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Our seven and half hour train journey from Jaipur to Udaipur, went surprisingly quickly, although for the most part the torrential downpours of the monsoon lashed on the windows I was forever occupied by the sights outside the window, the acres and acres of dry, desert land, the children on the tracks, the different characters at the stations, the disorganised and chaotic flooded streets - and when the light went I listened to sound of the music on my ipod, while Jeff read.
Two days in Udaipur was most probably not enough, but being able to walk from A to B without interruption was bliss. Udaipur was more ordered than previous places, and systems were in place. It has a reputation for silver, clothes and Art - made a little purchase.
Sights of the Pichola Lake and the city from our roof top Madri Haveli hotel, couldn't but help you smile. Our hotel had been recently renovated and was just beautiful - if ever visiting, it needs to be on the list. At night Hari and his team produced wonderful sumptuous food which was eaten by candlelight - rather romantic. In the afternoon children and families would fly kites from the rooftops of the buildings. It was a very lovely place to be.
Our next destination was Kerala, we had two short flights with IndiGo. Indian version of Easyjet, excess baggage a bit steep, but much more efficient and punctual than we anticipated.
As we made our descent into Mumbai, one cannot fail to see a mass of blue; at first, from high above, I thought they were solar panels or swimming pools!! It was only as we got closer you notice the mass of shanty houses that line the runway. Some made of corregated iron, some brick( partially), others just wood panels. The blue is the tarpaulin that creates the roof . On some, a second storey is precariously perched where another family live - it was similar to what we saw in Brazil. These provided shelter, of some kind; although the heavy rain of the monsoon had flooded these areas, a river of mud and rubbish was evident.
As we have seen before ,the sight of the bulldozer is never far away, a constant reminder that the slum area will be 'swept away' whenever the decision is made. Living in that environment and knowing it can happen at any time must be such a difficult and transient place to be.
In stark contrast, it's neighbour is a private jet hanger. At least fifty lined the runway - such different worlds. My thoughts went to scenes in 'Slumdog Millionaire' - must watch that film again.
Our very wet drive to Cochin; on pot holed roads, in the rush hour with major construction work taking place, took two hour. There was so many different things that we noticed, the vast number of churches and church schools, as Southern India has a huge Christian following, in comparison to Muslim and Sikh temples of the North. The numerous towns were all busy and huge car show rooms lined the streets - BMW, Toyota, Volkswagen, everything had a purpose.
Even though the taxi driver was not very friendly, our arrival at our hotel was very welcoming. After a long day of travelling the hotel, Purity, was the sanctuary we needed for the next week. It's positioned by Lake Vembanadu, in high season the prices for this very stylish hotel , would be well out of our budget, but once again I got a deal; saying that, top tip, always check additional taxes.
Although it's rather remote and only one other couple are here, we cannot complain. An infinity pool, a beautiful garden and the view - Wow! To top that the decor of the hotel, is extremely tasteful - beautiful art and statues everywhere. The owners ( German and Spanish), are art dealers and seem to have a rather good eye.
Long fishing boats sculled by fisherman and fishing nets on beams are a constant part of the view; as are, Sea Eagles that swoop and glide. Even though it's low season, house boats from Alleppey (Alappuzha), of varying size, pass the hotel and are frequent sights -but like all things some look more sea worthy than others.
An additional bonus is a complimentary hour of yoga each morning. The yoga guru, makes the most perfect 'Om' sound that I have ever heard, it fills both your body and soul. As always Jeff tries hard and is determined to conquer anything, especially the positions, who knows what will happen in the next few days! Perhaps he will take up yoga on our return.
Even though Jeff would go 'stir crazy' if he was here for too long, we have both embraced the peace and calm and have not felt the need to explore as quickly as usual.
When we walk to the local village, rubbish is not such an issue and trough either side of the street provides a place for surplus water to go. Little shops, selling hardware goods to herbal medicines, are buzzing with business. We just love the people here - everyone says, 'Hi' or Hello' - for the simple reason they just want to. There is no hidden agenda. When we passed the local schools, it was the end of the day and it was as if we were visiting celebrities - arms waved from school buses, huge smiles lit up from Tuc Tucs. Children in uniform, woman waiting and men ,in what can only be described as'nappy like' gear' (lunkie), all beamed from ear to ear. It makes me recall a poem Jonathan read once, 'A smile costs nothing, but gives much ....' Just so fitting here.
Jeff seems to rather likes the new found celebrity status, he waves back in true celebrity fashion, a little royal like really and says 'hello' hundreds of times. He hasn't signed autographs yet!! He's just looks so happy that no one wants anything but a response to their greeting. We may be only be celebrities for just a moment, but it's a good feeling here.
I am writing this blog with the lake just in front of me and find it a perfect place to be inspired. I feel I could write and write here.
I wanted to finish by saying that we watched the day unfold on Friday. A historical day indeed!
How you voted on Thursday and what ever your feelings are as a result of the vote, stay safe and look after yourselves.
As always thank you so much for your comments either via the blog, whatapp or email.
Must go, as it's 7 am yoga by the lake! Take care.
- comments
Kate Another lovely part of this world that we all share. Black, white, dark, fair, your colour will not matter there. Life is just the same here in our world, it is just what might happen in a few years that is the problem. Take care, sending love. X
Dianne Great blog Jackie Is this much in the way of small industries along the road? Is there much pollution in the air? Look forward to next update. Take care Dx
Ali D Latest entry has made me smile. Memories of long train journeys, absorbed by the sights going past outside, the unforgettable descent into Mumbai airport, the friendliness of the vast majority of the population. Glad you are finding the more peaceful side of the country. Lots of love xx
Steve I could tell you're both calmer after the frenetic activity in northern India. You also have celeb status too! Glad you're enjoying the lush surroundings in Kerala. Then there's Sri Lanka, lucky you. Hope they let you back in here after the referendum! Enjoy!
Karen Seaton Cochin sounds idyllic - staying at 'Purity' seems to be a well earned moment of tranquility for both of you after all your adventures. A time to reflect on all the absolutely amazing things you have done! Take care and enjoy the next month xx
Anne McLaughlin Hi Just been looking at your fab photos. You both look so relaxed and happy and have certainly seen some wonderful sights. What a great experience you are having! Take care love Anne xxx