A short drive of half an hour from the bustling town of Ernakulam takes you to a peaceful palm tree lined island surrounding by the backwaters of Cochin. Kothad Islands is home to the Kuttikal family for more than 250 years. With the family ancestors involved in agriculture and farming for over 180 years now, it is not surprising to see Benny’s parents still active in the trade.
On the banks of the river ‘Periyar’, Bens Homestay is a unique and indescribable experience. The coconut trees, the arecanut trees and the mango trees welcome the guests. In front of the house, Chinese fishing nets are a real visual treat to the eye, especially after the sunset. Rafts and canoes are busy transporting people, animals and vehicles from one island to the other, presenting to you just another day in the lovely island of Kothad.
Benny and his wife Anju along with their two sons are perfect hosts. They not only are part one of the oldest families in the region, but also represent their culture and tradition to the hilt. Benny, is an Engineering graduate and post-graduate in Coastal Zone Management. Anju is an expert cook and not only cooks up some brilliant delicacies but also welcomes guests to the kitchen to teach them some of her skills as well.
Ben’s Homestay has an independent cottage which makes up one suite room for guest, and one double room in the main house. The cottage constructed has a typical Keralite architecture, with ornate pillars, baked mud roof tiles and red oxide flooring. The living area with antique furniture and the dining area, and the spacious rooms are large enough to accommodate a small family. The bathrooms are modern but with an open roof (which is typical of a traditional Keralite home).
Benny loves sharing anecdotes and various interesting facts about their family trade. He talks about it with pride and pleasure while taking his guests out on his boat to see his farm. While paddy is cultivated for six months, prawn farming happens for the next six months. A canoe ride on the backwaters, a hand at the Chinese fishing nets, and toddy tapping are some of the activities of village life that villagers can also be part of.
In the evenings, from the sit out, the guests can see the boats passing and the fishing nets in the backdrop of colorful sky after the sunset. One can sit in silence in read or drink some fresh Toddy. When the world moves are a peaceful languid pace at Ben’s Homestay, one can only wish to be able to stay longer
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