We left chilly Munnar before breakfast. We had to catch the houseboats that left the wharf by one o’clock.
There were many choices of houseboats. Some were for honeymooners, others for friends, others for tourists who wanted an unusual experience. It all depended on your budget.
The houseboats were uniquely made. Some were made of the lowly sawali, others were ornately done. All had bedrooms, toilets, a sitting and dining room conducive to taking in the sights, and a kitchen for the in-house chef and his staff.
The boats toured their guests around the waters. Picturesque palm trees, quiet waters, stunning sunsets made this place a favorite for movie makers who needed a romantic back drop for their scripts.
Tourists delighted in the local cuisine served to them.
This is what we had for lunch: rice, sambal, cabbage, beans and pappads (crispy bread).
My host always arranges it on my plate, seen above. The red blob is beetroot mixed into curd. Normally the “plate” is a freshly cut banana leaf. It feels more refreshing that way.
Special mention must be made for the entrepreneurial ice cream vendor. He stopped at each boat to offer his wares.
We were sent to buy seafood at their market.
The fishermen wanted tourist prices, so we left.
We will have the usual fare–chapati with chicken, rice and rassam. No seafood, alas!
The government orders all boats to dock by 5:30 pm. We are now anchored to a tree in the island. I better close my windows. The mosquitoes might fancy my Pinoy blood.
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