Exploring Kollam, Kerala

If you're looking for a truly authentic cultural experience in india, there are few better ways to do it than by staying with a local family in a small town. that's exactly what i did when i spent 15 days in kollam, kerala, attending a malayalam wedding and exploring the local area.
kollam is a charming town located in the southern indian state of kerala, known for its beautiful backwaters and stunning natural scenery. but what really makes kollam special is its people, who are some of the warmest and friendliest you'll ever meet. during my stay, i was lucky enough to stay with a local family, who welcomed me into their home and showed me the true meaning of hospitality.
one of the highlights of my trip was attending a malayalam wedding. malayalam is the language spoken in kerala, and weddings are a big deal here. the wedding ceremony itself was a colorful and joyous aair, with traditional music and dancing, and a feast of delicious local food. i felt honored to be included in the celebrations, and it was a truly unforgettable experience.
but there's much more to kollam than just weddings. the town is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with palm trees, rice paddies, and serene backwaters all around. i spent many days exploring the local area, taking long walks along the waterways, and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. i also visited some of the nearby temples and shrines, which are important religious sites for the local people.
staying with a local family was one of the best decisions i made during my trip. i was able to experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of kollam, and i learned about their culture and way of life. my friend's family treated me like one of their own, and they introduced me to local delicacies, such as puttu, appam, and kadala curry. i also got to learn a few malayalam words and phrases, which helped me communicate with the locals.
another highlight of my trip was the food. kerala is known for its delicious cuisine, which is rich in spices and flavors. i was lucky enough to sample a wide variety of local dishes during my stay, from spicy curries to sweet desserts. some of my favorites included appam (a kind of pancake made from fermented rice batter), dosa (a crispy, savory pancake), and puttu (a steamed rice cake).
all in all, my 15 days in kollam were a truly unforgettable experience. from the warmth and hospitality of the local people, to the stunning natural scenery and delicious food, this is a part of india that i will always hold close to my heart. if you're looking for a unique and authentic travel experience, i highly recommend kollam and the surrounding area.

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