The Indian Subcontinent - Clean Breaks: 500 New Ways to See the World - page 338

463 explore the hidden backwaters
at emerald isle
One quick glance at your surroundings will
confirm that Emerald Isle is a very aptly named
place. Hidden among swaying coconut palms
and ringed by a complex web of water canals
is the beautiful 150-year-old Heritage Villa,
the family home of your hosts for generations.
Sunbathe, swim and swing in your hammock
- or, if you're tempted to join the river traffic
drifting by, jump in a small wooden canoe with
a guide and glide round some of the waterways.
This way you'll meet the local people up close,
see workers tending the paddy fields, and visit
nearby temples and churches; a rewarding and
exhilarating insight into the secret backwaters
of Kerala.

465 Fish for
prawns in
cochin
Kerala's prime
tourist destination,
and, for centuries,
an important fishing
harbour, Cochin is a
fantastic city in which
to spend a few days.
Stay with Jos Byju
and his wife in their
converted coconut
storehouse alongside
the family's home,
set on a promontory
overlooking the lake.
In the morning, Jos
will take you to meet
a local prawn farmer who will teach you how
to cast out a fisherman's net; afterwards you'll
feast on the prawns you've just caught. Once
you've had your fill, there's plenty to see and
do in Cochin: art galleries, boutiques, churches,
boat trips and, of course, more fishing…there's
dinner to eat later.

Need to know For directions, details of
activities, prices and reservations see W www.
emeraldislekerala.com; T [phone].

(From top) Traditional
cantilevered fishing nets;
The converted coconut store
(now a bedroom) at Kerala
Gramam; Fishing for prawns
for breakfast

464 Beat stress the natural way at
Philipkutty's Farm
Philipkutty's farm, set on an island in the middle
of Lake Vembanad, has been in the family since
the 1950s, and the holidays they run here are
very much a family concern; mum cooks, while
the husband-and-wife team look after the
guests. The warm hospitality will eliminate any
stress you might still have with you, while daily
activities can include fishing, a canal cruise,
cooking classes or swimming in the backwaters.
To really unwind, take the free 10min boat
ride over to the neighbouring Ayurvedic centre.
Whether you just pop over there for a massage
or book in for anything up to a thirty-day course
of pampering treatments, you'll be benefiting
from a system of health they've been honing in
Kerala for over two millennia.

Need to know For directions, accommodation
details, prices and more information visit W www.
keralagramam.com; T + 91 484 224 0278.

Need to know Prices on request. For directions,
rates, reservations and details of activities visit
W www.philipkuttysfarm.com; T + 91 482 927
6529.