Travel notes

by evening highlights. At dinner, we chose from a mouth-watering five-course a la carte menu, then we went onto enjoy a variety of top evening shows.

The sights and sounds of India again greeted us when we berthed in Kochi (Cochin); the drum band were accompanied by swaying dancers wearing colourful saris.

Our trip took us to the backwaters of Alappuzha, where we transferred to an authentic houseboat, which had a stylish interior of teak, mahogany and polished coconut.

We cruised lakes, rivers and narrow

Prices start from £1,749 pp, based on an interior twin-bedded room, subject to availability, and includes all food and entertainment on board Boudicca, return flights from the UK, port and airport taxes and transfers.

For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit www. fredolsencruises. com or call reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday-Friday 8am-8pm; Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday 10am-4pm).