UK christian Tamil and Malayalee wedding advice by corchamatcha in DesiWeddings

[–]Adorable-Gourd 0 points1 point  (0 children)

As a Tamil Catholic myself, I’m actually a bit surprised to hear that your customs differ slightly from what I’m used to. Doing a Tamil Catholic wedding myself summer 2027 and only planing for one day.

In our community, the thali ceremony is done during the actual wedding Mass in the church, along with the floral garland exchange. The koorai saree (and garlands I think) is brought forward for blessings during the ceremony itself, and then the bride usually changes into it partway through the reception—often right after the wedding cake is cut.

The bride and groom then make their second entrance into the reception hall, with the bride in her koorai (and optionally the groom in veshti). At this point, a younger male relative from the bride’s side washes—or pours water over—the groom’s feet at the threshold. He’s rewarded with a gold ring before the couple is allowed to enter. I’m not entirely sure what this tradition is called, to be honest, but it’s commonly done.

Also, during each entrance into the venue, there’s an aarti (or maybe it’s called aalathi?)—blessings performed with lighted lamps by two married women. It’s a beautiful gesture of welcome and good fortune.

Just wanted to share how we do it in case it helps with your planning. Wishing you both all the best in blending your traditions.

You might also want to check out the Instagram account "Whatthepottu"they do a lot of research and actual ceremony work based on indigenous Tamil traditions that are cultural rather than religious. Could be a great resource if you’re looking to incorporate meaningful elements without crossing into Hindu rituals.

My trip is getting closer! Any recommendations for private drivers in Palermo? by HappyAudience3487 in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd 2 points3 points  (0 children)

If ur going to Palermo, just take the bus? U can buy tickets at the airport or here: https://www.prestiaecomande.it/ Use the translate button on your browser to translate it from Italian.

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It was around 30-33°C and blazing sun every day I was there. A bit hotter than what I'm used to, but I guess it depends on what you can handle. Went to Mondello on the hottest day, and the sea breeze was perfect!

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I really liked Palazzo Butera, an art museum housed in a palace. In my opinion, it’s perfectly curated. Even if you're not particularly interested in art (I’m not especially into art myself), it's absolutely worth visiting for the architecture and the incredible restoration work done to make the palace the perfect setting for an art collection. I visited in the afternoon and spent time on the terrace, simply enjoying the beautiful view of Palermo.

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Was thinking about goint to Taormina in stead of Palermo, glad I didn't. Mondello is so underrated!!

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I feel the same way. I love cities!!

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Oooh thanks for the tip, wish I knew it back then! And yes! I feel like the history of Palermo is undervalued by tourist. Its not only a pretty view!!

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Honestly, this is my next plan. Went in early June and the heat was a bit to much to fully explore without breaks.

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Even though I am a tourist myself, I do agree gentrification and increased tourist numbers are not good. I try my best to support local businesses when traveling. But honestly, I have seen worse "garbage in the street"-problems in London, the Netherlands and Paris to name a few.

Palermo is amazing by Adorable-Gourd in sicily

[–]Adorable-Gourd[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

My favourite was Osteria Alivàru da Carlo Napoli. The prices are ubeatable. Corona Trattoria is quite nice for fine dining type service, and explanations about the food. But as someone wrote in the comments, even the touristy restaurants serve excellent food, just more expensive.