I heard of Kerala’s Backwaters for the first time from my 93 year-old grandfather who was at that time, slowly slipping into early stages of dementia. “I used to sell pots from a boat,” he announced one afternoon. I was puzzled but didn’t heed his comments. He had just eaten his second lunch, because he…
Malabar Monsoon Adventure
As we were boarding the flight for our two week trip to Kerala, I scrolled through the weather report and was a little concerned that rain was expected throughout our trip that included a drive up to the highlands in Munnar, the forests of Thekkady and the backwaters of Allappuza in addition to Fort Kochi….
Church By the Water
The St Mary’s Forane Syro Malabar Catholic Church was packed with devotees when we stopped by Sunday afternoon. Many made their way to mass on passenger boats that ply the backwaters of Alleypey. This church has been rebuilt several times on its foundation that was constructed in 427 AD. It serves the community in a…
Sunrise: Alleyppey, Kerala
Kerala is well known for its beautiful backwaters. It is one of the best ways to take in the scenes of urban and rural life in this South Indian state. The backwaters are an intricate knit of rivers, lakes, islets, canals and streams that pass through towns, villages, paddy fields, forests, markets and houses of…
Performing Arts: Kathakali
Prep for traditional Kerala Kathakali performance. Stage make-up session starts one hour before the performance. It involves the application of several layers – base and colours made out of crushed natural coloured stones mixed in coconut oil. The performer applied his own make up first and is later aided by another artist. Before the performance…
Rail Adventure: London – Inverness
Train journeys are a great way to just take a back seat and enjoy the scenery as you watch the world go by. I’d usually peek into the homes, towns & villages along the line (not in a creepy stalker kind of way 😄), and wonder about the stories and lives of the people who…
Our Fading Heritage: Jerejak Island
My next read! Waiting to dive into the pages to find out more about our very own Ellis Island here in Penang, Malaysia. Sadly, the spot where more than a million migrants to Malaya landed between 1877 and 1957 is earmarked for development of a theme park and resort. Heritage groups are fighting to preserve…
Ramadan Greetings
Ramadan greetings to all my Muslim friend from Kuala Lumpur’s point of origin – the confluence of the Klang & Gombak river where the oldest mosque in KL is located. May 6, 2019 is the first day of the fasting month of Ramadan here in KL.
Tropical Blooms
We’ve been through a heatwave over the last two months – says my poor blemished skin and electricity bill. The air conditioning is switched on most of the day and air-conditioned gyms are a welcome respite compared to the muggy outdoors. This is why the heavy rains over the last two weeks is a welcome…
Desert Drive: Zekreet, Qatar
We were told there is not much to do in Doha when we visited last year. But, if you have the right friends, you get the right advise and shown the right places. Our friend Jason showed up at our hotel early in the morning with packed food and ‘Karak Chai’ in a flask, and…
Serenity Path
Khareyana Spa – One of my favourite spots in the town (now a city) I practically grew up in – Petaling Jaya. I’ve been visiting this old residential bungalow that was converted into a spa sanctuary since 2003. The proprietor Puan Azam – a retired civil servant has always been very warm and welcoming since…
Splash of Colours
Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) Park in the heart of Kuala Lumpur is a popular spot in the city for locals and visitors alike. Located at the foot of the Kuala Lumpur Petronas Twin Towers, it is one of the best places to catch a city sunset. Watch the city lights take over the evening…
Maria Dass the World 