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Thursday, July 26, 2007


Since my last update, we have packed up our big blue bus which we have now officially named the Big Blue, and headed south, and arrived in Jaipur - India's Pink City.

We had our first academic session on our 2nd day in Delhi, since if you recall this IS after all a study abroad program. But, you know you drew the long end of the stick when the place of learning is actually the ballroom of a 5 star hotel, and lunch is a scrumptious buffet spread.

Oberoi Hotels is synonomous with exclusivity and a superior product. The Oberoi Delhi boosts of luxurious accommodations, fine dining options, and over the top spa services. Basically, when you're a guest there, your wish is their command. Before you can even snap a finger, they are there. *like that!*

India is one of the world's largest exporters of arts and crafts. That to us tourists naturally and undisputedly translates to SHOPPING. One notable bazzar was Delhi Hut, where little shops and booths are enclosed in an area so you can do your shopping safely without beggars on your sides. Once you stepped into Delhi Hut, you are immediately swarmed by a bevy of beauties - in the forms of dazzling Indian bangles, tasseled cushion covers, intricately beaded bags, numerous kinds of craft items, and hand woven silk bed covers amongst many others. It was the silk bed covers that grabbed my attention. Now, if only I could afford it! At 2500 Rupees or an equivalent of US$65, they are considerably inexpensive, but still enough enough to sting your wallet. But you never know, I may change my mind.

It was also in Delhi Hut where I had my first hanna experience. It was probably about 36 degrees out there, and we were sitting amongst bugs who have decided to feast on us, uninvited of course. Since we were dedicated to not moving our arms while the ladies were drawing on our hands, there were little we could do to fan off the pests. Alas, it was hot and we were bothered, and you thus that ended my first hanna experience. Not quite how I expected it to be.




We left Delhi for Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan the next morning. I spent the entire 6 hours reading the new Harry Potter book (which is PHENOMENAL). The drive was uneventful, until we entered Jaipur while bringing the rain with us. After hearing our groans, Dr. Singh said we shouldn't feel bad that its raining, because rain is a good sign in India (its good luck when it rains on your wedding day!), and that we are bringing good luck to Rajasthan especially since they have been facing a dry spell for some time. ' Good for the crops', he said. And for a moment, our melancholic moods shifted. And we saw children run out from their houses, part bathing, part dancing ... in Heaven's gift to them.

All is well in the world. For now.

Labels: Study Abroad 2007

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