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Navigate Kerala’s Backwaters on Luxury Cruises

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All aboard for an opulent experience unlike any other, on the backwaters of God’s Own Country with the Spice Routes Luxury Cruises

Words by Maya Lalchandani       Photographs from Spice Routes Luxury Cruises

From the family that gives you experiences from their very own backyard in their homeland of Kerala, comes the extensive gift of experiences that float on the country’s longest lake – the Vembanad. The Spice Routes Luxury Cruises is the award winning company owned by Scaria Jose (who owns estates in the hills of Idukki district in Kerala that produce about 90 tonnes of cardamom a year) and his partners who have converted large boats (originally Kettuvallams) into luxury houseboats for holidaying on the backwaters.

Escape the mainland

Located in Alleppey, the Venice of the East, the houseboats are lodged pretty strategically in Akkarakalam, which houses a traditional Syrian Christian homestead (a 10 acre farm). It offers a comfortable home stay for tourists, who want to experience the absolutely authentic rural way of life, before they start to explore the canals of Alleppey. The houseboats display close to a 5-star ambience, coming fully equipped with a sundeck, living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms with attached toilets, fully fitted kitchenettes…you name it.

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State of the art amenities, uninterrupted water supply, television (WiFi is your own, unfortunately), and a fully operational crew consisting of a driver, chef and assistants, make the holiday quite enjoyable. The houseboats are named after the spices that these large barges used to carry in the days of yore. Called Saffron, Clove, Cardamom, Cinnamon and Pepper, they all share spacious rooms that are fully air-conditioned.

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One can choose from a three-bedroom houseboat (Clove, and Cinnamon) or two (Pepper). The Presidential Suite in the Saffron is one that comes with a luxurious bedroom with a built in Jacuzzi, which overlooks the tantalizing lake, and the passing landscapes set aglow with the riveting sunrise and sunset. This one bedroom houseboat has a different layout, boasting of an upper deck and dining area.

All Aboard

My flight delivered me to Kochi in the early morning, and that is indeed the best time to start for Alleppey, since the cruise starts at 11am. We drove past the familiar streets of God’s Own Country and I was all excited and geared up for the famed backwaters cruise. The Akkarakalam Memoirs is the place where all the houseboats are cued and are ready to set sail. Settling in comfortably in the Cinnamon, I was ready to take on an overnighter. Equipped with my music, that comprised primarily flute and Jazz, I gazed into the vastness as life passed me by in slow motion. The landscape stretched through blue skies, subtle breezes, and the faint hum of the boat as it glided almost magically over the limpid waters. We aimlessly drifted past old churches, old temples, past people on shore washing their utensils, clothes and going about their chores like they could not see us. Life merely existed in the silence. The villages stumbled on, one after the other.

 

In the stillness of time, the sudden rumblings of our stomachs, more than gently reminded us that lunch was served as the noon sun shone through the air-conditioned windows. An amiable spread on the dining table prepared by our very own chef. He had cooked up a veritable feast, no doubt – the table was laden with chicken, fish, thoran, dal fry, mezhukkupyratty, sambar, plain rice, chappatis, Kerala appalams and condiments like pickle, curd and payasam as dessert. A befitting spread for guests that were treated with the utmost care.

Unique experiences

As we chatted post lunch, about the beautiful countryside, we found that available to us were the following (according to the routes we would have taken and the number of days that we could have chosen) – Champakulam, a 500 year oldSt Mary’s church, Patharimanal, a small island which was a favourite haunt of rare migratory birds, Ambalapuzha, Kerala’s most famous Sri Krishna temple, R Block – famous for farming done on reclaimed land, Karumadikuttan, a black grranite Buddha from the 10th century, and the Krishnapuram Palace, built during the 18th century, to name a few. Not to be missed were the Kallu shops where the famous toddy (local alcoholic beverage) was sold.

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Late afternoon, as we dozed off letting the stillness and peace enter the boat, we were then asked to step off at a nearby village to experience the joy of picking out what we fancied for our dinner from a fresh batch of seafood – lobsters, different kinds of fish, tiger prawns and crab. Tea and banana fritters were served on our return. The boat then docked at a village where we got off to see the surroundings. The villagers were oblivious to our cameras and curiosity; they smiled, they understood and they were willing to share the beauty of their lovely land. We walked, got our daily dose of exercise and took in the sights and sounds gleefully. Back at the boat, we watched the sunset in all its hues over glasses of wine, as the gold turned to orange and the day gave in to the dusk. The birds flew in patterns, being prompted by the day’s end. All seemed well in the world as the winds changed direction and night fell. Another menu, another serving and the chef was in action once again. His offerings this time – our choice of the catch of the day, mixed with a menu of soup, salad, gobi manchurian, palak paneer, veg kholapuri and many other tasty dishes.

A life on water

Post dinner we all sat in the living room, the boat now docked.( they do not sail post 6 pm). We sat around busy with our social media, some with books or kindles, the silence creating a sense of calm, separating us from the thoughts of our busy lives, work and plans for the morrow. Sufi music filled the air and we were ready to retire for the night, completely satiated and yet strangely fatigued from doing nothing. Our four postered beds beckoned, waiting to lull us into sleep. The next morning as we awoke, we realized that we were in motion again. The journey was about to come to an end as we had our breakfast of fruit juice, cornflakes, eggs, appams with veg stew, toast and more. After breakfast we watched the early morning backwater life start, the school buses, postal services and vegetable sellers and shops literally floating. Everything takes on a water life of sorts, children learning to swim earlier than they can walk. Fishing becomes the mainstay of their livelihood. As the trip came to an end, so too did the dream. The peaceful overnighter gave us an experience that we would take back into our daily lives, longing and wanting to come back to the land of plenty, a land of peace and tranquility.

ACCESSIBILITY

By air
Trivandrum International Airport (151 Km by road)
Cochin International Airport (85 kms by road)

By road
Cars and Private Taxis since the highways are excellent. KSRTC buses and private transport

By rail
Alleppey is connected by rail to all the major cities in India.

By sea
Regular boat service and water taxis to places like Kottayam and Alleppey are available through the scenic backwaters.

Climate
Summer- (March- June)-Sun Block essential
Monsoon- (June-September)- People come from all over to experience the Kerala Monsoon.
Winter- (November to March)- Pleasant with sunshine and cool nights.

Pack
Modest/ Loose/ Cotton/ Comfortable clothes
Torch, Mosquito repellent, and sun tan lotion
Mobile chargers, sunglasses, hats and necessary medicines.

 

SPICE ROUTES BOARDING POINT

Akkarakalam Memoirs
Pooppally Jn.
Chennamkary P.O
Alleppey- 688501, Kerala
Phone: +91 477 2762345
+91 860 6000428
Email: [email protected]

Digital Magazine : https://goo.gl/uorGj9

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Travel Wellness: Staying Healthy and Fit While Exploring

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Travelling is an enriching experience that broadens horizons and creates lasting memories. However, maintaining your health and fitness while on the road can be a challenge. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets, lounging on a beach, or embarking on an adventure, staying well and fit is crucial for enjoying your travels to the fullest. Here are some practical tips to help you stay healthy and active while exploring new destinations.

Plan Your Travel Meals

Eating healthy while traveling can be challenging, but with a little planning, it’s entirely achievable. Research local cuisine before your trip and seek out restaurants or markets that offer nutritious options. Opt for meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals to maintain control over ingredients and portions.

Stay Hydrated

Travel can easily disrupt your hydration routine. Always carry a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly. Drinking enough water helps with digestion, energy levels, and overall well-being. If you’re traveling to a place with different water quality, consider bringing a portable water purifier or sticking to bottled water.

Incorporate Physical Activity

Finding time to exercise while traveling can be tough, but it’s essential for maintaining your fitness and energy levels. Here are a few ways to stay active:

  • Use Hotel Gyms: Many hotels offer fitness centers. Utilize these facilities to keep up with your workout routine.
  • Explore on Foot: Walking or biking around your destination not only provides exercise but also allows you to experience the city’s sights more intimately.
  • Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of local outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or even a beach workout.

Maintain a Sleep Schedule

Traveling at first class. Flight with comfort. Pretty young woman sleeping in airplane.

Adjusting to new time zones can disrupt your sleep pattern, which affects overall health. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by setting consistent bedtimes and wake-up times. Creating a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or listening to calming music, can also help you wind down and improve sleep quality.

Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Travel can be exciting but also stressful. Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Many travel destinations offer wellness retreats or classes where you can participate in mindfulness activities.

Pack a Travel Health Kit

Prepare a travel health kit with essentials like vitamins, medications, and first-aid supplies. Include items such as hand sanitizer, travel-sized disinfectant wipes, and any prescription medications you may need. Having these on hand can help prevent illness and manage minor health issues.

Stay Active During Travel

Long flights or car rides can lead to stiffness and discomfort. Take breaks to stretch or walk around every few hours. Simple exercises like seated leg lifts, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls can help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.

Adopt Local Wellness Practices

Explore and embrace local wellness practices and traditions. Whether it’s a traditional Thai massage, Japanese hot springs, or Ayurvedic treatments in India, incorporating local wellness practices can enhance your overall travel experience and contribute to your well-being.

 Avoid Overindulgence

While it’s tempting to indulge in local delicacies, moderation is key. Balance indulgent meals with healthier options and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoying treats in moderation allows you to savor local flavors without compromising your health goals.

Stay Social and Connected

Social interactions and maintaining connections with loved ones can boost mental health and overall happiness. Make time to connect with fellow travelers, locals, or family and friends back home to keep your spirits high and your travel experience fulfilling.

By integrating these wellness tips into your travel routine, you can ensure a healthier and more enjoyable journey. Staying active, eating well, and managing stress will help you feel your best and make the most of your travel experiences. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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Real House of the Dragon Location You Want to Visit

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Returning to Westeros for the battle between the Blacks and Greens in “House of the Dragon” season two. A civil war within the House of Targaryen over who should inherit the Iron Throne is the subject of the television drama series, which is based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and takes place two centuries before Game of Thrones. Along with other important members of the season one ensemble, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, and Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen are returning for the presently running second season.

We can’t wait to explore all of the amazing filming locations that this series has brought us. Considering how rich the universe is, it makes sense. Rather than depending solely on computer-generated scenery and soundstages, several of the actual filming locales contribute to the world of Westeros’ distinctive atmosphere.

Here, a guide to House of the Dragon filming locations you can visit:

Castleton, Derbyshire, England

In the first season of the show, Castleton, a village in high-peaked Derbyshire with one of the oldest lead mines, was transformed into The Vale of Arryn. Those who watch Game of Thrones would recall this as the location of House Arryn and the Eyrie, a stronghold where adversaries can be driven to their deaths via a moon portal. The region, which was once inhabited by Celtic people, is well-known for its traditional English hamlets and the limestone valley of Cave Dale, which is located inside the national park.

St. Michael’s Mount in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall, England

St. Michael’s Mount is a rocky tidal island with a 12th-century mediaeval church and a small, intimate village connected to the island of Marazion by a causeway that visitors can cross on foot during low tide. Blackwater Bay, a sizable body of water at Kings Landing’s edge, is home to House Velaryon, the fictional Driftmark of House of the Dragon, which is housed in the island’s main fortress. A prior appearance of Driftmark occurred in the Battle of the Blackwater in Game of Thrones.

La Calahorra, Granada, Spain

Reimagined as Pentos, one of the cities bordering the seas of Westeros, the imaginary continent at the heart of the world of Game of Thrones, is the municipality La Calahorra in eastern Granada. At the base of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, on the solitary hill in the region, lies a mediaeval fortress known as Castillo de La Calahorra, one of the region’s most iconic monuments. The exterior of the castle, which serves as the seat of House Targaryen on House of the Dragon, defies the rules of Gothic design, making it one of the first buildings in Spain to be influenced by the Renaissance between 1509 and 1512. Its exquisite split-level interior features a centre courtyard, four corner towers, and marble.

Cáceres, Extremadura, Spain

The province of Cáceres, in western Spain, is a veritable time capsule. Ancient structures that date back hundreds of years nevertheless look substantially the same, displaying a variety of architectural influences, such as Roman, Moorish, and Gothic. Several locations in the region were used to film the King’s Landing sequences, including the walled city of Plasencia in season one, Trujillo in season two, and the capital city of Cáceres in both seasons.

Bourne Wood in Farnham, England

Bourne Wood was the location of one of the largest fight scenes from season two of House of the Dragon. Large clearings in the forest make it perfect for expansive combat scenes and large film crews, while the absence of newer, more contemporary buildings or power lines gives the location a timeless sense. According to London Cult’s documentation, the forest was outfitted with a tent camp and certain areas were covered in artificial snow. The woodland is about an hour’s drive away, making the setting very handy for films like House of the Dragon that are headquartered out of the Warner Bros. Leavesden studio.

Gaztelugatxe, Basque Country, Spain

An island in Biscay called Gaztelugatxe has a hermitage that goes back to the tenth century. The iconic stone bridge was used for filming House of the Dragon. In season seven, the islet served as a stand-in for Dragonstone during filming for Game of Thrones. the location of the initial season’s encounter between Rhaenyra and her dragon on Dragonstone Bridge.

 

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Essential Summer Travel Bag Must-Haves

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As the summer sun beckons, it’s time to dust off your travel bags and embark on exciting adventures. Whether you’re jetting off to exotic destinations or exploring hidden gems closer to home, packing the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey. Join me as we explore the must-have items to pack in your travel bags for a memorable summer getaway.

Sun Protection Essentials:

Beat the heat and safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays with sun protection essentials. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and a wide-brimmed hat for added protection. Additionally, lip balm with SPF and aloe vera gel can provide relief from sunburns and keep your lips hydrated.

Lightweight Clothing Options:

Embrace the spirit of summer with lightweight and breathable clothing options that keep you cool and comfortable on your travels. Pack versatile pieces such as cotton shirts, shorts, flowy dresses, and swimsuits for beach outings. Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize the need for ironing and save space in your luggage.

Hydration Essentials:

Stay hydrated on the go by packing a reusable water bottle in your travel bag. Fill it up whenever you have access to clean drinking water to quench your thirst and reduce plastic waste. Consider packing electrolyte packets or tablets to replenish lost minerals during outdoor activities or hot weather.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries:

Travel toiletries in clear plastic, quart-sized bag on white background

Streamline your toiletry bag with travel-sized essentials that meet TSA regulations and save space in your luggage. Pack items such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and moisturizer in leak-proof containers. Don’t forget to include a compact travel towel and wet wipes for quick refreshment on the go.

Tech Gadgets and Accessories:

Capture unforgettable moments and stay connected with essential tech gadgets and accessories. Pack your smartphone, camera, or GoPro along with chargers, power banks, and adapters for international travel. Consider investing in a lightweight and portable Bluetooth speaker for impromptu beach parties or outdoor picnics.

First Aid Kit and Medications:

Home first aid kit on a blue background. The elements of the first aid kit are laid out on the table.

Be prepared for minor emergencies and health-related issues by packing a well-stocked first aid kit in your travel bag. Include items such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets. Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need during your trip.

With these essential items packed in your travel bag, you’re ready to embark on a summer adventure filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. From sun protection essentials to tech gadgets and first aid supplies, being prepared for every situation ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey wherever your travels may take you. So, grab your bags, soak up the sun, and let the summer adventures begin!

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