Cochin

I was dazzled by Cochin.  Lush green coconut palms fringed waterways. It was hard to escape the sea and Chinese fishing nets that swish into the waters. 

Kovalam Beach

From the tip of India we ventured north to Kovalam Beach in the state of Kerala. Have you ever dreamed of having a tropical beach to yourself? When I arrived at Kovalam Beach in the mid-seventies, that’s exactly what I found. Tourists began flocking to Goa, but Kerala was still under the radar. There was one empty resort on the southern point, and beyond stretched a deserted beach. The surf thumped and sizzled over the sand enticing me into the pristine sea that I shared with no one but my children. 

Cam Thanh Fishing Village

On a hike to Cam Thanh, drying palm fronds lay either side of the road to be woven into a roof or circular boat. Alleyways led to the water’s edge where fishing boats lay idle. The landscape reminded me of Kerala as I approached Nypa Wetlands. Only the sound of a rooster’s crow broke the silence.