The ancient charm of a colonial bungalow, the rustic charm of a farm resort-----contd.
April 21-23, 2012
The drive from Vaghamon to Vandiperiyar (14 kms from
Thekkady) was filled with nature’s wonderful hues and views. As we were nearing
our destination – Harithavanam Farmer Resort in Keerikara, the emerald green
tea plantations welcomed us, stretching 6 kilometres way up to the resort. We
unwound the window glasses, let the cool and fresh wind in, turned up the
volume of the music playing “We will, we will rock you!” and looked forward to
gulping down some fun, on the rocks. 
The Resort had this very earthy concept, with generous use
of bamboos in its decor. We were to stay in 2 cottages which had thatched roofs
and eco-friendly materials to keep it pleasantly cool in any weather. A refreshingly
cool lemonade, spiced up with ginger was waiting. A shot of spirit, followed by
a heavenly feast (traditional Kerala cuisine with fish curry, fried fish, dry
prawns chutney and the works!) and we were all ready to hit the waters. 
We changed into suitable outfits and made our way through
the plantations (coffee, spices, fruits and vegetables), down to the river.
The water wasn’t too deep, as it was the peak of summer, but just enough to
stay afloat and beat the heat. We had a splash of a time. We sat like hippos in
the water, and could see small fishes curious and nibbling at our feet. We
spent about an hour by the river and went back up.
We then played some cricket (we always carry bat, ball and
stumps in the boot, to play where we please!) after which we indulged in some
steaming hot pazhampori (ripe banana slices dipped in a batter of gram flour
and fried in coconut oil…slurp, slurp!) and refreshing hot chai (tea). We got to cuddle some cute li'l rabbits too.
Next we got ready to go on the fishing trek down the river,
across the bridge, through the plantations…with a professional fisherman to
guide us. What a catch we had! 
My elder daughter Ann proudly lifted live fish
one by one, from the net into the basket. And to have that fried and curried for
dinner is an experience worth relishing (A boat can float in my mouth now, just
thinking about it)!
We had time for a quick shower, and got ready for campfire
and dinner. Rotis, Rabit roast, Fish fry, Chicken curry, Peanut masala and
Fresh green salads with some clinking of glasses, in a background of music
blasting off from my sister’s mobile, kids all flared up with their own singing
and dance performances and then a grand finale with all of us breaking into a
tribal sort of dance around the fire. It was a sight, no doubt, but gratefully
there was no one else around, but us!
Crashed the night and morning we were up early to have a
quick breakfast - Vellayappam and beef stew, and hit the road on our journey
back home. The drive was not very pleasant though what with the endlessly curvy
roads and the kids and sis giving in to motion sickness.
Finally we were on home ground, bringing back with us the
memories of a fine vacation. Though just 2 days in all (the weekend), it was a
fulfilling and refreshing holiday, worth waiting for!
Busy days ahead, I switched on my laptop and nearly swooned
at the mails and the work in store for me. The worst part of a holiday, is
having to get back to work, I tell you! Just like the Monday morning blues, I'm suffering from 'Back from holiday' blues...Will get over it soon for sure, but hey, who wants to?!