Being in Kochi made us feel as though we were back in Goa. The Bolgatty island is worth a visit for splendid views of the port and harbour from the Marina House. Just a few feet away is the Bolgatty Palace. Though called palace, it is actually an old Dutch mansion built by a Dutch trader in 1744. One can catch a view of the Chinese fishing nets(this method is on the decline though) and the traditional Kerala houseboats on the back waters from here. Both the Marina House and Bogatty Palace are premium hotels, and access to them is only for hotel guests.

For history buffs, a visit to St. Francis Church, in Fort Kochi is well worth the visit. It is one of the oldest European Churches built in 1503. The Church has witnessed the rule of the Dutch, Portuguese and British till it went to the Indian Government. It was also passed through the hands of the Franciscans, Roman Catholics and Anglicans who changed the name of the Patron saint of the Church from St. Bartholomew to St. Francis, who is also the Patron Saint of Goa. The St. Francis Church also houses the burial site of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese explorer, and incidentally, Goa also has a town named after him, by the then Portuguese rulers. The town is simply known now as Vasco in Goa. Hence, being in Kochi made us feel at home.