S.I.R.- Mumbai

Stanley here. Just a quick commentary on life in Mumbai. We've managed to find nice expensive cocktails twice and a guest house with a working bathroom once, and bars filled with expats and backpackers many times since arriving at this teeming jungle 2 nights ago. We've visited a contemporary art gallery, took a ferry across the harbor to some Buddhist/Hindu caves with beautiful ancient statues, and lounged in various bars and eateries.

One thing I've noticed: The further we go north, the more I distrust and avoid my fellow man. Perhaps this will change as we leave the tourist hubs behind. In Kerala, where backpackers and western tourists are rare, were constantly approached by people on the road. "Hello! What Country you from?! Can I take a photo with you!?" It was always out of genuine fascination and interest. People were just blown away that there were American tourists in their towns. In Goa we were less frequently approached: junk jewelry sellers on the beach and a time share salesman on the road. In Mumbai it's constant: "Hello my friend! Where are you from!? Taxi? Giant Rice Paper Balloon? Guided Tour? Hashish? Drum? Pashmina?" When someone approaches you in this town you don't smile and politely answer getting to know you type questions. You stare straight ahead and tell them to get the hell on with their business and find some other sucker. It's quite a transition. The world truly is a rich freaking tapestry isn't it?