MO goes Around the World

Day 100-April 15

Cochin (Kochi), India

Just about two-thirds through this journey. It has been an incredible experience. But overwhelming at times.

The ship is in Cochin for two days. We opted for a non-ship excursion day one to The Backwaters of Alappuzha and a houseboat ride. Alleppey, also known as the Venice of the East, is noted for its network of canals, lagoons, and backwaters. Houseboat cruises in Alleppey are a popular way to experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.

Our “ride” for the day. A Kettuvallam. Made by hand from the wood of coconut trees, Areca nut trees, bamboo and other natural gifts. These can be rented for a vacation.
A glimpse of life around the water
A taxi. Notice the political poster. Elections were approaching. There are 1700+ political parties in India
A resort along the backwaters
A kingfisher
There is commerce here, represented by this photo.

Although I knew it was a 1 1/2 to 2 hour bus ride, I wasn’t aware of the poor condition of the roads. The ride was extremely bumpy in a small bus. My choice is usually smaller buses but in this case I would have liked a large coach with better shock absorbers! India has a relatively new prime minister, committed to upgrading the infrastructure. So most of the route was road construction.

Back to the ship in time for this segment’s AzAmazing Evening. I missed the one in Bangkok and I didn’t want to miss this one.

Greeting us as we arrived on the grounds of LeMeridien Cochin (where I contemplated spending US $86 for a room to watch the final round of The Masters!).
The theme for the evening
Mohiniyattam-A temple art, which literally means the dance of the enchantress.
Kathakali-with the emphasis on facial expressions and hand gestures in this highly stylized performance, the whole face of the artist is painted and he enacts the various emotions narrated in song by accompanying singers.
They yam-Rooted in ancient beliefs and customs, Theyyam depicts folk stories through elaborate rituals and costumes. Theyyam performances are often held in temples and religious squares during religious festivals. 
A Velakali artist paints a henna design on my hand. Joe was asking for the next week when it would wash off….

The second day in Cochin was only a half-day. I chose rest to prepare for our upcoming long day.

This was followed by a sea day with the usual bridge lesson, Cumulative Trivia, and a bridge game.

Marianne Harris

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