In May of 2007 I (Jeff) traveled in Peru for two weeks. Natives we'd met in Washington (DC) were my hosts and travel companions. The trip was their gift of appreciation for coaching their marriage. While Jill didn't go in person, she experienced third-world travel through my eyes; beggars (children) on the streets and in government shelters from terrorists, midnight travel over dirt roads at 80mph (until the cow appeared in our path), a church in the jungle, etc.
But, experienced travelers to S. Asia (India in particular) say that the experience is singular. From the sea of people to the stench, they say that nothing you've experienced prepares you for what you'll see.
Still, we've been doing our due diligence to try to prepare by reading and even watching movies. "City of Joy" was last night, and before that was "Gandhi" and "Slum Dog Millionaire". Experienced travelers to India have told us that these are realistic depictions.
It seems that traveling for 24+ hours to Mumbai (Bombay) is the just the beginning challenge. Then its a 4+ hour "taxi" ride to Pune. The following instructions have been provided:
"We have booked a taxi for you from the international airport in Mumbai, which will take you directly to __________ and _______'s home. The name of the travel agency is _______'s Travels. They have your arrival details and their attendant will stand outside the exit leading out of the terminal, with a sign displaying your name. Visitors are not allowed into the airport terminal, only passengers, so there will be a mob outside the exit gate. If for some reason, you don't see him, you can call the attendant from a local phone (located on outside wall of the airport, or just inside the airport) or your mobile if you have one. You will need a couple of 1 Rupee coins to do this. The attendant will take you to the car in the parking area.
It will take approximately 4 hours to get to Pune, the traffic in Mumbai can be horrific. The driver may stop for a chai (tea) break along the way.
The taxi driver will have the address where you will be dropped off and my contact number. It would be good for you to keep them handy as well.
Don't panic if you don't see the guy straight away. Wait a few minutes just by the door. You will be likely to get other offers of transport if you do have to wait around – be firm and refuse them!"
And that sounds like just the beginning. Horrific traffic? A driver we don't know? A chai break? But we want to go to bed!
Just 48 hours now. The list has been made and we've checked it twice (well, maybe a few more times...), and we think we're good to go; essentials packed, papers in order, and arrangements for our home to be cared for.
Today begins with hope for relaxation. A walk and talk, possible lunch with friends (The Rue's), and dinner with more friends (the Wildman's).
Thanks for enjoying the journey with us!
Jeff and Jill
Hey, it is Chi Tea, I mean, that's good stuff that might even be worth stopping traffic for. Hope to talk today before you leave. We are with ya!
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