We were in Goa for a few days... long enough to be there for their Wednesday market which was about as sprawling of a tourist market that you can find. We got lost in the maze of brightly colored tapestries, clothing, jewelry and the such... whatever you wanted to buy in India, you could find at this market. Other than that, Goa was a bit overdone and we are super glad that we decided to stay in Gokarna for a bit longer... but we did treat ourselves to a pina colada for sunset after a long day of relaxing in the sun.
Mumbai was a whirlwind ... but quite an interesting town. We spent the majority of it wandering around. We went to the locals night spot... Chowpatti Beach. Getting on to the bus from our hostel (The Salvation Army... the most expensive place that we've stayed yet on this trip!) we met the nicest Indian who walked us around the beach. Traveling around makes you put up your guard towards anyone who randomly comes up to you, but we've come in contact with so many friendly Indians who are genuinely interested in us and showing us part of their country ... it has made for a wonderful experience. Chowpatti beach is known for it's bhel puri, a spicy Indian snack and this man took us to the best shop for it (there are about 20 shops within 50ft that all sell the same thing). It was so good that we came back the next afternoon and had some more. We also sent a package home from here... what an ordeal... it took about two hours to get it packaged up correctly (including getting it checked by customs before having it wrapped in fabric and wax sealed) before we could send it... gives us a little glimpse into the buracuracy and red tape that is all we hear and read about in India.
And we finally made it into the state of Rajistan. Most of the things that you think of when you think of India, are from Rajistan. Turbans, mirror-work fabrics, camels, dome topped buildings...all are the wonders of this state. Pushkar is a holy city, and also a touristic highlight of any trip to India...although, Chris and I are finding it too touristic...most of what there is to do in this small 1 street town is shop. And considering we just sent stuff home, we aren't in the mood to stuff our packs full again. So we are heading to Jaisalmer tomorrow where we plan on doing a camel trek for a few days. Should be a bumpy ride!
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