Going Dutch in Fort Cochin

We are at the point of not knowing what day it is – what a great feeling. We are currently in Fort Cochin or Kochi. It’s an old port city on the Arabian Sea with Dutch, Portuguese and British influences. Many of the buildings are of the Dutch architectural style. It’s a touristy town, but good location for seeing various things in the area like the Chinese fishing nets, Portuguese Palace, spice markets, ayurvedic massage and the famous Kathakali dance.

It was good getting out and walking around today after the long 6 hour drive over the mountains yesterday. Although a gorgeous drive, by the end we were ready to move. Once in town our driver took over an hour trying to find our hotel, he asked at least five people, of course he didn’t care to use the map I had with me. The drive over the mountains was incredible, through fields of tea and cardamom, very lush. Some of the road signs we saw along the way were “Don’t scare the animals”, “plastic free zone” and “It’s not just for you, save for the next generation”. We’ll be going back up there after a few days in Cochin to relax and take advantage of the cooler temperatures.

Had a great ayruvedic massage today, but still prefer regular massage, this type has too much oil which is hard to get off your skin and out of your hair after.

Tonight we went to a show of the kathakali traditional dance.
What a show, every move has a meaning and the makeup and costumes were unbelievable. Before the show you were allowed to watch the actors putt on their makeup – all natural and very detailed.

We’ve been hanging with a couple from the UK that we met in Madurai and who are also here in Cochin. Lots of fun and makes for interesting conversation.

We both have nasty colds which we kind of expected, but it is a drag. It’s no wonder given the poor quality of the air – burning trash, car and tuk tuk exhaust and dust. Can’t wait to get over this crud and get back into full swing.

Laurie