“Lessons Beyond Books”
“Lessons Beyond Books” young faces mirror a spectrum of emotions as students encounter the stark realities of human anatomy during an Ayurveda medical exhibition. Education, indeed, begins at the edge of wonder.
“Lessons Beyond Books” young faces mirror a spectrum of emotions as students encounter the stark realities of human anatomy during an Ayurveda medical exhibition. Education, indeed, begins at the edge of wonder.
“Shouldering dreams, carrying love
A father’s simple act speaks volumes on the morning walk to school.”
International volleyball star Tom Joseph met his youngest ‘trainee-in-crime’, Vedik Sreekanth, a fourth grader, at the BPCL Ground where a sizzling summer volleyball coaching camp has just begun. Though the camp was officially for students from 6th grade to Plus Two, Vedik’s energy and passion for the game was so electrifying that the coaches decided to bend the rules and let the little champ join in.
Because hey, who says age matters when you’ve already mastered the art of spiking imaginary balls in your backyard?
Photo: E.V. Sreekumar / Manorama
Renowned Indian classical dance exponent and ‘Nrithya Choodamani’ awardee Priyadarsini Govind loses her necklace mid-performance during a live recital in Kochi on November 4, 2003. Unfazed and graceful, she continued to mesmerize the audience, completing her performance with poise and dedication.
“Dust & Determination: New Year, New Gear”
📍 Caption:
As the clock ticks into a new year, the race roars on—captured mid-turn as a rider kicks up a trail of dust, leaning into the curve with unshaken focus. A perfect mix of speed, spirit, and the thrill of the chase to kickstart the year. #NewYearRace #DustAndDetermination #GoProMoments #RideInto25
Strapped my GoPro onto one of the riders and captured the raw adrenaline of the race—handlebars swaying, wheels spinning, and the track flying by in a blur of speed and grit. 🏁🚴♂️💨 #BikeRace #GoProAction #RideOn
Le Montfort Munnar: From Schoolyard to Sanctuary – A Hidden Gem in the Hills
Our latest travel adventure led us to Le Montfort Resort, nestled about 6 km from the check dam in Munnar. This intriguing resort, originally a school, provides a charming blend of nostalgia and novelty, offering guests a unique ambiance compared to conventional stays.
Booking Experience
Booking directly through their Kochi-based office was seamless, detailed, and efficient. We appreciated the comprehensive briefing provided by their courteous office staff, making us feel welcomed and well-informed even before our arrival.
Arrival and Access
However, our visit began on a challenging note due to ongoing road construction leading up to the property, something we wish had been communicated earlier. Guests driving down should avoid using Google Maps for directions and instead use the Hydel Dam route at the entrance of Munnar town to reach the resort. Despite this initial hiccup, our arrival was met with a warm and attentive reception, promptly putting us back into holiday mode.
Accommodation
The resort features varied tiers of accommodation priced between Rs 6,600 and Rs 10,000. We discovered that rooms boasting a majestic mountain view start at the higher end (Rs 10,000), whereas lower-deck rooms overlook an enchanting forested area, offering an equally captivating yet entirely distinct atmosphere.
Our Premier room was well-equipped with excellent amenities—including a fridge, kettle, water heater, and stocked mini-eateries. Each room includes a balcony, a delightful feature adding to the charm of the stay. Although certain areas around the hotel have a slightly rustic appearance due to ongoing expansion and construction, this did not detract significantly from our experience.
Dining
Dining was another highlight of our stay. The restaurant’s location is conveniently central, though we found food prices somewhat steep, despite the excellent quality. The complimentary breakfast deserves special praise, presenting a splendid array of options catering delightfully to both Indian and Western palates.
Facilities and Activities
The pool area, ideally positioned within the property, offers relaxation, albeit potentially disturbed by the playful energy of families with children. Seating near the pool is somewhat limited, so securing a private moment might prove challenging during peak family hours.
Surprisingly, the temperature was warmer than typical for Munnar, prompting us to choose an air-conditioned room. We suggest future guests consider this when planning their visit, especially during seasonal warm spells.
The property provides ample parking space and facilities like a hall suitable for small gatherings or wedding receptions. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy on-site activities such as trekking and cycling, although the limited and somewhat squeaky cycles available might benefit from maintenance and expansion of inventory.
Safety
Safety-wise, the resort is ideal for couples and families. However, parents of active young children must exercise caution due to unprotected cliffs in the immediate vicinity, posing potential hazards.
Check-out Experience
Check-out was smooth, and a thoughtful follow-up call a day later reaffirmed their commitment to guest satisfaction.
🚨 Statutory Travel Advisory 🚨This travel vlog is based on our personal experiences and observations as we explore destinations, stays, and experiences starting from Kochi. While we strive to provide accurate and honest insights, travel is subjective, and circumstances can change. Consider our recommendations as friendly advice rather than absolute truths—your experience may vary. Always check for updates, availability, and suitability before planning your trip. Travel smart, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy the journey!
Please note: This is not a paid or sponsored review. We pay for our stays from our own pockets to maintain unbiased and honest reporting.
🏅 Progress Report 🏅
Location: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Unique, serene, but currently difficult access)
Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Exceptionally courteous and attentive staff)
Cleanliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Well-maintained despite ongoing construction)
Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (Outstanding breakfast; high-priced, quality meals)
Safety: ⭐⭐⭐½ (Needs improvement in cliff-side safety for children)
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Overall very good experience, worth the price)
Newly inducted nurses solemnly take their oath during the induction ceremony at Ernakulam Town Hall, marking their first step into a career serving humanity.
A curious passenger lifts the tarpaulin on a private bus, peering out to check if her destination has arrived—a familiar scene capturing the everyday charm of Kerala’s journeying life.
Spectators soaking in the vibrant hues of the Atham procession at Tripunithura.