So I get into Delhi at 3am where I have pre-ordered a taxi to take me to my hotel. The driver takes me to what I can only describe as a tin can on wheels. He stalls the heap of junk about 10 times before we even leave the car park. On the open road he is tanking it down the road when he takes a round about too quickly, runs a red light and stalls the peice of junk into on coming traffic. I see my life flash before my eyes and I've only just arrived. We get to my hotel and the stupid driver has the nerve to ask me for a tip! Here's a tip buddy - 'buy a new car'! I tell him no and quickly check in.
I am staying in a proper backpacking area called Paharganj (think Koh San Road) where you can buy all assortments of hippy wear, joss sticks, etc. I am hounded everywhere I go from sleazy men. It is frustrating and tiring. Basically anyone who approaches you, no matter how nice they may seem are out to fleece you somehow. DO NOT TALK TO ANYONE WHO APPROACHES YOU, no matter how lost you may be. These people are clever too and lure you into a sense of familiarity. So my first day is basially spent fighting off horrible perverted blokes who are trying to sell me things. They keep saying, 'just talk, no sell', but as I said they are trying to lure you in and after a while you will find out what the catch is. After you decline them, they are not so friendly any more and they seem to find any exuse to touch you even if it's a slight brush. I have already got myself into 2 shouting arguments and I have only been here two days!
Luckily today after getting into an argument with some autorickshaw driver I met two Korean girls and asked if I could hang out with them. The way people treat you when you are in a group improved immensely. Men were not hounding me as much and let us walk around, although the staring never ceased, I was at least left alone. I guess I won't be able to travel on 'my own' anymore and I will have to try to find people to hang out with.
I am seeing the two girls tomorrow and then I catch a 13 hour overnight train to Jodhpur. I honestly hope it'll be okay and I don't have to sleep with one eye open for the duration of the train ride.
Follow Little Yap Yap as she embarks on her early mid life crisis. See how she fairs as she gives up her job and comforts to live out of a rucksac, not knowing where she will be from one day to the next, praying that the budget accommodation is cheap in general rather than for a reason, living the unemployed dream!
Hey Missy..
ReplyDeleteIt's great you have ventured out on your own...I hope you are okay by the end of 5 months.. I feel scared for you! ;) but very bold.. appreciate it!
Suggestions for you in Delhi -
1. Do not show skin (that will only make... all sorts of men...polished/unpolished.. rich/poor.. ogle at you... a dont care attitude is good... but then u will forever be conciouns)
2. Be a little too drab(taking about your clothes)... going unnoticed (and enjoying) is better than attracting every pervert!
3. Avoid making male frens..
4. Use google maps to understand the distance between two places. Book cabs or ask Indians about the fare. (Not every Indian.. mostly will try to fleece you..) (u already took the first step by not giving tip! ;)... no need dont tip anyone..)
5. Do NOT wander alone at night. It's not safe.. Try to be back by 10 pm (if alone/all girls).
6. Use a mosquito repellant (dengue spreading)
And wht all you can do -
1. Markets - Lajpat Nagar (All stuff), Sarojini Nagar(cheap stuff), South Ex(for Brands), Delhi Haat(Crafts), Janpath(cheap stuff)
2. Historical Monuments - Qutub Minar, Red Fort, India Gate, Lotus Temple
3. Discs - Elevate(Noida), Capitol(near CP), Dublin (Chanakya Puri) - Entry around (Rs. 1500 for couple.. dnt knw for stags/women)
4. Eat-Outs - let me know what you want to eat!
Awesome Mughlai Non Veg - Kareem's(nizamuddin/old delhi/other places as well), Nizam's rolls (CP)
Will think of other things! :)
Have Fun!
Take care
Ayesha
Thank you for your comments Ayesha. They are much apprieciated!!
ReplyDeleteI love the thalis that you can buy here. So good and filling!
I am slowly getting used to the staring and try not to react in anyway. They can look but just not touch!!!