So little time and so much Kerala! Help!

Diana

Happy Christmas, Solstice, Hanukkah, et al!

I've been working in central Kerala (Thrissur Dt) for most of a year now and am FINALLY taking a week off to explore, vacation, and relax the 3rd week in January. I've spend eons on this site and elsewhere looking for the "perfect place" to spend my rare free time....growing more confused by the day. So, I need the help of you pros.

Here's my situation and requirements:

• I will be traveling with my driver so will have a car.
• I want to explore places in Kerala (or adjoining Kerala, i.e. nearby) that I can travel to by car from Thrissur in less than one day.
• I want to relax and have some peace and quiet (at lease "quiet" by India standards.)
• Beach for at least a couple of days - for peace rather than for beach-babing or action.
• I prefer a homestay or small resort with a quiet pace and nice people. Not one super big on socializing. Price around or less than 4K a night (preferably less of course) and able to accomadate my driver (he's also a friend so can stay either in my room if that won't cause an uproar or in drivers' accomodations.)
• Scenic beauty
• Maybe a few historical places to visit (e.g. palace, museum, fort)
• Internet would be useful but is not essential (I'm writing a grant and it would be good to be able to check resources, etc.)
• Definitely need a massage or 3 or 5 or ...
• I love craftsmanship (and craftswomanship) traditional music and dance, natural beauty, and nice dining opportunities/meals...small towns over big cities.
• Maybe an overnight houseboat cruise?

Thus far I've been thinking of heading to Fort Kochi either on the way out or back for a few days and spend the bulk of my time in either: Kannur or other place I can see Theyyam, Fort Angelo, etc., Kumarakom, Kottayam area, Idukki (for the caves, tea plantations), Munnar, Wayanad...you get the drift.

Any advise on where to go? What to see? Where to stay? I need to make reservations soon and my head's a whirl!

Thanks much,

Diana

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