December 13

Today we got around earlier. I think I'm finally caught up on sleep!! Breakfast was again two continentals with fruit of papaya, watermelon, and banana: but I had masala omelet, Jeff had French toast. We stayed and had quite a conversation with the same guy from yesterday – James. He's originally from Virginia until he was seven and his family moved to Florida. His address now is northern California- at least his RV is there at a friend's house. Anyway, he's quite the character, and has lived in Thailand, bought property in Laos – well you get the picture. He said he's “always had itchy feet.” It was fun to talk with him.

Then we went out! First we went to Mahatma Gandhi Beach. Unfortunately the beach was very littered and not in use at all. It was a bit disappointing, especially since it is named after one of India's most famed people. There was pretty nice promenade that we strolled down to the very north of the peninsula that is Fort Kochi. We saw some remnants of the fort's walls and a cannon at one point for effect. We also came to Vasco da Gama square (which is not a square anymore, but rather a space.) There were venders here selling their wares. Also here, along the water's edge, is a dozen or so huge fishing nets. This are lowered into the water by large weighted arm that counterbalances the net. It was fascinating to watch. Some of the fish caught were for sell, and one guy said to us, “You buy and I'll cook for you.” That warranted a huge smile! If only we hadn't just eaten breakfast!! There were Crows and Brahminy Kites circling for their share of the catches. The Kites look like a smaller American Bald Eagle in flight, and they actually attacked the Crows if they infringed too much.

Next we went to St. Francis CSI Church (Church of South India, which is a union of many Protestant churches after India's Independence). It's claim is to be the first European church built in India within the oldest European settlement of Fort Kochi, 1500 (changed from wood to stone in 1516). Also Vasco da Gama was entombed here from 1524, until 1538, when his remains were taken back to Portugal. The church itself was fairly humble, but kept up nicely.

Next we were heading to a ferry, when I happened to see a odd tree, called a Cannonball Tree. It has flowers all over growing out like little branches and coconut-shaped like fruit (obviously this is the cannonballs though). It was wild! Anyway, at the ferry Jeff bought us tickets – only 6 rupees for both of us. This is only 7 cents for both of us!!! We crossed from Kochi over to Vypin, the other peninsula of the bay mouth area. It is only about an 8 minute ride. It is a small opening for big ocean going vessels, but very much used. We saw a few large cargo ships to many junk-like fishing vessels to a few little motored fishing boats, plus many ferries, all in the bay area. When we landed we hurriedly bought our next ferry tickets, as it was getting ready to leave. We were the last ones on. This ferry cost 40 rupees (48 cents) for us both. It was a much longer ride, so was able to sight see more of the bay area. We even saw the unloading/loading dock. We now landed on the mainland of India, still Kochi, but called Marine Drive.

Here we had lunch at Ice Berg. We mostly wanted drinks: had a Ginger Lime juice, a chocolate coffee milkshake and a almond pistachio milkshake. We added a chicken sandwich, that was actually curry chicken and tasty. But the winner was the drinks. We had water still, but it was quite warm now.

From here we went back, reversing the ferries. Another 48 cents and then 7 cents for two ferries/two passengers. We spent a grand total of $1.10 for our four legged ferry venture. It was fun.

Next we walked to Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. It is most impressive outside. There was no entry fee. Inside is not as grand. The walls are painted to look like marble, and give it a gothic style feel. But it is nicely vaulted and lit well with arches leading up to the altar. The ceiling had paintings of the crucifixion.

Next we went to the Bishop's House. Actual entry into the house is not allowed, but there's a museum, the Indo Portuguese Museum. It was entry fee of 48 cents each. There were many craved pieces: from altar boxes to models of intricate arches from religious buildings. There were also vestments that were donated by various Indian churches.

Now we went back to our place for an hour siesta.

Lastly we went out by way of an Uber back over to the mainland. We had supper at Thamp Resto – both had stir fried rice, one chicken, one veggie with a bowl of chicken garlic bell pepper sauce that we split and put on our rice. Finished now, we go to a festival, Vrichikam Festival, at a Hindu Temple, Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple. Anyone is allowed, irregardless of caste, creed or religion. The main draw for us was a line up of fifteen decorated elephants, with their ivory tusks all bright white. There was a lot of music, light displays and vendor stalls. Also there were many candles, making a wall of different light. Of course, there were many people also. It was an experience for the eyes and ears.

We hired another ride back to our place. Wow! What an exciting, fun day here in India!