Delhi-Dallying Around
Namaste from India! The first week of the RSBA (see previous post for definition) got off to an “interesting” start. By “interesting”, I mean slap-you-in-the-face, beat-you-up and kick-you-down kind of interesting. Not literally of course, but there truly is no other place like Delhi, capital city of the world’s largest democracy and home to many weird, wonderful but also not-so-wonderful individuals.
Within a few hours of arriving, we discovered the following things: 1) the good people of Delhi are extremely helpful and will literally do anything to make sure you have a fantastic time in India; 2) the only way it is possible to have such a fantastic time is to visit your nearest tourist office (which of course is 100% official) where, after having been offered a cup of chai (naturally), a helpful assistant will proceed to plan out your next six weeks in the country at no extra charge; and 3) of course, none of the above is strictly true and what they really want is your money.
We consider ourselves to be pretty savvy travellers who are alert to such tactics, however when you are wandering lost through dirty, rubbish-filled streets in 38 degree heat, and your sole focus is to avoid stepping in cow/miscellaneous sh*t and being knocked over by rickshaws, mopeds, cars and stray dogs coming at you from all directions, when incredibly persistent street vendors are in hot pursuit of you offering all manner of items from tempered glass to city tours, the smell is wretched, and a nice, safe looking rickshaw purportedly comes to your rescue, trust me, YOU WILL GET IN IT!
And when the toothy-smiled driver of said rickshaw offers to take you to the tourist information centre where you can find out all the useful information about the city you have just landed in, you eagerly nod because you just want to get out of there and enjoy being cocooned in this safe-haven, observing the chaos around you without actually having to interact with anyone. Before you realise what’s happening it is too late anyway, there goes your day…Note to self: when travelling in cities like Delhi, don’t think you can just “wing it”, because you’ll end up being Delhi’s next victim.
Also featuring in week 1 of the RSBA was the city of Agra, home of the infamous Taj Mahal (the photos speak for themselves) and Amritsar in the Punjab region, home of the stunning Golden Temple (again, I’ll let the photos do the talking). Amritsar is only 30km away from the Wagah-Attari border between India and Pakistan, and our transportation of choice was a shared four-person rickshaw (which of course actually contained ten people), each of us precariously hanging out of the side, to witness the daily ceremony that takes place between these two rival nations. The ceremony itself is slightly bizarre but highly entertaining, where guards on both sides of the fence perform a ritual involving a series of marches and high kicks, before respectively lowering their nations’ flags. The atmosphere is roaring and colourful and the pride and patriotism of the Indian people is infectious, urging you to yell chants such as “INDIAAAA, ZINDABAD!” whilst maniacally waving your arms in the air. You leave feeling joyful, charged up and a likely a little confused at what you have just witnessed.
So, after week one of the RSBA, our experience so far is that for all its quirks and frustrations, India has so much to offer and should definitely feature highly on any aspiring globetrotter’s (or adventurous holidaymaker’s) bucket list. We can’t wait to experience more over the next few weeks and share it all with you. Next stop – the very regal Rajasthan!
Much love,
The Resignated Survivors
Highlight of the week: Getting totally emotional at the wonderous sight of the Taj Mahal, which really is awe-inspiring and far more magnificent than any photos you’ve seen on Google. It’s the world’s ultimate declaration of love but Mr Resignated Survivor says he will build me something twice the size.
Other notable things: Although it’s a relatively new building, the Akshardham Temple in Delhi is not to be missed, and in keeping with all things religious (God is God, we don’t discriminate), the sight of the Golden Temple illuminated at night is unforgettable.
Lessons learned: A swift “Ssshhh” accompanied by a convincing death stare should be enough to ward off annoying street vendors who won’t take no for an answer (as discovered by us on day three). Also, Indians love taking selfies with foreigners, so be prepared to say your cheeses and thank yous.
Very good experience.
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this blog instalment and it did not disappoint. I feel like chanting INDIAAA ZINDABAD right now! Looking forward to the next instalment. That photo of the Taj Mahal at sunrise is…. everything! Stunning!
Mr. Resignated Survivor has his work cut out 😉
Safe journeys
Benny
X
It’s Intense city. A early start to see the Taj Mahal & Golden Temple without the chaos overwhelming your visual space… now that’s a great idea ?. You’ve described your time in Delhi so well priya and I both feel like we are there with you.
Hope you both are doing well fighting off the mozzi’s.
All the best C&P ?
Your story of Delhi almost makes me feel I am with you. The Taj Mahal looks stunning and the Golden temple can’t wait to see my self. You made me chuckle about the antics of the locals and rickshaw wala. You have become true Delhi ees if there is such a word. Look forward to reading about more of your adventures . Enjoy. Mum ???xx
Trust brilliant. Makes me feel I am there with yo lookvforard to many more. Enjoy.safe travellings?? Mum x
Brilliantly written! Great to read about your first week, look forward to hearing more…
Nice one?
Glad you are enjoying India in all it’s true glory. Looking forward to reading about the adventures in Rajasthan.
Love the golden temple pic !!! Delhi sounds scary ! Enjoy !!!
Wow, what a experience in one week. Good luck for week 2. Look forward to reading about it.
Brilliant … Excellent portrayal of everyday life in India. As I was reading the blog, the childhood memories of growing up India came flooding back, the joy, frustration, smell and famous nodding of the head which is “yes” and “no” in one movement.
Glad you are having a fab time. I look forward to your next weeks update (I can’t wait). Until than, keep safe and have fun xxxx
Sounds AMAZING guys!! And loving the photos!! Keep em coming!!
Wow! What a wonderful range of experiences, it all looks and sounds amazing. Stay safe. Ani Masi xxx.
Don’t wear seat belts lest you drown in you own urine?
With thanks! Valuable information!
Loooool. Shhhhh (with death stare). Very entertaining read. Say save guys ❤️❤️
With thanks! Valuable information!