Mr Giles Hewitt, Deputy Director of South Asia, Agence France Presse (AFP), on his impressions about Kerala during his recent visit.

My lasting impression of Kerala is one of extraordinary variety, from palm-fringed beaches that could compete with any in South-east Asia to verdant hill plantations via the unique ecology of the backwaters. The
choice seems endless and makes a 10-day holiday seem pitifully short. Kerala's main asset is its breathtaking natural beauty, and it seems past
mistakes are being rectified with new resorts trying to conserve the fragile ecosystems that will continue to draw visitors as long as they remain relatively undisturbed. The food is fabulous especially in the
coastal areas where you can watch local fishermen hauling in the catch that will find its way to your table the same day.