Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Impressions

Ms. Stephanie Pearson, an American journalist who had toured Kerala had won the National Tourism Award for her feature story on Kerala titled ‘The Green Heaven’.  The article was written for the American magazine ‘Outside’. Listen to Stephanie talk about Kerala.

Was this your first visit to Kerala? What brought you here? 

This was my first visit to Kerala. I knew that I wanted to write a story about India and after much research I found that Kerala represented a unique blend of beauty, culture, and wilderness. 

Could you tell us about the most memorable experience you had in Kerala?

Many experiences were quite memorable. But one in particular that stands out was an early morning on Philip Kutty’s Farm. I woke up to the sound of intense rain on the roof. I could hear the sound of chirping birds in the immediate surroundings, but I also heard firecrackers going off at the Hindu temple as well as a hymn being sung at the local Catholic church. It was a fascinating amalgam of sounds that represents the diversity of Kerala. 

What would you like to experience again in Kerala?

I would like to spend more time in the Western Ghats and in the backwaters.  

What is that aspect you miss about Kerala now that you are back home?

I miss the throbbing pulse of life. Everywhere you look in Kerala there is life. 

What are your impressions of the people here?

I found the people to be very diverse, well educated, and interesting. I also love their lyrical way of speaking. 

What do your friends say when you recall your experience in Kerala? Are they excited as well to visit the state? Would you recommend God’s Own Country to your friends? 

I have many friends who have inquired about a visit to Kerala. I definitely would suggest they visit—I just suggest they spend a lot of time there so that they can see the diversity that Kerala has to offer. 

When did the travel bug hit you? 

It hit me when I was a young girl. I didn’t get to travel very often, but I would read the magazines National Geographic and Travel & Leisure all the time. 

What do you regret not doing in Kerala?

I wish I could have spent more time on the southern beaches (possibly surfing) and I would have liked to have done an immersive, week-long Ayurvedic cleanse. 

When do you plan to visit Kerala again?

I’m not sure when I will be able to return. Hopefully some time soon.