Lost in Translation

(apologies for bad spelling in these past couple of posts - I have the toughest keyboard in the world - especially the i's and the l's)

Been having a few moments over the past few days that i can only liken to Lost in Translation. It's more a feeling than exact events, as there is something a bit disconcerting about wandering the streets by day, waiting for the person to share it with to come home. It's trying to assimilate to a culture and enjoy the adventure, but to only to feel increasingly baffled and alone. But these feelings can be directy related to the fact that Bangalore is probably a place that can be done in a day or two (and I'm on four) and my great planned day trip to Mysore has been cancelled. A bus trip was advised against for a number of reasons and getting a driver meant a seven hour round trip on bumpy roads. The drawcard of the Maharajah's palace was droolworthy, but for those who know me well, im a creature of comfort and doing such a slog by oneself lessened the appeal. So im very much looking forward to the weekend and a change of scenery (Mumbai).

I'm ripping thought my novel (Dave Eggars "You Shall Know Our Velocity" which is great company and has me laughing out loud often [Eggars was one of 2 authors (with Da Vinci Code's Dan Brown) just named in Time's 100 most influential people in the word along wth Bush, Bill Gates etc. etc .... Eggars?!?! Don't understand!]) and venturing out for three or four hours each day. Still shopping somewhat but finding it exhausing. Going to the art gallery this afternoon hopefully. There have been 2 backouts this moring - whch is pretty much on par as backouts seem to occur 3 or 4 times a day (especaly during heat of day) and last for half an hour to an hour.

Have sustained 4 mozzie bites so far, whch isnt too bad consdering their desire for me and the fact that there are so many here you need to be careful when you talk/eat not to swallow one. But up with my malara pills...i think...

Went to another roof-top restaurant last night, which was a very calssy, sliver service affair (cost us under $20AUD - so ive made a deal with dave that i buy him dinner here if he buys in London!). Had the best curries ive ever had. Bliss! Going there again tonight with Dave's work colleagues which should be great. We went there last night after going shopping, where Dave had put my batering skills to shame. I have a tendancy to pay whatever they ask me or get a 3 for 2 type deal whereas dave will spend half an hour debating the price of every litte thing. I have to walk away I find it so embarrassing - but he thrives on it. One of the most amsusing tidbits about shopping/going to restaurants here is the sheer number of staff. Last night we went into a small men's underwear shop, where we were the only people in there for the 20 mins we were there... and had about 7 people serving us!! No kidding.

xx Heather