Staying at Philipkutty’s Farm is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the real Keralan experience in a fascinating location, with a caring family to look after you. It is a special place, as it provides something different, especially for those who prefer small and friendly places, and, could just be, the perfect hideaway for the bespoke traveller.

You are welcomed, looked after, and cared for by the family (wife Anu, mother Aniamma, son Philip and myself - Vinod). Though the family hosts you, your privacy is assured as the three waterfront villas are entirely independent and away from the family residence. The first villa designed by Karl Damscen, a Swiss architect, is a traditionally styled, antique filled, open plan affair, with sufficient space for a couple and an extra bed if need be. The other two villas designed by Thomas Dominic, are the same in style and deco, but with separate bedroom, living room and ‘sit-out’ facing the peaceful waterfront.

Food is definitely one of the highlights of staying at Philipkuttys farm. The cuisine is mostly local and cooked by my skilful mother. Being a traditional agrarian household, lavish meals are more or less the norm and pretty much a way of life. All meals are included in the price. All the three villas are spacious, independent and located on the outer dyke facing the peaceful backwaters.