I’m still quite amazed at how easy it’s all been so far. I think I’ve handled things rather nicely. Me, the sheltered kid who’s had his bed made for him for over 20 years of his life.
A SNAFU resulting in having nowhere to go from the airport, I figured out and reserved a room at a B&B in central London—one that I could actually afford—and made my way to it (with luggage) using public transport. I later caught up with “friends of friends” (much more on this later), borrowed keys to a friends place to crash at, and picked up tickets to Oasis’ gig at Manchester.
I am now (again, with no help from anyone) on my way to Manchester Piccadilly, huge self-satisfied grin on my face, tickets for the show in my hands.
Now I can see what the Indian train system is modelled after and hopes to emulate. It feels just about the same—the way the tracks are laid, the demarcation of stations, the sounds and smells, the stalls—only the view’s different. Replace vivid browns with lush greens, cows and pigs with cows and horses …
i’m jealous that you got to fly 1st class. very cool.
my first time going to london alone was just plain horrible. i was trying to use the underground to get to my hostel, but it happened to arrive right at rush hour. so picture me, all 4’10” of me, with my luggage, attempting to get on the damn train when all these tall men in suits pushing me, trying to get past me. i actually let 2 trains go before i finally made it onto one. and even that was a nightmare. i had nothing to hold on to. couldn’t reach the rail up on top. i almost toppled over a few times. i actually started crying at one point.
there’s a lot more i can add on to the story too. but it will suffice to say that it was one of the worst experiences of my life.
anyway, just thought i’d share, so you can really appreciate how good you had it : )
Yes, I think inspite of previous (mostly self inflicted confusion) things have gone of well so far.
And it’s been fun!
On a side note, have you considered writing a book? You know, something like “the world from down here” or something. I would buy something like that.
no, i haven’t thought about that…i’ll keep it in mind, but there isn’t that much to write about. it would be a really short book.
*groaning at my really bad attemt at a pun*