Varanasi Ain't So Bad!!! - ClaudiAntics

October 04, 2003

Varanasi Ain't So Bad!!!

Since coming to India, and before, people have warned me about Varanasi, the city where my tour concludes. It's evil, you will be molested, it's a terrible place is the consensus.

I disagree. Maybe it's my ability to stick my nose up and feign deafness or maybe I'm just adjusted to the ways of India, but I like Varanasi. Last night a friend and I got separated from our group and had no problems. We explored a local festival and were treated politely. No one bothered us and no one annoyed us with "yes madam, look." In fact, most of the people here have been very polite.

On the way back from the burning ghats and a visit to a hospice I encountered a young boy on the street who asked my name. I said I didn't remember (with a smile) and did he know his? He did (I forget) and he asked if I remembered "what country?". I replied with Aruba. Sometimes I am from Jamaica, Argentina, Papua New Guinea, anywhere but the US because then they ask "job?" They are trying to figure out how much you make and the exchange rate. I say unemployed or farmer/shop keeper. At times it can be a fun game, at times it can be annoying, depending on the person.

I think I am adjusting to India well and I am looking forward to the rest of my time here, on my own in Rishikesh and again with Anthony next week. :)

Posted by Claudia on October 4, 2003 08:58 AM
Category: India

Comments

Hey, this is good news... or maybe all of us out here are mighty scared of you. 8-)

cya and ant soon

Posted by: Dusty on October 4, 2003 12:51 PM

This is the perfect time of the year to visit Rishikesh, yes you will bump into a lot of pilgrims, a lot of people who want to be photographed with you etc etc. But the weather will be perfect as will white water rafting. Just make sure that you check around before selecting a sports agency for white water rafting. 8-)
i am literally counting the days, will be visiting the Karnataka State Tourism corporation in a few days from now, to see what else is on offer besides Mysore. cheers!

Posted by: dusty on October 6, 2003 12:06 AM

Hi Claudia,
Glad you are enjoying it - I keep hearing the same stuff myself but can't wait to get out there...

Keep safe & have fun!

Posted by: novice on October 6, 2003 07:25 AM

You could always say that you are a beekeeper/ You love to keep beeeeeeeeeeeees!
Just an option.

Posted by: Mom on October 6, 2003 09:12 AM

Hello,
Me from Varanasi,
I love Varanasi & u too,
Wanna meet u in Varanasi,
If u wish too,
Mail me.

Posted by: Piyush on November 12, 2003 03:53 AM

hi claudia!
just read you visited a hospice in varanasi.
would it be mukta bhavan hospice?
I just saw a documentary about it here in Amsterdam........would love to know to know where it is and this and thats
too much fun out there!
om namah shivay!

Posted by: patrick on November 25, 2003 10:31 AM

Patrick,

I really don't know what the name of it was. It was somewhat sketchy and I don't know now if I'd define it as a hospice or not. SOrry I can't give more info. :(

Posted by: Claudia on November 26, 2003 12:56 AM