PINOY BOY JOURNALS: india

Showing posts with label india. Show all posts

Traveling around Asia is awesome. I love this continent. I was born here, so you can imagine how i really want to pursue discovering my own heritage. Before i travel miles away to Europe or Africa, i want to start from where i was born and raised.

But, traveling around India? That's a totally different story.

The journey to this sub continent is by far, my most grueling and most life-changing trip ever. To tell you honestly, my trip to India is so mind-blowing i am still finding it hard to write about it, even thought i made the trip three years ago.

It all started when i arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi where the visa on arrival claim was on its starting stage. I was surrounded by the airport staff, all seven of them helping me to sort out my visa for India. Times have changed and the protocol has been revised numerous number of times. Before, there was even a 6-month rule where you have to wait 6 months before you can come back to the country. Now, more countries are actually allowed to enter the country provided they arrange their visa on arrival before they fly in.

It was a relatively slow, but painless march towards the airport exit of this famed airport after clearing with immigration. With no definite plans where to stay, and what to do for the next three weeks, and a very long flight from Kuala Lumpur to boot, there's one thing i needed to do to calm my nerves, and that is to light up a stick. But i lost my lighter. Trusting on faith, i asked the kind policeman if i can borrow his light. With match in one hand, he gave me a light. I just met my first Indian friend.

Because i look like everyone in India, too, it wasn't too hard for me to get in touch with the locals. Since they don't see me as a blonde Caucasian but one of them, i think i am able to touch base with them more seamlessly. I make friends wherever i go. I was even asked for directions from people from Kerala. Sometimes, these friends are legit, sometimes they ought to make money from me. Truth be told,i blended well in India.

What you read about taxi rides in India are probably true. And with nothing much to see in the middle of the night, in an unfamiliar territory, i was excited as hell. But i was also afraid to see for myself what I've been looking forward to know.

Soon after, i arrived in Pahar Ganj, my home in New Delhi for the week. It was close to midnight when I arrived. And the cold winter breeze was something i didn't expect. Most especially, since we are up brought in a notion that India's heat index was suppose to rattle in between 40 to 50. It was a different case when i arrived. I needed to put on another layer of clothing to keep myself sane walking around finding a place to eat. I checked in at a place called Anoop Hotel right by the heart of the backpacker's street in Delhi. It wasn't spectacular of a place, but it provided me comfort during those nights when i was in the heart of this huge country.

Walking around in New Delhi at night is weird. And thinking about it now, would make my nerve crack. I reached the train station after walking north of where i was. People were actually burning wood in almost every block. The mix of smog and pollution from motor cyclos were enough to make me gag. But i welcome this. There were more restaurants there nearby the train station. It makes sense since there were stops even in the wee hours of the morning. But all of these restaurants are already starting to close. I came to a busy joint, where most men were out smoking cigarettes and chatting about cricket. I reckoned this place could be a good place to eat. When i passed by the area, the old lady was already cleaning the place. And all the dirt mixed with water were brushed towards me. With my foot soaked in canal water, i reckoned it was definitely time for me to head back to the hotel. I was starving, but never was i angry. I realized that traveling to India is not just about booking a flight, and praying to God that everything works fine. You need to open up yourself to the world in this country. Accept all the good, and bad of it. Keep one's senses open, but be on the look out for danger. The impeccable welcome of India to me that night was more than enough to keep my appetite steady for the night. I actually lost 15 pounds after traveling to India.

There's no place like India. And anyone daring to travel around this huge country, err more like a continent, will be rewarded with experiences that will be so damn unforgettable. What you see on TV, read in the news and other blogs shared by travelers are probably all true. I reckon it would be times three, once you've successfully set foot in this gorgeous country.

Before i preempt myself with any introduction, let me share with you, based from my experiences, 49 things you have to know (you'll be glad i shared these with you) about India. Hopefully, this will help you out as you plan on this great journey to this exotic, blessed and life-changing hideaway.

1. Cover up. This is my biggest boo-boo when i went to India. I am a guy and i find myself wearing wife beaters and short pants to think it would be okay. Apparently, both genders should show courtesy by wearing proper clothing. That means covering up, and showing less skin.

2. Cow. These animals are considered holy and aren't consumed by men. Imagine my surprise when i ordered for a cheeseburger, and only to realize after a first bite, that it was sweet potato. Such a disappointment.

3. To spit or not to spit. Men, women of all ages and other differences have a weird habit of spitting. I reckon it has something to do with the unbelievable supply of air pollution. After a few days, i found myself doing the same thing, but in moderation. As they say, Do as the Romans do.

4. The air. It's toxic and almost impossible for a non-local with weak respiratory system to stay healthy after a few days. Should you feel uneasy, go seek the help of a doctor or move out of the city.

5. Entrance fee tickets. Apparently, the biggest surprise is that entrance fee tickets to national parks and other tourist spots are a bit expensive for Asian standards. While for locals, it's ridiculously too cheap. It's like paying nothing. I was almost close to pretending to be a local as the guard was telling me only 10 rupees. even if i was suppose to pay 300 rupees.

6. Kohl. An old man in Varanasi painted the thin skin under my eye with a black paint. He said, "it'll give you more strength in the eye. Now, you look like us."

7. Auto Rickshaws are cheap but can be costly too as most drivers wouldn't have a fixed rate unless it's metered.

8. My bargaining skills suck. Why? How can you pay an old, sickly man 20 rupees after cycling for more than 30 minutes. I bargained for 20 rupees, and ended up paying 60. At least, my conscience is clear.

9. The traffic is super bad. I thought Manila traffic was unforgivable. Wait till you see Varanasi and New Delhi around 5:30PM rush hour. It's unimaginable!

10. Who knows the time? On many occasions, i tend to ask around 3-4 bystanders for the time. And on those occasions, i got different answers.

11. If you're not a fan of Indian cuisine, you'll lose weight.

12. I don't drink coffee, and i am not a fan of tea but Chai is one of the most beautiful creations in the world, ever. I drink Chai anytime, anywhere.

13. A hand of bananas is sold nearby train stations for 15 rupees. For serious backpackers, this is one tip to save those rupees.

14. Bring an alcohol or hand sanitizer for the simple reason, you will surely need it all the time and every time.

15. VISA upon arrival for Filipinos and other nationalities like Finland, Luxembourg, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar. But be prepared to dance or sing if asked by the immigration officials. Of course, i'm not saying this literally but you know what i mean.

16. Best time to visit is from November to February because it's not too hot, and the temperature is perfect for long walks all day and night.

17. Wear a scarf! In many different ways you'll get by with a scarf. Cover your neck and arms when visiting a temple, cover the head when visiting Sikh palaces, and cover your nose and mouth when it's just too damn hard to take the pollution.

18. Study Hinduism before you travel to India. You will appreciate more what you see, hear and listen.

19. Bollywood rocks! It's funny, romantic and most of the time, engaging. Most of my nights are spent watching these movies shown on TV. I usually doze off after an hour.

20. If you're a lady, never ever leave India without buying a Sari. It's impossible for you not to like one. It's probably one of the most beautiful things you will ever see in your life.

21. When riding sleeper trains, don't get the AC sleeper. Get the non-AC, as it's cheaper and you get to hang out with much more friendly locals.

22. Tourist Quotas make life easier for lost travelers riding the trains. Should you want to leave as soon as you arrive, go to one in any train station and immediately book a ticket to avoid hassle.

23. Kuri-Kuro is my most favorite junk food ever.

24. It's possible to haggle Camel leather sandals in Jaipur from 1500 rupees to 300 rupees.

25. Over-all, most of the people i dealt money with including travel agents and rickshaw drivers are all honest people. Don't believe what you hear or read about them.

26. India is easily the most unified country in the world, in terms of religion. That is something i can honestly say is one of the country's best attribute.

27. What you read about India and its Caste system: the poor, average and the rich is true. It's frustrating and unapologetic. But it's reality.

28. You don't need to be a historian, cultured or a devotee to appreciate that indeed, Taj Mahal is the most beautiful thing ever created by man, in the world.

29. Palace of the Winds or Hawa Mahal in Jaipur makes you want to go back again and again.

30. English is widely spoken in key cities like New Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore but not everywhere.

31. Please bring a universal adaptor. You will need it.

32. I didn't see any McDonald's or Burger king but there are fast food joints around New Delhi that serve good food for less than 150 rupees.

33. I've tried many cigarettes in India and i can honestly say, i coughed as soon as i smoked one. Not good, my friend.

34. Never ever do drugs in India. You can't trust your supplier for sure.

35. I was surprised that parks around Jaipur are beautiful: well-manicured gardens, comfortable art deco love seats and well-manned.

36. Running as a sport is possible in key areas around Rajastan.

37. Kids in India have simple joys. Don't forget to share what you have.

38. If you think, talking to local Indians is an exam of the mind, well...that is the truth.

39. Be as cordial as you can when you bump into old women.

40. The Indian policemen look really tough but they are actually very nice people. Just don't mess with them. You don't want an AK gun pointing at you in the middle of nowhere.

41. If you're in Varanasi, you can request to be blessed by a priest for a donation of less than 500 rupees. Don't over do it. Once is enough.

42. Should you have more time, Varanasi to the border of Nepal is just a less than 8 hours away. A few more hours, and you'll get to see Mt. Everest more up close.

43. India is exotic because even for Asia, it's totally different.

44. Local Indian men love Caucasian women. Hassling is a possibility.

45. People shave their heads in Varanasi when someone from his/her family died or if he/she is a sinner. I am the latter.

46. Waking up before Sunrise in India is the most perfect time to get a feel of the market.

47. Watch your step. You might just step on cow poop, spit, dead rat or rotten biryani.

48. Not all Indian people are cons.

49. Slumdog Millionaire is partly honest and partly exaggerated.

Expect the worst when traveling to India. You will be surprised how it's not so bad after all. I promise.

"The land of dreams and romance, of fabulous wealth and fabulous poverty, of splendour and rags, of palaces and hovels, of famine and pestilence, of genii and giants and Aladdin lamps, of tigers and elephants, the cobra and the jungle, the country of hundred nations and a hundred tongues, of a thousand religions and two million gods, cradle of the human race, birthplace of human speech, mother of history, grandmother of legend, great-grandmother of traditions, whose yesterday's bear date with the modering antiquities for the rest of nations-the one sole country under the sun that is endowed with an imperishable interest for alien prince and alien peasant, for lettered and ignorant, wise and fool, rich and poor, bond and free, the one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once, by even a glimpse, would not give that glimpse for the shows of all the rest of the world combined." ~~~ Mark Twain

Early morning prayers and hygiene in the ghats of Ganges

STORY: Three years ago, my head was shaved off in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh in India. Three weeks later, when i arrived back home in Manila, my family and friends got the shock of their lives when they saw me, with zero hair.

Head shaving is an important, if not, holy custom in India and by doing so, you offer a promise to Mannat, for a wish will be fulfilled through prayer and offering. You alleviate all pride and arrogance acquired by living on earth and show your humility and purity through this remarkable deed.

To say that shaving your head in India is cliche is unfair. And only those who've been to India can only attest to its great importance. For those whose family member died or have a grave sin to confess, it is the perfect opportunity to pray and be heard. There are thousands of pilgrims from all around the world who travel to India, and to Varanasi, still with their awesome hair intact. However, when it came to a decision time for me. I was ready and prepared. I stayed four nights in Varanasi, my longest in any Indian destination at that time. On my last day, the barber picked up a new blade which i requested and confirmed afterwards and began cleansing it with isopropyl alcohol. It was six thirty in the chilly November morning. I squat in one of the ghats as my mentor prepared my hair's primary execution. I was nervous a bit, but my excitement got the best of me. I was waiting for this for a very long time. It's time. My hair was eleven inches long, grown of dust and smog from this beautiful yet polluted country. I closed my eyes the whole time, not really praying to be honest, but transporting my mind and my body to the river, a few meters away from where i am, being shaved off by a local Indian man whose eyes i can never forget. It's that sort of meditation that i am fond of.

I stood up, finding the weight out of my knees and paid the man 100 rupees. I opened my eyes and looked at the river. It's calmness was enveloped by the pilgrims bathing. I thanked the man for the life-changing act and walked around for a bit more until my feet got tired. Nobody looked at me anymore. I figured, they know why i did what i did, and it's all that matters. I dust off a few more pieces of my old hair from my body. I was totally free of my past.

A pack of cigarettes side by side with offerings to the holy river

This place, Varanasi, is very weird. A few days ago, i saw a three month old baby being carried by his mother whose skin bleached to deep brown from the heat of the sun. The baby's nails were long and dirty.

EXCLUSIVE: Later that afternoon, as i walked to the holy Ganges, i stumbled upon a man dying. He was a troubled soul, and may have walked for days to get to where i am standing. I saw him die in front of me. On his last breath, i was looking at him. I closed my eyes and prayed for his soul to go to heaven, or Varanasi, or a good after life in the Ganges river. It's not every day that you see a man die in front of you. But i knew, he was ready to give up life.

People preparing for the festival of lights in Varanasi

The decision to shave my head started out when i arrived in Varanasi from a sixteen hour train ride from New Delhi. People were already preparing for the Festival of the Lights or Dev Deepawali. I could feel the energy from the people seeping through my veins as i walked, and obviously out of place. On one occasion, i met a store owner who asked me to sit next to him. Believing he would sell stuff, he surprised me by offering a cup of tea for free. We people watched as he explained what the festival is about, and how Varanasi is unlike anywhere in the world. He said to me straight in the eye, "You're a troubled soul." I left an hour later, still thinking if he asked me to join him to sell carpet or because he saw my pain and seeking enlightenment from the gods.

One of the many sleepless nights during Dev Deepawali

The excitement continued on and lasted until the next day. I walked again and stumbled upon a Bubba who asked me to share his stick of blunt. He said that during these few occasions, only then can he smoke Marijuana. I politely declined and shared Kingfisher Beer with him instead. He told me, "Live your life not tomorrow, now".

Before i slept that night, i was trying to recall what has happened in the past few days, and what i want to do in the days to come. These turn of events got me to think how and why these instances happen, and if these do happen for a reason. Then, only destiny can predict what i will do next.

Clean shaven and enlightened

I came up to this man whose palms were carefully carving a young boy's shapely head. I said, "I'm next". And his face lit up in surprise. The other men beside him gave him ample space to work on me.

I will never forget this experience. In ten, twenty or even thirty years from hereon, i will keep on remembering this precious moment. I know I've been troubled but i also know, i am still living my life amidst, and that is true enlightenment.

TIPS: Don't forget to ask the barber for a new blade and make sure to check if it's really new. Because it has become a tradition for some tourists, like anywhere else in the world, prices may be jacked up. Negotiate first and agree on the price before you get your head shaved off.

RECOMMENDATION: Only do it if you are really ready.

A lot of people say that 2011 was forgettable. Last night, my friends called it the worst year ever. I say, it's one year i will never forget. 2011 for me was a year of accomplishments and opportunities to prosper and grow as a human being. I've become selfless, eager and determined to make sure the goals i set come into fruition. I've matured as a person and as a traveler. I couldn't ask for more.

If 2009 was a year of excitement and many firsts and 2010 was a year of dreams coming true, 2011 was the year where i definitely kicked ass in the travel department. Here's why.

Calatagan, Batangas, Philippines

I'm on my second year working in advertising , and there's no better way to start the year with a bang, than to go and party at the beach. It's not my first time in Calatagan, Batangas. But it's the first time, I've had a real trip with my office mates. I blogged how it felt to travel with officemates, while i came up with a bittersweet story about an Old boat and the Sea. Nonetheless, The Beach House is the perfect setting for an unforgettable first month of the year.

Kowloon, Hong Kong, Republic of China

It's my second time in Hong Kong, and it surely felt like the first time. The weather was absolutely perfect, and i had a grand time because i was with my sister. Eventually, she became addicted to traveling, too. Ever since i came to this region, i immediately fell in love with the vibe. It has the perfect mix of what i look for when i go on trips; rich pop culture, awesome nightlife, great shopping, cool people, and exquisite food. Although there's a couple of misses like the cons you will meet in the streets, and those jacked up $20 beers, it's still a fun country to visit.

Macau, Republic of China

Roughly 88% (approximation) of those traveling to Hong Kong, visit Macau overnight or on day trips. Again, this is my second time in Casino land, and although i didn't lose any money because i didn't bet on any, i found myself on new territories and new cool places to check out. If you've got 24 hours, this is what you have to do.

Cagbalete Island, Quezon, Philippines

I've heard about this island too many times but never had a chance to go there, until this year. Because of its proximity to Manila, i figured why i haven't traveled to Cagbalete Island? For those seeking for adventure with your friends, check this island out and discover why now, more and more tourists call this place their own slice of paradise. But the government really needs to do something about the safety of the passenger boats ripping the waters heading here.

Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, Philippines

After a couple of years missing my first love, it's time i go back where i truly belong. The first time i went to this island, i immediately felt welcomed. It's my top destination in the Philippines, and up until now my mind hasn't changed. Sharing the same vision, i tagged my friends along on the trip. It was a new adventure for me, with first dibs on the art of fishing. Luckily, my friend was able to catch a huge blue marlin, which turned out to be our lunch-dinner-breakfast-lunch. I can't believe i actually went back after missing Guimaras for more than 1,460 days.

Camotes Island, Cebu, Philippines

I've always said time and again, Cebu is truly blessed. This province boasts of all the superlatives, and visiting Camotes Island proved to be one of my greatest achievements this year. I already stopped counting the number of white sandy beaches here. I rode the motorcycle in search of the perfect beach, and when i found it, i couldn't believe my eyes. It was that beautiful. With one day to kill time around Cebu City, I've had only one word in my mind... Shangri-la!

Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China

Two years in the making, finally. I was able to travel to this North East Asian country known for its delicious dimsums, and of course, the mighty Taroko Gorge. I've had many instances of planning to go to Taiwan, but this time around, i knew i had to go. Taiwan is one of the biggest surprise hit this year. It's such an underrated country in the region, but it's really such a delight to visit. I've crossed that hundred fifty-foot bridge, got amazed at the gorges lined up like scuplted art works in Taroko, and ate my words when i said i won't eat pork (the food is that delicious).

Bilogo, Batangas, Philippines

Have you heard of Bilogo in Batangas? I hear cricket sounds. Yes? Yes! It's time for the boys to hit the road, and rough it up down south of Manila. Days were spent drinking, relaxing with its explainable cool July weather, and of course, karaoke non-stop. I've had my days of solitude but it was also a great time to bond with new found friends. Cheers, boys!

Seoul, South Korea

A few months ago, i started to run. It's such a great work-out to strengthen my muscles and lose weight. This comes in handy whenever i rough it up on trips like when i am trekking in Thailand or crossing the angry waters of Biri, Samar, Philippines. It's also time for me to do something different when i'm out of the country. As i continue navigating North East Asia, i headed to South Korea in August. This trip is so packed with many firsts. One thing's for sure, it's definitely hot in Seoul. I went to the most dangerous demilitarized border in the world, stalked beautiful Korean babes in Hongdae, downed too many Soju shots while watching the sunset over Han River, and going to one of the biggest theme parks in South Korea, only to find out it's closed... on a Sunday. Wow!

Kalanggaman Island, Leyte, Philippines

It's time for me to go back to my beloved country and travel where MacArthur landed - Leyte. This time, to check out this hidden paradise called Kalanggaman Island. I thought Bantayan was incomparable but Kalanggaman is a different class. It's beautiful from all angles, and camping the night away was a good way to fully explore this charming island. Watching the sunrise and sunset made me realize the things i would do for the things i love. This is my first camping trip in two years, and now i know why I've always been curious. It feels like a match made in heaven.

Varanasi, India

I came to India to die... and be born again. This is probably the greatest trip of my 2011, and my life. I will go on forever telling you tales of my adventures in this country, but i would like to leave it to you guys to experience it for yourself. The memories of prayer and song, of death and life, of love and passion, of tragedy and disappointment, and of victory and acceptance are ell etched in my mind. I came to India with a purpose, i left with an answer.

Biri, Northern Samar, Philippines

Photo Courtesy of Glenn Lalogan

Before the year ended, I've had the privilege to visit for the first time, Northern Samar. I will not be hypocrite and say it was the best. It has its share of awesome adventure, but i will never forget this province because i almost lost my life when i was crossing the Biri Rock Formations. I wrote a short note while on the boat coming back...

"I will never hold grudge that you wanted to take my life...I will not speak ill of you for it's not right. I tried to love you but you didn't love me back. If this is what it is, i shall never see you again." FIN

Matnog. Sorsogon, Philippines

Photo Courtesy of Glenn Lalogan

At the same time, reading my fellow bloggers' review of Subic beach made a lasting impression on me so i visited Sorsogon province, and made my way to Matnog en route to Subic Beach. If you're not from the Philippines, and you're reading this, there's no other place to go to this 2012 but in Subic Beach. It's absolutely gorgeous there!

HTC Philippines Brand Ambassador for Explorer

It's funny how God works in mysterious ways. I've always shared on this site my passion to inspire and let other people know the wonders of traveling. I thank HTC Philippines for making it easier for me to reach more people with my vocation to inspire people to travel the world. Last December 7, i was officially announced as the brand ambassador for HTC Explorer, together with my colleagues Patti Mallari and Christy Monastrial from Life's My Trip. It's one of my greatest achievements in life, and will forever be thankful for making me an instrument to share my thoughts and inspire other people. It's time to explore, guys!

The Phoenix has risen.

I wanted to end 2011 with a promise i made for myself. I shall die but will be born again. Like a Phoenix's life, my life is about re-birth. I am born to live. I am born to survive. I got my first tattoo a few days before 2011 ends.

May we all have a blessed and fruitful 2012! Cheers to new beginnings and happy endings. It's time!

Dear Lord,

You've showered me with so much blessings that i am afraid i cannot reciprocate. Thank you for showing me the kindness of men. Thank you for showing me the beautiful side of sadness and grief. The travels i've had in the year has made me the better person that i am today.

Amen.

Happy New Year from Pinoy Boy Journals!

Location: Pahar Ganj, New Delhi, India

It feels different to be traveling in Rajastan. It's like a different India out here. The people are less manic, and the streets become larger but less noisy. It was an eventful train ride from Varanasi to Jaipur, and all 17 hours of it. I got the last seat in a sleeper non-AC and i thought this is going to be tough. Surprisingly, it's the most comfortable journey I've had in India. They call it the killer trip because it's a long ride, and lots of thieves. Good thing, Medical students from Okinawa, a French hippie and a couple of Indian veterinarians kept me company. I dozed off after 15 minutes.

I arrived in Jaipur, and it feels like Mexico for a bit. The colorful temples, and the vibe is definitely different than in Delhi, Agra or Varanasi. I see a lot of monkeys roaming in the city and shopping is a serious addiction here. I went to key places because i have very little time and find myself enjoying the streets leading to Hawa Mahal or the Palace of the Winds. It's so beautiful.

The next day, i woke up feeling much better. I am staying at a really beautiful guesthouse called Pearl Palace Hotel off Ajmer Road. It's my most expensive accommodation at 800 Rp. but it's well worth it and the extra nice Peacock Restaurant serves excellent food.

I walked and walked for a bit and decided i needed to explore Jaipur without any help. I went to Jaipur Central park and sang my heart out. Nobody can understand me anyway. I left painted with great memories of Jaipur.

Little did i know that my most adventurous journey would be on my way to Delhi via bus. I booked for a bus because i still have one more day. My flight leaves for Bangkok at 11:35. We left Jaipur at 2. On the bus, i had the most unforgettable experience of my life that i want to share with everyone in detail. I find myself in tears, not because i am leaving but because i had the biggest realization of my life. I gave all the food that i bought for the trip and i've never been happy seeing the little Indian man smile. I will never forget the people i've met on the bus.

Because, without saying anything, i found the answers i was looking for. And writing this, brings back memories and i am in tears again.

Life is unfair but for someone like me, what can i do. I know for sure, they will never forget me. And my memories of Jaipur are etched in my backpack which they used as a seat for the ten hour journey. How can i discount the fact that in Manila, i am taking things for granted but back there, everything is of the essence.

I arrived in Indira Gandhi International Airport and i missed my flight. I booked another airline called Kingfisher, leaving two hours after.

I will never forget India. And i know she will never forget me. I still have a lifetime to go back again and again.

It's been a long journey from Delhi to here. I slept in a three bunk sleeper bed, and i had to bend to drink water. Wow! Good thing, some peeps from the train kept me company. I have to tell you about my bunk mate who was so intense, a few minutes after, he was meditating and motionless. He was piercing me and i wouldn't be surprised if he knew what i was thinking. I always say, that people from India look at you at a very special way. When they look at you, you know you will be remembered. Good thing, my timing is perfect. There's a festival here, and i have seen tradition to the core and to the full. When i say there's lots of people here, is a major understatement. I am right here in Varanasi where i've always wanted to go. I am in the holy city of Varanasi and i think my time here is done. I've talked to many people from here, and slowly i am getting the answers i was looking for.

A wise man from India said to me last night while we sat in front of his house that i don't listen. I need to listen first, then think, feel and then i could open my mouth. Such wise words from a man who hasn't even gone to high school. His friend, who's a brilliant story teller, told me his fictional story of Kuri Kora. I am not even sure if the spelling is great but i've been eating the snack everyday. I don't understand half of his story but i knew there is talent in this man.

But one thing i will never forget is that he said to me. Your feet should be the head, the head should be the feet and the feelings/ the heart in the air. He must have sensed how ridiculously hard to understand what he said. He said to me, we've become part of the future and the change, we are left not knowing how it is to be happy and simple.

In Varanasi, the streets become narrow and i lost my money in things that i've always wanted to do. I am at a shitty internet shop in Kisha Guesthouse, directly in front of my room is the temple where they burn bodies. I woke up at around 4AM (i don't have a watch and my cellphone is useless - charging is impossible here) and i've seen smoke coming out of the temple, while the fireworks are carefully laid out one by one. I knew i wouldn't take photos. Imagine if one of your loved ones died, would you want a outsider taking photos? I am ashamed of those tourists who snap a photo for the sake. I went around and always find myself making a gesture before i take any photos.

I have to tell you that as days pass by, i am slowly becoming a part of the world here. Before, people always confuse me for somebody else. Now, people look at me and just smile. This morning i meditated in front of the biggest ghat. I have so many photos, but i am saving my battery for when i go on my next trip somewhere. Last night, i had the weirdest drinking session with three babbas and my good ol' Indian friend. They had whiskey and they were smoking joint, while i drink my Kingfisher (Extra strong at 650 ml), of course. I've spent money on unnecessary things and a lot of people are cons here, too. Yet, i felt i knew this would happen and i let it happen anyway.

Today, i'm quite unsure if i should stay here longer or it's time to move to Rajastan. My job here is done. Oh, by the way, don't tell my mother. I shaved my head today. It was a magical moment that i've always wanted to do. I shaved my head because i had to sacrifice. I want to wash away all my sins. And i knew leaving my hair near the steps of the holy river would somehow cleanse me of my troubles. I had also been blessed by a high priest and chanted words i could not understand. It's a blessing that i owe to my family. I threw a garland in the Ganga river and i left with a promise that i will be back better. I hope my simple feat, they would understand.

I miss home but i am looking forward to more exciting journeys here in India. I am changing and re-born.

Believe me when i say that everything you've heard about India is probably true. I am now in New Delhi and i cannot explain how tantric this city is. The minute i stepped outside the airport, i was already smoking with an Indian police. It's been almost three days that i am roaming around in New Delhi and i actually love it.

It's cold out here, about 12-15 degrees in the morning and at night. The pollution is just awful and i think i stepped on cow poop. I have so many photos i can't wait to share with everyone.

Everyday seems a new learning experience for me which i would like to share with you guys when i properly blog about India. A change of plan happened and i already went to Taj Mahal yesterday. I had goosebumps as soon as i walked leading towards the gate. It's like heaven, really. I've never seen a more beautiful palace in my entire life. And dare i say, India is probably the most beautiful country i've seen so far.

I've been only here a few days, but my experiences riding the butt-numbing bus, the spiritual driver i hired for a day tour and the many Israeli friends i've met have become part already of my journey. At the Taj Mahal, i felt sad knowing i could have enjoyed this amazing place with the people i love the most. I guess, in this lifetime, my job is to share it with them first.

I've been drinking Kingfisher Strong 650ml non-stop and i love it. I have a clock here and i am a bit confused what time really is. I don't have a watch nor a guide book. I ask people around where to go, and luckily i've had incredible suggestions which i might follow. This is why i don't like making plans, because if i did, my story would have been different.

I am riding the train to Varanasi tonight 18:45. I will arrive there by half past seven in the morning the next day. I am mentally, physically and spiritually prepared. I've been waiting my whole life for this moment. And i think, it's time for me to be born again.

When i have the time, i want to share with you the most unexpected but most heartfelt advice i've ever received from new Indian friend, Suraj. He said, we are all selfish. We only think of ourselves. He left the note that right at this very moment, God has paved away to bring happiness and answers to one person. I knew this would happen. To give back his kindness, i gave him my ultimate Pinoy Boy advice. He liked the Japanese girl at my back. I gave him my 1000 Yen bill and told him to ask the girl if she knows where she can exchange the bill. ha ha ha It didn't go out the way it's planned but it's fun.

The reason why people who go to India never forget the place, is not because of Taj Mahal (It's beautiful and all) and the temples but the people you see on the streets, the people you talk to... They pierce your hearts with their eyes. They see you, honest, truthful, and patient. I can never lie.