My favourite place to stay in the backwaters is a wonderful homestay on a small island about 1 hour on local ferry from Alleppey. It’s run by a great guy called Thomas who takes you out on walks, bike rides and canoe trips around the village where you get to meet the locals and learn a lot about the culture.

There are lots of activities you could do, or just relax next to the river. The home cooked food is amazing. The rooms are not luxurious, but are comfortable with private bathrooms. A year ago it cost us 1700 rupees a day for us both including all meals and most activities.

It’s called Green Palm Homes and you can email Thomas at greenpalmhomes@yahoo.com or greenpalms@sify.com or call on 0091 (0) 477 272 4497. He can be hard to get hold of by email though. Many people (us included!) end up staying here far longer than planned.

I’ll be writing a full review of this homestay on this site soon.

You can see plenty of birds in the backwaters, but for bigger wildlife you might want to consider a trip to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Regarding malaria advice it’s best to go and see your doctor as the situation changes all the time. Or check out the website http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk. We didn’t take malaria pills in Kerala, but many people do. It’s best to read up on it yourself and make your own decision.

I hope this helps and have a great trip, Erin.