Montreal
I had been to Quebec and this City as a child...but you know what that means...I don't remember the whole thing...
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Montreal with a friend and really enjoyed the City...So here are my favourite things to do in Montreal and some suggestions for future visits...
Save room and time to eat, drink and people watch at many of the cafes and restaurants throughout the City...this is a City of people who like to eat and drink...dinner seems to be late in the evening and takes place over the course of a few hours...The outdoor places seem to be mostly western fare...there are a wide range of ethnic restaurants that seem to serve authentic meals....
Walk through Old Montreal and watch the street entertainment...Grab an ice cream and find a bench or again go to one of the many outdoor cafes...
Eat crepes....mmmmm....crepes...I had chocolate banana at Juliets on St. Denis and raspberry cream at Coras at the Plateau....
Go up to the look out at Mont Royal and walk down to St. Jo's Cathedral...yes that most impressive building that you can see from your airplane. Watch the pilgrims climb the steps on their knees....
Watch a movie at the Forum...yes the former home of the Montreal Canadians is now a theatre...but there are still seats there and of course the stars in the sidewalk out front...
Well those were my favourite things to do in Montreal....I certainly hope that I have another opportunity to explore and eat in this City in future travels...till the next time Bon Voyage!!!!!
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Reference
I'm now quite taken with Keith Bellows. He writes regularly for "National Geographic Traveller". In the March 2008 issue, he interviews Andrew Harper. As a reference point, Andrew Harper has his own newsletter that reviews hotels around the world. His clientèle is upscale, so the hotels and resorts he visits are higher end. Andrew Harper talks about finding authentic places around the world. He believes that there are enough places around the world that of course they still do exist. He does acknowledge that high-end travel can create a barrier between the local culture and people and the traveller. He also discusses sustainable travel/tourism. On the one hand, he is quite hopeful while on the other hand he admits there are areas of the world that we may not be able to save. Anyways just a brief introduction to Keith Bellows and what he does. Keep up the good work!!!!!!
I'm now quite taken with Keith Bellows. He writes regularly for "National Geographic Traveller". In the March 2008 issue, he interviews Andrew Harper. As a reference point, Andrew Harper has his own newsletter that reviews hotels around the world. His clientèle is upscale, so the hotels and resorts he visits are higher end. Andrew Harper talks about finding authentic places around the world. He believes that there are enough places around the world that of course they still do exist. He does acknowledge that high-end travel can create a barrier between the local culture and people and the traveller. He also discusses sustainable travel/tourism. On the one hand, he is quite hopeful while on the other hand he admits there are areas of the world that we may not be able to save. Anyways just a brief introduction to Keith Bellows and what he does. Keep up the good work!!!!!!
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Supermarkets
One of the things I like to do is visit a supermarket or convenience store when I go to a new place. It makes me feel like I'm connecting with that part of the world. What kind of milk do they drink? Where does it come from? What snack food to they eat? Is it savoury or sweet? What kind of bread to they like? I can spend hours exploring various grocery stores. Try 7-11 in Bangkok for its array of savoury snacks, Monoprix in Paris for wine or puddings in glass jars, Itoyokado in Japan for whatever the travelling vendor is selling that day, Atlantic Superstore in Halifax, or any nameless corner store in India for biscuits or spicy snacks. All of these places and their products will reveal something about the region and the people there that just can't be found in any guidebook.
One of the things I like to do is visit a supermarket or convenience store when I go to a new place. It makes me feel like I'm connecting with that part of the world. What kind of milk do they drink? Where does it come from? What snack food to they eat? Is it savoury or sweet? What kind of bread to they like? I can spend hours exploring various grocery stores. Try 7-11 in Bangkok for its array of savoury snacks, Monoprix in Paris for wine or puddings in glass jars, Itoyokado in Japan for whatever the travelling vendor is selling that day, Atlantic Superstore in Halifax, or any nameless corner store in India for biscuits or spicy snacks. All of these places and their products will reveal something about the region and the people there that just can't be found in any guidebook.
Articles
I subscribe to National Geographic "Traveler", especially since it is cheaper than buying off the shelf each time it comes out. I have to admit I don't always read the articles. However, today, I took the time to read two article out of the April 2008 issue.
The first was "A Life on the Road" by Keith Bellows. Bellows records his interview with a life-long traveller, Rolf Potts. There were two things that Potts said that struck me as so familiar. The first is that if you want to do it, then do it. It isn't as expensive or as unattainable as you might think. The second is that mass tourism does have its place and should not be looked down upon as that experience might be all that person gets and might be his "wow" travel moment.
The second was "The Joy of Comfort Food" by Daisann McLane. It was well-written and closely matches my own experiences in eating. I certainly remember trying to bring myself to eat from the Thai side of the buffet table at breakfast. It did take me a couple of days but once I got there....
So for some very interesting perspectives and some well written articles, check this issue out.
I subscribe to National Geographic "Traveler", especially since it is cheaper than buying off the shelf each time it comes out. I have to admit I don't always read the articles. However, today, I took the time to read two article out of the April 2008 issue.
The first was "A Life on the Road" by Keith Bellows. Bellows records his interview with a life-long traveller, Rolf Potts. There were two things that Potts said that struck me as so familiar. The first is that if you want to do it, then do it. It isn't as expensive or as unattainable as you might think. The second is that mass tourism does have its place and should not be looked down upon as that experience might be all that person gets and might be his "wow" travel moment.
The second was "The Joy of Comfort Food" by Daisann McLane. It was well-written and closely matches my own experiences in eating. I certainly remember trying to bring myself to eat from the Thai side of the buffet table at breakfast. It did take me a couple of days but once I got there....
So for some very interesting perspectives and some well written articles, check this issue out.
The Connection
I've just had the pleasure of travelling from British Columbia all the way to Nova Scotia. This is my first time in Nova Scotia and I was really stricken by the things that connect this country. I will do my best to list them here; I may add or change a few but this is how I see it at the moment.
The Trans Canada Highway
CBC
CTV
Tim Hortons (oh yes they love their Tims out here)
Our need for coffee across the country
I've just had the pleasure of travelling from British Columbia all the way to Nova Scotia. This is my first time in Nova Scotia and I was really stricken by the things that connect this country. I will do my best to list them here; I may add or change a few but this is how I see it at the moment.
The Trans Canada Highway
CBC
CTV
Tim Hortons (oh yes they love their Tims out here)
Our need for coffee across the country
Sunday, January 06, 2008
The W
I had the pleasure of staying at the W hotel in Seattle. Even though I had never heard of this hotel chain before, doesn't mean that it isn't worth mentioning.
We arrived at about 10 in the evening. The music was blaring and candles were burning everywhere. The hotel staff was friendly and efficient. The porter, very coolly dressed in black, helped us with our luggage. The room was nicely appointed with a big window seat, a very comfy looking bed and a large ultra-modern bathroom.
Our bed was super comfortable although I didn't think the bathroom had been cleaned properly. The hotel staff were super friendly and very helpful.
I never ate at the restaurant or drank at the bar as the items on the menu were very expensive...Why would I pay $20 for eggs, toast, hashbrowns and bacon when I can go down the street and get the same thing for $10?
Even so, every evening the lobby and bar area seemed to be packed with drinkers and diners. In fact, walking through the bar made me feel oh so not cool. The eating/drinking establishment anyways is for the very hip 20 somethings. It is the place to see and be seen...and for the wanna bes.
Anyways I liked the hotel...particularly the bed. The location can't be beat. Next time, I go to Seattle, I will consider the W for my accommodation.
I had the pleasure of staying at the W hotel in Seattle. Even though I had never heard of this hotel chain before, doesn't mean that it isn't worth mentioning.
We arrived at about 10 in the evening. The music was blaring and candles were burning everywhere. The hotel staff was friendly and efficient. The porter, very coolly dressed in black, helped us with our luggage. The room was nicely appointed with a big window seat, a very comfy looking bed and a large ultra-modern bathroom.
Our bed was super comfortable although I didn't think the bathroom had been cleaned properly. The hotel staff were super friendly and very helpful.
I never ate at the restaurant or drank at the bar as the items on the menu were very expensive...Why would I pay $20 for eggs, toast, hashbrowns and bacon when I can go down the street and get the same thing for $10?
Even so, every evening the lobby and bar area seemed to be packed with drinkers and diners. In fact, walking through the bar made me feel oh so not cool. The eating/drinking establishment anyways is for the very hip 20 somethings. It is the place to see and be seen...and for the wanna bes.
Anyways I liked the hotel...particularly the bed. The location can't be beat. Next time, I go to Seattle, I will consider the W for my accommodation.
Seattle
My husband has been bugging me for a long time to go visit this west coast city. Why bother I thought as it will be just like Vancouver (probably one of my favourite cities in the world)?
Anyways because our flights to Paris were out of and in to Sea Tac and because of the late return, we decided to stay in Seattle for a couple of nights.
Frankly, two nights was not enough time. I really liked what I saw. Most importantly, to me anyways, were the restaurants. We ate dinner at two very different places - the Purple Cafe and Wine Bar and Pan African.
The Purple Cafe was very hip and chic while the Pan African well it just was. The Purple Cafe had a wide range of food selections including pasta, sandwiches and meat selections. The waiter was shmoozy but did make good recommendations, particularly for the wine. The prices here well not cheap...Dinner for two with one appetizer, two main dishes, a latte, a glass of wine and the tip about $80.
The Pan African well it just was with easy to manage paper table coverings. The Pan African had half a dozen meat selections and about half a dozen vegetarian selections. All for under $10...I love a deal...The service was fast, efficient, even friendly but certainly not shmoozy. The food arrived quickly and was yummy and filling. Our meal, two main dinners and a beer, was $20.
I liked both places for very different reasons...I would happily go back to either. However, I also look forward to future opportunities to eat in many of the other restaurants around Seattle.
My husband has been bugging me for a long time to go visit this west coast city. Why bother I thought as it will be just like Vancouver (probably one of my favourite cities in the world)?
Anyways because our flights to Paris were out of and in to Sea Tac and because of the late return, we decided to stay in Seattle for a couple of nights.
Frankly, two nights was not enough time. I really liked what I saw. Most importantly, to me anyways, were the restaurants. We ate dinner at two very different places - the Purple Cafe and Wine Bar and Pan African.
The Purple Cafe was very hip and chic while the Pan African well it just was. The Purple Cafe had a wide range of food selections including pasta, sandwiches and meat selections. The waiter was shmoozy but did make good recommendations, particularly for the wine. The prices here well not cheap...Dinner for two with one appetizer, two main dishes, a latte, a glass of wine and the tip about $80.
The Pan African well it just was with easy to manage paper table coverings. The Pan African had half a dozen meat selections and about half a dozen vegetarian selections. All for under $10...I love a deal...The service was fast, efficient, even friendly but certainly not shmoozy. The food arrived quickly and was yummy and filling. Our meal, two main dinners and a beer, was $20.
I liked both places for very different reasons...I would happily go back to either. However, I also look forward to future opportunities to eat in many of the other restaurants around Seattle.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Lucky Me!!!!
I am a very lucky girl...spoiled too! My husband surprised me with a trip to Paris for new year's. I had been to Paris before and had climbed the Eiffel Tower and seen the Mona Lisa. What I couldn't do the first time was eat as it was just so expensive for a couple of 20 year olds.
My husband booked the Hyatt near the Charles De Gaulle Airport...very nice...comfy beds...but also very expensive...
We made the trek into Paris everyday and walked...we walked as much as possible...Paris is a city to walk in...Everywhere you go is beautiful...beautiful buildings and street corners...
My husband was not all that interested in the big sites...I think more because of the line ups than anything else...I was okay with that as I had seen many of the sites before.
I was so looking forward to eating this time...I was very disappointed...I just found the food inaccessible. Someone had told me that even the bad food is better than the best food we have in North America...I'm afraid not.
More than that, I found what I consider the heart of any place, the people, inaccessible. People were helpful enough, but certainly not warm or even friendly. Efficient, direct but certainly friendly!!!
While Paris is not among my favourite world cities, I had a lot of favourite moments....the bakery near the Eiffel Tower, chocolat chaud at some designer chocolate shop at Montmarte, my husband's reaction to the Eiffel Tower, walking, raspberry tarts and chocolate macaroons at Paul...mmmm...thanks Paul, Monoprix, $6 espresso at the hotel, walking to the creperie place near the Bastille and eating yummy crepes, dancing with my hubby like crazy people in the elevator for the security videos at the hotel....
I'm thankful to my husband for his very thoughtful gift and hope that even though I won't ever turn 40 again, we will still be able to pick up and go at the drop of a Euro.
I am a very lucky girl...spoiled too! My husband surprised me with a trip to Paris for new year's. I had been to Paris before and had climbed the Eiffel Tower and seen the Mona Lisa. What I couldn't do the first time was eat as it was just so expensive for a couple of 20 year olds.
My husband booked the Hyatt near the Charles De Gaulle Airport...very nice...comfy beds...but also very expensive...
We made the trek into Paris everyday and walked...we walked as much as possible...Paris is a city to walk in...Everywhere you go is beautiful...beautiful buildings and street corners...
My husband was not all that interested in the big sites...I think more because of the line ups than anything else...I was okay with that as I had seen many of the sites before.
I was so looking forward to eating this time...I was very disappointed...I just found the food inaccessible. Someone had told me that even the bad food is better than the best food we have in North America...I'm afraid not.
More than that, I found what I consider the heart of any place, the people, inaccessible. People were helpful enough, but certainly not warm or even friendly. Efficient, direct but certainly friendly!!!
While Paris is not among my favourite world cities, I had a lot of favourite moments....the bakery near the Eiffel Tower, chocolat chaud at some designer chocolate shop at Montmarte, my husband's reaction to the Eiffel Tower, walking, raspberry tarts and chocolate macaroons at Paul...mmmm...thanks Paul, Monoprix, $6 espresso at the hotel, walking to the creperie place near the Bastille and eating yummy crepes, dancing with my hubby like crazy people in the elevator for the security videos at the hotel....
I'm thankful to my husband for his very thoughtful gift and hope that even though I won't ever turn 40 again, we will still be able to pick up and go at the drop of a Euro.
Friday, November 30, 2007
"You've Lost that Travel Feeling"
I was walking with a friend tonight. Both of us have finished working for the semester. We were talking about how we feel when we get out of town. She said it was too bad that this feeling couldn't be recreated at home. I honestly thought I was the only one who felt that way. Lack of expectations, anonymity, freedom (just to name a few) make being away from home so relaxing. In fact, I feel more like myself away from home than I do here. It makes me sad that I feel this way actually. Anyways I have grown up responsibilities and can't be away all the time. I'm looking forward to the next time I can get away. I guess being here makes me appreciate every chance I get away even if it is only up the road to Vancouver.
I was walking with a friend tonight. Both of us have finished working for the semester. We were talking about how we feel when we get out of town. She said it was too bad that this feeling couldn't be recreated at home. I honestly thought I was the only one who felt that way. Lack of expectations, anonymity, freedom (just to name a few) make being away from home so relaxing. In fact, I feel more like myself away from home than I do here. It makes me sad that I feel this way actually. Anyways I have grown up responsibilities and can't be away all the time. I'm looking forward to the next time I can get away. I guess being here makes me appreciate every chance I get away even if it is only up the road to Vancouver.
I came across this story. I'm curious what others think about it.
http://www.worldhum.com/dispatches/item/the_cost_of_kindness_20071126/
http://www.worldhum.com/dispatches/item/the_cost_of_kindness_20071126/
NYC
I haven't written that much about my trip to NYC...I'm sitting here remembering my favourite moments from NYC and want to share them.
I loved the United Nations. It was far more than I expected...the Security Council, the art work...just being there...
The Broadway show "Hairspray". I loved it. I cried at the end of the show. I couldn't believe I was there on Broadway in this amazing theatre. I couldn't believe that I had seen such a great musical. I couldn't believe it was over...will definitely see more when I go back.
Meeting my husband's friend and his partner. We had dinner with them twice. Our friend's partner, Michael Storrings, designs Christmas decorations. I actually went to Rockefeller Centre to get one of his decorations so he could sign it for me during our second dinner. This is my most precious souvenir from NYC.
Spending time with my husband's aunt near Philadelphia. It was great to get a couple of home cooked meals and just to have a visit.
I can't wait to go back to the East Coast of the States. I will certainly plan to meet these people and do these activities when I go back.
I haven't written that much about my trip to NYC...I'm sitting here remembering my favourite moments from NYC and want to share them.
I loved the United Nations. It was far more than I expected...the Security Council, the art work...just being there...
The Broadway show "Hairspray". I loved it. I cried at the end of the show. I couldn't believe I was there on Broadway in this amazing theatre. I couldn't believe that I had seen such a great musical. I couldn't believe it was over...will definitely see more when I go back.
Meeting my husband's friend and his partner. We had dinner with them twice. Our friend's partner, Michael Storrings, designs Christmas decorations. I actually went to Rockefeller Centre to get one of his decorations so he could sign it for me during our second dinner. This is my most precious souvenir from NYC.
Spending time with my husband's aunt near Philadelphia. It was great to get a couple of home cooked meals and just to have a visit.
I can't wait to go back to the East Coast of the States. I will certainly plan to meet these people and do these activities when I go back.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Hotels
We stayed at the Red Roof Inn on 32nd West in New York City. The location was awesome. The room was clean and safe. The hotel staff efficient...not friendly...efficient...The breakfast was standard - bagels, donuts, fruit...enough to energize for the day...Mind you the breakfast area was quite messy if not dirty...There was a lot of construction in the building tying up one of the elevators. That was my biggest complaint...With all of the rooms and all of the guests, one would think that there would be more working elevators, or construction would be delayed. My husband was not a huge fan of the place, but it took him a while to remember that you don't get much in NYC without paying for it. I can't wait to go back to NYC...if anyone knows a good place to stay without giving up your first born, please leave a message.
We stayed at the Red Roof Inn on 32nd West in New York City. The location was awesome. The room was clean and safe. The hotel staff efficient...not friendly...efficient...The breakfast was standard - bagels, donuts, fruit...enough to energize for the day...Mind you the breakfast area was quite messy if not dirty...There was a lot of construction in the building tying up one of the elevators. That was my biggest complaint...With all of the rooms and all of the guests, one would think that there would be more working elevators, or construction would be delayed. My husband was not a huge fan of the place, but it took him a while to remember that you don't get much in NYC without paying for it. I can't wait to go back to NYC...if anyone knows a good place to stay without giving up your first born, please leave a message.
Business Class
We were lucky enough on the way to NYC to get upgraded to Business Class. I'm not sure how why, but it was awesome. Business class on Cathay Pacific rocks!!!! A five course meal on real dishes...champagne and orange juice when we got on...enough space to lounge back with our feet up....What else can I say? It was awesome!!!! If anyone knows how to get upgraded regularly, please leave a message. Either that or we are going to have start earning more money!!!!
We were lucky enough on the way to NYC to get upgraded to Business Class. I'm not sure how why, but it was awesome. Business class on Cathay Pacific rocks!!!! A five course meal on real dishes...champagne and orange juice when we got on...enough space to lounge back with our feet up....What else can I say? It was awesome!!!! If anyone knows how to get upgraded regularly, please leave a message. Either that or we are going to have start earning more money!!!!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Summer 07
This summer we are going to go to New York City....sightseeing, theatre, shopping...I can't wait.
We are also going to Hershey...Yes, this is where the chocolate company got its start...mmmm...I heard about this on a CBC show called Chocolate Confidential, and immediately started doing research.
Check out www.hersheypa.com/attractions/index.html for more information about Hershey.
I'm really excited now and am saving like mad.
This summer we are going to go to New York City....sightseeing, theatre, shopping...I can't wait.
We are also going to Hershey...Yes, this is where the chocolate company got its start...mmmm...I heard about this on a CBC show called Chocolate Confidential, and immediately started doing research.
Check out www.hersheypa.com/attractions/index.html for more information about Hershey.
I'm really excited now and am saving like mad.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Saltspring Island
We recently went to Saltspring Island for 5 nights. We stayed a Fulford Creek Bed and Breakfast. This old ranch home sits on a large piece of land that is sheltered from the rest of the world. There is an outdoor seating area with a barbeque and fridge for the do-it-yourselfer. Wendy cooks up a fabulous breakfast that will keep you going the whole day. The bed in the Sunflower room is comfortable enough; however, I woke up on the last morning with several bites on my arms and back. Whether this is from a spider or bed bugs, I will never know...but certainly not comfortable or comforting...Anyways at $110/night with the over the top breakfasts, it isn't bad value. For those looking for a more modern get away, this is not the place for you. I felt that 5 nights was one to two nights too many. We visited a winery, a cheesery, and a couple of potter's studios. Of course we went to the Saturday market. We used this as a gage as to which artist's studios we would like to visit. One really has to weed through all the crap that is passed off as art. Personally, I didn't care for the restaurants on Saltspring. I thought many of them were ove- priced. In one of them, we were lucky to get what we had actually ordered. I also didn't find the locals all that friendly in the tourist areas of town. In the middle of the summer, you also have to be super organized to get off of the island. We ended up travelling the long way around and spending quite a bit more than we would have liked to. Anyways I would go back to Saltspring for a shorter amount of time and to stay in a different b&b.
We recently went to Saltspring Island for 5 nights. We stayed a Fulford Creek Bed and Breakfast. This old ranch home sits on a large piece of land that is sheltered from the rest of the world. There is an outdoor seating area with a barbeque and fridge for the do-it-yourselfer. Wendy cooks up a fabulous breakfast that will keep you going the whole day. The bed in the Sunflower room is comfortable enough; however, I woke up on the last morning with several bites on my arms and back. Whether this is from a spider or bed bugs, I will never know...but certainly not comfortable or comforting...Anyways at $110/night with the over the top breakfasts, it isn't bad value. For those looking for a more modern get away, this is not the place for you. I felt that 5 nights was one to two nights too many. We visited a winery, a cheesery, and a couple of potter's studios. Of course we went to the Saturday market. We used this as a gage as to which artist's studios we would like to visit. One really has to weed through all the crap that is passed off as art. Personally, I didn't care for the restaurants on Saltspring. I thought many of them were ove- priced. In one of them, we were lucky to get what we had actually ordered. I also didn't find the locals all that friendly in the tourist areas of town. In the middle of the summer, you also have to be super organized to get off of the island. We ended up travelling the long way around and spending quite a bit more than we would have liked to. Anyways I would go back to Saltspring for a shorter amount of time and to stay in a different b&b.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Delhi to Toronto
I don't know how many of you who are reading this have made the trip from India to Canada ....let me tell you that it is a very long trip. I got on the plane and found my seat. Shortly after, I realized that the two seats between myself and the other fellow were empty. Not often you get to have two seats to yourself in economy class. Anyways the rather big Indian fellow on the other side of the two seats realized the same thing. So he says to me that he's going to use the empty two seats plus his own to lie down. No I said. You get this seat and I get the other. Two each. But I'm tired he says and I want to lie down. Well everyone is tired and would like to lie down too(international flights leave after midnight). Besides what would you have done if economy class had been full. It is not often that we get such a luxury in a class that is usually packed like a sardine can. Anyways the flight takes off. Ten minutes into it, we hit turbulence. Now I consider myself a fairly seasoned flyer, and never have I hit turbulence like that. All of the women screamed at the same time. I started crying; all I wanted was to get home to see Arjun. Besides, I think allof the stress of my last day in India was finally coming out too. I looked out the window and it looked like lightning. Very plausible since it had been raining when we left Delhi. The things that go through your head: those are the lights of the plane not ligthning; more people die in traffic accidents than in airplane crashes; most airplane crashes happen during take off and landing; all I want to do is see my husband. Needless to say, we got through it in what seemed like forever. Once things settled down, my Indian friend lies down with his head next to my thighs. Okay? he asks me. No, you get this seat and I get that seat. Besides, if your mother, wife, daughter, aunt, neice were sitting in my place would you want some strange man putting his head down by her thighs? So he sits up. Then the stewardess comes by and informs me that there are three seats in the back that are not being used. My good good buddy tells me that I should move. No, my stuff is overhead and this is my seat...now he wants all four seats for himself...pig...he says that my stuff doesn't matter. Well maybe not to you, but it does matter to me. He moves....and a young girl takes up those two seats...happy happy happy...Anyways, we landed safely in Toronto, and I had never been happier to step on solid ground. And even happier to see Arjun waiting for me at Vancouver airport.
I don't know how many of you who are reading this have made the trip from India to Canada ....let me tell you that it is a very long trip. I got on the plane and found my seat. Shortly after, I realized that the two seats between myself and the other fellow were empty. Not often you get to have two seats to yourself in economy class. Anyways the rather big Indian fellow on the other side of the two seats realized the same thing. So he says to me that he's going to use the empty two seats plus his own to lie down. No I said. You get this seat and I get the other. Two each. But I'm tired he says and I want to lie down. Well everyone is tired and would like to lie down too(international flights leave after midnight). Besides what would you have done if economy class had been full. It is not often that we get such a luxury in a class that is usually packed like a sardine can. Anyways the flight takes off. Ten minutes into it, we hit turbulence. Now I consider myself a fairly seasoned flyer, and never have I hit turbulence like that. All of the women screamed at the same time. I started crying; all I wanted was to get home to see Arjun. Besides, I think allof the stress of my last day in India was finally coming out too. I looked out the window and it looked like lightning. Very plausible since it had been raining when we left Delhi. The things that go through your head: those are the lights of the plane not ligthning; more people die in traffic accidents than in airplane crashes; most airplane crashes happen during take off and landing; all I want to do is see my husband. Needless to say, we got through it in what seemed like forever. Once things settled down, my Indian friend lies down with his head next to my thighs. Okay? he asks me. No, you get this seat and I get that seat. Besides, if your mother, wife, daughter, aunt, neice were sitting in my place would you want some strange man putting his head down by her thighs? So he sits up. Then the stewardess comes by and informs me that there are three seats in the back that are not being used. My good good buddy tells me that I should move. No, my stuff is overhead and this is my seat...now he wants all four seats for himself...pig...he says that my stuff doesn't matter. Well maybe not to you, but it does matter to me. He moves....and a young girl takes up those two seats...happy happy happy...Anyways, we landed safely in Toronto, and I had never been happier to step on solid ground. And even happier to see Arjun waiting for me at Vancouver airport.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Last day in India
My last day in India was rather chaotic (actually which day wasn't?). Anyways I got up in the morning to have breakfast with Uncle and Priyanka. Uncle informed me that the driver and the car would be available to take me wherever I wanted...yahoo....So 15 minutes after Uncle and Priyanka left, I was ready to go. I asked Meena (the driver's wife) to get the driver. She came down and said he was taking a bath. Fine 20 minutes and I should be on my way. Well 40 minutes later he still hadn't shown up. Meena went out to see if he was ready to go. She came down and told me that he wasn't going anywhere until the evening. Now considering the driver has Sunday off to drink, I was okay with that. However, I would have appreciated knowing earlier. So I got a autorickshaw to Connaught Place to run my last few errands. I spent two hours getting things done. I caught a rickshaw back so I could have lunch with Ami. I had a bath after lunch getting ready to go that evening and also because I was expecting some people to stop by for a visit. I spent the next few hours hanging out with Ami. Our expected guests never came. At about 5:00, I decided that since the driver is so unreliable, I would be better to hire a cab to take me to the market then on to the airport. I called Priyanka at work to get a number for a taxi company. Well Ami got herself upset about this saying that the family wouldn't leave me to take a taxi. Okay but no one is here to deal with the driver and he isn't going to listen to a foreign woman or an old woman. I called the cab company and asked if they spoke English. No Hindi only. So I hung up. Ami, who can't hear, asked me if the cab was coming. No they don't speak English. She says they don't speak when they answer. No they don't speak English. We went back and forth 4-5 times before she realized that they don't speakEnglish. She got on the phone and ordered the taxi to come. So the servants are helping me take my bags down the stairs and who shows up? The driver of course. I asked him what the hell he was doing and as far as I'm concerned he can spend the rest of the evening upstairs doing nothing. But they took my bags downstairs and put them in the family car. This all happening just as the taxi drives up. The driver seemed a little out of sorts but he got me to my dinner date with Priyanka and to the airport safely and on time. I don't like to drive at all, but having a driver who creates hassles like that....I'll drive myself thank you very much.
My last day in India was rather chaotic (actually which day wasn't?). Anyways I got up in the morning to have breakfast with Uncle and Priyanka. Uncle informed me that the driver and the car would be available to take me wherever I wanted...yahoo....So 15 minutes after Uncle and Priyanka left, I was ready to go. I asked Meena (the driver's wife) to get the driver. She came down and said he was taking a bath. Fine 20 minutes and I should be on my way. Well 40 minutes later he still hadn't shown up. Meena went out to see if he was ready to go. She came down and told me that he wasn't going anywhere until the evening. Now considering the driver has Sunday off to drink, I was okay with that. However, I would have appreciated knowing earlier. So I got a autorickshaw to Connaught Place to run my last few errands. I spent two hours getting things done. I caught a rickshaw back so I could have lunch with Ami. I had a bath after lunch getting ready to go that evening and also because I was expecting some people to stop by for a visit. I spent the next few hours hanging out with Ami. Our expected guests never came. At about 5:00, I decided that since the driver is so unreliable, I would be better to hire a cab to take me to the market then on to the airport. I called Priyanka at work to get a number for a taxi company. Well Ami got herself upset about this saying that the family wouldn't leave me to take a taxi. Okay but no one is here to deal with the driver and he isn't going to listen to a foreign woman or an old woman. I called the cab company and asked if they spoke English. No Hindi only. So I hung up. Ami, who can't hear, asked me if the cab was coming. No they don't speak English. She says they don't speak when they answer. No they don't speak English. We went back and forth 4-5 times before she realized that they don't speakEnglish. She got on the phone and ordered the taxi to come. So the servants are helping me take my bags down the stairs and who shows up? The driver of course. I asked him what the hell he was doing and as far as I'm concerned he can spend the rest of the evening upstairs doing nothing. But they took my bags downstairs and put them in the family car. This all happening just as the taxi drives up. The driver seemed a little out of sorts but he got me to my dinner date with Priyanka and to the airport safely and on time. I don't like to drive at all, but having a driver who creates hassles like that....I'll drive myself thank you very much.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Servants
As those of you have kept tabs on my stay in India, you will know that I've spent most of my time in Delhi with Arjun's Uncle, Aunt and cousin. This household is well-equipped with servants. There is a person who cleans, one who cooks, one who supposedly oversees the day-to-day operations of the house. One of the joys of this is that I have my tea served to me whenever and whereever I want. Now before you run out and get a servant there is downside to all of this. The person who seems to oversee the day-to-day running of the house is rude and just doesn't listen. When I ask her a question, she walks behind me and natters away...sometimes she does this even when I don't ask her a question. Usually her natterings are followed by a questioning okay. I think I've actually promised my first born to her. The worst part of this is that I don't feel like I've had any privacy. While I like being served tea in bed, I've decided that it would be easier to do the work myself rather than to worry if it has been done or to scold someone if it isn't done. Besides, I think keeping my privacy is worth doing the work myself.
As those of you have kept tabs on my stay in India, you will know that I've spent most of my time in Delhi with Arjun's Uncle, Aunt and cousin. This household is well-equipped with servants. There is a person who cleans, one who cooks, one who supposedly oversees the day-to-day operations of the house. One of the joys of this is that I have my tea served to me whenever and whereever I want. Now before you run out and get a servant there is downside to all of this. The person who seems to oversee the day-to-day running of the house is rude and just doesn't listen. When I ask her a question, she walks behind me and natters away...sometimes she does this even when I don't ask her a question. Usually her natterings are followed by a questioning okay. I think I've actually promised my first born to her. The worst part of this is that I don't feel like I've had any privacy. While I like being served tea in bed, I've decided that it would be easier to do the work myself rather than to worry if it has been done or to scold someone if it isn't done. Besides, I think keeping my privacy is worth doing the work myself.
Thursday, February 03, 2005
Air Canada
Because I've decided to stay in Delhi, I've also decided to shorten my stay here. This involves changing my ticket through the Air Canada office here in Delhi. One free change to be made directly through the airline...pretty standard right? Standard but not easy. After two visits to the AC office and numerous phone calls, I realized my efforts were going to go unrewarded. The people in the office here can't really do anything...they have to send a message to the AC office in Toronto and wait for a reply. In this case, the reply was always no. So at the suggestion of my husband, I went through my travel agent in Canada. Three e-mails and a phone call and oh yeah another trip to that annoying AC office here in Delhi and it was done. I realize that AC flies here so they have to have an office here. But why so many staff who can't actually make any changes to tickets? No wonder AC has had so much money trouble.
Because I've decided to stay in Delhi, I've also decided to shorten my stay here. This involves changing my ticket through the Air Canada office here in Delhi. One free change to be made directly through the airline...pretty standard right? Standard but not easy. After two visits to the AC office and numerous phone calls, I realized my efforts were going to go unrewarded. The people in the office here can't really do anything...they have to send a message to the AC office in Toronto and wait for a reply. In this case, the reply was always no. So at the suggestion of my husband, I went through my travel agent in Canada. Three e-mails and a phone call and oh yeah another trip to that annoying AC office here in Delhi and it was done. I realize that AC flies here so they have to have an office here. But why so many staff who can't actually make any changes to tickets? No wonder AC has had so much money trouble.
travelling
It has been a while since I've posted....I've chosen to spend the rest of my time in Delhi. After getting sick in Jaipur, I felt a little gun shy about going off on my own again. Lots of people do it I know...It really isn't just that...I felt so lonely on the road without Arjun. He really took a lot of the pressure and hassle on himself. More than that, it was a great feeling to have someone to hang with. Besides my main purpose was to come and see Arjun's grandmother, and that's what I have done. Next time, Arjun and I will come here together and explore more of India. In the meantime, I'm enjoying the company of his family and of course the shopping.
It has been a while since I've posted....I've chosen to spend the rest of my time in Delhi. After getting sick in Jaipur, I felt a little gun shy about going off on my own again. Lots of people do it I know...It really isn't just that...I felt so lonely on the road without Arjun. He really took a lot of the pressure and hassle on himself. More than that, it was a great feeling to have someone to hang with. Besides my main purpose was to come and see Arjun's grandmother, and that's what I have done. Next time, Arjun and I will come here together and explore more of India. In the meantime, I'm enjoying the company of his family and of course the shopping.
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