Hyderabad

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Today was a travel day to Hyderabad, home of Lydia's orpahage. But first some adventures in Hotel-land and the hazards of booking through unknown travel agents. We left our Delhi Guest House at 4 am for an early flight. We arrived in Hyderabad. Immediately we were struck by how much greener and quieter --relatively--it is to Dehli. We arrived at our hotel to find a sparkling lobby, beautiful buffet spread, and Akon playing on the Musak in the dining area. Things were looking good.

Then we were shown to our rooms. The immediate smell of mildew was nearly over whelming. Further inspection found dirty, buckling carpet, moldy crumbling tile in the bath, and an AC that was blowing a different but equally offensive smell of mold. The second room wasn't much better. Since we were already paying substantially more than we were in Delhi, we were not pleased and complained. We were told the travel agent booked us in a 'standard' room, but that if we paid for an upgrade, they'd switch us to a 'deluxe.' We looked. Again, better but not by much. We opted to checkout and find something else. This got their attention and they offered the deluxe at no extra cost. Sorry, See ya.

The 'problem' was finding something else. Having struck out at out first place and finding no room at a second pick from the Lonely Planet, we decided to strike out for a known quantity. Hello, Mr. Marriott. The problem was they only executive suites. Being exhausted and having the bonus of earning points with these guys, we figured what the heck. We'll suffer later. We are truly through the looking glass here. This is a 5-star place with polished marble everywhere and five staff members ready serve you in 15 different ways. I didn't know this India existed. The kids couldn't be happier, but it hardly feels like visiting the developing world. One thing though: since a mosque was bomded here a month ago, the high-end places are on full alert here. Our vehicles are searched for bombs and we walk through metal detectors to get in the lobby. 'Insulated' is a word that comes to mind.

We did venture out to find Lydia's orphange but no luck. It was shut down in 2001 and we could not even find the address after driving 2 hours in monsoon conditions. We visited a local childrens hospital and the medical director filled us in on what was going on with these homes. We did learn that Lydia most likely came from a rural area outside of Hyderabad, but there is no way of really knowing. Since we couldn't find a direct connection to her placement, we will do general cultural exploring of Hyderabad tomorrow.

Oh, and now having seen the city fully awake, it is noisy here, too.

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Comments

[ana]

hi guys! just wanted you to know I am reading your journal and am very excited for you. Nam, you are a born story teller... (not surprisiing). Your mom's tendency to give it all away is just part of her nature....Henri thanks for giving us a glimpse into your adventures...give Rachel and Lydia a kiss...:) love, ana maria sophia...Have a happy fourth!

[Grandma Dunbar]

This is great!
I am so enjoying these fresh views of your travels. I added Cindy and Grace to the list. Sounds like everyone is having a great time. I really like getting different family member's views. thanks

[GLutz]

Sounds Exciting
It is great to travel the world with this amazing family. It makes Newton Grove look kind of red necked, but it still has it circle drive! NC is still a beautiful place to be. Have a wonderful, unforgettable trip. And thanks for sharing. Aunt Grace

[Valarie Young]

Hello
Just got caught up. What a great adventure!! Keep the posts coming. Have some Lumpia for me in Vietnam. Thanks for sharing your trip.