God was gracious and allowed Tom and I to enjoy a trip with Kidstown International to India this month. Our 5 person team left from the Bellingham airport on Monday, February 8th. (Team: Matt Smith, Director of Kidstown International, Jerry Hop, Chuck Valley, Tom and I.)
Our first day was simply flying - and a lot of it. Bellingham to Seattle, Seattle to Amsterdam, Amsterdam to Delhi. It was Tuesday night, almost Wednesday morning before we layed our heads down. Even late at night the traffic in Delhi was more than overwhelming. Three lanes often allowed for 5-6 lanes of traffic. The most noticeable and annoying aspect of traffic is the constant honking of horns. There seems to be no traffic rules - just go as fast as you can and honk your horn to get where you wish.
It was a little bit of a drive to get to our hotel, The Ramada. Our room was surprisingly pleasant. It was about 1:30 AM on Wednesday as we feel asleep. Up and ready for breakfast together at 9:30 AM. We enjoyed a little time to walk around outside. Just crossing the street in front of the hotel was a feat worth celebrating. We tried to fall in line with a few locals as they crossed. The area was mostly a business area, with lots of outdoor "offices" for notaries, lawyers, tax prepares, and court. Not a lot to look at. Can't even say it was nice to just be out in the fresh air - the pollution was thick, placing a thick haze over the city.
By noon we were back at the Delhi airport waiting for our next flight, which would take us to Chennai. By Wednesday evening we were settled into Hotel Breeze - a very nice hotel.
Very odd to drive into the hotel parking area and first have the vehicle checked for bombs, and then need to walk through a metal detector before entering the hotel. Guards with guns opening the doors for you.
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