Easter break in Kerala, India

During Easter we decided to explore Kerala, the southwestern state of India. Kerala is the origin of many of the middle class expats here in Oman. Travelling together with Joris, Marloon, and Coco we flew tyo the city of Cochin, the oldest colonial city of the state.

Breakfast on the court of our bed and breakfast in Cochin. The colonial house was filled with nice furniture, and charis big enough for two.



Kerala is also home to the famous Kerala Mustache (shown above). Joris' white legs drew the attention of the locals.

Joris doing his kindergarten duties.



A street in Cochin

 After Cochin, we travelled to the mountains to see the tea plantations, and wildlife reserve.

Sweet girls!

Hunting easter eggs in the jungle. Matilda found one under a huge jack fruit!

Ushi took us throuh the forest for half an hour, long enough to experience sitting on an elephant, and short enough not to get completely sore.



Coco, Joris, Marloon, Ushi, Madeleine, Gideon, Matilda, and Marike.

Coco and Matilda enjoying the colonial setting.

Matilda with some of the local boys in Alleppey.

Lush garden

At the end of winter, contradictory as it may sound, our garden is always at its best - in full blossom, green and lush! This picture was taken last March.

Lunch in Sifah

Going for lunch in the village of Sifah is a favourite pastime for many expatriates in Muscat. Sifah is a sleepy village which has recently witnessed a rapid tourism boom with the establishment of a large five-star resort. Although one can argue about the advantages and disadvantages such a development brings along (which we earlier reported on), one advantage - at least for us- is the fact that it is now one of the best places where you are served a whole fish on your plate that is absolutely delicious! A one hour scenic drive from home, we go there frequently, and often bring our visitors, too.

Recently, we took Kristin, a PhD student from California who works closely with Gideon in PDO and whom we have known for a few years now on such a trip. Matilda was thrilled with the additional company, and Madeleine seemed to be entertained, too. As for us, we thorougly enjoyed this lazy afternoon together, the beautiful setting and the food!

Good vibes at As Sammak fish restaurant

Kristin and Matilda playing on the beach. Kristin taking pictures...

...and this is the result!