Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
www.cochincarnival.org
;
21-31 Dec)
is Fort Cochin's biggest bash, a 10-day festival culminat-
ing on New Year's Eve. Street parades, colourful costumes, embellished elephants, music,
folk dancing and lots of fun.
Sleeping
Fort Cochin can feel a bit touristy and crowded in season but it's an ideal place to escape
the noise and chaos of the mainland - tranquil and romantic, with some of Kerala's finest
accommodation. This could be India's homestay capital, with dozens of family houses of-
fering large and clean budget rooms and a hearty welcome.
Ernakulam is cheaper and more convenient for onward travel, but the ambience and ac-
commodation choices are less inspiring. Regardless of where you stay, book ahead during
December and January. At other times you can bargain for a discount.
4
Fort Cochin
Green Woods Bethlehem
( 3247791;
greenwoodsbethlehem1@vsnl.net
; opposite ESI Hospital; s/d incl breakfast ?800/900)
With a smile
that brightens weary travellers, welcoming owner Sheeba looks ready to sign your adop-
tion papers the minute you walk through her front door. Down a quiet laneway and with a
walled garden thick with plants and palms, this is one of Kochi's most serene homestays.
The rooms are humble but cosy; breakfast is served in the fantastic, leafy rooftop cafe,
where cooking classes/demonstrations are often held.
HOMESTAY
$
Princess Inn
( 2217073;
princessinnfortkochi@gmail.com
;
Princess St; r ?400-800)
Sticking to its budget guns, the
friendly Princess Inn spruces up its dull, tiny rooms with cheery bright colours. The com-
fy communal spaces are a treat, and the three large, front-facing rooms are great value for
this location.
GUESTHOUSE
$
Mother Tree
MAP
HOMESTAY
$
GOOGLE MAP
( 9447464906;
www.hotelmothertree.com
;
off KL Bernard Master Rd; d incl breakfast ?700, with AC ?1000;
)
There are just a few minuscule rooms in this compact homestay, but the cleanliness
and neat rooftop chill-out space make it worth seeking out.
