Posted on Dec - 2024
Carol and Bill are first cousins, in their 60s, retired and traveling together from their home in Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Our ten days spent in Kerala could not have been a more wondrous adventure, thanks to the diverse experiential tourism opportunities planned for us by Naaz and Naseem of TALES India Tours.
This was not your typical “sightseeing” trip. TALES India Tours curated immersive tourism experiences that most travelers never encounter: stepping inside a handloom weaving factory to witness traditional craftsmanship, participating in cooking demos in local kitchens, observing the collection of “toddy” from palm trees and sampling it, viewing ancient Hindu theatrical traditions like Theyyam, and attending a vibrant village festival in the hill country. The festival featured captivating performances, and we were treated like royalty by the locals—highlighting the true essence of community-based tourism. We also spent a serene afternoon cruising Kerala’s backwaters on a traditional wooden houseboat—an unforgettable moment of sustainable tourism that connected us with nature.
Naseem and Naaz personally accompanied us during parts of our transformative tourism journey. They arranged knowledgeable guides who offered deep insights into local culture and heritage, making the experiences truly enriching. Each guide embraced responsible travel values, ensuring our visit respected and celebrated the local way of life.
All our homestays and accommodations reflected TALES India Tours’ commitment to sustainable tourism. The high-quality stays featured comfortable rooms, Western-style bathrooms, and warm hosts eager to share their stories, gardens, and multi-dish home-cooked local specialties. These stays perfectly embodied the principles of cultural tourism, offering an authentic window into Kerala’s diverse heritage.
Naaz was a joy to work with. She listened carefully to our interests, thoughtfully tailoring our itinerary to reflect them. Throughout the journey, she and Naseem frequently checked in to ensure everything ran smoothly. On the rare occasion there was a slight glitch, they handled it swiftly and efficiently—reflecting their professionalism and dedication to responsible travel.
We cannot recommend TALES India Tours highly enough! Our only regret is that we didn’t have more time in Kerala. If you’re seeking transformative travel experiences that blend eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and meaningful community connections, plan a trip with TALES India Tours—you’ll return with memories beyond imagination.