Do's and Don'ts when you are in Kerala
- For the pleasant upkeep of the destination litter management is very crucial. Therefore, the less litter you create the better it will be for everyone. Remove all unwanted packaging materials and avoid disposable goods before you leave your home country.
- Use bottled water for drinking.
- Don't consume alcohol in public as it is frowned upon.
- At Alleppey you will come across warm and friendly people. You will always be greeted with a smile whether in your Houseboats or on the road. Don't hesitate to smile back to a stranger. Locals are very friendly towards visitors.
- Malayalam is the mother tongue of Kerala and most of the people here converse in this language. English is also spoken here, though limited towards the rural side. Knowing a few words in Malayalam is certainly a great way to make friends. Saying 'Namaskaram' with your palms joined is the manner for greeting as well as for saying goodbye.
- When visiting local communities, let your behaviour be guided by the people you meet there. Keralites are very hospitable and are friendly towards visitors, however respect their privacy. Always take advice from your guide and seek permission before you enter anyone's home, a community building or a gathering.
- Cultural practices, traditions and religion play a crucial part in the local way of life. Lifestyles are generally centered on customs and religious importance; this is especially strong in the rural areas. There are number of festivals and a busy calendar of events for cultural and religious activities.
- Make sure that you take permission before taking photographs of people and places. Consult the guide before taking photographs, as some religious sites and certain ceremonies are restricted from being photographed. Pay respect to sacred sites and statues and do not pose in front of those, if you are scantily dressed.
- It is worth trying to eat and drink outside your Houseboats, as this is one way to learn many things about the local cuisines, as well as helping the local people and the local economy gain some benefits directly from tourism. You may find lots of locally grown tropical and exotic fruits, vegetables and fresh seafood available in the vicinity. Try and taste delicious local dishes. Most indigenous culinary practices often offer wellness and health benefits. Rice and assortments of fish/meat and vegetable curries, mostly cooked in coconut milk, makes a typical meal. Kerala is 'Spice's own country', so try spicy food with rich local flavor.
- Buying local souvenirs helps the local economy and supports livelihoods. Remember, bargaining should be seen as an opportunity to build a social relationship between seller and buyer, not simply as a competitive economic exchange. Agree on a fair final price, considering the time and effort that has been spent in making the product. Remember, a small saving for you can be a significant amount to the seller.
- In many areas, you can find crafts that are special to that area. Buying directly from producer groups not only supports the local workers and their families, but also helps to create awareness and education on age-old crafts handed down from generations to generations. Your appreciation for local crafts will help revive dying and disappearing arts and crafts.
- On your visit here, you will discover a variety of interesting things, which are integral to the region. While enjoying it you should show concern for maintaining it where it belongs to. Collection of souvenirs without permission is strictly discouraged.
- Some of the areas in our itinerary are fragile in nature and hence refrain from activities, which may pose negative impacts there. While on your visit always look for options, which can reduce carbon dioxide emissions to the maximum.
- Sometimes, you might not know the extent of scarce resources used to make your visit a comfortable one. Use air conditioning, electricity and water sparingly. Remember to turn off lights, air conditioning, television and taps when not in use.
- In many areas, you can find crafts that are special to that area. Buying directly from producer groups not only supports the local workers and their families, but also helps to create awareness and education on age-old crafts handed down from generations to generations. Your appreciation for local crafts will help revive dying and disappearing arts and crafts.
- Do not leave your cash and valuables in your Houseboats rooms. Keep your cash divided in different pockets or security lockers available at the Houseboats.
- Don't photograph women without permission.
- Remember, to remove headgear, footwear and cover your body reasonably well when visiting religious places. Locals generally wear white or sober colours. Conservative dress is the norm.
- Make sure that you are fully clothed and covered when visiting places of religious importance.
- Nudity in any form is frowned upon for both genders and the rule applies more especially to women.