Benny is the everyday presence that most guests remember long after their stay ends. Soft-spoken, attentive and deeply dependable, he has a natural way of making travellers feel safe, welcomed and fully taken care of. Many guests describe him as someone who instantly feels familiar — the kind of host who explains things clearly, listens with patience and guides with sincerity. Communication is one of his greatest strengths, and the ease with which he speaks English, Malayalam, Hindi and Tamil makes conversations smooth and comforting for guests from all backgrounds.
Travel planning is where Benny truly shines. With decades of experience running Musafir Tours since 2005, he understands routes, timings, seasons and local nuances better than most. Guests often arrive unsure about their Kerala itinerary, and leave saying that Benny’s suggestions were the backbone of their entire trip. He simplifies every detail — from choosing the right sightseeing plan to arranging trusted drivers and designing multi-city routes across Kochi, Munnar, Thekkady, Alappuzha, Marari, Kovalam, Varkala, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi and Kumarakom. His guidance is thoughtful, practical and always honest.
Beyond hosting, Benny is a hands-on creator and a lover of nature. He crafted much of the wooden detailing in the Romantic Wooden Rooms himself during the pandemic, working with the very timber that grew on this land. He tends to the garden, shares stories during gentle walks, helps Sheeja whenever needed, and makes sure every guest feels supported through every part of their journey. Even after guests leave, Benny often calls just to check if they’ve reached their next destination safely — a gesture that many say touched them deeply. For countless travellers, meeting Benny becomes one of the most reassuring and memorable parts of their Kerala experience.
If warmth in a home could take human form, it would be Sheeja. Guests often sense her presence the moment they enter — in the spotless rooms, the calm surroundings, the gentle order of the home, and the aroma of a freshly prepared Kerala breakfast drifting from the kitchen. Sheeja moves quietly, yet her influence is in every corner of the house. Her way of caring is subtle, thoughtful and deeply genuine.
Her cooking is one of the most loved aspects of staying at Sceva’s Garden Home. Guests often say that her breakfasts are among the best they had during their entire Kerala trip. She prepares fluffy appams, soft idlis, puttu, vegetable stew, chutneys, sambar and more, always in generous, homely portions that never feel commercial or measured. Whenever possible, she uses fruits, herbs and spices from the family’s own garden, adding a natural freshness that guests truly appreciate. Her meals feel less like something prepared for tourists and more like something made for loved ones.
But Sheeja is more than the person in the kitchen. She notices the smallest things — a towel that needs replacing, a guest who may be tired from travel, a child who could use a warm drink, or someone who might appreciate a simple home remedy. She keeps the home immaculate without ever drawing attention to her work. Her gentle, nurturing presence makes the stay feel stable, calm and genuinely homely. Guests frequently say that while the rooms and views drew them in, it was Sheeja’s warmth that made the stay unforgettable.
Ben, the elder son, brings a thoughtful, grounded energy to the homestay. During the week, he pursues a career in finance and works as a research analyst, but every weekend he returns home — not just to rest, but to contribute meaningfully to the guest experience. When Ben is around, guests immediately feel a sense of support and ease.
He welcomes travellers with warmth, helps with check-ins and is always ready to assist anyone who feels uncertain about driving up the hilly approach road. Many guests fondly recall how he confidently drove their car up for them, turning what felt stressful into something effortless. Ben enjoys genuine conversations and often connects with guests over topics ranging from travel and culture to finance, nature and personal journeys. His maturity, friendly nature and ability to listen make interactions feel natural and comforting.
He helps in the kitchen and dining area whenever needed, supports his parents without hesitation and brings a sense of balance to the home. While he may not seek the spotlight, his presence is felt in countless small ways that make the homestay experience smoother and more personal. Many guests remember Ben as someone they unexpectedly bonded with — a steady, warm and reliable part of the family.
Sceva, the youngest member of the family, is the bright, joyful soul who adds colour and charm to every corner of the homestay. Born while the house was being constructed, she literally grew with the home, and the homestay carries her name because she embodies its spirit — innocence, warmth, creativity and effortless connection.
Guests notice her the moment she appears. She greets families with a cheerful smile, speaks fluent English, and has a natural way of making everyone — especially children — feel welcomed. She often plays with kids in the garden, swims with them in the pool, and joins in conversations with a curiosity that makes even adults smile. Many families say their children didn’t want to leave because of her.
A budding artist, Sceva fills the home with her colourful crafts, drawings and handmade cards. She adores pets and shares a beautiful bond with her own cat, Mia, who often follows her around the garden and happily plays with visiting children. She also connects instantly with guests’ cats and dogs, making families feel even more at home. Sceva has even started a small passion project of her own — selling local chocolates called “Rakkaudella” to earn her pocket money — a gesture that guests always find absolutely delightful.
Despite being young, her presence is never overwhelming — only warm, natural and full of joy. She brings a sense of family and authenticity that no hotel can recreate. Guests often remember her long after their stay, carrying with them the sweetness and brightness she adds to the home.
What makes Sceva’s Garden Home special is not luxury, but connection. This family hosts with sincerity, attention and a genuine desire to make guests feel at home. Their hosting philosophy is simple: slow down, breathe deeply, listen to nature, share conversations, enjoy homely food, and return to yourself.
Guests often say that staying here feels like visiting an old family friend rather than checking into a hotel. The warmth of Benny, the nurturing care of Sheeja, the supportive presence of Ben and the joyful energy of little Sceva come together to create an experience that is peaceful, personal and unforgettable.
Their promise remains:
Come as guests. Leave as family.
