Lost in Fort Kochi: My Adventures in a City Rich in History and Culture.

Oh, Saturday! What an adventure it has been in Kochi. The day started off with a bit of a hiccup as I missed the walking city tour, but in hindsight, I don't think I missed much besides the guide's constant self-promotion. Instead, I started my day with a late rice breakfast of turmeric and coconut. As I strolled down the narrow, bustling TM Mohammed Street, a Tuk-Tuk driver caught my eye. Despite their reputation for overcharging tourists and breaking traffic laws, I took a chance and hopped on board. The driver, Sajeer, quickly became my new best friend as he expertly navigated through the chaotic streets filled with all sorts of vehicles and even goats! For just 100 Rupees, he took me to all the must-see landmarks in the city, and it was worth every penny. Kochi is a unique blend of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, making it a fascinating place to explore. The city boasts stunning beaches, backwaters, and lagoons, as well as its rich history with sites like Fort Kochi and the Mattancherry. The people here have also left an impression on me - respectful, hardworking, proud, well-mannered, soft-spoken, and humble. They've mastered the art of living with little and have big hearts that make space for others who also have little, or even less.

 One of the most intriguing things about Kerala is its tradition of matrilineal inheritance and matrilocal residence, where family names and property are passed down through the mother's side of the family. This unique system is called the "Marumakkathayam" system and sets Kerala apart from other parts of India and the world. 

One of the highlights of Fort Kochi's waterfront is the iconic Chinese fishing nets. These massive nets were introduced by Chinese traders in the 14th century and are still in use today, offering a stunning glimpse into the city's cultural heritage. 

Overall, it's been an incredible day filled with exciting adventures, cultural discoveries, and mouth-watering food. And to top it all off, I'm currently sipping on a glass of dry red wine at a cosy wine bar! Sure, the cost may be a bit steep, but I'm savouring every single sip as I realized that wine is an ultimate luxury that I will not enjoy too often. I thought it would be a relaxed stroll back to my stay, but it turned into a search as I couldn't find my way back. Today, my photos will have to tell the stories. If you want to know more about a specific photo, feel free to WhatsApp me at (+27827950411) or keep reading my blogs as I tell the story behind every photo. Sleep tight... I can hear a tiger roar.