Expat Experience

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There is an IU Alum living in my house.
The family I'm renting from has also leased a short term rent to an older man from Ohio. I had breakfast with him the other day and came to know that he went to IU way back in the 60s. It was still fun to have someone around who knew a bit about where I'm from and whom I could talk about basketball and bicycle races with.
I have been busy, busy, busy lately. My dad called this morning and I had to rush off so that I could finish my tea before work. I've been working until after 6:30 everyday and meeting friends afterwards. Last night I went out with Maelle to an "expat party" in GK2. It was at a bar called, Kuki and was definitely the most upscale bar scene I've been to since being here. We almost didn't get in. (Drinking age is 25 here.) But Maelle's landlord knew the manager and so within minutes I had a blue wristband taped to me and was taken past the red ropes. They had free drinks, but I was just grateful to sip some apple juice. I haven't had juice in a while because I'm not sure which fruit stands to trust yet. I also caught a Russian/Spanish soccer game on the flatscreen and that got a little interesting for a while.
Maelle and I plan to visit Agra this weekend if the weather permits. We're looking to go with a group of girls to the Taj Mahal. Maelle and I were talking about how its so funny that we feel so alike in India though she's French and I'm from the States.
"You know when I was in studying in Sweeden, I felt very french." She told me yesterday at dinner. "But here, I feel very western."
I knew exactly what she meant. India has had the same effect on me. Maelle and I are so different, but in India we're like long, lost best friends and feel so similiar. It's strange, but nice.
I went to Noida yesterday for a meeting, which is about an hour north of Delhi. It was cool to get out of the city for a while and visit the outskirts. I'll share pictures this weekend - I hope! I need to find the plug-in for my camera.
I do hope we do visit Agra this weekend. I am dying to ride an elephant!

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Photos

Noelle, Maelle, Me
Expat night at Kuki Bar

Maelle, Me
Taking a break from the soccer game to snap some photos

Comments

[Tinnah]

Taj Mahal!
Hey Rach, I am sooo jealous. I have always wanted to see the Taj Mahal. It is an architectural jem! Please DO take some pics for me. It sounds like things are going well and you've made some good connections. Keep yourself open to new experiences! Be wise, be safe, trust your gut and mostly have a good time! Love the LB Medinas'

[Maria]

Elephant
Can I believe what I am reading! Rachel Medina wants to ride an elephant. When we were younger I could barely get you to go on a bike ride with me! I'm so happy you are enjoying your trip/learning experience. I am so proud of you for the courage to go especially by yourself. I don't know if I could do all the curry alone :) Love MaRia

[Jim Bright]

Great photos!
Love seeing the photos of your office, your boss and your many friends. Enjoy your adventures!