Lunch in the Backwaters

We had started out at about 11 am towards Allepey. It was a refreshing feeling seeing the active backwaters with other myriad houseboats cruising alsong the way. The houseboat is traditionally called Kettuvellam. It was a primitive boat structure in the past, but with the present demand of tourism, one can se myriad designs of these sailing hotels. Some are even air-conditioned, having minibar, television and some aspects of modern amenities. But our hoseboat, even though simplistic in design truly was an experience of a simple yet comfortable & romatic interiors/exteriors. The room was elegant and the houseboat had no A/C or TV or the minibar(in fact no alcohol is served). But the interesting aspect was the library which comprised of collections left behind by fellow travellers and it is a must do to browse through a selective treasure of intellect. At about 1.30 pm we were approaching a jetty and the boat took a complete turn for parking; it was lunch time. Not to mention the neat and well kept kitchen facilities, I could not imagine that the cook would conjure a variety of exotic delicacies made on the boat. I would say hats off for being innovative. Of course, other than the fresh water prawns and the famous Karemeen(a local fish delicacy), there were about 4-5 vegetarian dishes as well. For a moment I thought that the cook had thought that a high diet couple had come on board! Then I realised that this was normally what they would offer all travellers. Howver it is advisable for all to make any special requests atleast 2 days prior to departure. We had an exellent lunch in a calm serene ambience and I could swear that this was one of my best lunch experience. I would not forget to mention the fresh pineapple served as the way the chef had cut the fruit truly showed that his skills were perfect as far as presentation was concerned. After lunch little did I know that I would go in for a 2hr nap, which again was the result of the exemplary spread. By the time I woke up the boat was already sailing towards our nigh halt point at Allepey.