Joie de vivre ? that?s the first thing you associate with Lady Jennie Bland. This vivacious wife of the chairman of the BBC, Sir Christopher Bland, is a breeder of race horses, a magistrate, a devoted grandmother, ran a school for small children for thirty years, works for prison reforms as a member of the Howard?s League, and much much more! Here she talks of the Kerala she took time off to visit, from her action-packed life.

How did you like Kerala?

There?s really no other place like it. It is the nicest new place I have seen. The combination of the modern and the ancient, the ambience, the colour, all make it the most beautiful place. 

What about the people of Kerala?

One of the best things about Kerala is its people. They are very friendly, polite and genuine and are extremely considerate. 

What do you think of Kerala as a tourist destination?

I haven?t been to many places in Kerala but have thoroughly liked what I saw. I?m undergoing Ayurvedic treatment at the hotel where I stay, the Somatheeram, and I must say, that it is really good. This totally personalized, herbal, system of treatment would be very appealing to tourists from all over the world. Kerala is definitely a really attractive destination for tourists. 

Would you like to come here again?

Most definitely. I have planned another trip in December and would like to make a trip next year with the entire family including all of my grandchildren. The ones who?ve already visited Kerala can?t wait to get back here!