Canoe trip

Went on a canoe trip along the more inaccessible waterways that make up this part of Kerala.

Canoe is quite long, has a reed roof cover, and lounge as you wish seats.

There were 5 of us in the canoe plus the guy who paddles. Mike and the paddler, (Jamid) the only males.
Two of the young women wanted coconut beer, so Jamid pulled up to what is the local equivalent of a pub.
A bamboo thatched hut split into an off license and a drinking room.
Buy your booze (only sell coconut beer, 'toddy'), sold in litre plastic water bottles. Retire to other room, and get hammered.
To say it's an acquired taste is an understatement.
Watching the men in the bar, they just neck a litre at a time. No other way... And for Yvonne and Mike, no way.

Found out that there is a real and growing alcohol problem throughout India. The solution for the officials of Kerala is prohibition, for the majority; 5 star hotels are exempt.
Yeah, right, worked for the Americans, not.
Hence not just a booming home grown industry, but also a growing heroin one.
They are relenting on beer, mainly due to the impact on tourism, and Mike's letter.

Funky Art Beach Houses new addition is called White Pepper Funky Art Beach House. Catering for the less young.
It is quiet but... this is India!

The Indians love their tannoy. Funnel speakers on poles, up trees, on vehicles. The ones who love it the most are the churches, temples and mosques.
It is possible to have almost uninterrupted sermons most of the day, and evening.

Can understand why so many Indians want to get pissed.

Now it happens the are a whole number of religious festivals on now. One of which recites the complete and unabridged life of Rama, over many days. Starting at 5 am until 7 am, over, you guessed, the tannoy.
Mike can now recite tracts of the life of Rama that have been subliminally learnt, in Hindi.

Bless Yvonne for bringing extra earplugs.
For every problem there is a solution.

Leave you with some photos: Our canoe, waterway, enjoying a fresh coconut, light veg curry to eat with fingers.