Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Impressions

On his third visit to God’s Own Country, Wouter Van der Meer from Holland was thrilled to wax eloquent about the charms of this land.

The blend of people, nature, festivals, food and culture that lends rustic beauty to Kerala was what enraptured him. He believes that it is this blend that creates the pleasant, calm atmosphere that prevails throughout Kerala.

His first visit to Kerala was in 1998 and the second in 2001. The fact that it is after an interval of over 14 years that he is visiting Kerala again has given him a firsthand exposure to the extent to which the State and its ambience have been changed.

Mr. Wouter Van der Meer emphasizes that the changes have been many ranging from a drastic change for the better in the attitude to tourism to new luxury hotels and skyscrapers. “People are more aware of the tourism potential of the State now,” he says.

A diehard fan of fish curry with coconut, the quaint and humble charm of Fort Kochi, has won his heart.

“The Chinese fishing nets are an amazing sight to behold! It is very beautiful to see them in the background of the setting sun. Fort Kochi has many buildings, which are historically important and stands testament to the many architectural marvels of the place. They also speak of the blend of different cultures,” he said.

The backwaters, Kathakali and Onam are all elements that keep Wouter Van der Meer close to this land of beauty, simplicity and elegance.