Kerala, India, is known as the "Garden of Paradise," and for good reason. It has lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. It is also a land of spices with a rich history. I travelled by boat through the backwaters of Alappuzha and hiked through the tea plantations in the mountains of Munnar.

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I was amazed by the diversity of plants and spices in Kerala. I saw cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla and pepper growing in abundance. I also tasted cardamom fresh from the pods while hiking. It is a truly magical place, and I will never forget my time there.