16 June 2012 update

So its been a really lazy month here on Blogger for me. Work has always got to get the blame for keeping me busy. But here's an update. Dear diary sort of thing.

Manali
One thing I'm looking forward to with the greatest greatest anticipation is the proposed wintry trip to Manali with my brothers and parents. Manali is what you call a hillstation in India. A small town in the hills that those who live in the plains love to head to during the hot summer. I always love the idea of a hill station. It is something that you know is up there somewhere where you can go to, if life is starting to give you the pickles and heat and prickles. That is a luxury that many countries don't have. Most countries are stuck with one temperature and one heat within their borders.

Tourists
But as you should expect, you will see tourists in all their flurry and gusto. In their most colourful festive array. With woolen hats and windproof jackets, procured from the street shops. Sometimes I don't mind them. They have become part of the landscape, especially in the popular destinations like Gangtok and Darjeeling, that I've been to. Sometimes they are funny lots to observe and be entertained by. Sometimes they can be good objects to complain and rant about as you sit at some balcony waiting for 'Chowmein' or 'Maharaja meal deals' to be served. After all, most of the times, you yourself are a tourist in the place, no better than them.

But anyway, if you know me at all, you will know I am a complete sucker for mountains and places like these:


If I do get to go to Manali, this will mean ticking off one of the many lists in my to-visit places. In India.