March 17, 2011. Kochi, Kerala, India

We got into Kochi late on the 16th so our day started early on the 17th. Great little village, more of an island really. Very old and full of hip young Europeans and Scandinavians. It is noted for its Chinese fishing nets, which have been around for centuries, the idea of which were probably brought here by Chinese merchant traders.

Kochi also has its roots from the Portuguese and the Dutch, the most famous of which is Vasco de Gamma. The square next to the Chinese fishing nets, which is full of traders selling all kinds of goodies is named after him.

Rosita Woods Inn, Rose St.

Rosita Woods inner courtyard. This building is 800 years old.

Rose Street

Santa Cruz

Chinese Fishing Nets

Graffiti on wall by the Bullet Buddhas

Vasco de Gamma Square

Kathakali dancers. You can't go to this part of the country without seeing this fascinating dance routine.

This is one of the places I would like to revisit and stay a while longer. Very laid back. Lots of great shops and good food. The area is small enough that you really don't even have to take a taxi anywhere, you can walk. Kochi also has an area called Jew Town, where the Jews settled here many years ago. There are only a handful left, but they still have a small area with lots of shops and trades.