Port Description

Cochin, India

The Queen of the Arabian Sea is a tapestry of islands and cultures. It is a place of ports and forts, with strong Portuguese, Jewish, and Dutch presence. A traditionally prosperous region, many of the palaces have long-since been converted to museums. Western chains like Domino's and Baskin-Robbins are moving into the neighborhood but the area still retains its original charm. India's oldest church stands tall here, and many of the synagogues date back to the Diaspora's early days. The forested beaches are often the place to buy rosewood elephants, silken clothes, or savory spice. At Fort Kochi Beach, teakwood and bamboo Chinese fishing nets remind sunbathers of the past.