Sally Intercontinental Travel Ltd.(S. I. Travel)
Admin: Church Centre, Kingsgate Rd, Kilburn, London NW6 4PR
Correspondence: Suite 27 Joules Hse, Christchurch Ave. Kilburn London NW6 7QW.
Tel/Fax:(+44) 0208 451 6817 Tel: (+44) 0208 451 0777

1. KERALA EXPERIENCES -Kerala Tours

2. SOUTH INDIA EXPLORER South India Highlights / S.I. Explorer

KERALA - TOWNS
 Trivandrum : The capital of Kerala, Trivandrum is an easy-going city located just 87 kms. from the southernmost tip of India. The modern part of the city with its wide roads and white colonial buildings offers a sharp contrast to the narrow back streets of ol Trivandrum and the Fort area - the historical heart of the city.Things to do and see: Shri Padmanabhaswamy Vishnu templeThe Government Napier Museum, shopping along the Mahatm Gandhi road, A Kathakali performance Kovalam : Sandy beaches fringed by lofty palms are the main attractions for visitors to Kovalam - Kerala's most popular bear resort. Ayurvedic massage is widely available around the resort and makes a great end to a relaxing day on the beach Kovalam's nightlife is very laid back and centers mainly around the beach bars on Lighthouse beach, Samudra beach and Hawah beach.

 Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary : The earliest wildlife sanctuary to be set  in India and one of the largest and most visited, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuar forms part of the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala's south eastern
 border with Tamil Nadu. Visitors can take a wildlife cruise on Periyar lake or alternatively, organize a walking tour with one of the reserve's guidesAmong the indigenous species to be found in the reserve are elephants wild boars, sambar, langur, monkeys, malabar flying squirrel and prolific bird life. Lucky visitors may even spot tigers and leopards.Kumarakom : This idyllic island set on Vembanad lake and surrounded by miles of winding waterways is the location  Kerala's bird sanctuary. Species to be found in the sanctuary include the darter, little cormorant, heron, golden backed woodpecker and tree pie.

Alleppey : Commonly referred to as "the Venice of the East" Alleppey is one of the principal points of departure for backwater cruises. These boat journeys are one of the most memorable experiences for visitors to Kerala. The waterways are fringed by dense tropical vegetation dotted with the occasional set of stone steps leading down to the water where local women wash their laundry. Here and there, are open expanses of paddy fields alongside towering coconut trees or bankside mosques and temples. Cameras should be kept at the ready for an opportunity to glimpse the illusive kingfisher or a circling Pallas fishing eagle. chinest Fishing Nets

RICE BOAT CRUISES

One of the more unusual and relaxing holiday experiences is a Rice Boat Cruise through the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. Travelling on these floating homes gives you the chance to enjoy Keralan culture first hand - weddings, markets and visits to holy places are all commonplace. Each boat contains just one or two double cabins with en suite facilities, living area and kitchen. The tour leader speaks good English and has an in-depth knowledge of the backwaters. Whilst the two helmsman steer the boat, the chef works hard to prepare great meals throughout the trip using local ingredients, much of the food is fish and coconut based and full of delicate spices bought fresh every day. This is a truly authentic and peaceful experience, which also gives much back to the local community by encouraging the refurbishment and rebuilding of these ancient vessels. Rice boats can be booked as a supplement to any Kerala property. They are available for 3 or 4 nights on a Full Board basis and form part of a 7 or 14 night holiday (4 night cruises are only available on 14 night holidays).


Ayurvedic Treatments Health -Ayurvedic treatment

For those who are looking for full relaxation then Ayurveda treatment is a must. Ayurveda is a natural system of medicine practised over the centuries by Indian physicians. This scientific and holistic system of medicine both restores and rejuvenates with the use of massage, oil treatment, herbs, meditation, and yoga exercises. A great way to recharge your batteries. Various treatments are on offer ranging from hand & face massage, complete body massage including a herbal steam bath, special head treatment to relieve tension and strain, to various health and rejuvenation packages. Our pre-bookable Ayurvedic treatments are presently available in Goa and Kerala. Guests pre-booking treatments at the Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kerala will receive a 6 day Rejuvenation package and a free daily consultation and doctor's diagnosis. The Palmshore Beach Resort in Kerala offers a 6 day package and a 13 day package. Please see the Goa 2nd edition brochure for further details.
========================================================
NEW - Taj Garden Retreat, Thekkady, Kerala (4 SUN)

The Taj Garden Retreat is located on the edge of the Periyar Wildlife Reserve, home to elephants, tigers, bears and deer. Our accommodation is in thatched villas on stilts and the atmosphere is very tranquil. The hotel offers forest treks, boat rides on Lake Periyar and nature trails. It is set in picturesque surroundings, but it is not suited to beach lovers. This hotel is a good combination with one of our rice boat cruises, or combined with another property in Kerala or Goa as a twin centre.

Twin Centres - Goa and Kerala WITH JMC HOLIDAYS

This is a new addition to the Indian Ocean programme. You can now book any property in Goa and combine it with a choice of 3 properties in Kerala (Kumarakom Lake Resort, Marari Beach Resort, and Taj Garden Retreat). Due to the internal flight guests departing the UK on Thursday will spend the first 4 nights at their hotel in Goa, 6 nights in Kerala and then the remaining 4 nights in Goa.
Guests departing the UK on Saturday will spend the first 2 nights at their hotel in Goa, 6 nights in Kerala and then the remaining 6 nights in Goa. Please note that if the internal flights are rescheduled then this may change to seven nights in both destinations. Guests can also book their flight to Kerala, departing Sun and spend their first 4 nights in Kerala, then 8 nights in Goa and their remaining 2 nights in Kerala.