Houseboat vs Resort: Which Is the Best Way to Experience Alleppey? Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East,” is a dream destination, thanks to its stunning and serene backwaters, rich greenery that surrounds it and the traditional Kerala charm that is deeply rooted to Kerala’s culture. When planning a visit to Alleppey, visitors are often conflicted and torn between two of the most popular accommodation options- staying in an Alleppey boat house or booking a resort nearby. Both these options are indeed unique in their own ways, but which option would suit you? How can you witness the beauty of Alleppey in your own way? Once you’re done with reading this blog, you’ll find it easier to make the perfect choice!
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Let us see what a houseboat offers you during your visit to Alleppey.
Alleppey Houseboats are one of the, if not the iconic and well known ways to witness the beauty of the stunning land of Alleppey. These little floating paradises offer a portable home to the visitors, giving them the opportunity to immerse themselves in the gorgeous backwaters of Alleppey. Houseboats offer you cozy bedrooms, aesthetic dining areas and every other amenities that promise you a comfortable and remarkable stay. Furthermore, houseboats provide you an uninterrupted view for you to enjoy. Imagine walking up to the soft kisses of the sun with water rippling throughout the view. Your sight will be filled with rich, luscious paddy fields and coconut trees that sway with the winds as you pass by. You can also witness the traditional village life of the residents of local villages in Alleppey.
Houseboats are known for their personalized cruise experience that is tailored for you. They take you on a slow and steady journey through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, giving you an immersive experience, allowing you to soak nature’s beauty at your own pace. Furthermore, Alleppey houseboat packages include meals that are freshly prepared on board with that day’s new catch. The menu features Kerala’s specialities like fish curry. Alleppey Houseboats also provide you the privacy you’re seeking away from the crowd. There are many Top Scenic Routes for Houseboat cruises in Alleppey for you to choose from.
Aside from all of this, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. Once abroad, you are confined to the boat until docking, leading to limited movement for some travellers. Many houseboat stays are geared towards overnight stays, limiting the chances to explore more Alleppey attractions.
Let us see what a resort offers you during your visit to Alleppey.
Resorts in Alleppey offer you the best of both worlds- A luxurious stay with a wide range of activities nearby easily accessible to you. From beachfront villas to lakeview villas, resorts cater to a wide range of travellers. While staying at a resort, you have the freedom to explore Alleppey at your own pace. You can visit temples, markets and gardens and return back to the resort as you wish. Most resorts host extended amenities where you can spend time at the swimming pools, wellness centres and also hosts a wide range of activities like yoga and spa treatments. Resorts offer an elaborate menu, catering to a wide variety of culinary preferences
Resorts in Alleppey offer the best of both worlds: luxurious accommodation and proximity to a range of activities. Whether you’re looking for beachfront villas or properties along the backwaters, resorts cater to diverse preferences.There are multi cuisine options for travellers who love trying new food that is also different from the local cuisine. Resorts are a great option for families, especially ones with children as it offers spacious grounds and multiple activity centres for kid-friendly activities.
While resorts offer all this, there are a few things that need to be in the mind of guests. When compared to a houseboat, a resort experience is less immersive. While it provides a view of the backwaters, it is less immersive than a houseboat experience. They lack the intimate experience of living on water. The travel time is more since you’ll need to arrange transportation to explore Alleppey and crowds can be a major factor during peak season.
Your way of experiencing Alleppey ultimately depends on your preferences. You can either choose a houseboat or a resort. It also depends on your travel style, budget and the number of days you’re staying. Let’s compare the experiences between a cruise on the houseboat and a stay at the resort.
A houseboat cruise is an all inclusive cruise that gives you the full experience of Alleppey. It is an immersive experience where you stay and float along the backwaters of Alleppey. You get an all around panoramic view of the waters and the nearby villages that seem so inviting. There are also plenty of activities you can pursue, like backwater cruising, fishing and local village visits. Traditional Kerala cuisine is prepared on board with speciality menus every day made from the day’s fresh catch. You will also get the privacy and intimacy you seek for on a houseboat. The cost is relatively higher since it’s an all inclusive experience. You also get to have overnight stays on Alappuzha houseboats.
When it comes to a resort, it is situated on a base that has access to multiple locations. You get the view of the scenic backwaters and stunning gardens of Alleppey all from one location. Activities at a resort include yoga sessions, spa treatment which is inclusive, depending on the location and beach outings. At a resort, there are multiple dining options presented to you. You will also get to experience cuisines from all around the world. The cost of staying is relatively cheaper, and there are also options for all budgets.
Houseboat vs. Resort: Which Is the Best Way to Experience Alleppey? If you’re conflicted between choosing a houseboat or a resort to find out which is the best way to experience Alleppey, it all comes down to your preference and what you are looking for. Houseboats offer a unique experience which is perfect for those who want an immersive experience with the Alleppey’s serene backwaters. Resorts, however, provide you comfort and flexibility at a base. Regardless of the option you choose, Alleppey promises you an unforgettable experience and memories that will stay with you even long after your trip.
