Authentic Syrian Christian Cuisine in a Modern Apartment - Day Trip — CALL

Traveling Spoon

OFFER ID 1305830

For more than two decades, Freeda taught cake baking and cake decoration, confectionery baking, puddings and desserts, and gourmet cookery. Currently, she teaches the delights of cooking to children. Freeda is thrilled to welcome guests to her home, where they can enjoy a traditional Kerala meal with charming Freeda and her husband. Their menu might include dishes such as a Kerala-style stew, fish curry, karimeen pollichathu (marinated fish wrapped in banana leaves and grilled), appams, chicken stew, Syrian beef fry (strips of beef cooked in pepper and spices), rice, and pineapple pachadi followed by a delicious western-style dessert. If you book a cooking experience, travelers will learn how to prepare a few traditional Syrian Kerala dishes together with Freeda in her kitchen, and then enjoy their meal together (with additional dishes prepared by Freeda in advance). After the meal, guests will leave with printed copies of Freeda's personal recipes.

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Featured Destinations

Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi (Cochin) is the great, old Keralan spice city. It consists of mainland Ernakulam, islands of Willingdon, Bolgatty and Gundu in the harbor, Fort Cochin and Mattancheri on the southern peninsula and Vypeen Island north of Cochin. Because of the area’s dense tropical forests, extensive ridges and ravines, it has been sheltered from invaders and the rest of India. This encouraged Keralites to welcome maritime contact, and therefore influence from the outside world. In Cochin there is still a small community of descendants from Jewish settlers who fled Palestine 2,000 years ago. When the Portuguese arrived here some 500 years ago, they were surprised to find Christianity already established along this coast. People from far-off lands have been coming to Kerala since ancient times in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Such long contact with people from overseas has resulted in the blending of various cultures and has given Keralites a cosmopolitan outlook.

Excursions

Cochin: Highlights - 7.5 hours

9AM- 10:30AM
Disembark the ship drive for 45 minutes to Tripunithura and visit the Hill Palace which was the official residence of the Cochin Royal family built in 1865. The palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and in surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a deer park. A fully fledged ethno-archaeological museum and Kerala's first ever heritage Museum are the main attractions. Displayed inside are 19^th century paintings, murals sculptures in stone and plaster of Paris, manuscripts, inscriptions and coins belonging to the royal family.

Cooking demonstration and lunch can be arranged at a local home ( on direct payment basis)

2PM- 4PM

In the afternoon, before returning to the ship which is towards the Silk Route trading post of Fort Cochin, these days a `Heritage Zone’. Beginning with the Chinese and Arabs in the 13^th century, the Portuguese arrived in 1500 A.D. followed by the domination of the Dutch and British. See St. Francis Church originally built in 1510 and the first to reflect European influenced tradition. Portuguese hero Vasco Da Gama died on the site and was buried in the cemetery.

At Matancherry, there’s the Dutch Palace built in 1557 by the Portuguese as a gift for the Maharaja of Cochin in exchange for trading rights. The Palace houses royal costumes, palanquins, furniture and weapons but its striking feature is a series of murals painted on wooden walls. Later, stop by the Pardesi synagogue, at the heart of what is locally called Jew town. (Closed for a visit on Fridays and Saturday)

4PM - 4:30PM Thereafter return to the pier.

Added Value:

Great introduction to Cochin city.
The Tour covers the main highlights of the city i.e Depart the Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry, the Dutch Palace and later Jew Street (or Spice Street) in Jew Town.

- Tour Duration: 7 hours
- Tour can operate : Morning
- Physical activity level : Moderate
- Wheelchair Accessible : No

Closing dates : Fridays - Dutch Palace in Mattancherry and Fridays & Saturdays – Jewish Synagogue.

Inclusions:

- Transportation by an air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a local English speaking guide.
- All the entrance fees and camera fees.
- Credit card and bank charges.
- All the prevailing taxes.

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

05/01/2019 - 12/31/2024

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* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

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Length

0 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Luxury
The finest hotels in the world, luxury lodging is characterized by luxury accommodations, impeccable service and the highest standards of comfort and pampering. Luxury hotels and resorts are often found in the most desirable locations. Building from the amenities and guest services offered at a deluxe hotel or resort, the luxury establishment usually puts on the finishing touches - fresh flowers around the hotel and original works of art throughout. Hotel restaurants often employ world renowned chefs to create delectable dishes and a unique dining experience. Attention to detail and personalized service are the hallmarks of luxury hotels and resorts.

Remarks

Pricing is per person. Children aged 5-11 are 50% off, and children 4 and under are free. Please note number and ages of children at time of booking. Please note that all experiences are private and fully customizable. If your travelers have particular preferences or dietary restrictions please note this at the time of booking. Additional terms and conditions apply.
Note: This is a DAY TOUR with no hotel accommodations included. Advertised rate is meal only; additional tour options are available and can be combined. Price may vary by date of travel, currency rate fluctuations and tour option; please inquire for the best prices for your preferred travel dates. 2-20 guests.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1305830

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The Cruise & Vacation Authority

1760 Powers Ferry Rd. - Suite 100
Marietta, GA 30067
USA

770-952-8300
800-326-4971