As promised here is a short review of my holiday to Kerala. I won't go into detail as this may spoil it for those planning to go so will just give an overview.
After checking in at Heathrow we were given the use of the executive lounge, this was fabulous, comfy seating in a quiet environment with free food and drink (soft drinks and alcoholic ones) so no need to pay to eat in the airport.
On arrival we transferred to a domestic flight to Cochin which all went very smoothly. Luxurious hotel in Cochin to enjoy for two nights.
The rest of the holiday was very good, much more relaxing than the spirit of India that I went on previously. Hotels generally good but personnally I felt that the hotel Wild Corridor was below standard, not all of my group shared this view however.
The rice boat trip was the highlight of the holiday for me, very comfortable with private ensuite facilities on board and very good food.
All together a very happy holiday. A couple of points worth mentioning about the hotels. Hair dryers were not supplied in the rooms but could be obtained from reception on request. Some hotel accommodation involved walking up and down steepish paths, a torch would be useful to take for night time trips back to the room.
Food was very good throughout the holiday, spicy on the whole, but other options usually available including salad bars.
Be prepared for a very tiring return trip home as the flight doesn't leave Mumbai until 2.20 AM but you actually be in your travel home at 10.00AM the previous day.
I hope this is useful.
Ange Bingham