Backwaters to Alleppey

Fishermen and fish
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I woke earlyish and settled my bill in Varkala during a break in the heavy rain. Then I took a cab to Kollam and got on the tourist ferry that goes from Kollam to Alleppey (also called Alappuzha). It is an 8 hour trip that covers about 85kms of waterways as was, for me, a leisurely way of progressing north.

The ferry was basic, but seemed safe and was comfortable enough. They had a chiller, but had run out of Kingfisher (slack). Apart from two young English guys, who kept themselves to themselves, and a group of Indian chaps, everyone was friendly. There were two girls who had met at an ashram and decided to travel together, a Canadian couple who really did not like India and were hatching an escape plan (this went into overdrive when I explained how Indians wipe their bums and why they only eat with their right hands!) and a quietish smily eastern european lady.

View from the tourist ferry
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I got some links in Palolem, Goa, from the girls and may hook up with one, an Italian, later this month. I tried to point out some positives to the Canadians who, though amiable and funny, were having none of it. The trip seemd to go by quite quickly and, despite the occasional heavy dowpour, ot was relaxing and enjoyble for both the scenery and company. It was chucking it down when we got to Alleppey though so I was glad I'd prebooked and was met on arrival at the jetty. I'd booked a homestay. This is the Indian version of an intimate B&B. The place, 'Allen Residence' was named after the 3 yr old son of the husband and wife team, Sony and Rose. I was made to feel very welcome, and they even popped out o get fish for dinner when I mentioned I liked it. The room was comfortable too, and I slept like a log!