Southwestern India Dos and Don'ts

Palolem (yes correct spelling)! used to be an idyllic, deserted place. Now days though, even though still beautiful, tourism has ruined it somewhat. The beach is alot busier, and girls have ignored culture and have taken to sunbathing topless-this is frowned upon by locals. My advise would be to keep your top on, to gain respect. Also do NOT wander around in bikini's along the street, it not only looks ridiculous but its lack of respect for yourself and for the locals. Palolem is a place i have still gone back to time and again even with its tourism and ignorant package tourists. It draws you in somehow, especially with its relaxed lifestyle. Also without the wonderful dogs, it wouldnt be the same. Most dogs have had their injections and rabies in Goa is not usual. Dogs do appreciate some food and water (seek out the skinny ones). Keep your left overs from your meals.

Cochin is the gateway to modern Kerala (India) and the hub of economic activity in the state of Kerala which is one of the unique and interesting places in the world The Malabar coast, long renowned in the ancient in the ancient world for its spices and the link to the far east as far as China had many ancient ports, not all of which have been identified to date. However, Kochi was not one of them. Presence of sand bars which obstructed ship movement and made it unsafe precluded its development as a major port for most of history. The most important port along the Malabar coast was Muziris, present day Kodungallur situated aprox 80 km north of Cochin. A major flood in the 13th century silted Muziris and opened the port of Cochin heralding its new era. At the time of the epic voyage of Vasco de Gama, the prime focus of international trade was Kozhikode, but a dsipute with the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode forced Gama to look elsewhere (Cochin) for trade links. It helped that the Kings of the principality of Cochin (Perumbadappu swaroopam) welcomed the Portuguese literally putting Cochin on the world trade map. It has not looked back since. Kochi, as Cochin is known today, changed hands several times; Portuguese, then Dutch and finally British all leaving their marks on the life and culture of the place. Cochin soon attracted traders from around the world trading communities settled elsewhere in Kerala soon shifted base here. Most of the surface area of the region around Cochin is filled with waterways and backwaters. Tourist attractions Backwater cruises in "kettuvalloms" - house boats Food: a unique blend of old European (prior to the evolution of continental cuisine) and local tastes is unrivalled in taste. Dozens of varieties of fish preparations, appam (a frilly pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk) being the best example. Culture: Kerala has the greatest concentration of classical arts in whole of Indian subcontinent namely, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam. Music: While Kerala has made itls own contribution to Carnatic Music (the south Indian classical music), the real unique aspect of Kerala music is the variety and depth of percussion instruments and rhythms. Afficiandos of percussion music must not miss the percussion orchestras at "Pooram"s which are huge temple festivals. These can also be the opportunity to glimpse the Keral elephants. Elephants: Elephants are revered by the people of Kerala and form essential elements in cultural life and are integral to temple festivities. Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its exponents of traditional healing system known as ayurveda. While it is excellent for rejuvenating the tired mind and body, travellers will be ill advised if they attempt to cure major illnesses (better take modern medical help) For the traveller who wants to venture off the beaten track, it offers a unique experience which cannot be described. Flip side: Kerala is expensive. Hotel rooms are always full in season due to heavy demand and small supply. Book your flights and hotel rooms at least a year in advance if you dont want to regret! Part of the reason for high prices is a deliberate attempt to discourage the non serious traveller and the back packer. However, a back packer who is willing to do some research and improvise (like the local Indian) can have a lot of value for money Places to visit Fort Cochin and Mattachery [ Jewish synagogue, St Francis church- the first European church in Asia, Dutch palace, Bishop's house - it houses a unique maritime musueum of the Portuguese period, the building itself was built by the Dutch] Best wishes

A great little village to hang out for a few days in Goa, away from the trippy-hippy clowns of the northern beaches and the package holiday type apartments just up the road in Colva.
Colva beach is really, really long - a good ride on a bicycle to the end and back - and really beautiful. If you really feel adventurous, buy the guys on one of the fishing boats a cheap bottle of spirits and they'll take you out fishing for the day (or night depending on the tide). A truly awesome experience to see how the locals make a living on the ocean.

If you wanna visit Malapuram the closest airport in the Calicut Airport located in Karipur. Malapuram is a large district and to have fun n see spots do travel using the local buses to get an essence of the land. And yes Malapuram is famous for its local soccer clubs and tournament.

Go and eat in the restaurants where all locals go, it's much cheaper and tastier! And it's safe, i haven't been sick once.