Alappuzha, August 8: Michael Boulos, businessman and son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, made a surprise visit to Alappuzha on Saturday, enjoying a houseboat ride through Kerala’s rain-soaked backwaters amid elaborate security arrangements.

Boulos, who has been accorded State Guest status during his Kerala visit, arrived in Alappuzha with an eight-member delegation.

Heavy rainfall in the district had flooded the main entrance to Punamada Lake, prompting Kerala Police to make alternative arrangements for Boulos to board the houseboat from another location.

Despite the inclement weather, Boulos appeared to enjoy the scenic backwaters. He waved to people gathered along the route whenever he stepped out onto the deck, after news of his arrival spread through the area.

His visit generated considerable excitement in Alappuzha, popularly known as the ‘Venice of the East’ and renowned worldwide for its picturesque canals, lagoons and houseboats.

According to sources, Boulos is expected to return to Kochi later on Saturday.

His visit comes days ahead of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, one of Kerala’s most prestigious sporting and cultural events, scheduled to be held in Alappuzha on August 22. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is expected to attend the event as the chief guest.

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race traces its origins to Jawaharlal Nehru’s visit to Alappuzha in 1952. During the visit, India’s first Prime Minister reportedly boarded a traditional snake boat and was impressed by the experience. After returning to Delhi, he donated a trophy for the annual boat race, which was subsequently named in his honour.

Born in Houston and raised in Lagos, Boulos is married to Tiffany Trump, daughter of Donald Trump. The couple tied the knot in 2022 and welcomed their first child in May 2025.

Boulos’ unexpected visit added an international dimension to Alappuzha’s monsoon-season buzz, coinciding with preparations for the much-awaited Nehru Trophy Boat Race.