A Flavourful Journey through Kerala

Duration: 3 days

Itinerary: from Kochi to Alappuzha, returning to Vypin, about 140 kilometres in total

Equipment: swimsuit, sunscreen and everything you need to enjoy the beach

The Kerala territory is undoubtedly rich and fascinating, often called "the Switzerland of India" because of its great attention to culture, orderliness and precision. It would take days and days to fully visit the area, complete with birdwatching, relaxation with Ayurvedic massages and slow houseboat trips. While there is plenty to see and do, the best choice seems to be a “tasting” journey to discover its cuisine, which is extremely different from that of the northern areas of India.

Turn on your Vespa and depart from Kochi (or Cochin), which used to be called the "Queen of the Arabian Sea" for its intense commercial trades. Today, it is a quiet port city where the cuisine has had diverse influences thanks to the continuous passage of travellers from all over the world. Here, don’t be surprised to find eccentric dishes made from bananas, fresh fish, seafood and rice. Take a seat at The History restaurant and try the Chuttulli Meen, a grilled red mullet with spices that is rooted in Jewish cuisine. On the menu, you will also find a Portuguese-inspired seafood stew, and the Railway Mutton Curry, a dish that originated during the British occupation. An interesting mix, isn't it?

After visiting the old town and its colonial style buildings, leave the city and immerse yourselves in nature, to reach the Athirappilly and Vazhachal Falls, which are located about two hours away from Kochi. Fully enjoy this excursion and find lodging for the night. The next day, get on your Vespa and explore Alappuzha and the Backwaters, a dense network of canals where life flows by the rhythm of the river. To navigate it properly, rent a canoe and rely on your ability to paddle. Alternatively, enjoy a day at the beach and the charm of this friendly and welcoming part of India.

For dinner, try the Alleppey Fish Curry and the Varutharacha Kozhi Curry. The first is cooked with tamarind and tomato. The second is a chicken dish with coconut and chili, accompanied with rice or tapioca. These are the classic dishes of the area, easily found on the menus of most restaurants, but to be on the safe side, go to the Vembanad Restaurant, where portions are very generous. Here, dishes are often served with curious rice cakes called Idli. They are normally eaten as an accompaniment to the main dish, or as a hearty breakfast together with coconut.

On the third day, set off towards one of the most populated islands in the world: Vypin. Thanks to the series of bridges connecting it with the nearby Kochi, you’ll be able to safely reach it on your Vespa. Located five kilometres from the city of Ernakulam in Kerala, this island was formed in the year 1341 after a flood, covering an area of 25 square kilometres. The result? A magnificent and unspoiled stretch of sand, populated today by beautiful cafés on the beach. Enjoy the peace and the tranquillity of Kerala once again. Together with the best grilled shrimp you will ever have. The final touch after a magical, flavourful three-day trip.