Thekkanatt Parayil Home-stay

What else can I add other than what so many other guests have already described? We were greeted by both Sumy and Anthony on our arrival and received an exceptionally warm welcome. This same hospitality continued throughout our time at Thekkanatt House, with the hosts sharing meals and many hours of conversation with us. The other staff are equally hospitable and nothing was too much trouble - we were even treated to a sunset canoe trip on the nearby backwaters! The house has been renovated without detriment to its character and has a full family history which is equally fascinating. Our room epitomized the theme of simple elegance and we found it extremely comfortable. The ceiling fans were able to keep the room cool enough for our tastes with typical January temperatures. Meals are traditional Kerelan in nature, using estate seasonal produce and for us were amongst the best we had during our holiday. The house is situated in a quiet village area with many varied walks available, including several that permit views of the sun setting across the backwaters. The villagers are all very friendly and often like to engage in conversation. Overall, we cannot recommend Olavipe homestay any more highly if you want a laid back, relaxing rest stop in Kerala.

Staying at Olavipe was one of the highlights of our trip to Kerala. Sumy and her son Antony live in this wonderful heritage home set in a quiet village on the Backwaters. Built in the 1890's the house is just full of character and history. Unlike some reviewers we considered the lack of air conditioning to be a bonus - the plentiful fans maintained a very natural feel to the house and we were extremely comfortable. As for the hospitality, it was second to none. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel 'one of the family' and were fed with sumptuous meals throughout our stay. Our only regret was that we could not stay longer!

This was our first home stay. Sumi and Anthony were most welcoming. The introduction to local food and learning about the property and the family were great. The stay also gave us the opportunity to get used to the heat. We visited a local temple that was having a festival. The had elephants and music from horns, drums and symbols. A great spectacle.

Olavipe was perfect. The warmth, and gentleness was wonderful. Lovely hosts - Sumy and Anthony, warm welcome. Huge bed, and bathroom, an unexpected tuc-tuc trip, with a driver (Biju) that played the perfect tour guide! An education in culture, and food - and a chance to chill in the heat. Great walk, and the entertainment of being there on a fashion shoot. I also loved "going for a walk". We were on our own and perhaps got a little more attention than normal, but I'm certain they will have plenty of time for a "full house". Hope to get back some day!

My first visit to South India, and first time to India not on business, so was apprehensive about the potential for the trip to be an endurance event. But goodness the feather bed landing at Olavipe was perfect. The warmth, and gentleness was wonderful. Lovely hosts - Sumy and Anthony, warm welcome, huge bed - (loved the step up!!) and bathroom (monster shower - perfect), an unexpected boat trip, an education in culture, and food - and a chance to chill in the heat. Great walk, and the entertainment of being there on a fashion shoot. I also loved "going for a walk" and eating pineapple. Fellow guests added to the joy too. Olavipe may you prosper and flourish!! We will be back - if you'll have us?!

Wonderful old world charm. A traditional Kerala heritage home, meticulously restored and beautifully maintained. The hosts are charming and internationally experienced. Beautiful grounds, lovely backwaters, traditional hospitality seldom found elsewhere. Unspoilt Kerala village atmosphere, long secluded walks, attentive staff. A holiday to remember.

Our 7th visit here so we've said it all before! Sumy and Antony are such gracious hosts. The food is wonderful with everything homemade by the talented kitchen staff. A new addition is the very welcome air conditioning units in the bedrooms - necessary in the extreme heat this February. It is a joy to walk round the village with all the local people smiling or practising English. The local primary school is a credit to the staff. On our visit there we were treated to a very touching welcome - felt like royalty!

We join many others in giving this wonderful property a topic rating. The hospitality is so warm, with Sumi and Anthony making us welcome from the moment we arrived. The food is fresh, tasty, and provides a real insight into traditional local flavours. There are plenty of activities around the village and close by.