We arrive Feb. 5th from Delhi. There are 3 Canadian ladies leaving the group tomorrow morning. They have been with the rest of the group (12) since Hanoi. Those twelve will be with us through Cambodia to Bangkok. The hotel is a “boutique” hotel…..to me that means small but chic…… maybe too small to move is more like it. Went for out to dinner to an upstairs restaurant…..Vietnamese band with traditional instruments including a 2 stringed violin and another was made of bamboo but operated along the same lines as a xylophone. There was someone making beautiful figurines on sticks made from pay doh. It is Tet in Vietnam. The streets have so many neon lights. It’s beautiful. Kind of gives Shanghai a run for its money. Maybe there will not be a lot of stores open during this period of Tet. We were told later to not have purses or iPhones, cameras hanging out where they can be snatched.  
Feb. 6/16

Mekong River tour. The river is tidal…twice per day……. 5 metre fluctuation. Our first stop is Unicorn island. We stop at a bee farm where there was a python that we all got to drape around our shoulders. See pics on Facebook. I will post later on this site if you don’t do Facebook. Anyway, it was quite heavy, was not at all slimey, it just wanted to slither out of our hands. You had to get a good grip on it sort of strangling it. There is Rat Island but it’s only for locals. At that point we are 50 km to ocean and it is 10 hours to Saigon from here by water. There are no crocs or sharks in the river.

No chemical fertilizer are allowed to be used.

No water from river is used for drinking or cooking.

Okay to swim in river cuz the snakes are not poisonous

Nov-apr. drier; May to October rainy season

17 million live on Mekong 

River boats have cage under to keep fish (catfish and tilapia)….grow to 1 kilo.. for export

Rice wine called happy water

Snake water and rice wine good for men….make babies.

Very hot (30+C) and sticky.
February 7/16

Hotel was lovely here in Saigon… But the the breakfast (included) yesterday and this morning was disgusting as was lunch yesterday. Coffee totaIly cold. I was concerned about eating in India and so brought protein bars and shakes but really the food there, although could be hot, hot, hot……it tasted much better there than here. There was a step in the lobby that everyone didn’t seem to see and so would trip over and almost fall but Jeanette actually did this morning….landing on here hip.  

Getting ready for departure this morning was stressful. We have to be able to carry luggage….onto public bus, have documentation for entry into Cambodia, more money for water out of room…not free….can’t find extra money. I will survive. 

When in India the cars, trucks, tins of tuk-tuks, just every form of transportation squeezes in wherever, beeping constantly ….not pissed off but to warn others that they are there, not moving (last day in Delhi the traffic would move maybe a hundred feet then stop and wait, turn off engine, move another hundred feet, stop, wait, turn off engine, yadda yadda). Here in Saigon same but different….many, many more motor bikes, no tuk-tuks but the motor bikes generally keep to the right side of road unless changing for a turn…not so chaotic (by the way they drive on right hand side of road here….not so in India). Motor bikes carry 2 adults, maybe two kids, groceries, plants and trees, another bicycle…all at same time…..amazing. We saw a bike with 2 adults, to bantam roosters , in plastic bags, one on either side like saddle bags…alive, along with another bag of whatever. Uunlike in India, adults here always wear helmets and most children too. I would say that better than fifty percent, children as well, wear face masks apparently to keep out dust. Pollution doesn’t seem to be the problem. No flys here. No mosquitos and no sleeping policemen (speed bumps). India was littered with them. In towns, veggie and fruit stands as well as raw meat hanging. Not the most sanitary conditions but not green and slimy as I had seen once in Mexico..

4000 Buddhist temples with 20-100 monks in each in Cambodia…..men and women.

There seem to be lots of women driving motor cycles both here in Cambodia and Vietnam as opposed to India where it was a rarity. In India, if you saw a woman on a motorbike, they would be riding in the rear….sidesaddle. I remember seeing a sign at a “learn to ride academy” in Delhi that said to use helmets “even women”. Mostly no one uses them there.

by PamelaTravelBlog
IMPRESSIONS OF INDIA, the North, ……. keeping it going .. Off the grid, out of the mist. In the circle of women friends. Royal stories.  

Exotic mysterious. Another world. Off in the distance and extreme up close. There is a mystery in the air, trees coming out of the mist, buildings with unique structures silhouetted against the sky. Full moon, hazy yellow sun ball of light.

Busy. Hazy. Surreal. Almost out of focus … Poor air quality, mist, smoke and smog.  

Masses of People. Hard working. Content and smiling. People wanting to please others. Peaceful. Tragic deformations, intense eye contact. Poverty, filth and tragic. Untouchables. Royalty, history. Caste, artisans and ancient ones. Descendants of change.

Brown barefoot and some with sandals. Women carrying items on their heads, using no hands. The body is a vessel of manual labour. Scarves. Bright coloured adorned women with grey clothed men. 

Chiseled features, black hair, deep eyes with big smiles. People wanting to be close to us, have their picture taken standing close. Beautiful sarees, prayer shawls. 

Sacred animals wild and tame. Dogs, monkeys, cows, Brahma Bulls, horses, peacocks, water buffaloes, chipmunks, green parrots, large dark birds of prey, chickens. Beasts of burden pulling carts of produce. Snowy white egrets.  

Chanting. Haunting music and bells, sounds of prayer. Music of India heard on the streets. Honking of cars, tuktuks and people, airplanes overhead.

Spice markets, scent of incense, florals, urine and dust. Vehicle exhaust.

Crowds of people on the roadways, on sidewalks and in doorways and businesses. People walking and carrying goods. People in rickshaws hauling heavy loads with strength of their legs. Gentle mothers cradling babes in their arms, holding hands with children close by, walking behind the men. Heads covered and shawls draped around covering shoulders and breasts. Skirts long to the ground, bright red can be seen from a distance. Single worker in the fields. Some carrying water jugs or large loads of sticks on their heads, some on knees working in the gardens and fields. Colourful, it tells of the hard life of rural women.

Green and orange and white flag waving with pride. Tents and cardboard huts for homes, clothes out on the line. Stacks of rooms where people stay, hundreds upon thousands of new apartments being built in the suburb area outside of the center. Town center in old area is busy and crowded, bodies touching as they go about their business. Men working in shops of countless varieties. Selling sarees, spices, textiles, food stuffs, clothing. Bare necessities of life. Jewellery adorns faces and necks. Henna designs on hands and feet.

Palaces and structures of ancient times, poetry in marble. Preserved and visited historical monuments, forts, palaces, temples …. a time of Royal reign. The Taj Mahal took my breath away.

Crisp cool foggy mornings. Sunshine through haze as day warms up.  

Cricket in the fields. Dust. Cows. Pigs. Garbage, goats. Bicycles. Herds of men standing and on bikes, driving. Some with colourful turbans, many in white or grey tunics and trousers, loose fitting kind of wrapped fabric instead of pants … 

Piles of dung and refuse. Water buffaloes tethered. 

Vehicle . Donkey carts. Small roadside cooking fires. Camel on highway. Pulling cart. Pig families nose down in the refuse. Tractors hauling massive loads overflowing the top and sides, three times the size of the vehicle …amazing sight. Sometimes two lanes, with three or four vehicles side by side sneezed on to narrow roadways to avoid collisions. Avoiding cows, dogs, people on roadways, honking to indicate passing on right … Or left!  

Mustard plants. Colourful flowers on green leafy trees. More bright yellow mustard in the rural areas.

Elephants wandering down the roads with their masters. So exotic to see such animals and sights.

The soft airy texture of pashmina and Kashmir, the beauty of silk. The bright colours of India. The feel of the quality between my fingers and around my shoulders. Ahhhhhh …. ! 

Desert oasis, peaceful. Birdsong, white egrets, birds of prey. Bright coloured flowers. Out of the mist. Sand dunes, sunsets, sparse vegetation, windstorm in the distance. Camels and camps spotted in the desert vista.  
Namaste, Pamela 
PamelaTravelBlog | February 5, 2016 at 11:38 pm 

by PamelaTravelBlog
ROYAL WEDDING in India

Weddings are a very big deal here. Starting with horoscope matches, if desired, families joining and much planning. It seems to be the biggest celebration in a lifetime.

3 days activities to a week and even ten days depending on much money and detail is to be included. Some weddings costing millions of rupees with hundreds of guests … Parties and ceremonies, elephants and horses, flowers and bangles. Wow! Exotic. It can take years and years to pay for the festivities.  

Many weddings in this white and romantic city of Udaipur. At our hotel we were exposed to an up close view of what goes on. A wedding to take place on our second night. Festivities were already going on when we arrived. Family members and guest of the beautiful Trident hotel, beautiful sarees, great celebrations. Breakfasts, laughter, women together in meeting rooms, chanting, music, large tent type enclosures, white fabric draped over metal scaffolding, red and purple flowers and decorations …. This could be a royal wedding!

On our full day in Udaipur, one of the activities for us was to take a boat ride to visit the island, where coincidentally the wedding ceremony was to take place. The palace, fortress and ancient structure had been completely taken over by wedding decorations. Marble elephants adorned with red blankets signifying the Royal presence, the place of the wedding. Marigolds strung and hung over carvings, trees, parts of the structures …. Overhead beautiful and elaborate light fixtures are created, adorned with purple and fuchsia flowers, strung and hung. Purple fabric draped again over structures created to centralize people and indicate where certain ceremonies will take place … The exchanging of garlands and vows and much more.

The caterers are busy creating and preparing foods, tables, chair covers.

The boats are being prepared with marigold strings and white flowers, (oleander?). When we returned to the shore in our adorned boat, we could see that chairs, tables and fabric, flowers and other items still to be taken over to the island.  

Usually the groom is to arrive on a horse or an elephant, depending on the cost for the family, and in this case, bride and groom will arrive to the island on separate boats so they do not see each other before the formal ceremony. Costs shared between families … The engagement paid for by grooms family and the wedding day vow exchange by the brides. Other days of celebration shared according to who is hosting which event … Feasts, dances, meals, and more ceremonies.  

Thousands of dollars and even millions of rupees are expended for this elaborate joining of families. The woman can change her caste as she joins with her new family, her new husband. The man, his caste never changes in his lifetime or that of his ancestors.

Romantic, beautiful and with much ceremony, this couple will join for a lifetime of being, working, growing, creating children and celebrating together. They will have priests attached to their family to provide guidance and spiritual support throughout their lives. 

We wish them a happy lifetime together … For all the years and children and love that will be created.  

Namaste and thanks for allowing us a glimpse into the rich cultural experience that is really the personal journey of two hearts.

Pamela 

Ps. There are 7 pre and post ceremonies.
Wedding dates are selected by horoscope. Jan, feb and Nov, even if it is a love marriage. Also time for 7 vows and mantras. Takes 3-4 hours. 

Groom side pays for engagement party, for example, a banquet, 400 people.  

The groom has a ceremony for Wrapping his wedding turban. There is a ceremony where relations and fiends give wedding bangles and other clothing items to assist the dressing of the wedding to the couple. The ceremony where the groom arrives on a horse surrounded by his relations and friends and there is a procession with the horse. In Hindu religion there is a ceremony at the Shiva temple. Decorations, music and lights accompany the celebration. Groom and family welcome guests. Celebration in a garden. All in all it is a very busy time. 

Families exchange gifts at a ceremony. There is a turmeric ceremony, 3-4 days prior to vow ceremony. Where the skin of the couple is treated.  

A Ceremony of henna application with bride. Husbands name is hidden in henna somewhere on her body. He has to find his name that golden night. 
7 promises from sanscript. Walking around holy fire. Family blesses them. Groom applies red powder of vermillion on the center part of his wife’s head, just above forehead. Every day he does it. Marks her hair as such. If he is away she applies it herself. When he is home it is a daily ritual for the married couple.

There is a Shoe stealing ceremony. The brides family and wedding guests demand fortune for the return of grooms shoes. Sister of bride steal groom shoes. Groom must pay. His brothers and friends protect grooms shoes. It is to connect and provide comfort so family she is leaving can feel confident. It is a lighthearted event for fun and family togetherness during this important time in their lives.

First royal welcome to groom …. Also a red line he must cross. Created by brides family and friend. 

She wears garland of roses to her knees. Bride and groom stand on a Rotating stage. People throw flower petals. Blessing the couple. Give the couple gifts or cash. This all takes time and there are about 150 guests still left up to 1-4 am. 

Bride is given lavish departure from her family. 630 am. Groom mama gives welcome to grooms home for the bride. She sees her home for first time. 

Bride and groom sit and big bowl of milk is laid before them. Groom drops his ring in bowl. Who is first to pick it up, 3 tries. Then she is going to be boss. He helps her so she will be happy. She deserves to be happy. 

Then reception party. Following night. Very colourful events. Elaborate. 

If sister elder or same age … Sister must marry first. Everything matters. 

“Vivah” is a Bollywood movie to watch. 

7 vows promises for happy and prosperous life. Eye witness is important .. For seven lifetimes. Groom says one, bride next, then groom. Then bride … Like this … Well not exactly but close ….

1. You will offer me food and be helpful in everywhere
2. I am the bride and will be responsible for house
3. I will protect our children
4. You will love me solely
5. We Will educate our children
6. I will love you solely for my life 
7. You have brought sacredness to me in my life
8. I will shower you with joy everywhere
9. You are my best friend and 
10. I promise to love and cherish you as long as I live. I will trust and honour you
11. May you be filled with joy and peace
12. I will always be by your side 
13. We are now one
14. I am now your wife and we love honour and cherish each other

Namaste, 

Have a happy life!  

Pamela

For pictures of my trip, check out 
PamelaTravelBlog | February 3, 2016 at 10:14 am 

by PamelaTravelBlog

SOFTEN, RELAX AND LET GO

The journey is to breathe and take it in, see what is and not attempt to make it anything else and then … Like clouds passing by, let it move through. Let it go.

As hard as this country and the suffering of some of the people is for our / my western heart … I am not here to change their lives. I am here as a witness to their lives and to see the country as it is. With non attachment I can witness the present and let it go.

Listening to Pema Chodron in the bus as we drive through the desert and past sand dunes, people and camels (and cows and dogs), I am enjoying the reminders to relax and enjoy the journey.  

I have learned some truths about this country and my judgements of same. Today, with several teary hugs I heard that some people judge and wonder why India lets it’s forts, palaces and structures go to disrepair … Why not fix them up to restore former glory? The answer I heard was that buildings can be built by people … If they fall down, they can be built again and again. India is not about these structures, it is about the heart and soul. Families and communities are the heart and soul of India. Ceremonies that bring families together, social activities that promote togetherness … THIS IS THE INDIA I CAME TO MEET. This is the India I found.

I did not come half way around the world to see the same same … I came to find out what is different. How can I find truth in this place? How can I experience peace and beauty in this country, so very different from my own? How can I be affected so that India goes home with me as my heart softens to its touch.

Tonight as I travelled by camel through the sand dunes to see the glorious sunset, I could feel the camel movement beneath me. I could experience the pace of the beast, and it’s gate as the flow of India. The camel stepped from the hard surface to the icing sugar texture of the deep flowy sand dune and I could again feel the softness of this earthy place. I could feel it as surely as if I was walking in my bare feet. I was so moved by the experience, the view of the other camels in silhouette of the brilliant and colourful sun set on this magnificent land and its people. Even now, hours later, I can be transported to that magical moment of softness and steady pace, THAT is India.

No anger here. No unkindness. Acceptance of what is and steady movement in pace with the breath of Mother Earth. Oh what joy in the simple letting go and letting be. Namaste.
More lessons to come 🙂

Namaste, 

Pamela
PamelaTravelBlog | February 1, 2016 at 11:28 pm | 

by PamelaTravelBlog

MODES OF TRANSPORT In India

At Fort Rajwada, while staying in Jaisalmer, we arrive by our bus and then evening camel ride at sunset. WOW!

Horse carriage to Taj Mahal. 

Jeep ride 

Eco friendly van

Bicycle rickshaw

TukTuk 

Elephant 

Camel ride on sand dunes to watch the sun set.

Walking

Bus

Airplane

A boat ride to an island
PamelaTravelBlog | February 1, 2016 at 11:27 pm 

by PamelaTravelBlog

Jaisalmer. Unesco Fort. Only living Fort in India, Asia and world. 900 years old. 

We have a wonderful guide, very good friend of Luv. His name is Lalu and he has a Great sense of humour and is a story teller. We are so fortunate. He is a guide of the highest quality … He speaks from his heart to my heart.  

This living Fort was once a long the silk and opium route in ancient times. Once inhabited by “robbers”, the very wealthy and corrupt … Allowing those who will pay for the service to enter. The Fort protected only those who pay. Not very democratic!

Then with border Pakistan and conflict, the trade ended. The trade route was severed. And no water was here in this desert place. No trade, no industry. Since 1947 no income for the inhabitants. Indira Ghandi introduced and supported in 1984, tourism. 

Previously women were carrying water on their heads from 1.5 km! So Mrs Ghandi funded a water canal to be built, some 647 kms. To improve and sustain the lives of those who lived in the Fort. It provided a Lifeline for this place, many thanks to her effort. 

In 1985 first tourist came. And for six months of the year, this is the only income for this town.  

Summer here is hell, temperatures of 48-50 even 52 C this past year or 126 F degrees. “It’s a punishment kind of place.”

“It’s not that easy in desert to see the lake. Haha.”  

First stop many crematorium and structures to honour those who passed. In ancient times, with no vegetation, no power … Architecture is special here. Unique, detailed and elaborate.  

Six months of tourism, rest of time helping each other. “This is a Living desert.” Hippies and gypsies. Very close to each other, close to heart. Safety for women, friendly and family atmosphere. 

We visited an Artificial lake. With little rainfall, this lake is very important to their lifestyle. Used to be a huge stone quarry, so filled it up :). Ghat is spectacular in the morning sun. A temple was built in this lake when it was started … A rule made never to destroy a temple and gate. The gate that was Built by a woman so some men, even today, the Royal leader will not enter the gate. Crazy! There is a king here now, he still won’t go through gate.  

I see strung marigolds in the lake, left over from ceremony to support spiritual growth.  

Nasty huge catfish bubbling up in the water. I took pictures and shuddered! I figure if I ever fell in, I would NEVER stop screaming. Luckily no one falls in from our group, lol.

A Gypsy woman arrives with a babe on her hip and small child at her side. We learn of her life style. The more kids in w family, the more hands to earn money. She is excluded from main community and had to walk 4-5 km to get here this morning from her home in the desert. Caste system still present. She sings for us and we are giving her a small donation of support. It is hard to support the begging of children. Such an internal conflict I feel within. So I breathe and let it be what it is.  

Mrs Ghandi made such a difference in the lives of women in this country. More than I ever knew. I will study more about her and honour the changes she made in the lives of women and girls around the world with her courage. Magnificent mentorship.

The owner of the 30 km diameter Fort was a “robber”, and built four gates. High security. Have to pay to enter the Fort. Storage of food was issue. If had to face enemy and enemy got control of Fort, they would poison their own water, bury their money, women commit suicide….. So there would be no gain for taking control of the Fort. So any conquerors did not get much. 

You can’t see next gate from this one. So if at this gate, the Fort dwellers could go out for food. Enemies could not tunnel in. 

All built from golden stone.  

A secret tunnel found by security guard of Mrs Ghandi. Was five hundred years since the tunnel was opened. No paper back then … But now archeologists are interpreting what was written palm leaves. Incredible place!  

Lalu tells us that the buildings can go in to disrepair … And India can boast the Best family, spiritual, and social life of the world! India offers that. 

The Grandmother is boss inside home. Men of the outside world. If you need a room of your own, you get it. Otherwise kids sleep all together with grandparents. No “old persons homes” in India. Family life in India supports family. 

India is heart. We were welcome in a family home. We saw how simply they live, how little in the way of possessions.  

Lalit is German. He spends some time talking to me about his values and his India. We weep together and hug. 

Three major emotional expressions, tears of change, today. With the brilliant guidance of this spiritual man … 

He said to tell my daughters they have a “nice, precious mom”. I want to weep again. I am so honoured to be in such a presence.  

Forever changed by the guides I have met. Lalu and Luv I am so grateful to know you! India is so much more than what we think and know about it. Meeting and speaking with the heart to the locals life guides is life changing. I wept many times today and I feel such gratitude and love. Thank you. Thank you thank you. Namaste

Pamela
PamelaTravelBlog | February 1, 2016 at 5:45 pm 

I just noticed that I had not posted this one of Pam’s.  Sorry that it is out of sequence.  It was her first day…..second day for 6 of us arriving the day before.

by PamelaTravelBlog
FIRST DAY in New Delhi

A quiet and restful sleep upon arrival at the Metropolitan Hotel and Spa. We are sheltered by the extremes of India, with air conditioning, and muffled sounds outdoors. Bottled water a plenty in our rooms, we start rehydrating.

The air here is heavy, grey with pollution. Thick hazy skies even last evening as we were departing the airport, a ring of grey air surrounded the lights.  

This morning there are birds flying overhead giving life to the skies. A great view out the hotel window of the buildings on the block, and the swimming pool below. Workers outside sweeping with large long bristled brooms.  

Sounds on the streets are louder than at home, planes overhead, banging of construction, honking of cars and activity everywhere.  

We meet up in the cafe in the hotel for complimentary breakfast, and arrange to go for a walk around the city. I feel safe joining with some of the gals who ventured out yesterday …. Not because they know where we are going, but because the familiarity with the customs, somewhat, and because I love the company of others. We are 12 in total at the hotel, 11 venturing out together in the late morning, about 1045ish a.m. As the day progressed and individual interest shift, we are 6 coming home together walking.

We came upon a bangle market … Rows and rows of bright and vibrant colours, rings and rings of bangles to adorn. Metallics, and many made of glass. I spy and am happy to say, purchased a dozen wire wrapped bangles covered in very bright threads, sunny golds, navy blues, brick reds, forest greens.  

So much of shopping is about the personality of the vendor. I noticed today that price for me is not as important. I want to purchase from a woman, although that is not always possible as most of the vendors and shop keepers – as well as business people I see on the street, are men. And then how attentive but not overbearing are they? Willing to negotiate a bit? Do they hear objections and ready to make alternative suggestions? A sale, any sale, seems to be based on the gentle scale leaning in favour of the first person able to make the connection with the person willing to part with precious rupees in exchange for a local trinket. Interesting to watch and observe how it all goes down.  

Another stop for several of the women to get the henna tattoo initiation. Select a photo from a book, negotiate a price, and in a moment it is complete. Then waiting 10-15 minutes for the brown mixture to dry and set to the skin. Again, one woman and several men each with a little table and chairs scattered in an open space. Incense burning and little items of a personal nature the table. Surrounded by intense eyes, we are watched closely by locals.

I don’t feel unsafe, however I feel observed. I notice that eye contact is freely given and so the place has an air of friendliness to me, human connection not withheld. I feel welcome in this city and although there is a lot of street presence, people with hands out looking for money, they seem not to be ashamed. They welcome my eyes with smiles and friendly glances, eye to eye. I shake my head no to the ones who are more assertive with requests for hand outs, and the others, I feel a mutual exchange of NAMASTE. Sweet really, and unexpected.  

Wandering in and out of crazy traffic we are guided to a shopping district. Clothes, handicrafts, foods … 

Yesterday four of the travelling gals had located and scouted out a shop of fabric, silks, saris, and scarves. They were not sure they would find it again but had promised “Anita” they would bring “Pamela” to the shop …. By complete accident we find that same store!! Beautiful items to behold and bolts of the most exquisite silks.  

Anita has a keen sense of colour and reading personality of the customer. She is certainly a sales person, and she is determined to find the right fit. I had on my list to have made a silk robe and pyjama bottom combo. She assures me this can be done and delivered to the hotel tomorrow evening so I can take it with me on the trip.

Silk is pulled off the shelves and draped on bodies, observed and enjoyed in the mirror. Tea is served, bottled water offered for me, and use of western style toilets are provided – to my relief. Selections are made. Some gals follow my lead and order for delivery. Some gals have other items made of a more practical nature, a pair of cotton pants and long tunic style shirt. Some purchase scarves off the shelf. And many of our group try on and learn to wear Sarees.  

I love the experience. By then, 8 women from our group all touching fabric and feeling taken care of in this lovely store. When we leave there is fabric of the richest colours and textures ever to be enjoyed, strewn about the counters and many faces of store clerks watching as we go. Their job now to repackage the items left behind and get to work sewing and tailoring our new purchases for delivery tomorrow.  

I feel fulfilled for a first day and relaxed about my great India adventure. I will seek mindful moments and human connection on this almost month long journey.  

Thanks for joining me and NAMASTE from New Delhi, India!

Pamela
PamelaTravelBlog | January 21, 2016 at 10:59 | 

by PamelaTravelBlog

Jodhpur, Blue City of Rajisthan … The sun city! What a spectacular day!

We will see the Best fortress of Asia. Mehrangarh Fort .. 15 century city was founded. Bounded by gates. And we will also see sister site, made of bright white marble … Which is actually cremation / Burial ground of the royal family of this city.  

We can see in distance the largest private palace of the world. 365 rooms, royal family of Jodhpur lives here.  

3 million population in this city. Gaj means elephant. Military base is here due to proximity of Pakistan. 

This morning I wandered around a fifteenth century white marble structure dedicated as a memorial to the royal family. It is stunning. Beautiful setting. Thank you. Jaswant Thada … Made in 1899. 

Last night a scarf orgy at the shop in the palatial hotel. Truly living the dream. 

Beautiful view of the blue painted buildings in the city from high up. Women dressed mostly in reds.  

Next? The Mehrangarh Fort! We took elevator to the terrace on top. Fabulous view of the blue city! Many buildings painted blue. I can see fortress walls from up top. I can hear chanting and music from inside and down below. Drumming. Voices. Magic music fills the air. Awesome. Flocks of birds. “Cello”… Means come with me … Follow 🙂

Heading now to the Golden city of Rajisthan… Of Jaisalmer. Staying in a palace redone as a hotel. The most beautiful so far :). Oldest city of Rajisthan in mid twelve century. Yellow sand, yellow sandstone. Honey gold. 78,000 population and a quarter of them inside the structure, citadel, Fort. Two nights In this town. Camel ride, sand dunes in sunset! Wow!  

Camels are known as the ship of desert. Single humped camel in India, Rajisthan. They can conserve up to Five litres of water in a day retained in their fat cells in humps. Long necks. They live 25-30 years. Used for transportation. To carry goods and people. They drink camel milk and make cheese from camel milk. Camels go out for grazing in groups in daytime.  

At lunch in the desert we had a lovely chat and counted our purchases. Half way through our trip … It’s “hump” day for me …. Lol ….. 469 bangles we have collectively bought. 61 silk scarves last night alone in Jodhpur. And another 62 other scarves … 123 total scarves so far for 17 women in this group. 

Back on the road, Janie and I are alternating telling a story of life in India in the desert. 

We passed camels wandering across the sand … And then real sand dunes! Wonder of wonders, awe-struck at the real thing, up close. 

Trucks going by, many passengers, with turbans … Maybe 20 men in one vehicle, riding home from work? 

Women in bright sarees and scarves riding side saddle on back of motorcycles. Sometimes children wedged between her and the driver and cows. Always present and wandering

Pilgrims, nomads and even a very simple wedding. Saying promises and vows. 

Wind mills in this rural sandy region. Animals grazing in the sparse greenery. Little thatched roof circular simple structures used as homes. Camels stretching their long necks to partake of leaves on the trees. Their unique shapes on the horizon. How exotic to see camels grazing along the drive.

We are at Jaisalmer tonight in a Fort, an actual Fort converted to hotel. The most beautiful hotel of this city.  

Namaste!

Pamela
Today’s lesson: Honouring things completely and yet not making a big deal. 
PamelaTravelBlog | January 31, 2016 at 9:05 pm 

by PamelaTravelBlog
WONDERS OF RAJISTHAN, random facts from a days travel in this region of India

We are heading to Blue city. Jodhpur. 3 million people live in this city. We will spend One night in Jodhpur before moving on to Jaisalmer.  

We will visit the Largest fortress in Asia. Built in 15 century. Whoa!  

Few stops along the way. From white city, Udaipur … to blue city, Jodhpur …. takes 6 hours. We will stop in Jain temple along the way. Hidden in valley. Took fifty years to construct … Made of white marble. 1444 pillars, all different! Jainism is the religion.  

Rajisthan is the land of wonders.  

On their travel, People worship bullet motorcycle … And we will see temple where this takes place!  

Water systems important in this region. 12-13 century developed.  

1.25 billion people here in India. Second largest country of world in population next to China. 

Today going to desert triangle of Rajisthan. Tomorrow to Jaisalmer (sand dunes) and camel ride …. and Bikaneer the days after … completes triangle with Jodhpur. 100 km west is Pakistan. India’s army is largest volunteer army in world.  

3600 kms from north to south tips India. Bangladesh and Pakistan used to be part of India, no longer. It is the 7th largest country in world for land coverage.  

Teas exported from India, like Darjeeling. 5 Major cities, Delhi, Mumbai 22 million, then Calcutta … Tomb of mother theresa in Calcutta,… Bangalore , Chennai, are the five metro cities in India.  

Goa is beach destination of India.  

They have a dry state in India, holy place from birthplace of mahatma Ghandi furthest west

Largest and first and long standing uninterrupted democracy in the world in India. Bharat started first democracy. Number system started here. 300,000 active mosques. Sanskrit is mother of all languages. Oldest place … Game of chess invented in India. Gained independence without violence. Largest number of post offices. Largest employer in world is Indian railway.  

The art of living. “Accept people and situation as they are. Don’t be the football of others”.

Yoga was started here and has been practiced for five thousand years. Veranassi has most cremations, one every ten minutes 24/7.

We saw a cremation along the highway as we drove today … Amazing. 

Along the river Ganges, 84 ghats for bathing and washing….2 for cremations. Veranassi is the Mecca for Hinduism.  

In our discussions of religions, we heard that for Buddhist, life is suffering. Suffering is from desires. To practice toward enlightenment … Achieve less, suffer less, desire less.  

Cricket is unofficial religion.. People love it. They also win awards in completion. We have seen many impromptu games of cricket in the fields outside the bus windows as we drive through India :). Played by you and old alike.  

Jainism and Buddhism were both founded in India, and are both off shoots of Hinduism..

They believe in Good and bad karma, reincarnation of life. And date back to 600 years before Christ.  

 Jainism. Everything has life in it. Plants and trees too. Non violence. More strict principles, less popular. Non violence and self control is Jain. Non violence, and non possessiveness. One of oldest regions in world. Rather than believing in a god, they believe in a series of propagators of that faith. 4.2 million follow this religion in India, most in Rajisthan. Most are intellectuals, Merchants and doctors. 6 million in world. Vegetarian. Vegan. Not harm even insects. Escort them only. No harsh words of speech. No root veggies as hurts insects. Vow of no harm to living beings. Only speak truth. Silence. Not take anything which is not offered. Wear white for peace. Not use dyes as unnecessary killing of plants to make said dyes.

Sikh beliefs. Service for people and meditation to connect with supreme power. They believe that if I smile at others, makes me more happy. Feed people at temple, community kitchen, thousands a day. Sit on floor to eat … Oneness and digestion is aided by sitting on the ground.

RURAL INDIA

We stopped for photos of water system still used only in rural Rajisthan. Wow!  

(We made a stop … Hundreds of bats hanging in the trees …. Singing and flapping wings … Huge and spectacular. Amazing!)

Monkeys in the trees. Langpoors. Along the very twisty road. Through forest, semi arid. 

Nestled in hills. Temple Ranakpur today. Non violence means to Conquer enemies within. Against Materialism. Liberate soul. Right knowledge. Right faith and right action. Permanent bliss. They are against Attachment, Anger, Greed. The temple covers 48,000 sqft and took more than fifty years to build. Carved from Marble, in beautiful symmetry. 

“Moksha”. Blissful state of enlightenment. A priest of the temple came to bless me, as I was walking around listening to the audio tour and taking pictures.  

The Goal of the practice is to destroy destructive behaviours. All beings have souls. First vow non violence. Second vow, speak truth and never wound. Not to steal. Detachment. No sexual misconduct. Five of them in total. The Monks walk in barefoot all over the world. 

We stopped for lunch.. Saw a camel … 3.5 hours to Jodhpur. 

We stopped for a break, washroom and back on the bus.  

Next stop was a bonus…. the Bullet motorcycle shrine for safe journey. We had to take our shoes off and got blessed, with color bindy mark on forehead … My second one today. The motorcycle is encased in glass with marigold flowers. We noticed a few rats around the motorcycle …. And then took a photo of the tree where the man had died. The legend goes that each day the motorcycle was taken to police station then next morning was back again at the site. It happened again the next day … And thereafter they left the motorcycle at the site and made a shrine of it For safe travel. Even the gas stations are now named after the late owner. People stop here, offer gifts to the shrine and keepers of it …. To guarantee safe travels.  

Onward!  

Somewhere in Delhi my boundary of comfort zone moved. Here I am walking barefoot in this shrine area where a motorcycle is being worshipped! Ha ha. My friend Janie pointed out that she could not believe I would do that. …lol. India has changed me, she is correct.  

We are now blessed for safe travels. 

Namaste!  

Pamela of India!!
PamelaTravelBlog | January 30, 2016 at 9:47 pm |

More postings from Pam’ blog.  Thank you Pam!

by PamelaTravelBlog

Off the grid in India. Where?

Outside of Pushkar at a desert resort, the visitors choice! It is an oasis I the rolly desert hills … So much like Kamloops that I feel I am back in time.

In the town of Pushkar it is holy and sacred … Many foods and alcohol not permitted … No garlic, onions, meats, chicken, eggs …. In our resort, we are far enough, a few miles, out of town so we can still enjoy these products. Although for me, I have not had any alcohol since my long Air France flight … The first leg of it. Since then have been in flow of the tour and life here … Purely gluten free, dairy free and meat free :). It is easy to support a vegan lifestyle in India. Here, animals are sacred … Or some are. Ha ha and then we see a McDonalds restaurant to remind us of home. McDonalds do not serve beef in India.  

Milk is always in the Masala Chai, so although many in the group are developing a routine and love for this soothing beverage, I have tried it black buy prefer to not bother.  

This morning I awoke to the sweet sound of roosters crowing … And silence. It is peaceful and calm in this place, off the grid.  

Yesterday we drove here, had a few hours to eat and relax then to the temple of Brahma in the town … And a sacred ceremony for new karma along the bank of the fabulous river. I wept at the beauty and love that I felt in that place. Not expected and so generously given … For all time and for all my ancestors, my children and my grandchildren. I was given a sacred red and yellow bracelet, a passport, if you will, for this amazing place.  

Yellow powder, red powder from vermillion, rice, sugar, purple flower petals, on a silver plate offered to the river after the blessing. And a coconut was part of the ceremony and prayers as well. First in their language, then repeated in English and we chanted along with the priest. The banks of this sacred river was encircled by sacred steps and places of worship and between, places for people to bathe ( we saw men bathing in the river, in places separate from the holy sections). Birds being fed, and the odd cow wandering around. It was a postcard of beautiful India. I am still in awe of the entire experience. A picture with the priest and of the holy site of the ceremony will take me back to that moment. Thank you. Namaste.

Then shopping in the very expansive and pleasant bazar …. All manner of trinkets, shawls, bangles, food, clothes modern and traditional …. The women in our group had a very enjoyable time and I think left some money in support of the community. Smile. 

Then back to the resort for a dining experience at the buffet, and I had a back massage for half hour and a luxurious leg massage and foot reflexology treatment …. And then to my individual cabin shared with Sherry for a quiet and restful sleep.  

Only one night here. Off to Uidapur today. A large city and a lengthy drive today. I want to wander first on the grounds and take more pictures of this oasis on our trip.  

Thanks for joining me. Namaste! To all of you and the singing birds outside my cottage window this beautiful morn.

Pamela
PamelaTravelBlog | January 28, 2016 at 10:23 am |