I never thought I’d ever go to India. But I did for a month this year. It made me realise how slow and underwhelming the rest of the world is. Some of the unusual observations I made.

- You can literally order a bed, a washing machine or a TV within 10 min. Anytime. They have an app called Blinkit and Zepto that orders within 10 min (!)

And it‘s delivered RIGHT to my apartment door?!

- There are loads of street dogs. Like 10x what you see in Indonesia or Vietnam. I just don‘t do street dogs and I find them scary af.

- I really liked the climate. It was a humid 25 degree type of spring weather. Somehow felt crisp and didn‘t feel any of the pollution in Mumbai, Pune and Jaipur.

- My friend Sadiya, who I had worked with closely for a few months in 2023 showered me with gifts, and got me a portable induction so I could cook myself some meals in the Airbnb. I felt so taken care of! You’re such a G.

- Airport security was divided into female and male lines and I loved it.

- Chai. Everyday. Anytime. Chai. ☕️

- I barely saw any plastic. Everything - even takeaway - came in silver trays or carton boxes. Even chai was delivered with ceramic (!) cups.

- People stare. Always. Not mean, but curious. You learn to let them.

- Chapatis are easier to make then I thought.

- Everyone told me I’d get sick. I didn’t. I dosed up on my probiotics as usual.

- I flew to India to see those palaces. It’s one of the most beautiful palaces was the city palace in Jaipur. Mind blown.

In all … I’m super curious to see more of the north of India, I’m thinking of places like Assam.

You can’t call yourself a traveler if you’ve never been to India.

Those who’ve been know what I mean.