Unni, my parents and I went on a 1-day, 1-night trip in a house boat through the lagoons of Allepey. It was one the the best experiences ever. The house boat we rented belonged to Marvel Cruise. The houseboat had all the modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and luxurious stay. Moreover the crew was attentive to all our needs and ensured that we had a fun trip.
 |
| Captain's seat |
|
|
|
|
|
 | | | | |
| Starting point |
Our houseboat experience started at 12:00 pm when we started from the dock. We had a leisurely sight seeing trip in the backwaters and savored a hearty lunch in the middle of a huge lagoon.
 |
| Calm serene water all around |
 |
| Mom n Dad |
 |
| In our cozy room |
 |
| The cook |
 |
| Sight seeing |
 |
| Enjoying the breeze |
 |
| I made sure i sat in all the seats and enjoyed the view from all sides |
 |
| Tea time |
By evening we docked at a nearby village, called Chambakkulam to stretch our legs and buy some souvenirs. We came across a handicraft showroom and saw some master craftsmen at work, skillfully shaping wooden logs into life-like
statues.
 |
| Mom's catch |
 |
| Yummy dinner in dimly lit night |
 |
| Star gazing- i spotted shooting stars |
The next morning we woke up to see a pretty sight near our boat. There was a group of beautiful Ambal flowers in full bloom.
 |
| Ambal plant |
Unni managed to get me some of the flowers. The captain jumped in and pulled out some roots for us to take home and plant. Pretty soon the pond at home is going to be a thriving Ambal pond.
 |
| Rambo plucking flowers |
 |
| Morning surprise |
 |
| Yummy breakfast |
It was an amazing experience, one I shall cherish forever. I felt connected to the calm water surrounding me, the slow paced life of the people living there, the majestic kites and eagles soaring in the sky and above all the silent and pitch black night decorated with millions and millions of stars. Everyone must definitely try this experience at least once this lifetime.
