Insider Tips
Cochin, Kerala
- An ideal Cochin holiday would be to spend a couple of days in Fort Cochin and then head out to see the Keralan backwaters or the tea estates of Munnar. This way you get to experience both nature and the city.
- Always carry mosquito repellent or spray as Cochin – particularly in monsoon – seems to have been invaded by a sea of mosquitoes!
- Always negotiate a rate with the auto drivers beforehand, especially if you are taking them for the day. Alternatively, you can ask your hotel to arrange for an auto and fix the fare for you.
- Fort Cochin is a place to sit idly by the sea/lake and watch the world go by. Sit at Brunton Boatyard or Forthouse, grab a beer and look out for dolphins swimming by.
- Avoid Fort Cochin Beach on weekends, it gets really crowded as do the Chinese fishing nets. The sea is not the cleanest to swim in so stick to your hotel swimming pool.
- Do remember that if you are invited to see the Chinese fishing nets you are expected to pay a small fee. Fishing is not as lucrative a business anymore!
- While taking an Ayurvedic massage you will be drenched in oil, literally, so be prepared. Relaxation is guaranteed though.
- Jewtown and Mattancherry are great areas to get spices and handicrafts from, but if you are looking for a bargain then Ernakulam (mainland) is the place to go.