Electricity
Power supply in the area is mostly reliable. But we do have an occasional power failure.
There are emergency lights in some points in the house which will light up if the power fails. The house has a back-up generator. It might take about 10 minutes for it to be turned on manually.
So bear with us, if you find yourself in the dark unexpectedly
First Aid
We have basic first aid available at Olavipe. If you need a doctor, there is a small village hospital about 2 kms from the house. One of Cochin’s super-specialty hospitals is about an hour’s drive away
Out in the Farm
You are welcome to join the activities on the farm. But for anyone unaccustomed to the hot sun, it is advisable to stay indoors between 11am and 4 in the evening. Drink lots of water and stay in the shade to beat the heat. We recommend you wear covered walking shoes when you are out in the farm. Stick to the lanes and foot tracks. Avoid walking over dry leaf heaps and through overgrown areas - snakes have occasionally been spotted here. Avoid walking outside in the night. Carry a flashlight with you if you must walk out after dark.
Toddlers
There are ponds in the estate around the house. Toddlers and children need to be supervised.
Other guests
You could sometimes be the only people staying with us. But during the global holiday time, it is more likely that you will meet other guests also. There are enough nooks and corners in the house to find your own space if you choose to.
Loudspeakers
In India, there are many reasons to celebrate with loud firecrackers and music. It may be illegal in the country you come from, but in India this is in the natural way of things!
Leaving Olavipe
When you are packed and ready to go, the house staff will bring your baggage down and load it into your vehicle. Do check that everything is in the car before you leave.
Guest Book
Olavipe has a guest book –add your comments in it. We welcome your feedback.
Tips
Please do not tip the staff for service. If you want to, you are welcome to drop it in the box provided for it in the office. The amount is divided among all the staff, each month.
Keeping in touch
Carry an Olavipe brochure when you leave. The brochure has our email ID and our contact details. Stay in touch – you are now part of the ‘Olavipe network’ worldwide!
At Olavipe, we don’t like anyone leaving. In earlier generations, friends and family who made the trip across the lake were encouraged to stay far beyond their original plans!
We accept that now times have changed. There are schedules to follow, flights to catch, offices to attend and lives to live far beyond this island. But when you go back, we hope you carry back, happy memories of your time with us!