Well family and friends, since this is pretty much the first time all week that I have had internet access, I decided I may as well just sum up my entire first week! Surprisingly enough I didn't notice too much of a smell upon first arriving in India (although my sinuses were never too trustworthy) but I definitely noticed the heat. As soon as I stepped off the plane at the Bombay airport the humidity was so strong that my glasses even fogged up. I have learned to stay out of the sun as much as possible, and have come to love the air conditioned movie theaters (where they don't only serve popcorn, but real corn too! yum!).
But aside from the nearly unbearable heat, I have also experienced a lot of what India has to offer. In my first week I have eaten only with my hands, been to 2 Indian weddings, seen cows and dogs roaming the streets freely, received over 50 mosquito bites on my legs alone, been to a wax museum and a water park (where I had to wear a bathing suit that consisted of full length waterproof leggings and an army style t-shirt), and rode on a motorcycle and a scooter. Overall, a productive week and I got to see a lot of Pune including the very high end western mall and the impoverished slums filled with beggars and the like.
I was warned before I came to India that I would be stared at, and this is more than true. The locals stick their eyes on me as though I'm a piece of meat...or vegetable...or something. But I have learned to ignore it. The most difficult part of being here is the language barrier. I didn't quite understand before how hard it would be to communicate with others and be a part of the conversation. At times it feels as though the conversation is just happening around me, and I feel bad always asking for someone to translate. But I'm sure I will get used to it, or hopefully pick up some of the language myself.
One of the best things about India so far is the food. They are so proud of their mango's here, and rightfully so as they are delicious. I wish my mom were here with me, I know she would love them. I have tried every food offered to me, and although I am not much of a vegetarian, I am learning to enjoy everything.
Anyways, that's all from me today! I will try to keep you all updated more often (if I get internet), much love!
xox Sofia
I was warned before I came to India that I would be stared at, and this is more than true. The locals stick their eyes on me as though I'm a piece of meat...or vegetable...or something. But I have learned to ignore it. The most difficult part of being here is the language barrier. I didn't quite understand before how hard it would be to communicate with others and be a part of the conversation. At times it feels as though the conversation is just happening around me, and I feel bad always asking for someone to translate. But I'm sure I will get used to it, or hopefully pick up some of the language myself.
One of the best things about India so far is the food. They are so proud of their mango's here, and rightfully so as they are delicious. I wish my mom were here with me, I know she would love them. I have tried every food offered to me, and although I am not much of a vegetarian, I am learning to enjoy everything.
Anyways, that's all from me today! I will try to keep you all updated more often (if I get internet), much love!
xox Sofia
