What a beautiful scenery.
One of the many houseboats we saw during our stay.
On our walking tour we came upon a competitive game of volley ball.
This is an elementary school. Behind it are the rice fields.
These kids were absolutely adorable!!! They hung out with us as we walked through the rice fields.
That's all rice.
An up close and personal experience with a Water Buffalo. That's not something you see everyday.
Water taxi.
Kids playing cricket in the field.
This is a bar for men only, but I was invited in (probably because I was a foreigner) with Henry.
This is a coconut beer they make on site. Ummm...let's just say it was an acquired taste, however we did finish the bottle so as not to be rude.
Henry took the boat across to the mainland. Then he rode the bike for a couple of miles to get to an ATM.
The host family hanging out.
Gotta love sunsets!
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