Welcome to India!

Carrie and I outside the Jama Masid Mosque. You have to wear head coverings to go in

Namaste and happy New Year from India. It’s been an event-packed whirlwind ride thus far filled with new friends, amazing sights, a few frustrations and, of course, delicious authentic Indian food. First things first…it’s winter here too! While the days may be hot, the nights get down to the 40s and we find ourselves bundled in blankets, long johns and long-sleeved shirts while sleeping.

Right off the bat, India reminded us a lot of Central America. Everywhere you look there is a stark contrast between rich and poor. Just on the ride from the Delhi airport we passed by poor tent cities and beggars of all ages and genders (in India eunuchs are extremely common and are usually dressed as women) as well as businessmen going to work and sprawling mansions.

A random Indian man outside the Red Fort in Delhi

As for the people, they are extremely kind, friendly and helpful. Despite, or perhaps because of, the British reign in India, we are often treated as mini celebrities. Children are constantly coming up to us asking where we are from, our names and how do we like their country. Sure, some times they also ask for a few rupees or for some candy or a pen, but for the most part, they are just curious and want to practice their English.

Even older folks want to say hi and Carrie and I have smiled for many photos with locals just wanting to show their friends the random white people they saw. Only a few times have we been taken advantage of by a rickshaw driver or person who appears to help us and then after asks for something in return. However, as Carrie keeps reminding me when I get frustrated, its never for more than a dollar or two and it means a lot more to them than it does to us.

Safety wise, in the short time that we have been here we have yet to feel unsafe: except maybe crossing the road (more on that in a second). We’ve had a total blast, every day is a new experience and we can’t wait to meet up with Avani (my former coworker) in her hometown of Jaipur in a few days. And now…on with the rest.