voyager

Am planning a first trip to India, between Sept-Nov., and am focusing on southern India particularly Kerala and/or Karnataka (no Goa please), unless someone has other ideas. Figured personal feedback/experience is better than just webresearch etc. Would like to get an overall feel for the topography, culture, etc.; stay in 3to4 star hotels; not have to "worry" about too much; seacoast and inland exposure; and, if possible, do some hiking/long walks. Any help on how to create a trip including where to stay, hotel names, excursion ideas, would be WELCOME! P.S. Am not too keen on taking a tour with a (large) group; if a group, then something small and with LOTS of freedom.

Robin

Hello!<BR><BR>I have not been to Kerala but been to India couple of times - once on business to Bangaloore and once to Rajasthan. Even I was trying to find a private tour to Kerala which wud suit my budget<BR><BR>the casino group hotels look nice but little expensive.<BR>the kerala tourism site is helpful and full of info<BR>hotelskerala.com i liked for the info on so many hotels.<BR><BR>try these sites and maybe they wud be of help.<BR><BR>robin <BR>

Bibiana

Hi there<BR><BR>Seems to me that you are doing the right thing for a first-timer. Would suggest this itinerary -<BR>If you're coming from Europe, suggest via any Gulf state to Trivandrum (capital of Kerala)<BR>If its Bombay, move on to Bangalore-Hampi-Mysore-Coorg and eventually on to Kerala<BR>Start with Cochin (historical city) move on to Munnar (hill station and tea estates and good trekking trails)on to Thekkady (wildlife sanctuary and spice plantations)From here, down to Aleppey/ Kumarakom (Houseboats cruises)and move furthur down to Quilon (backwaters)Move on to Trivandrum (Kovalam)beach for some relaxing and Ayurvedic massages. Treks and elephant safaris into the jungle are available from Trivandrum. <BR><BR>Hotels (3 star)<BR>Cochin - Casino/Avenue Regent<BR>Munnar - Tea County/Sterling<BR>Thekkady - The Tree Top/ Spice Village<BR>Allepey - Houseboat cruises<BR>Quilon - Ashtamudi Resort<BR>Trivandrum - Travancore Heritage/Hilton Beach Resort<BR><BR>For more hotel details on the Karnataka sector you could contact Trans Orient Holidays at [email protected] <BR>They could organise something special at quite reasonable rates.<BR>Of course there are cheaper hotels/ resorts but these should fit the bill<BR> <BR>Need more info drop a line<BR>Cheers Bibiana

Abs

Hi,<BR>Would like to know the no of days you would be staying inSouth India.Once you let me know your date of arrival and departure,I would suggest you a good itinerary.<BR><BR>Cheers

lisa

hi. I was in India six months ago, and southern india was definitely my favourite.<BR><BR>I wouldn't recommend Cochin. Yes, its a historic fishing villiage, but the flies and mossies were unforgiving, and it was quite dirty. If you are on your own, it can also be quite lonely as its a bit sleepy.<BR><BR>but go to Varkala before more people discover it. I planned on going for a day and stayed for 9 days...the ocean is lovely and its all situated on red cliffs. Also, Kovalom was quite lovely...everyone said it was so built up, but i thought it to be just the right balence of internationals and quiet...its not a party place...like Goa.<BR><BR>Good Luck!

Lynn

I spent three months in Southern India four years ago. It's a great way to ease into India--in my opinion, Southern India is more easy going and accessible for those unfamiliar with Indian travel than Northern India. Mysore and Bangalore in Karnataka are both pleasant, laid back towns with lots to see and do, and great food. And there's amazing ancient temples (incredible sculptures and architecture) in Halebid and Belur. I've only travelled through Karnataka, though I'm going to Kerala in a few weeks!<BR><BR>A great travel agent I use for all my Indian travels is Travel Scope India (www.travelscope.com). I'm going again in mid-Oct. and they've arranged everything for me. I've had nothing but fantastic experiences with them!