subject: Spice Plantations of Kerala - A Unique Experience [print this page] Spice Plantations of Kerala - A Unique Experience
There was a time not so long ago when tradesmen considered spices of the Asian continent to be more valuable than even gold. What began many years ago in terms of plantations still continues today, in places like Kerala, India.
Kerala has been synonymous with spices from the time that traders would arrive in the country to buy spices to trade with at the Mediterranean markets. The flavour of the world's food during previous ages was at some point spiced up by the aromatic herbs from Kerala. Spices were even used in Europe to preserve meat during the cold months of winter.
Today, Kerala is as famous as it was those days for her spice plantations. Moreover, it's just as well that spice tourism draws many from all over the globe to rediscover these simple aromatic vegetations that is taken for granted. In addition, to flavouring, and the ability of spices to preserve meats, in India especially, the spices are incorporated into traditional medicinal practices, that are centred around the medicinal properties of these types of vegetation. A good example of this is the use of curry leaves as a means of controlling diabetes, while turmeric in its powdered form is considered to be a good anti-oxidant.
The spice farms in Kerala are amazing as much as they are fascinating. The farms have different sections where spices of different varieties are grown. There are also those farms that specialize in growing only a particular type of spice. Initially the growing of spices on these famers was confined to the very traditional; cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and ginger. But today, should tourists decide to venture into one of these farms they will be bombarded with the aroma of spices such as thyme, rosemary and even sage.
The spice plantations in Kerala are a new concept to eco tourism and are quite popular among young travellers looking to try out something different. However, one aspect that will never change is the spices that are grown in these plantations. Grown according to ancient traditions that have come down through the ages, it is an insight into an aspect of the culture that Kerala has to offer.
For travellers looking for accommodation that is not the usual run of the mill, but something quiet and tranquil, a stay at a Kerala beach resort, such as the The Leela Kempinski Kovalam Beach, Kerala, would be the ideal getaway. This Kovalam resort offers stunning views, especially since its located right next to a river, by the sea. What is more, the only neighbours around are those from a nearby fishing village, which will add to the whole experience of one's vacation in Kerala.
