Our family of four had the pleasure of staying at the Riverview Villa. Nestled in a serene corner of Kavalam, Alapuzha district, Kerala, the villa offered us a spectacular view of the river. From our bed, we could gaze out at the river, mesmerized by the gentle current and the charm of passing boats, in every shape and size. The air conditioned rooms were spotless, with clean bathrooms and a homely ambiance that made us feel instantly comfortable. Breakfast, although vegetarian, was fresh, flavorful, and served right on time-setting the tone for slow, indulgent mornings. Swiggy access was also an option. Our gracious hostess arranged a one-hour boat ride for us, perfectly suited to our tight schedule. It turned out to be one of the highlights of our stay. Biju, our boatman and guide, delighted us with stories and pointed out local landmarks-including a few bungalows where iconic Malayalam films were shot. I was lucky to watch how toddy was tapped on the property-a tradition not often witnessed firsthand now. A young man named Anish deftly demonstrated the process with skill and grace. We even got to sample the fresh toddy, a rare and delightful treat that made us feel deeply connected to the land. Another memorable moment was an early morning drive to witness a vast expanse of water lilies in full bloom. The first time we passed by, the flowers were closed, but Keerthi, suggested returning at sunrise. We followed her advice-and the sight of the lilies unfurling in the golden light was truly breathtaking. Throughout our stay, the warmth and hospitality of the host's family, who stay next door, added to the sense of belonging. It felt less like a hotel stay and more like a visit to a family friend's home. If there's one minor inconvenience, it's the pothole-ridden approach road-but even that couldn't take away from the charm of this riverside gem. Kavalam, like much of Kerala, is pure magic. We left with full hearts, and we're already dreaming of a return visit.