FAQs
Question
What is the weather going to be like?
Answer
June is the monsoon season in Kerala, so you can expect rainfall and high humidity. You would be well-advised to carry umbrellas and SPF-50.
Question
Packing essentials?
Answer
In an inexhaustive list: umbrellas, SPF-50, mosquito repellant, cotton/linen clothing, travel adaptor, sanitiser, any essential medications, and local currency.
Question
How can we get around?
Answer
In order of convenience of travel options: 1. By Car or Taxi: Renting a car with a driver is a popular choice for comfort and convenience, especially for long distances and hilly areas like Munnar. Apps like Uber and Ola also work in major cities such as Cochin and Trivandrum. 2. By Auto-rickshaw: For shorter distances within towns and cities, auto-rickshaws are a common and inexpensive way to get around. Always good to agree on the fare or ensure the meter is on! 3. Metro - Only operational in Kochi. Tickets can be bought from any metro station. The circuit runs from Aluva to Pettah. The service is available from 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM 4. By Train: Kerala has an extensive train network, great for traveling between cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Alleppey, offering scenic views along the way. The website for booking trains is: https://www.irctc.co.in/nget/train-search (You need an Indian phone number to be able to get OTP's and book on this website) 5. By Bus: State-run (KSRTC) and private buses are available for both short and long-distance travel, though they can be a bit crowded at times. This option is for our guests who like to be a bit adventurous. 6. By Ferry: In areas like Alleppey and Kochi, ferries are a beautiful way to explore the backwaters and coastal areas. Uber is available only in Kochi and Trivandrum. For short distances, get taxis (autorickshaw or car) and if possible get them arranged with the help of your hotel staff, ensuring to get fair prices that way. Always get the price negotiated and fixed before you start the journey. Most drivers take cash or UPI. If you do not have UPI/BHIM, please ensure that you have cash to hand.
Question
How do I deal with mobile data and network provider?
Answer
Mobile data in India is very affordable with various options for unlimited data packages. We would recommend starting off by activating international roaming data from your phone provider, and also try to get a local SIM at the Cochin airport before you step out.
Question
Where can we get Indian outfits from?
Answer
If you would like to buy your outfit in Kerala, you could go to Lulu Mall, Kochi, which has most outfit brands in one place. Some other stores are Salt Studio, Pothy's, Kalyan Silks, Ritu Kumar, Seematti, etc. If you want to buy online, there are a range of options. Following is a non exhaustive list: Suta: https://suta.in/ Pernia's Pop-Up Shop: https://www.perniaspopupshop.com/ KALKI Fashion: https://www.kalkifashion.com/global/ Myntra Fashion: https://www.myntra.com/ Manyavar: https://www.manyavar.com/en-in/home Mulmul: https://shopmulmul.com/ Salt Studio (only for women): https://saltstudio.in/ Lis Designs (only for women): https://lisdesigns.in/ Kisah(only for men): https://kisah.in/en-us Firangi Yarn (only for men): https://firangiyarn.com/ Komal Kothari (only for men): https://www.komalkothari.in/
Question
How is the food safety and hygiene in Kerala?
Answer
The state's tourism department takes great measures to maintain the cleanliness of popular tourist spots. The restaurants and hotels in Kerala follow strict hygiene practices, ensuring the safety of their customers. However, as the food, its ingredients and environment may be new to some people, it is always advisable to eat at reputable establishments and avoid street food to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses. Please always drink bottled mineral water. Tap water is not potable. You could also carry some medication for your stomach for travel.