Practical habits our specialists pass on to every guest before they fly.
Distances look short and take twice as long. Kerala's roads are good but rarely straight; plan three hours where the map suggests ninety minutes.
Carry small notes. Card payment is widespread in hotels and almost absent at the roadside stalls worth stopping for.
Dress lightly but modestly: cotton, covered shoulders and knees at temples, and something warm for Munnar evenings.
Drink bottled or filtered water, and eat where the turnover is high. Busy is safe.
Book houseboats for one night, not three. The novelty is best served short, with a lakeside hotel either side.
Ayurveda is medicine, not spa. Genuine centres will consult before treating you.
Tip modestly and directly; your guide and driver will be with you for days, and consistency matters more than amount.
Bring insect repellent for the backwaters at dusk, and a light rain layer whatever the season.
Say yes to the toddy shop lunch. It is the best food in the state.
Keep one day unplanned. Kerala rewards it.
