Kerala also known as God's Own Country is relaxed compared to the north. People here in the south amble compared to other states. They stroll at night and in the early morning when the temperatures are pleasant. They smile and say hello with no hidden agenda. Their smiles are genuine. Welcoming. I think I will set down my backpack and stay a while.
As soon as I get my bearings, I set out for my first massage treatment in India. I choose a relaxing treatment where warm oil is slowly poured on the forehead from a metal vessel suspended above the head. I quickly fall into a deep blissful sleep.
I explored Fort Cochi in the late afternoon when the heat was less fierce. I discovered a wonderful community of artists living in the heart of a busy fragrant spice market. I saw signs of pretty clever street art as well.
Then there are the clever fishermen. The Chinese fishing nets are fascinating contraptions that catch more than fish these days...plastic garbage and tourists among other things. It is quite nice to visit the beach first thing in the morning or at sunset. The fishmongers located right behind the nets are colourful characters.
I enjoy a beautiful Keralan meal of fish wrapped in a banana leaf. Fresh and flavourful. I also discover a fantastic little Tibetain restaurant that serves wonderful momos. I think Nathalie would approve.
My second massage treatment involved copious amounts of warm oil. I felt like a slippery fish on this hard wooden surface. The techniques were long and very fluid. My therapist's hands were very strong. Despite the crazy humidity, she poured over my tired body for an hour while I drifted in and out of consciousness. Sublime.
The humidity in Kerala is intense. Unlike in the desert, I am sweating profusely. A daily detox.
I feel like I am moving at a snail's pace these days. The thought of hurrying anywhere for anything seems impossible and just wrong. I amble with the rest of the population here in Fort Cochi and take in God's own country at a snail's pace.
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