Namaste!
A fine time for me to eat Indian food, in India, especially since I had not liked Indian food in the US. Maybe it's the a spice in the curry. I have to keep trying though. I am finding that I like biryani with lamb and am growing more fond of the curry.
I am in a mall, having a sample of North Indian Thali vegetarian food, and where little Indian children are preparing for a Barbie Pink Christmas. Yes, you read that right. Because nothing says Indian Culture more than Barbie!
Welcome to Hyderabad!
Unfortunately, my internet connection will not upload photos. Please see my Instagram or Facebook page, both with darrylabaker for username.
How did I get here, I hear you cry. A big damn jet. I flew on Emirates in the double decker Airbus A380.
I have not yet flown in a 747 (that will happen next week), but I don't think there is any roar of engines like this one in a passenger jet. I have to admit, it was a little scary yet a thrilling takeoff.
I was only in Dubai for a short layover. Flying in, this oasis reminded me of Las Vegas. A decadent, extravagant, playground in the desert. Anything you desire. I only had time for a meal. Yes, my first time in Dubai and I ate at...Shake Shack.
I did see something a bit worrisome though. on my way to my connection, another passenger walked in the front door and into the airport without security around. Hmmm. Middle East. Major hub. Easy access? A worker saw him and sent him to the correct security line, but come on Dubai, you are better than that. One thing that struck me was I didn't see many Arabs here. Yes it is an International city, but most workers in the shops and restaurants were Chinese or other regions. Could be just the section I was in, but I have heard previously that Dubai imports most of its laborers. Still, this place interests me. I may have to come back for a dedicated visit.
Pray, Love
In Hyderabad, after a much needed sleep after 18 hours of flights, and being 11 and 1/2 hours ahead, I took a cab to the nearby In Orbit Mall. What you hear about traffic in India is true. Chaotic. Traffic laws are merely a suggestion. You must experience a three wheeled open-air auto rickshaw taxi, or "auto."
In the mall, I am purchasing a Sherwani, a traditional Indian garment. I went all out for the wedding of my dear friend Vennela and Naveed. This is the mall with Barbie. In India, Christmas is a holiday and there are decorations about. Except for the few Christians here, it is a secular holiday. Many celebrate by going to DJ parties on Christmas Eve.
Merry Christmas and Peace Be With You
Darryl
A fine time for me to eat Indian food, in India, especially since I had not liked Indian food in the US. Maybe it's the a spice in the curry. I have to keep trying though. I am finding that I like biryani with lamb and am growing more fond of the curry.
I am in a mall, having a sample of North Indian Thali vegetarian food, and where little Indian children are preparing for a Barbie Pink Christmas. Yes, you read that right. Because nothing says Indian Culture more than Barbie!
Welcome to Hyderabad!
Unfortunately, my internet connection will not upload photos. Please see my Instagram or Facebook page, both with darrylabaker for username.
How did I get here, I hear you cry. A big damn jet. I flew on Emirates in the double decker Airbus A380.
I have not yet flown in a 747 (that will happen next week), but I don't think there is any roar of engines like this one in a passenger jet. I have to admit, it was a little scary yet a thrilling takeoff.
I was only in Dubai for a short layover. Flying in, this oasis reminded me of Las Vegas. A decadent, extravagant, playground in the desert. Anything you desire. I only had time for a meal. Yes, my first time in Dubai and I ate at...Shake Shack.
I did see something a bit worrisome though. on my way to my connection, another passenger walked in the front door and into the airport without security around. Hmmm. Middle East. Major hub. Easy access? A worker saw him and sent him to the correct security line, but come on Dubai, you are better than that. One thing that struck me was I didn't see many Arabs here. Yes it is an International city, but most workers in the shops and restaurants were Chinese or other regions. Could be just the section I was in, but I have heard previously that Dubai imports most of its laborers. Still, this place interests me. I may have to come back for a dedicated visit.
Pray, Love
In Hyderabad, after a much needed sleep after 18 hours of flights, and being 11 and 1/2 hours ahead, I took a cab to the nearby In Orbit Mall. What you hear about traffic in India is true. Chaotic. Traffic laws are merely a suggestion. You must experience a three wheeled open-air auto rickshaw taxi, or "auto."
In the mall, I am purchasing a Sherwani, a traditional Indian garment. I went all out for the wedding of my dear friend Vennela and Naveed. This is the mall with Barbie. In India, Christmas is a holiday and there are decorations about. Except for the few Christians here, it is a secular holiday. Many celebrate by going to DJ parties on Christmas Eve.
About that praying part. Not just for surviving the traffic, but for the main event. The wedding ceremony is Muslim. Quite beautiful and quick. The bride and bridegroom sit on opposite sides of a stage, with a partition between them. Close family gathers around each. A prayer chant by the Priest and vows for the bridegroom. Then the same for the bride, and it is done. They are married. Next, there are what seemed like thousands of photos. I was honored to be invited on stage by Vennela's brother Kanthi, to be included in some with each of them. They are a beautiful couple and each have beautiful families. They are blessed. I am blessed to have been invited and to participate. Much love to the couple and their new union.
Merry Christmas and Peace Be With You
Darryl
Love your post!
ReplyDeleteSounds like an awesome trip Darryl!!
ReplyDelete