Ep 4. Kerala, India

In the 9th season of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, episode 4 takes viewers to Kerala, India. Kerala is a state located in the southwestern region of India and is known for its beautiful beaches, lush green forests, and tantalizing food.

The show takes the audience on a journey through Kerala's diverse landscape. Anthony Bourdain starts his trip in the city of Kochi, which is a melting pot of cultures and religions. He visits the famous fishing nets and tries his hand at catching fish with the local fishermen.

Next, Bourdain heads towards the mountains, where he gets to witness the breathtaking landscape of Munnar. He takes a stroll through the tea plantations and learns about the history of the tea industry in Kerala. He also visits a spice garden, where he discovers the secret behind Kerala's famous curry powder.

Moving on from the spices, Bourdain heads towards the backwaters of Kerala. The backwaters comprise a network of lagoons and lakes that are interconnected by canals. It's a serene environment and a major tourist attraction. Bourdain takes a ride on a traditional houseboat, known as a Kettuvallam, and discovers the unique lifestyle of the people living on the backwaters.

In addition to exploring Kerala's natural beauty, Bourdain also indulges in its food culture. He tries some of Kerala's most famous dishes, such as the spicy fish curry, banana leaf meal, appam with stew, and the infamous toddy, a local alcohol made from coconuts.

The show also sheds light on the history of Kerala and its turbulent past. Bourdain visits the Mattancherry Palace, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later renovated by the Dutch. He also visits the Paradesi Synagogue, which is one of the oldest synagogues in the world and a testament to the city's multicultural heritage.

Through the eyes of Bourdain, viewers get a sense of the warmth and hospitality of the people of Kerala. He interacts with the locals, who are proud of their culture and happy to share it with the world.

Overall, this episode of Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations highlights the essence of Kerala - its natural beauty, rich history, diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. It's a must-watch for anyone who wants to explore the hidden gems of India.