Food in Jinan

I am sure you would all agree that when moving to a new place, the last thing on your mind to pack are eating utensils. I know it was never on my list, didn't cross my mind until my first meal in Jinan.

The new teachers were taken out for dinner our first night at the Nice Lady restaurant (nicknamed by the foreign teachers). And not until I saw my delicious looking spicy chicken (anything would have looked delicious to me as the last time I ate was on my flight from Toronto) did it hit me I would be using chopsticks. I know, I moved to China, why didnt I learn how to use chopsticks before leaving blah blah blah … well I didn't.

Chopsticks skills

I struggled with eating with chopsticks that night which meant I didn't enjoy my meal and I needed to do something about the situation. I know eventually, I would learn and get used to using chopsticks but for now, I need to get cutlery I can use or employ my hands. Growing up, for some odd reason I didn't like eating with spoons so my mother bought me cheap forks I could walk around with. I guess I have to do as she did … oh wait, the forks at the supermarket are not cheap. I didn't have a choice so I got couple of forks and a pair of chopsticks. So, if you find yourself travelling to China, remember you would need chopsticks at some point.

Back to the food in Jinan …

There is no shortage of good food, healthy or otherwise, cheap and expensive, local and foreign, indoor and outdoor (street food vendors) but I still find eating out a bit challenging for different reasons. Main reason though is that I do not eat pork and up to the moment I moved to Jinan, I can say with 95% certainty that I have been able to avoid cross contamination as well. So for those that eat practically anything, you will have variety of food to choose from in Jinan. Couple of reasons in addition to not eating pig product is the amount of salt and oil in almost every meal. Which brings me to few of my "GO TOs'' …

Chicken Lady

Eat Street

Close to my apartment, there is Eat Street (not sure what the real name is) with almost any kind of food you need. These are street food vendors that are worth the time and money. On eat street, most of my friends including myself have few favorites. These are meals we've all had with no issues (no bathroom visit). There is the Chicken Lady right at the north entrance of the alley, the noodle place few stalls down, the squid guy (and his adorable son) are couple of stands down from our favorite veggie wrap lady who I believe is mid-distance from either entrance.

Veggie Wrap Lady

Also, close by are few halal restaurant that all serve the same exact dishes and all the same price tag attached to the dishes. There is one across the street from me at Li Sha Da Sha that I go to as a last resort as the people there are not very friendly. There is one few stores down from the entrance to Eat Street and one in the Eat street that I visit at least once a week. They are very friendly which is why I prefer them to the one closest to my apartment. For those off us that eat halal and would rather avoid cross contamination, you have nothing to worry about as there are Halal restaurants within 15 to 30 minutes walking distance in any direction.

Then, there is Food Street (again not the real name); this is also walking distance (about 30 to 40 minutes) but a short 10 minutes bus ride (k50 or 101 bus). The main entrance to the Food Street is right across from Zara clothing store (yep, same Zara @ Shimao Mall next to Parc 66). Food street is longer and has more variety compared to Eat Street but you need to leave your sense of smell at home. All you need is a bit of sight, your wallet and taste buds.

I have only been here for two months so I can't say more at the moment about other street food areas in Jinan but I doubt I would be disappointed.

In terms of fine dining or sit down meals, I have been to a couple and would like to recommend one for now. I don't have much to say as I have only been to a handful and so far only Taste Western is worth a return trip. They serve western food and as I have been told, the restaurant is fairly new. Food quality, customer service and wait time at this restaurant is way better than other places I have been to. Also, it comes with a decent price tag.

BBQ Chicken Salad from Taste Western

Some of my friends have other places they prefer like Melenas (on the north side of Parc 66) every Sunday night (usually for drinks) and sometimes Lazy's for both drinks and food. I have never had anything at Melenas so I can't comment but food at Lazy's is fairly OK. They offer membership card with different perks everyone you visit.

Big Daddy's burger @ Lazy's

Before moving to Jinan, I was never a fan of eating out but when you move into an apartment like mine (see previous post), you will be forced to eat out.

Home Cooked Meals

Although, I cooked sometimes, I eat out almost everyday. Eating out 2 to 3 times a day means more spending which means you need to find something feeling and affordable. Most time eating local gets you what you need at the right price compared to eating western (KFC, BK, McDonald's, etc.) So back to the issue of eating no pork or its by product, couple of phrases I learnt were ''bu Yao Zhu  rou (不要猪肉)'' which means I don't want pork, ''Wo bu xi huan zhu rou (我不喜欢猪肉) - I don't like pork. Plus I had to memorize the Chinese letters for beef (cow meat 牛肉 - Niu rou). There are more things I would rather not consume that I see everyday so I just stay clear of the vendors or these items when I see them on the menu.

This is based on my two months experience and should there be any changes, I will update this post with the new details.

Please note that this is my experience and others' thoughts and experience in relation to food in Jinan is bound to be slightly or totally different.

Still getting used to eating with chopsticks and the frowns I get when I order food - with one too many "bu Yao …/ wo bu xi huan …" (I don't want …/ I don't like …

Daily Commute experience - pedestrian crossing skills next.

Thanks for reading.

Houcaller - Steak meal

No Honeymoon... One month in.

One month in with no honeymoon phase. I arrived in Shanghai safely, with a 15 hours layover, I booked a 4 star hotel online. Yep 4 but more like 2 stars. Anyway it was clean-ish and smells nice-ish; plus it came with a huge low price tag, free wi-fi and airport pick up and drop off. With an half decent night sleep, I made it to Jinan all in one piece. Got picked up by my Manager, soon to be friend and go to person for directions, bus routes and stops.

I was so excited that dragging my 3 heavy overweight luggage in a heavy down pour of rain did nothing to dampen my mood. Plus, I just found out I won't be having a room mate for most or the entire duration of the current semester (6 months). 

Foreign Teacher's Apartment for my school

Then, I walked into my apartment and my excitement hit an all time low. 

Looking back, I can't say for sure what it was but I can recall clearly asking, "how much will it cost me to get cleaners in here? And where is the closest grocery store, I need to buy some household cleaning supplies. 

I did get cleaners, paid for by my school but I might as well have gotten nothing because they did such a bad job I had to complain. Yes, I am a very detailed cleaner but even to the least detailed or not so clean person this is an awful cleaning job. I was not surprised though as I was warned I would be getting a so called "China Cleaning" - didn't know what this meant at first but now I do. I was advised to take before cleaners and after cleaners picture of the whole apartment. Which I did but I went a step further to clean by myself every inch of the apartment except my bathroom and then took pictures just so I can show what I meant when I said please clean. Please see some pictures after cleaners cleaned below and above.

After Cleaners cleaned.

After I cleaned

So, what have I done in my first month besides scrubbing my kitchen floor?

I have been teaching from day 3, at an English language school, and from my second week,  few public school English classes got added on (some agreement between the public school and my actual school). Visited few historical/ tourist attractions out of many friendly Shandong province has to offer. Shulianxian, The Thousand Budha Mountain, Qufu (Confuscious birth place), Five Dragon Pond, Daming Lake and Batou Springs (highly recommended). Not much has happened but so far, I am adjusting and adapting very well.

I will fill you in on food and commuting in my next post. Stay tuned.

Shui lian xia 水帘峡

Thousand Budha Mountain 千佛山

Spring Square 泉城广场

Baotu Springs 暴徒全

Five Dragon Pond 五龙潭

Daming Lake 大 名湖

Yeah Man! Jamaica Me Crazy!

Wat a gwaan?

Me Irie. 

Taking a trip away from reality although does not eliminate all the life huddles permanently. It does help relax and revitalize you in readiness for some aspect of real life. 

I have never been on an actual vacation. All my trips away from home has always been for a reason (weddings, family, school etc) never just to relax and enjoy the scenery. Picking Jamaica as my first real vacation was not intentional. Myself and my partner in crime, as usual wanted somewhere affordable with an all-inclusive tag but we also wanted somewhere with high ratings of fun, safety, good food, hygiene, good customer service and most of all good quality/ quantity of booze.

Well we (she) found it in Runaway Bay, Jamaica. An all-inclusive package at the Gran Bahai Principe (GBP) Resort. It was a long and fairly hot ride from Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay to GBP Resort, Runaway Bay but being recieved with a cold drink was welcoming. 

A 5-day  all inclusive trip to Jamaice was worth the bill. The tours and excursions made it worth the bill, the time, and the experience. 

Hiking up the Dunns River Falls took approx. 45mins and 15mins back. I wish I could describe the experience in words but all I can say is it was awesome. Scary, tiring but it was so much fun. If you ever get the chance to visit Jamaica, make sure to do this. Here is a breakdown of my days and the excursions I went on. 

Day 1 was not uneventful except for the long line to cross the immigration desk st the airport. And our driver to the resort felt it would be ok to drive us to the gas station to pump gas and across the street to pick up his female friend at the bank. I would think having our flight landing time, factoring in the long line, he would have thought ahead and purchased gas before getting to the airport. Anyway, this didn't ruin the day. I was looking forward to food after a long day and didn't care what happened so long as I get to the resort safe. 

Day 2 

Soaked in the sun all day and ended the day with a fairly ok dinner at the Japanese restaurant. For me, the decor in the restaurant is the only link I could make to Japan.

Day 3 - Supper Fun Day

Did the Dunns Riiver Tour and Chukka Catamaran Tour (Party Boat) - these two are my favorite, highly recommended.

Day 4 - not so good. 

Woke up with a bad migrane (blaming this on the all day partying and late night. Woke up very early to make sure we get breakfast and catch the 8:45am bus to the Horseback Swim & Ride excursion. We made breakfast and was in the lobby by 8:30am but we didn't make the 8:45am bus that was apparently there and left by 8:35am. The driver got to the resort, picked up 4people instead of 6 and went on his way. This is a lobby with different people waiting for different buses to different excursion/ tour locations. I personally assumed a driver driving an unmarked bus picking up strangers would announce (like the previous day and other drivers did) his company name and ask for passengers going to "XYZ" location. No, that would be too much to ask. 

Anyway, the horseback ride was fun, didn't like any of the pictures taken by the guide so I didn't pay for any which is ok by me. I enjoyed the ride and would do it again if the opportunity arises.

I was all watered out and just wanted to do nothing which by the way is exactly what I did for the rest of the day. Still had the migrane when I got back from the horse farm but a nice and long bath with followed by lunch and then longing helped reduced the pressure.

My personal recommendation when vacationing in Jamaica: 

Dunns River Falls tour, Chukka Cat Tour, Bug spray: insect repellant, your preferred lotion, sunscreen and lots of energy. 

Gratitude to the Chukka Cat Crew, for a very good time and all the Gran Bahai Principe Staff that kept the rooms decent, made the nice foods and most of all, were always friendly and ready to help. There were some not so perfect occurrences but these were things I could live with.

Jamaica was fun, I would definitely be doing more of this. 

This is the first of many to come. 

Next Stop; Jinan, Shandong, China

New Dawn, New Day, New Life

Within a short period, I went from one of the highest/ happiest moment to one of the saddest moment in my life. In a period of a week, my life as I knew it and as I planned it came into place and fell out of place. 

In light of the new development, my heart is fixed on progressing. I have taken a conscious decision to make my life about me (this is new for me). A conscious decision to be happy, strong and confident. 

I guess there is no other option for me but to be happy and strong. What else do you do when you get a joyous news that fills you with so much happiness and in less than a week you are hit with one that takes away the happiness. 

Well here is what I did, I cried so much eventually tears stopped running, didn't eat or drink for some days to the point where remembering the previous minute was a chore. Then, it hit me, that I don't do we'll being sad and miserable. My beautiful smile is allergic to misery. So here I am, it is very hard but I will make it a daily mission to be true to myself, strong and happy.

This TERN is on a roll, the sky is no longer the limit. It is just another gate to another adventure. 

Sitting at an airport gate, heading to NC to visit my mother, I look back and realize there is just this life and I am going to live,  laugh and love till I can't no more. 

For those that know me personally, you know my mother is everything to me. I called her sobbing like a baby to share my sad news and here is her response (To those who know my mother, I am sure you can predict her response). 

      "Adunni, no need to cry. May God continue to bless you. You wil never know sorrow. There is no reason to cry, please wipe your tears, take a shower and give thanks to God for everything." 

I do know my mother and somewhere deep down I anticipated that response but I couldn't help thinking she didn't hear me due to my endless stream of tears. So again sobbing I told her what had happened (play by play). She said "Oko mi (My dear), I heard you the first time. This is not the time to cry but a time to get closer to your God, ask for forgiveness, strenght and happiness. 

I did as she said and till the end of time, I will continue to say my mother is one of a kind. She went through the same ordeal and always wished she had someone then to help when she needed it the most. I will always love you (Iya Hajarat); may your days be long in good health and wealth. 

These past couple of weeks she has been there like a mother should, like a sister should and like a friend should. She  raised me to be strong and dependent but still held on tightly when I needed her the most. 

This is why I am taking time out of no time and spending money I don't have, flying to NC, to visit her, and other family member that have always and I know will always be there for me. 

Enough of the sob story. 

Before China, I will be in NC for 5 days to return Monday night. Then I will be heading to Runaway Bay, Jamaica (long over due vacation) with one of my all-time favorite. 

So you see why I am loving it 😃

Not a lot of trips before China but I know this is the begin of many more to come. 

I will try to update before Jamaica, if not, see you before the big MOVE

So ... Did I accept the offer?

It has been a very long couple of weeks. Trying to figure out what the next course of plan would be should I accept the offer or turn it down? What this would mean for me now and my career aspirations.

Like I said in my earlier post, this would be a stepping stone to other interesting and career changing opportunities. I would need to quit my current job, move to the other side of the world away from family, friends and foes.

The uncertainty still remains as I am not sure what to expect, I am yet to arrive at answers to some of my questions. Some of which would not be answered until I commence on this new adventure.

So far, it has been a rocky road, one that I hope someday I will be able to look back and smile. I have been very excited about this offer and have been reading on Jinan, Shandong as well as China. Some reviews have been encouraging and some not so much. All in all, one thing is for sure - keeping an open mind provides some form of cushion.

Great Wall of China

 

I am sure with any decision in life, there are bound to be challenges and obstacles that makes you want to run the other way, change your mind, regret the choices you've made or wish you could time travel back to the past. I am hoping this is not one of those instances. I am anticipating lots of travels, time and wallet permitting.  

So ...

Did I accept the offer?

Yes I did.

I gave in my two weeks notice at work, started packing up some of my things that I will be taking with me the rest of my stuff I have found a storage space for (a bit skeptical about safety). FYI - Packing is not fun, especially when you have to consider airline baggage allowance. Although I am able to send some of my stuff over once my Visa is confirmed, I have been warned postal/ courier service to and from ... is not very reliable.

Enough of my packing dislikes.

Looking forward the next 12 month of UPs and DOWNs, happy and not so happy, culture shock and new experience. 

What's next ... 



Moving Soon ... Maybe, maybe not

Lots of question going on in my head. Should I accept this offer? If I do, am I able to commit to blogging my experience? The first and last time I took to blogging was over a year ago. I can't say for sure if I did a good job, if anyone read it or if anyone is going to read my new postings. I guess I have to try to know the answer to that.

OK then; one question answered. If I do accept the offer, would I be able to blog occasionally, maybe weekly or bi weekly (not daily like my last one)?

So what is this offer I am referring to? I have just been offered a teaching position in Jinan (济南), capital of Shandong (山东) province in Eastern China. This will be an experience of a lifetime. It is the start of something new, the beginning of an end as I have been with my current organization for over 5.

Although I am super excited about the role and the opportunity teaching abroad would bring, not to mention the experience, I am also sceptical and a bit scared.  It is after all a new place far away from family and friends. What if it is not what it is shaped out to be? What if I don't enjoy it as much as I thought? What if I embark on this new chapter and it exceeds my expectation, loving it so much, I don't want to look back?

Hmmm ... lots of "WHAT IFs" So ... 

Will I be accepting the offer? You will have to stay tuned to find out.

Discovering India (की खोज भारत - Kī khōja bhārata)

---

Day 1 - Feeling d heat of India right @ the gates of AMD

Ahmadabad

Friday, 4 November, 2011
It is 4.30am in the morning. Checked into Hotel Rudra Regency. There is no Internet password to connect to the network. The person won't arrive until 11am. This place reeks of urine. There are two twin size beds, not so clean bed spread. I had to lay the towel provided to sit on. I can't sleep m can't eat. I tried eating my BK burger but it is so cold n I have no appetite. Thank goodness I have an iPod to use n I am able to charge. I can't charge my laptop cos my adapter only uses USB. What a mess I am in. I called Shivani's fiancé and I am waiting for him to call me back. He promised he would call back in 30 minutes to an hour but it is 2 hrs now. I can't send any message home to my mother and my husband. Makes me worry and I an sure they are worried as well. On my way back to the airport. Going to Delhi. I had to take multiple naps from 1.30pm to 7pm when my flight to Delhi started boarding. Arrived @ Delhi domestic airport and taking a taxi to the hotel. Driver said heavy traffic around this time on Jarkpur, Rajastan.

Hotel Megha Sheraton ... I guess in India any one can use the brand "Sheraton". Not so nice neighborhood, very noisy, but fairly OK bathroom (smells a bit though). I still don't have an appetite so I am going to shower. My rebtel works from here so I called my mother n left Skype messages for my husband. I showered, washed my clothes that I have had on for three days. Now I can lay a bit. Good night (Shubh Raatri) people.

	[Map]		AMD domestic airport [Map]
	Traffic on Jarkpur Rajastan rd [Map]

Day 2 - Smell of Delhi

Delhi

Saturday, 5 November, 2011
It is my first morning in Delhi. I was able to squeeze in 4hrs sleep which is great compared to my last 3 days. Spoke to my husband via Skype n checked my email. I have to re-do and re- submit my assignment 1 for IICS641 but since my laptop is dead, I asked for more time. I am waiting on Michael's response to that. Shivani n her fiancé said they would be here today. I hope they can make it n I hope today is better than the past few days. I don't feel comfortable leaving my stuff in the hotel. I didn't see or hear from Shivy n her fiancé so I called but he could not talk he was at the movies. Got a response back from Michael, what a relief, I have time. I hope I can get an adapter soon. Still no appetite but I need to take my daily vitamins so I ate one of the tuna snack I brought with me from home. Nothing to do no where to go so I research few hotels in the area. Seems like my first week here has been an exploration of hotels. Not a very good experience. All fall shirt of ratings and expectation. Read for a while n napped as well but that didn't go so well. The honking n dripping sink faucet made sure if this. Not sure what I would do tomorrow. Can't reach Pankaj (Shivy's fiancé) or Shivy. I might check with receptionist on what to do in the city. Still not sure if I want to leave my stuff here though. Tonight, I did not sleep as I intended also.

	Photo 1 [Map]		Photo 2 [Map]
	Photo 3 [Map]		Photo 4 [Map]

Day 3 - Taste of Delhi

Delhi

Sunday, 6 November, 2011
My intentions was to take a shower n go to bed ... I wonder how that went. Yeah didn't happen. There is no hot water n I can't sleep. So here I am updating my journal like app. Still didn't go to bed. Good morning (Su-prabhaat) people. It is going to be a good day today; i can feel it. Even lack of sleep is not going to stop me. Although, I am not so thrilled about opening and closing my door in the dark. Who came with this idea of key slot to turn on n off d lights? Energy saving I agree but not so much for the convenience (bear with my daily B****ing). O well went to the receptionist to find out about Ashrams. He will call a few n let me know in the after 9am when his boss is in. I spoke to the boss / owner n he tried to convince me not to go. Very nice service I must say for both hotels that I have stayed in; just wish the facilities were this nice. I spoke to my husband n he is doing well. Glad I left him more than enough to eat. I got hot water n was able to take a bath. I got in contact with Pankaj n they should be here today. The hotel owner helped in contacting an Ashram but I was told the person will be calling back. Oh I got a bottle of water not sure if it is free or not. The owner gave it to me.
Shivy n Pankaj came by today and we spent the entire day together. First we went to see if we could purchase tickets to the cricket game (India n West Indies) with no luck so we went to Rajghat (Gandhi's resting place) and then headed to the Lajpat Nagar market were I bought 3 beautiful dress tops with a bag. Right there in the market I was told there is the best veggie lo mien noodles and chicken dumplings called Momo (Indian style) ... Guess what weak stomach or not, I tried it. It was delicious. Then we head to Karol Bagh were I found a nice hotel at an affordable price (1400 INR). It is close to the metro and the Karol Bagh Mkt. where I got an all India SIM card. So today was a lovely day. I was able to book a better hotel, got a taste of authentic Indian food n also I tried 'asheesh' @ a Cafe/ meet up called MOCHA. yep I tried it n no; smoking anything is not my thing n I doubt it will be. That's all for today folks. Till I rise to the hustle n bustle of Old Rajinder Nagar MKT. It is Good night (Shubh Raatri) people.

	Photo 5 [Map]		Photo 6 [Map]
	Hotel Megha front desk staff [Map]		Photo 7 [Map]
	Photo 8 [Map]		Photo 9 [Map]
	Photo 10 [Map]		Resting place of Mahatma Ghandhi [Map]
	Photo 11 [Map]		Photo 12 [Map]
	Photo 13 [Map]		Shivy my friend from TDot [Map]
	First attempt @ some sort of smoking form in my li [Map]		Photo 14 [Map]
	Photo 15 [Map]		[Map]
	Photo 16 [Map]		Photo 17 [Map]

Day 4 - Karol Bagh

Delhi

Monday, 7 November, 2011
It is 1am in the morning. I just finished talking to my family and wishing them Happy Eid. Times like this it sucks to be away from home. O well life is short; I am in India n I am so going to enjoy it n cherish the experience and memories. If only I can shut my eyes n fall asleep. Got in about 3 hours of sleep n feeling refreshed. Good morning (Su-prabhaat) folks. Tuna snack for breakfast as usual. I checked into Hotel Sky Rich Intl. today @ 10.30am. For the first time since I have been hotel hoping in the cities of India, I felt relaxed. I got into my room and I felt comfortable enough to unpack n not pack it back up. For the past 3 days, I have worried about the safety of my belongings which gave me good enough reason to stay in and catch up with some of my readings. Now that this was not on my worry list any more, I am going for a walk around the Karol Bagh market area. Didn't buy anything except for lunch (chicken momos) @ lunch time and I got the same thing for dinner. Trying to eat safe until I meet up with everyone considering my stomach is not the very understanding type. I tried so hard not to sleep or nap but my body couldn't resist so I did and might have to pay for that tonight. I checked on the tourism details for a Delhi tour and Agra tour. I didn't purchase any tix yet as I am waiting on the arrival of Kelly Connor. We would be hanging for the next two to three days. I have traveled alone before but this is different. Usually it is to places where I have friends and or families that I meet up with right from the airport. Here I was all alone for couple of days and the hotel situation didn't make it any better. I hope we can make the Delhi tour for tomorrow, if not, the one-day Agra trip is just fine. I will come back for the Delhi tour after Residency.

	Photo 18 [Map]		Sky Rich entrance [Map]
	Sky Rich lobby [Map]		SR lobby just woke up watching a TV show (no subti [Map]
	आकाश अमीर अंतरराष्ट्रीय - Ākāśa amīra antararāṣṭr [Map]

Day 5 - Elevator trick

Delhi

Tuesday, 8 November, 2011
Just learnt something new. I have been using the stairs since I got here except when I check in and an hotel staff help take me n my stuff to the rooms. Tonight I decided to use the elevator (lift); to my surprise, I could not operate the elevator. Who knew you had to push the down arrow to go up.
Good morning (Su-prabhaat) Delhites, once again I got couple of hours of sleep. Looking forward to the events of the day (not sure what they would be). I should meet up with Kelly today and then we would see what happens from then on. I hope she had a better night rest than I did.

Kelly was here today and we both went to the tourism office to inquire and bought the Agra day trip ticket for tomorrow. Before that, She needed to get a cell and some cash so I tool her to where I got my Sim card and the bank on Old Rajinder Nagar. Then we headed to Baba Kharak Singh Marg where the Delhi tourism office is located. After which we headed to Lajpat Nagar market where we had the chicken noodles and chicken momo. We got reaped off I think ... they gave us six pieces for 45INR instead of 12; I didn't realize this until later. Plus I was more concerned that I was coming down with something (sinus infection maybe); I hope not though. I have to go to bed early because the tour bus leaves at 6.45am so I need to be up by 5am. I hope I can get longer than 3 hours of sleep with a clear head and nostrils. It would suck to get sick now. 

It is official, I am sick. I don't know if I should call it cold in this weather or sinus infection. I went to a nearby medicine shop and he called it cold. He gave me two kind of cold medicine (the l'il tablet helps d big one work effectively) and a Vicksburg inhaler (looks exactly like the ones from my home country, Nigeria). Fingers crossed people, let's see how long this will take. It is 7 pm right now, going to bed cos I hate having the sniffles plus I need to be up early and well rested for the trip to Agra. So you all have a great night. More read tomorrow.

	Photo 19 [Map]		Photo 20 [Map]
	Photo 21 [Map]		Kelly and I in an Auto Rickshaw [Map]
	Photo 22 [Map]

Day 6 - Agra tour

Agra, Delhi

Wednesday, 9 November, 2011
Good morning (Su-prabhaat) everyone. 4 am and I am up. What a long night I had. Got more hours of  sleep. My sniffles is still here (wishful thinking - thought it would be gone by morning). So today I would be heading to Agra with Kelly. The tour includes stops at the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, ... I hope we can do the Delhi tour tomorrow which will wrap up our tour for the city. Then I might be able to fiddle with my schedule n squeeze a night trip Varanasi. We'll see how that goes. Stay tune to see if I make it there. First thing first breakfast (tuna snack), then I will head out to face the day.
I have been so lucky my entire time here up until this morning. My rickshaw drivers always new where I am going to. This morning he didn't, we stopped for direction and he decided he has to charge me extra 15INR; guess what not going to happen. I refused and for 5 minutes he drove around and insisted on more money. I said no so he motioned i get off which i refused as well and mention the stop he picked me up from (meaning he should take me back there). He did so I got off and took a taxi instead (still bargained for the same 35INR. He agreed and I was at the tourism office in 10minutes.

We are en route to Agra for the "Agra day tour" which comprises of visit to the 'Shikandra tomb of Akbar', the 'Taj Mahal' (means Crown Palace) and to the 'Agra Fort' also known as the Red Fort. On our way to Agra, we stopped at Haryana at their Tourism park for breakfast and restroom break. So this is my first actual breakfast meal and it was very tasty. Seems everyone charges arm and leg for everything. The monkey tender wanted 100INR for me taking pictures of them and earlier, the elephant guy wanted 500INR from Kelly if she were going to sit on the elephant.

We headed to Agra, picked up the tour guide at Shikandra tomb of Akbar and it was smooth on from there.

Brief highlights of what I can recall from this tour.
I heard different historic stories about the builders of the Akbar tomb, the Taj and the Fort. The main level of the Akbar was by the grandfather, the white marble level the father, and the Taj by the son for his wife. The Taj took 22 years to build at the cost of 41million INR. The Agra fort was built by the same family but by four generation from this family. It took 95 years to complete. Here is what I recall in a nutshell.

We ran into Julie, Warren, Tali and Joanna at the Agra Fort which was the last major stop. Then the tour guide took us to a place where we say the marble cutting and design process used in all the marbles that constituted the Taj Mahal, then to the leather house of India (not sure of the name) near Purani Mandi. After which the guide was dropped off and we headed for Delhi (6.08pm).
I am not certain this is a cultural behavior or attitude but it was shocking. Myself and Kelly had asked if the drive would drop us off at our respective hotels and he agreed. Please keep in mind that it would cost me about 20 to 25 INR from the office where he was going to drop us off to my hotel. He dropped Kelly up first and we both planned to tip him 10INR each to make 20INR. He dropped me off last so on getting off, I thanked him and was about to hand him the tip when he asked 'How much?' ... I was shocked cos I never got that question before and we were told we could be dropped of at our hotel when we paid 1128INR each for the ride to and from Agra. I replied '10 rupees cos all I have is another 100' he said no I can't take it so I asked why and this was more shocking 'because you give 10rupees' WOW I didn't know you could do that (reject tips). O well I said really 'how much do you want?' he didn't respond so I said you have change for a 100, and he said no. I was so confused not sure what to do so I headed into the alley that leads to my hotel (no other way in) and called Kelly. She told me he acted awkwardly when she gave him her 10rupees but he collected it anyway. Well, I guess today was my day to deal with driver issues.

Just in case you were wondering I am still with my sniffles and now with an additional sour throat. Going to get refreshed and then try to sleep cos tomorrow, I will be meeting Kelly for the Delhi sightseeing. Which means Good night (Shubh Raatri) people. Wish me (my nose and throat) speedy recover.

	Kelly's first Elephant touch [Map]		Dabchik - Haryana [Map]
	Breakfast @ Dabchik [Map]		Breakfast in Haryana [Map]
	Photo 23 [Map]		Photo 24 [Map]
	Photo 25 [Map]		Hindu Temple on the way to Agra [Map]
	Photo 26 [Map]		Shikandra tomb of Akbar [Map]
	Photo 27 [Map]		Tix to Shikandra tomb of Akbar [Map]
	Photo 28 [Map]		Photo 29 [Map]
	Shikandra tomb of Akbar [Map]		Photo 30 [Map]
	Photo 31 [Map]		Photo 32 [Map]
	Photo 33 [Map]		Shikandra tomb of Akbar [Map]
	Photo 34 [Map]		Photo 35 [Map]
	Agra Fort [Map]		Red Fort [Map]
	Purani Mandi [Map]		Photo 36 [Map]
	Lunch in Agra @ Indiana [Map]		India's version of chicken egg roll [Map]
	Minature model of Taj Mahal [Map]		Photo 37 [Map]

Day 7 - Delhi tour

Delhi

Thursday, 10 November, 2011
Good morning (Su-prabhaat) everyone. I am up and ready for the Delhi sightseeing. This is a full day event and I am sure I would be as tired as I was yesterday. It is going to be find though. I am attacking my throat with hot lemon tea (it helped a bit yesterday at the restaurant). Hopefully I feel better by the end of the day. I am off to meet with Kelly at the Delhi tourism office.
First stop on the tour is the Laxmi Naratan Temple. This temple is dedicated to Laxmi Narayan and consist of images of 'Lord Vishnu & his consort Laxmi. Our next stop, the Qutab Minar - a soaring stone tower (72 meters high) built by Qutub-ud-din aibak in 1193. At the base is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque (1st mosque in India). Then we visited the Lotus Temple a place of worship for Bahai faith ... It was completed in 1986. The structure is in the shape of Lotus flower (symbol of Purity in India). Credit for this structure goes to Fariboz Sahba from Canada. Our next stop was the museum of Indira Gandhi. Then we stopped for lunch at vegetarian restaurant 'caffe time' all menu was in Hindi except for chowmein and that's what we ordered. After lunch I felt really tired and dehydrated so I decided to take it a bit easy. I would just go to the free entry monuments. Our next stop was the Red Fort in Delhi 'Lai Qila' built by Shah Jahan in 1637. This was the first place where India's flag wast hosted after independence on the 15th of August 1947. Next stop we visited Raj Ghat - site of Mahatma Gandhi's cremation. This was my last stop but the tour itself ended at Humayun's Tomb - built by Humayun's widow, Queen Haji. This is supposed to be a prototype of the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Heading back to the tourism office, we found out that the road has been blocked so the driver had to drop us off halfway to the office. Since most of us were not familiar with the area, the guide helped with auto for those that needed it but said I could either take metro or auto rickshaw but metro was cheaper and faster. I decided to try the metro not just because it us cheap but for the experience. It was not so bad except for the 20minutes queue to buy a token for my 5minutes ride to Karol Bagh station. Anyway I got to my hotel safely got some chicken momos for dinner, freshened up, packed my stuff for check out tomorrow. I will be hanging out at Kelly's hotel after I check out tomorrow since my flight is not until 11:30pm. Frank gets into Delhi few hours from now so if he is well rested, three of us might grab dinner because he is in the same hotel as Kelly. for now, I am going to read a bit and then sleep. So people it us Good night (Shubh Raatri) for now.

	First order from hotel kitchen - hot lemon tea [Map]		Photo 38 [Map]
	Photo 39 [Map]		Photo 40 [Map]
	Photo 41 [Map]		Photo 42 [Map]
	Photo 43 [Map]		Photo 44 [Map]
	Photo 45 [Map]		Photo 46 [Map]
	Qutab Manir [Map]		Photo 47 [Map]
	Photo 48 [Map]		Illutmish's Tomb [Map]
	Photo 49 [Map]		Photo 50 [Map]
	Tour bus [Map]		Lotus Temple [Map]
	Photo 51 [Map]		Photo 52 [Map]
	Photo 53 [Map]		Photo 54 [Map]
	Indira Nehru Gandhi [Map]		Saree Indira was assassinated in [Map]
	Rajiv's (Indira's son) computer [Map]		Spot where she fell from the bullet [Map]
	Photo 55 [Map]		Photo 56 [Map]
	Photo 57 [Map]		Mahatma Gandhi's cremation site [Map]
	Photo 58 [Map]		Photo 59 [Map]

Day 8 - Back to A'bad

Delhi, Ahmadabad

Friday, 11 November, 2011
Good morning (Su-prabhaat) readers. I am extra happy this morning. First if all I feel slot better and then I got to Hera Rahim's voice (a l'il baby I adore so much). So I am feeling better overall. I don't have much planned for the day except to meet with Kelly, and have dinner with her and hopefully Frank before heading to the airport for my flight back to A'bad.
Dinner was very nice and I was glad to be heading to the airport on a full stomach. I hot to the airport and found out that my flight time has changed again. It was originally scheduled to depart at 10:00pm, then changed to 9pm and now it has been delayed to 10.45pm. I checked in, went through security and looked found a spot to sit. It was 10pm when I decided to go check on the flight status just for it to say delayed again till 11pm. I didn't stress about this I just called the hotel I would be staying at to inform them of the change and to make sure I got pocked up from the airport.

	Adorable Rahim [Map]

Day 9 - Lemon Tree Hotel

Ahmadabad

Saturday, 12 November, 2011
I got to A'bad airport at 12:58am and was lucky enough to be picked up an hour later by the hotel. I got to the hotel and was told I would pay half day to check in at that time which was fine but explaining to them that I would be switching roommates after a day became an issue. So I decided to wait for Lindsay my roommate for the day since she made the arrangements with them weeks before. I waited till she came in, we had breakfast and went for the keys just to be informed that we would be changing rooms in an hour because our actual room has not been cleaned. It is 2 hours now and we still can't unpack to freshen up. We finally got a bigger room, got cleaned and headed out to see what is in the neighborhood (nothing). We came back to the hotel for lunch where Andre joined us. I believe we were in the hotel restaurant for over 5 hours just talking. After which we came back to our room. We planned to have dinner with the others at 7pm and then go for the Night heritage walk' at 10pm but when Andre called, we were already sleeping. So I guess that was it for the day. We said good night (Shubh Raatri) without saying it.

	Room shared with Lindsay [Map]		The faces of tiredness ...  [Map]
	Photo 60 [Map]		Photo 61 [Map]
	Photo 62 [Map]		Photo 63 [Map]
	A religious sign in India [Map]		Photo 64 [Map]
	Photo 65 [Map]		Photo 66 [Map]
	View from Andre's room [Map]

Day 10 - Swasti

Ahmadabad

Sunday, 13 November, 2011
Good morning (Su-prabhaat) readers. I feel very rested today as I was able to get a whole five hours of sleep. This is the first time since I left home that my sleep was longer than three hours and I slept the entire time. Breakfast was great as well. I was with Lindsay but we were later joined by others and we just sat and shares stories till about 11am when I and Lindsay decided to go back to our room and pack up to check out. We checked out and went back to meet up with Andre and Oscar. Oscar didn't have breakfst so we went looking for a restaurant (Swasti) Wendy had suggested earlier. Swasti is a kind if fast food restaurant in Ahmedabad. My roommate arrangement with Lindsay was just for the night so I had to check into my actually rooming arrangement which is with Julie and Amie. Everyone except for Jen and Lindz have arrived and we are all having dinner in the hotel restaurant (Citrus Cafe). After dinner I was able to meet with Wendy and I showed her a diagram of my research idea. She gave me some pointers and encouraged me to discuss with S.E.W.A when I visit and see what happens from there. It is time for bed because I am full and also exhausted. So good night people.

	Rickshaw ride to Swasti [Map]		Photo 67 [Map]
	Sada Dosa [Map]		[Map]
	Photo 68 [Map]

Day 11 - First day of sch. - Gandhi

Ahmadabad

Monday, 14 November, 2011
It is going to be a long day. First day of school ... I am pumped. Let's do this. Introduction and then housekeeping details. It is so exciting to see everyone again after one year if cyber communication. We meet Ashoke Chatterjee the Author of Rising Utthan and Nafisa Barot (one of the founding member of Utthan) stopped by on her way to the doctor's office.
The later part of the day was sent learning about M. K. Gandhi. We visited the Gandhi Ashram, got to see his house, meet with the portal team (Dina Patel responsible fir content and Mr. Bhatia) in charge of digitizing the life if Gandhi (for the most part as much as they can) and then went to the Gandhi university were we got brief details about his childhood and growing up experience at home, in London and in South Africa. It is the end if the day and since I skipped lunch, I was ready to eat anything. We headed back to the hotel and on getting there, some of us decided to go to the law gardens for some street food. it wasn't so bag and we were very satisfied and full when we left the roadside restaurant. Hopefully the food stays down. I guess we will find out tomorrow. Time to freshen up, study a bit and sleep. Shubh Raatri people.

	Nafisa [Map]		Ashoke [Map]
	Photo 69 [Map]		Photo 70 [Map]
	Photo 71 [Map]		Photo 72 [Map]
	Gandhi Ashram [Map]		Photo 73 [Map]
	Photo 74 [Map]		Photo 75 [Map]
	Photo 76 [Map]		Photo 77 [Map]
	Photo 78 [Map]		Photo 79 [Map]
	Photo 80 [Map]		Photo 81 [Map]
	Photo 82 [Map]		Photo 83 [Map]
	Photo 84 [Map]		Photo 85 [Map]
	Photo 86 [Map]		Photo 87 [Map]
	Photo 88 [Map]		Photo 89 [Map]
	Photo 90 [Map]		Photo 91 [Map]
	Photo 92 [Map]		Photo 93 [Map]
	Photo 94 [Map]		Photo 95 [Map]
	Photo 96 [Map]		Photo 97 [Map]
	Photo 98 [Map]		Photo 99 [Map]
	Photo 100 [Map]		Photo 101 [Map]
	Photo 102 [Map]		Kasturba - Gandhi's wife [Map]
	Photo 103 [Map]		Photo 104 [Map]
	Photo 105 [Map]

Day 12 - Why Ahmedabad = Dev. Comm. dept. - Uni of Gujarat

Ahmadabad

Tuesday, 15 November, 2011
On today's agenda, it is a visit to the Dev. Comm. dept. in University of Gujarat and CEE.
As soon as I got off the bus, when we got to the campus, I heard drums and I knew this was going to be fun. The welcome ceremony made me feel so special and welcomed. I danced with the students so did most of my classmates. I feel this should count as my cardio for the day. The U of Gujarat students and professors really put slot of effort into welcoming us and sharing what they did in their department. The day is not over yet. I just finished lunch and we should all be heading to CEE soon.

	Photo 106 [Map]		Photo 107 [Map]
	Welcome art display at the Gujarat University [Map]		Photo 108 [Map]
	Photo 109 [Map]		Photo 110 [Map]
	Photo 111 [Map]		Photo 112 [Map]
	Photo 113 [Map]		Photo 114 [Map]
	One of the welcome art display of Gujarat [Map]

Day 13 - Vidyapih Museum

Ahmadabad

Wednesday, 16 November, 2011
I need to find out how to say good morning in Gujarati. Good morning friends and families. I have been up for about 3 hours now. My nostril has been blocked and this as you all know is not fun. I don't feel sick just not able to inhale and exhale comfortably. One of my roommate (Amie) also has cold and sinus infection and the other (Julie) has fever. Who would have thought this would happen at the same time. We are helping and taking care of each other as best as we can in this kind of situation. Hopefully Julie gets slot better and can make it through the days activities.
Today, the morning session is in class and we are scheduled to discuss communication functions, planning, and strategy building. Afternoon session is at Vidyapith (Gandhi's university). We would be watching a movie about Gandhi. Fingers crossed let's see how long I can stay awake.
Despite all the technical difficulties encountered during the viewing of the movies, we watched it to the end. I enjoyed it and was interested in how it all played out but I don't think not watching it would have been bad. I could have gone my entire life without watching it and my interest level for Gandhi will still be the same. I guess I am able to appreciate the students more and more day by day. They keep trying and succeeding in making us feel special. After the movie, we headed back to the hotel on the bus, i checked on Julie to make sure she is okay and see if she needs any thing and then a group of us went for dinner at Swati. Since Swati is not far from the law gardens' night market, we figured while not look around. I got a really nice dress top and pashmina which was all I could afford. Back at the hotel, made sure everyone is accounted for and I headed to my room to get ready for bed.

	Photo 115 [Map]		Vada Pav [Map]
	Photo 116 [Map]		Photo 117 [Map]
	Photo 118 [Map]		Photo 119 [Map]
	Photo 120 [Map]		Photo 121 [Map]
	Photo 122 [Map]		Photo 123 [Map]
	Tribal map [Map]		Displays at the Vidyapith Museum [Map]

Day 14 - D-day S.E.W.A

Ahmadabad

Thursday, 17 November, 2011
Today we meet with our respective NGOs. I will be visiting SEWA academy with my group. I am very excited and can't wait. I have to come up with questions just in case I am able to interview members for my research project. I will do this after our 30minutes class time today.
Oh no I have been left behind by my group. I got to the lobby 20minutes late. I didn't know we were supposed to leave at 10am. Thank goodness for Wendy, a ride was sent to pick me up. How nice.
The entire day went well as soon as I got to the academy, introduction was already done so I introduced myself and the day began. Full details was given to us about the organization, and the movement then we visited the SEWA bank. After which we meet the director of the Academy. She gave a presentation on the history and the capability building aspect of the academy. Also, I was able to get permission to interview some of the members from Rumi and she has also agreed to be interviewed.

	SEWA bank [Map]		Photo 124 [Map]
	Photo 125 [Map]		Photo 126 [Map]
	Photo 127 [Map]		SEWA logo - a woman's face, carring a basket on he [Map]
	Photo 128 [Map]		Organization chart [Map]

Day 15 - Real work

Ahmadabad

Friday, 18 November, 2011
Real work begins today. I get to go into the field with SEWA and get my hands dirty. This is going to be an experience of a life time. I already have questions that I am hoping I can ask the members but I have to come up with questions to ask the adolescent girls (if I get to meet them) and also questions for Rumi, the project manger for gender issues in SEWA academy. I just found out Lindsay Stein is joining my group (yipee )
I am so looking forward to listening to the stories the members have to share and at the same time preparing myself that it might not all be happy stories.
My day was packed with activities. After the regular morning prayer at the academy, we reflected on the previous day activities then we went into the slum to visit one of the offsite training center. I was able to meet with the girls and asked few questions about their participation and what they are learning and how it is of benefit to them. It was a great experience that I won't trade for anything. We headed back to the academy, had lunch and watched a video on how communication is used for empowerment. Also, the director (Namarita Ben) gave on presentation on how radio and video programms are used as a tool for development. We then went back into the field to see first hand how the mobile community radio and video programs are used as tools for educating, and providing awareness.

	Packed rickshaw of children heading to school [Map]		Photo 129 [Map]
	Photo 130 [Map]		Photo 131 [Map]
	Photo 132 [Map]		Photo 133 [Map]
	Photo 134 [Map]

Day 16 - Rudi No Radio

Ahmadabad

Saturday, 19 November, 2011
Woke up with a migraine headache; how nice. I can't stand the noise, the smell and the light. My group is meeting to discuss the presentation we would be presenting to SEWA. I am afraid I might not be able to contribute.
I just finished breakfast and since I have been popping advil for my migraine, I might as well have a couple more. I have to get better because I am hoping to interview Reema and Namarata today. We'll see how it goes.
Reema is here to pick us up and we are heading to Manipur where the SEWA community radio is located and where they have training centers. It is about 17km from A'bad, approx. 45minutes drive from the hotel.
At the community radio station, we meet with team and got detailed information on the daily program. We got to see the production and recording studio were all the work is done and listened to the "Rudi No Radio" jingle.
We left the station and meet with some listener group in Geep Pura (small village near Manipur). Most of the girls were shy but few did speak to us and shared their likes about the radio programs. It was a very informative experience and it was nice to see positive impacts due to the work of a grassroots NGO (SEWA).
We went back to the academy, had lunch and par SEWA's request, Jen and Michelle gave a little presentation on animation and photography respectively. After which I got the chance to interview Reema. Today is our last day with SEWA and I must confess that all information and field work has exceeded my expectation. I am so impressed with the work they do and how much positive impact they have on their members and all the positive outcomes that they see. A very good case if Empowering a nation through the women. Some of the work done by SEWA and their members have been instrumental in policy changes. It is the end of the day and we are back at the hotel. I am nit hungry but I must eat something so I can take some Advil to ease this stubborn migraine.
I must say good night here. Shubh Raatri 

	Photo 135 [Map]		Strength in unity [Map]
	Recording studio @ SEWA community radio station [Map]		Photo 136 [Map]
	Children from Geepura village [Map]		Photo 137 [Map]

Day 17 - Day of relaxing -

Ahmadabad

Sunday, 20 November, 2011
Good morning folks. Today is supposed to be our day off. Although, groups are using the opportunity to work on their presentation I can't participate. I still don't feel better. I did for few hours after taking a pain medication but now my head is pounding and nothing is staying down. I have been told to go relax for a bit.
Phew that was a long nap. I have been in bed for almost 3 hours now which is almost my nighttime sleep. My joints and muscles might not like this but I think I feel a lot better now. I should go join my SEWA group.
Oh no, Wendy think it is a bad idea. Julie is helping me with electrolytes and then I would have some soup. I feel fine but Wendy and Rupinder are both concerned and think u should lay in bed. I don't think I would do that but we'll see. So far it is over an hour and all liquid going in has stayed in. I went out for a little while just to get some fresh air. For dinner I decided to play it safe and go with the veggie soup again like I did for lunch. My migraine still the so I had ice cubes wrapped in a face towel for cold compress on my forehead all through the night. I feel better and so I am able to take a quick shower. Again I have the towel to my head. Good night and wish me speedy recovery.

	Sick [Map]

Day 18 - National Institute of Design (NID)

Ahmadabad

Monday, 21 November, 2011
Migraine is still there but not as bad. I woke up couple if times and took some Advil liquid gel so I think I can manage a full day. We are heading to the National Institute of Design after which I will go back to SEWA academy to interview the director.
It is 20 minutes to two so myself and Jen are leaving the group at NID. We are going to interview Namarata, the director of SEWA academy.
Oh no, Reema just informed me that the email sent requested for interview time for Jen only. Well no harm is done, I can interview anyone that us a woman and a member of SEWA. I just need to ask nicely. I just asked Reema and she thinks it us a good idea. She is going ro check who is not busy and will help interpret; how nice of her. So I did get a second interview from a grassroots member of SEWA.
Back at the hotel, I jotted down some notes for my presentation and my head is about to explode so I took couple of Advil but I still don't feel better so I took some more. I eventually feel asleep and by the time I woke up, it was 5pm so I went to look fir my group and they were in the conference room. We worked on the details of our presentation and was done in like an hour so I had free time before bed. I headed back for the craft market with Lindsay, Jon and Sondra but it was closed so we settled for the night market. Now I am back at the hotel I need to get some laundry done and call it a night. Good night people and thanks for the get well wishes cos I feel a lot better.

	Photo 138 [Map]		Photo 139 [Map]
	Photo 140 [Map]		Photo 141 [Map]
	Photo 142 [Map]		Photo 143 [Map]
	Photo 144 [Map]		Photo 145 [Map]
	Photo 146 [Map]		Photo 147 [Map]

Day 19 - AMD wrap up

Ahmadabad

Tuesday, 22 November, 2011
Today is an half day for us. We have all morning to present our field work then we are done with the AMD portion of our residency. I still don't feel good, my head is throbbing with pain but I think I can hang on. My presentation went well but I guess I forgot something (I looked at the instructor at all time during my presentation instead of including the entire room). I hope I don't get ducked points for that. O well I will work on that next time. I am heading to Manek Chauk Market to get a couple of things then i would be back to get some rest. Ok there is the dinner plans for the House of M G and then the Heritage night walk. I am excited even though I don't feel super well, I still don't want to miss out on anything.
Dinner wasn't bad except that I had lots of creamy milky stuff and being lactose intolerant, it is going to be a disaster (hopefully not). I will play it safe and just forgo the Heritage walk.
I have been back at the hotel for about an hour now and there has been just few diffusions and no huge eruption so that is good. I will shower and go to bed. Oh there is Amie, I guess she didn't go for the walk as well. O well night night.

	Spice stall at Manek Chauk Mrk [Map]

Day 20 - Hello Goa (Alcohol)

Ahmadabad, Goa

Wednesday, 23 November, 2011
We checked out this morning and we are headed for Goa. I can't wait to see what it is like. The resort is beautiful and most of my cohort are very excited about the amount of alcohol they will be consuming. I don't particularly have any interest in drinking in Goa but I am excited to get some fresh air. Personally, i think The lemon tree hotel over did it on the lemon air fresheners.
I am starving so the menu seems to be the next stop. O wow there is beef. Steak sandwich it us. I am tired from the flight and close to an hour and half drive from the airport to the resort. I need to call it a night. Good night.

	Ride from airport to Resort [Map]		Photo 148 [Map]
	Bar @ the Resort [Map]

Day 21 - More Beef

Goa

Thursday, 24 November, 2011
Not a very good morning for me. I had to sleep on this cot that feels like wood and it wasn't very considerate to my bones and muscles. I had to spend most of my night on the couch. Well it is first day of class in Goa I can't afford to be tired. Some Advil did the trick and breakfast helped it along as well.
Some of my friends are planing to go to the beach and get a feel of Goa but cos I have lots of work to do, I plan on having lunch and staying back at the Resort. Hopefully I can get some work done.
I added some pointers to my assignment one and I am working on what to present for assignment 4 tomorrow. Still not sure what I an doing, this is so nerve wrecking.
It is almost dinner time. Few if us will be going to the Greek restaurant (Thalassa) suggested by Rupinder. I hope I cab get some beef dish cos I suck big time at this vegetarian thing.
Oh yes Beef souvlaki! Now this is a meal. OK back to the resort to go crack my brain in tomorrow's work and then sleep. I ditched the roll-in bed the resort staff gave me, I am going to try the futon of the couch hopefully I can get a night sleep. I won't even aim for good at this point just so I don't get disappointed. Food night my people.

	Sula (Indian wine) @ Thalassa [Map]		Photo 149 [Map]
	Chicken Souvlaki [Map]		Oh beef - Beef Souvlaki [Map]
	Bunk bed [Map]

Day 22 - Baga beach

Goa

Friday, 25 November, 2011
I woke up late today, not a good start to a day we would be presenting our major assignment for IICS 641. The futon wasn't so bad but I had a terrible headache all through the night. O well I need to get dressed. My breakfast is going to be in class this morning but looking at the brighter side, I think I can say I got some work done yesterday night which might be a reason for the headache.
Presentation went well plus I got some pointers on how to further narrow down my focus. I feel a lot better today no migraine just headache which is superb. I will definitely be going to the beach today. See what Goa beaches is all about. I have been scolded by some of my friends for not bringing a bathing suit so I need to get that. I even have few volunteers that want to make sure I learn how to swim (yeah right me swim). So beware friends and family at home, I might be a fish by the time I get back home.
I took a walk down to Baga beach with Ruby this afternoon and got a shuttle back at night. It took us an hour to get there and although we were tired by the time we got there, we were very excited to be at the beach. I wasn't very impressed with the amount of crowd we saw there but it was nice to get out and take a long walk. It was dinner time when we got back so I decided I will take an early night and just eat my leftover from Thalassa. Early to bed, early to rise. Maybe I can aim for a better night compared to last night.

Day 23 - Aladdin shoes

Goa

Saturday, 26 November, 2011
For this morning's class, we will be presenting topics for assignment 5 and discussing field trips. I don't have much to say for my assignment 5 but I am sure something will come up. I have a journal but I doubt it is academic enough for the requirement of this assignment. Breakfast wasn't so bad and class went well. There was about an hour of discussing colonialism. I did learn new things during this discussion. Sasha shared a very important information about corporations now and the connection to corporations in the colonial era. I always like to listen to him when he speaks because he is very intelligent and knows how to put all this information together for a lay abs understanding.
Class is done, lunch is at 3M and then I am heading to Baga beach with Tali. She is meeting one of the female hawkers there. Then layer tonight, there is the Saturday night market. We are all excited about that. I hope I can find the Aladdin shoes I have been wanting.
Yes I got the shoes. The market was huge, way larger than the Law garden night market. Lots of food and even a live band. We were out till about 10pm and by the time we got back to the resort, I was so tired I just came to my room and crashed.

	Julie's Aladdin shoes [Map]		My Aladdin shoes [Map]

Day 24 - Day off

Goa

Sunday, 27 November, 2011
Today we get d day off. I slept in and missed breakfast. I am going to Baga beach again with Tali. Then I will take the rest of the day to do some work. Finish up my assignment and prepare for Tuesday's presentation.
My sniffles is back, sadly and Internet is not working at the resort. That kind of puts a damp on the end of my day. O well some hot lemon tea and then sleep will do hopefully the Internet gets fixed.

Day 25 - Spice Farm

Goa

Monday, 28 November, 2011

	Cashew Fruit [Map]		Photo 150 [Map]
	Biddy - Indian cigarette [Map]		Fresh Nutmeg [Map]
	Turmeric - antiseptic content sulfur also known as [Map]		Cinnamon [Map]
	Pineapple [Map]		Hanging Heliconia [Map]
	Fresh Vanilla [Map]		Plucked Vanilla [Map]
	Spice Stall in a market [Map]		Babu the spice farm elephant [Map]
	Mala, Babu's girlfriend [Map]

Day 26 - Team presentation

Goa

Tuesday, 29 November, 2011
Today, myself and Meryl Thomas presented our chapter on Gods, kings and Telugu guys. I have been a little sick for few day and I was so worried I didn't prepare enough and my voice won't be audible enough because of the sore throat but it all worked out well. Like Julie says to me every-night, 'Olu I think you are sick because you worry too much' and I would say no and give an excuse. I am particularly appreciative of the support from Meryl; she made me feel at ease after our meeting and after the presentation, I felt fine even my fever disappeared.
Old Goa Tour scheduled for the afternoon and then dinner. The tour was to see the Portuguese's houses from the colonial period in a city called Penjim. It was ok but I was not so impressed compared to other tours I have experience during this current India adventure. after the tour we had dinner at The Maldova River restaurant. The view was of different casino boats. The meal was great as well and by the time we left, I was sure there would be nap takings on the bus back to the resort.
I was able to work on my assignment one for a while before going to bed.

	Casino boat [Map]		Photo 151 [Map]
	The Maldover River dinner [Map]

Day 27 - Good health and good food

Goa

Wednesday, 30 November, 2011
Today I woke up feeling great. I am not sick and there is not headache or migraine. This already a good day. Last group presentation and the I am off to Anjuna beach with Julie for the afternoon market then we would be heading to Baga beach for the end of residency banquet. Whooo hoo!!
Not much to see or do at this market so Baga beach it is. The preparation for the party is on and I am loving every inch of it.
Lots of good food, drink, and dancing. I am taking advantage of good health and unlimited food with couple mojitos. Now I am talking party till dawn.
After the banquet, we went to the club but that was a disaster. I have never seen that many steps leading into a club before. O well overall, my day was great. Now I can crash with the hope of waking up without an headache or a migraine. Good night everybody.

Day 28 - Taking it easy

Goa

Thursday, 1 December, 2011
I am up with no headache or migraine but goodness me, my entire muscle must hate me for all that parting I did last night. I don't plan on going anywhere today. I don't swim, don't sunbath and don't tan and plus I have no money left so I see no reason to go to the beach. I am going to get some assignments done and just relax and nap in my room.

Day 29 - Last sleep

Goa

Friday, 2 December, 2011
Nothing much happening today. I am going to Baga beach for a while with Joanna and Tali after lunch. There is a skype session for the class at 9:30am with Paulo. I should be having lunch after that and then head to the market.
Dinner is at 3M then I have to come back pack my stuff. That's all for today folks.

Day 30 - See you soon (in bout a yr or less)

Goa, Delhi

Saturday, 3 December, 2011
Today, most of us will be checking out of Riveira De Goa Resort. Some will be flying out to other states in India, some are staying in Goa and some are flying back home with quite a few stopovers. The rest will be staying at the resort and leaving all through out the month. What a bitter sweet day; we are happy to be done but sad to be leaving each other. Hopefully we can get together before convocation which is about a year from now.
I am one of the people flying back home with few stopovers. I would be in Delhi for a day and then to Dubai with a six hour layover before heading to Toronto. I am so excited to be going back home. Considering I have been sick most of the time, I would do this again in a heartbeat. I have longed to be home just to be able to take better care of my health but all is good now cos I am headed for home in few hours. Hope to be back soon.

Day 31

Delhi

Sunday, 4 December, 2011
I am tired, exhausted and in pain. I have been at the airport since last night. My next flight is at 4:15am early Monday morning. It is going to be a long day.

Day 32 - Home @ last

Ontario

Monday, 5 December, 2011
🏢 Home at last.

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