Slow Boat Kerala

DRIFTIN' ON A SLOW BOAT

The luxury of the slow life is a particularly charming experience in 'God's own country' and is a dramatic change from the hustle and bustle of life in north India. These journeys are about slowing down and soaking it in. The backwaters of Kerala are a labyrinthine network of lagoons, lakes and canals that lie parallel to the Malabar Coast in south-western India and have a unique and self-supporting ecosystem of bountiful aquatic, plant and bird life. Take a backwater cruise along villages fringed by palm trees and experience the charming culture influenced by a host of seafarers – Arabs, Dutch, Chinese, British and Portuguese. Start off with the city of Kochi, stay at one of the iconic lagoon resorts, visit the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary at the lake, or take a trip up to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, perhaps to the spice and coffee plantations in the hills. And definitely enjoy yoga and the traditional massages with herbal oils and ancient recipes that Kerala is famous for.

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY

Easy Backwater Cruise

The kettuvallams, traditional rice barges now converted into comfortably fitted boats, are the perfect way to cruise through the backwaters of Kerala. It's a time to reflect, to read, to romance or to just be. A vibrant life and culture thrives around these lagoons as boats drift along lazily on the still edges of the waterways under a vast expanse of sky. Cruise leisurely through quaint backwater towns and villages. Anchor at will, perhaps for the night under the stars. Catch some fish for your dinner and rustle up an exotic local dish, even as you enjoy the sunset from the boat. Drift back to resort living or for an afternoon spa session, or perhaps stop for a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

Yoga by the beach

Kerala is renowned for its Yoga and Ayurveda centres that follow traditional wisdom and techniques. Literally the 'union with the divine,' Yoga is the art and science of attuning mind, body and soul to experience the potential of your spiritual self. Get ready for a transformative experience that combines the best of Ayurveda and Yoga at a beautiful beach resort in Kerala. Drop your stress and leave healthier and more fulfilled.

Coconuts & Fish

Food in Kerala revolves around coconuts and fish (and spices). This is the land of coconut trees and most of the local cuisine, especially the curries, uses coconut liberally in all the recipes. Kerala offer a delectable and diverse range of seafood dishes served with rice or malabari parathas. And then there are the vegetables, the fruit, the chicken, and the duck…all usually accompanied by rice, maybe red rice and local breads like appams and string hoppers. There is also, the popular toddy, or fermented palm wine, which comes from the coconut palm. Go slow – it has a kick!

testimonials

No complaints. We had an excellent trip with Vilasa. We were particular about an easy going trip but didn't want it to be boring & Vilasa, like usual, rose to the occasion. Keep it up team.

- Rafael Zaga, Mexico

I extend to you our most profound appreciation for making our trip a memorable one. Particularly, the team of Delhi office, the accommodation & the representatives in Delhi, Jaipur & Agra. Last but not least, my heart-felt thanks to our driver who accompanied us, his professionalism & great humor left a lasting impression on my wife & myself.

- David William, USA

My sincere thanks to the entire Vilasa team. Our trip throughout India was exciting and most of all, comfortable. Cheers to Roman for fitting in the sight-seeing even with our busy schedules. Thank you all.

- Qi Lin, China

All six of us just returned back home & are missing India already, all thanks to Vilasa team who made it all happen. The Champagne Tour, the Jharokha Dining experience & the vintage car ride in Udaipur were spectacular! Staying in Lake Palace & going glamping in Ranakpur were the highlight of this trip. Thank you Roman, Manoj & team for your guidance & patience!

- Maria Teresa, Mexico

We did not even need an event planner; the Vilasa team was that thorough & GOOD!! We flew down to India to renew our vows and really wanted to have an intimate ceremony on the beach. The Vilasa team went up & beyond to make our day special & treated us to some 'honeymoon' perks which was so cute!! Our 'babymoon' will also be with you guys. Sending our love

- Mr. & Mrs. Domini

This has been a very special, beautifully crafted trip. There was a wondrous mix of pure luxury and 'authentic' which is what we wanted. Our guides were all excellent; the Representatives were knowledgeable, efficient and charming. Overall this trip has left us with so many magical memories.

- Denys Blakeway

What a happy and fun vacation we had with our family (we're a family of 4 with two teenagers). Planned & executed wonderfully by Ruhani & Manoj. They listened to all the requests we had and made sure the teens are happily occupied as well! The special arrival we received at the airport and the attention to detail really impressed us. So excited for our Maldives trip with you next year!

- Chloe Cauqil, France

Team Vilasa, thank you for curating an epic journey! Ruhani was patient & enthusiastic throughout the planning and ideation stage of my journey. The textiles, the weavers, the designers & her creative vision made this trip better than I anticipated! I came back with much more than my hands could hold. Highly, highly recommend her.

- Liz Meehan, USA

Had a wonderful time in India last month. You were very helpful and efficient in all the planning and booking stages – thank you very much. We were also impressed by the efficiency of Vilasa and their agents on the ground at different stages of the trip; we were always met, and moved on to the next place, on time, and given helpful advice.

- Sonia Hancock

This was our second trip with Vilasa and we were so happy to realise that we are in Zuhaib's & Ruhani's skilled hands. Everything went as planned, as the trip leader of an all women group, safety was of the utmost importance but Ruhani put all our doubts at ease. They have surpassed our expectations once more!

- Natali Maksimenko, Russia

We travelled to India for a week. The pick up from the airport was on time & our driver, Prakash was with us for the entire trip. Our guide was very knowledgeable and his Russian was impeccable! Good job, team!

- Elena Degtiareva, Russia

I love photography and the Vilasa team from Minar Group was kind enough to assist me in my shoots! They recommended places that they thought would yield the best photos and I was surprised. It has been lovely exploring the lesser known side of India, my heartfelt thanks.

- Andrey Dudoladov, Russia

My experience with the Vilasa team has been incredible, especially Manoj. I wanted an experience that was hands-on & quite immersive, and the team delivered! My favourite memories were exploring Jawai with a naturalist & going to Bangla Sahib's kitchen for langar. Thank you!