The backup trip - Kawal Tiger Reserve

Dot com kottera? (Did you type in the ".com?") this was the question asked by the office boy from the Gandikota Haritha resort. A few girlfriends and I had planned to do a road trip to Gandikota, the grand canyon of India. Everything was planned and set except for the accommodation. The only housing options in this little town was the state government run resort. And, the only way to book it was online. The website kept crashing each time I tried. After a frustrating day of trying to book our rooms, I got in touch with my other travel enthusiasts friends to get the phone number of the resort office. You would think, in this day and age, I should have easily found it online. I did, but finding a functional number felt like an unachievable dream. After a relentless search, I did get through to this interesting office boy who questioned my knowledge of using the world wide web and the office manager who informed me that the whole place was booked out for the weekend. Rooms, dormitories, all.

The thought of a holiday had settled in my head. Unavailability of accommodation wasn't going to ruin my plans. So, after a little research we decided to go to Kawal wildlife sanctuary which is 250Kms from Hyderabad. Booked the stay on Thursday afternoon. Packed Friday night, made the music playlist Saturday morning at 4 and we were ready to leave. But, by the time we 4 girls got together, it was 6 a.m. We were just an hour behind the planned schedule and being Hyderabadis, we were doing a great job.

I still had Gandikota on my mind and so we started driving on the airport road. Didn't realize the mistake till we were on our way back. Payal and I were the designated drivers for the trip. We needed to follow the map to be on the right exit from the city. Payal is a self proclaimed mess when it comes to maps, so it was decided that she would take up the initial stretch of driving while I would guide her with the map. We made a wrong turn but nothing mattered with the yummy sandwiches made by Payal's mom in our hands. Aunty is one of the most awesome cooks I have known. And them being Gujaratis, we had enough food to last us the whole trip. We weren't complaining. The three types of sandwiches and the home made wheat base pizzas were keeping us too busy to care about anything else. The morning fog, a rarity in Hyderabad added to the electric excitement already buzzing in the car.

The group was a very random mix. Payal, Appu and I have done a few trips together. Vanita is a good friend of mine who was introduced to all of us through another common friend. We all know each other, but none of us had ever imagined that one day, just four of us would be on a trip together.

After getting onto the NH44, it's a straight road and a gorgeous one at that. Payal was amazed at how smooth my car was going. We were in my one year old I10 Grand Sportz Petrol car. This was it's 3rd road trip. While making my playlist, I had made it a point to put together a playlist of Bolly numbers as the rest three are big Bollywood lovers. I don't listen to Bollywood much and the latest song on that playlist was atleast 10 years old. And that turned out to be the best part. We sang along, danced, talked about the movie, the actor and everything else. It was an absolute laughter riot. What with Vanita imitating Anu Malik's singing. And if anyone of you have heard him sing, "Dekho baarish ho rahi hai" you know what I am talking about. Our voices were already hoarse laughing.

Once we were in Medak district, we stopped by at a Punjabi dhabha and had some great tea and a Paneer paratha lathered in butter. We ordered it cause we are greedy gluttons and not cause we were really hungry. We wanted to take a picture with the Dhaba as the backdrop but the Dhaba owner decided to make us a prop for the marketing of his eatery.

I took up the wheel from here on. We had our map on with Nirmal as the destination. As we came closer, we switched it to Jannaram, the village where the reserve was located. We missed the exit and had to take a U-turn and head back. There is a short stretch of bad road, almost 200 meters and then on, it turns into a single lane road. So, basically I got the shitty part of the drive. I announced that on the way back, I would drive on the earlier, beautiful stretch of the road.

We passed by some serene Indian countryside landscape. Lakes, shrubs, hillocks and oh ya, goats, sheep, cows and buffaloes. We entered the protected area and as in most Indian forests, the monkeys were out on the road welcoming the visitors. One of them even joined us in our Bollywood fun.

The Haritha resort board is on the main road and is easily visible but we decided to be technology dependent dunce heads and allowed the map to take us into a tiny lane, only to turn back out and follow the signboard. The resort, now by resort if you have images of a swimming pool and lush green grass and fancy butlers walking around with cocktails, push it out. From what I have heard, Haritha resorts have fairly the same structure at each of their locations. This was our first. Small cottages spread out, with a small park in the center and an office building and a restaurant. Seeing we were four women by ourselves, Khan our Man Friday for the next two days decided to give us the safest rooms of all. Two rooms with their own common porch and balcony and a facility to lock ourselves in from the rest of the resort, still keeping the connection between us open.

He suggested we go for the Jungle safari in the morning as the sightings are best then. Now, we didn't know what else we could do for the rest of the day. He recommended a little lake with boating 25 Kms away, at the other Haritha resort. The famous Kuntala waterfalls was a good 100 Kms away and Khan told us that there wasn't enough water. So, that was out of our itinerary too. We decided to chill in the afternoon, have lunch and then go for boating in the evening. We ordered a couple of Veg Thalis, a chicken curry and while waiting for it, got into the preparations of getting us into high spirits. We had carried all that we need from Hyderabad, not trusting finding what we like in this small town/village. We sat sipping, talking about anything and everything. Life, common friends, self confidence, happy with how we look...... At this moment, Vanita says "So pretty" The rest of us think she is complimenting us and we look up to thank her, only to notice that our lady is talking to herself looking in the mirror. We were in splits and #sopretty is stuck to Vanita till she does something equally crazy, which by the way, knowing her, isn't too far away in the future.

After downing a couple and having one of the most delicious meals in a long time, we all wind up to take a nap. I, as usual can't sleep but try my best while tossing and turning. Finally, giving up after an hour, I got up and we all pushed off to the boating site. When we got there, we see it's a lake at the base of Kaddam Project dam. And the boating....well, a 20 seater boat which right now was full with the neighbouring villagers who had come in bus loads (literally) to enjoy their weekend outing. Their weekend just got better watching these jeans clad (and a funny dhoti pant clad, moi) shades wearing city girls. We couldn't stop giggling watching them and well, encouraging them. The boat guy (what do you actually call them?) looked at us, looked at the crowd and the 20 seater boat and decided for the well being of everyone that we should go in our private motor boat for 300/- Fancy eh? So, out come these tattered, dirty life jackets which everyone refused to wear, except for this scaredy cat. Yours truly.

So our boat man, starts it, and starts swaying it left right and center. Each time the boat tips to one side, which is every 3 seconds, I have images of me falling over and drowning. I am glad I have my shades on and no one can see my fear stricken, saucer shaped eyes. I wait for it to get done and after what felt like an eternity, it is. As we are getting out of our boats, Vanita madam waves goodbye to a suddenly jubilant bunch of boys in the other boat.

We went looking for a haunted guest house recommended by a friend which was supposed to be near our resort. We couldn't find it and the area around us, wasn't encouraging enough for us to go on venturing further ahead. We decided to give up the hunt.

Back to the resort, we order our dinner and play around in the park. Yup, the average age was in the early thirties but who can resist a swing and a slide? By 7, my energy levels were at the lowest, it being close to my daily bed time. The girls decide it's again, the time to get our spirits high. We settle down in our balcony. Wrapped in shawls, feet cozy in socks and face lathered in odomos, we were ready for the night to begin. Actually, it wasn't us who needed any preparations, it should have been the other residents of the resort. Khan, our Man Friday must have cursed himself for being the one at the reception when we checked in. Now, every 5 minutes, one of those annoying city girl was calling out, "Khhaaaaaannnn" asking for ice, chicken, cold water and what not. If he didn't respond, I would call him up. You see, he had made the mistake of giving me his number. The worst decision of the day? He had given us a room facing the restaurant. We were the horrible hooligans screaming our lungs out, laughing our witch laughs, ruining the dream of a peaceful night of the other residents.

At 10 in the night, Vanita announced she wanted to see the stars. So, out we walk, into the park area. The watchman rushes and shuts the main gate probably dreading the thought that we girls are going to walk out of the resort. We stand staring at the clear night sky. Amazed at the number of stars we could see. The calm lasted for probably a full minute and then we were back to our antics. I think it was the high quality spirits inside us, which made us believe we could and should pull off a pole dance. Yup. We did that. There were couple of uncles (I am sorry if you weren't uncles, but you looked like that) walking in the park who saw us and ran back to their rooms. We could hear a mini party going on in every cottage. Vanita had a brilliant (Not!) idea of knocking at one of the doors and running back into our room. Luckily no one fell for it.

The monkey business we did through the day guaranteed us a sound sleep in the night. We were bright and up at 6 ready for our Jungle safari. There was an open top safari and we wanted to sit in the open area obviously. Before I go ahead, let me introduce you to our driver and guide Rajamouli. I cracked a lame-o joke asking about his next movie. (Rajamouli is also the name of a famous Telugu movie director) Some old uncles also wanted to join the safari and they are given the closed seating areas and we city girls decide to brave the weather. Bad idea!! WE FROZE TO DEATH!! In my last minute packing (so unlike me) I had forgotten to carry any warm clothing. Luckily Payal had an extra pair of jacket and a shawl which came to my rescue. We had to go on the highway for a 10 km stretch in that biting cold before we entered the reserve. Our driver had warned us about it but there was nothing much we could do. Vanita used Times of India newspaper to cover her ears. We couldn't even laugh at it as we had to conserve all our energy into staying warm.

Once we entered the reserve, we had to protect our #sopretty faces from the low hanging branches. We saw a Sambar, which stopped and actually posed for us. I realized then that the big ass DSLR camera I was carrying did not have it's SD card in. No more last minute packing for me!! We saw a small herd of spotted deer, one more Sambar and a beautiful blue bird. Each time an animal was spotted, our driver/guide would make frantic hand gestures from his windows to catch our attention and direct it to the animal. Appu would tap back on the hood of the car with her nails to let him know we had noticed. Either it was a really funny situation or we were still high from last night. We just couldn't stop laughing.

We stopped at a watering hole where Tigers are usually spotted. Our guide/driver told us that the tribals in the area had killed a tiger day before with electric current. Damn saddening. Hope the correct actions are taken to avoid this situation in the future. We wanted to get off the jeep and walk around. The uncles had gone off already. We had to jump off and then climb back in. Appu called our driver/guide who she had lovingly christened Raj now to come give her support. She forced him to pose for a picture with us. Our heart warmed looking at this love blossoming in front of our eyes. Poor Raj was embarrassed and scared but Appu is a go-getter, city girl after all. The rest three of us felt like awkward guests at a forced wedding.

Once we got back to the resort, we thanked "Raj" but Appu did a skip and a jump and called out "Bye Raj" The uncles and us found it quite amusing. We headed into the restaurant where the rest of the residents recognized us from the night before and gave us the stink eye. It made no difference to us, as well, we are city brats. After a good Dosa, Idli, Poori breakfast, we packed and were ready to head back to Hyderabad. Even at the last moment instead of calling out for Khan to help us clear the bill, Appu kept taking Raj's name. This became and still is a constant topic for us to pull her leg.

We had wanted to see the fort in Nirmal which was impossible to find. The locals kept directing us to weird, tiny lanes and one point we were literally off-roading, but being in an I10, it wasn't really a great idea. We could hear a rock hit the undercarriage of my car. My heart sank but luckily there wasn't any damage. The pathway to the fort looked very shady with men standing in corners talking. We decided to drop the plan and head back to Hyderabad.

On the highway we came across the elusive fort we were looking for. Nobody at the counter, didn't know how to get in, so we took a few pictures at the archway and hit the road.

I have to mention the Toilet booths by the highway we came across which were very clean and a big surprise to all of us. After a late lunch at a highway restaurant, planning our next trip, we reached Hyderabad around 5 in the evening.

It was time to bid goodbye and get lost in the polluted, disturbed city life.

Till the next one, "Bye Raj!"

Slovakia: A nature lover's paradise

It is a lovely sunny day. The weather forecast is great, except for the days that I was going to be in Bratislava. Train travel is really luxurious here. Added to my luxury was the delicious sandwiches Lenka had packed for me. I had a little tip from her regarding trains in Czech. She recommended Radiojet trains. They were cheaper and the food available on them was affordable and delicious. Well, too late for me but hope this tidbit helps you.

The view as soon as I entered Slovakia was breathtaking. How did I know I was in Slovakia? There was a random check at the border. Cops came in and all the foreign looking people like me, were asked to show their passport, visa and tickets. So, back to the gorgeous scenery. Lakes, mountains, green meadows. Sigh...

That was the nature. But as we came closer to towns, I could see decrepit houses, malnourished children and dirty dwellings, just like most Indian cities or towns present themselves. My first stop was Poprad. As soon as I alighted the train, I had the view of the great Tatras, the mountain range, Poprad is nestled in. Snow capped mountains. I couldn't wait for my trek tomorrow. I was couchsurfing with a family here. I was in touch with the dad, Branko. I found their house quite easily. Branko and Kadri lived with their two adorable children in a very swanky, modern flat. I absolutely loved their house. This was the first place I was literally couchsurfing. My bed was a couch by the day and doubled as a bed by the night.

The Tatras

It was still quite early in the day. Too late for a trek but too early to stay in. I showed Branko my list of "To do" in Poprad. He told me that I could go to Kezmarok which was just 20 minutes away by train and gave me the train timings, to and fro. As soon as I got out of the station, I was shocked with my surroundings. When the train was reaching the station, I could see multiple slums. Once out, there were homeless people all around. For the first time in my travels, I was scared to get my camera out. I felt anyone could just grab it and run away. I switched on the map and walked as quickly as my legs could carry me.

Kezmarok has a wooden church which is a UNESCO heritage site. Pictures aren't allowed inside, but a bunch of students were busy clicking away. I didn't have the heart to do it, knowing well, why it was prohibited. Mostly it is to preserve the interiors. Please do google the Evangelical church of the holy trinity and check it out. It has exceptional wall paintings and wood carvings.

Wooden church

Once back in Poprad, I went hunting for food. After walking around randomly, I came to a restaurant called Hodovna and ordered myself a Beer pork collar roast, served with cabbage patties and sauce with a mug of Pilsner. My only meal of the day apart from the sandwiches Lenka had given me. During the dinner, a got a message and on auto reflex I pressed "No" and then realized that my data had stopped working. The sim I had taken in Prague was useless now. A friend in India tried to help me, joining my efforts to try and reactivate it. But it was pointless. It was time to bid goodbye to data connection.

Meal of the day

Post dinner I got home and met the whole family properly. Another couchsurfer, a British girl, named Annabelle was staying with us too. She had been hitchhiking through Europe for the past month or so. Her last stop before Poprad was at a farm run by a Dutch family. She was travelling with no fixed itinerary and was at the last of her savings. She couldn't afford to pay for accommodation and preferably not for travelling either. I just couldn't imagine doing what she was doing. I thought I was on a shoe string budget, but she was taking it to another level. Well, it's another matter that we can't really compare the Rupee to Pound. She was hitchhiking through towns and going wherever the roads took her. What an adventure!!

Once the kids were sent to bed, Branko took out all his maps to help us plan our itinerary. It was evident that he was an avid trekker and was almost an encyclopedia when it came to this region. He recommended I drop Kosice, my next destination from my itinerary and stay back so I would have time to go atleast on one trek. I didn't even blink before I decided to follow Branko's advice. What's the point if you don't listen to the locals?

He showed the various treks we could do on his map. My favourite, which caught my attention immediately was the trek/hike in the Slovak Paradise National park. It was quite intense and extremely adventurous, but unfortunately I didn't have the time to do it. Branko told us about another trek, which had the best trail but I couldn't do it as there was still snow there and I didn't have the right gear for it. I was quite tempted to go buy some. But, luckily I talked myself out of it. Another one, which had an overnight stay at a cabin, where all trekkers drank and sang late into the night and then started trekking at the break of dawn. By now, I knew I was going to come to Slovakia again. The Poprad-Tatry stretch needs at least 10 days, if you want to do it any justice.

Next morning, I took the early train to Strebske Pleso. I missed the direct train and so had to take the one via Stary Smokovec. The train is chugging along a hill, the incline so obvious that you feel like you are in an amusement park, but a ride which is super slow. On both sides there are deep coniferous forests, which clears every now and then to give us a peek of tiny hamlets set in the middle of nowhere. The other stations we came across on the way, didn't even have platforms. It was a just a thin strip of cemented land with forests on both sides. The train was full of people in proper hiking gear and I was in cotton pants and Keds. (#facepalm) Well, it is what it is. Not going to let it ruin my experience. I was here to have fun. And that's what I intended to do.

Once I got to Strebske Pleso, first stop, breakfast. I was famished and didn't have the energy to look around for the cheapest options available. I went into the first big restaurant which came my way and ordered a double egg and ham omelette. Full and satisfied, it was time to start my trek up to Skok waterfall. At the beginning of the trail, there was another track, where I noticed, there were resorts and guest houses. A lot of couples were strolling around, hand in hand. I decided to hold the hand of my camera and click away to glory. Pictures of the nature and not the couples. Pictures I just realized (I think)I have lost. Oh wait! I found some of them! I had transferred a few on my phone. Luckily have those. Phew!

The trail was very relaxed and simple. Unfortunately, that's all my shoes could take right now. There were even old people and young kids on the trail. I am really looking forward to bringing my son here in the next few years. There was an old gentleman, must have been atleast in his late 60s. I could barely keep up with him. He is totally my inspiration now. There were people with dogs too. I wondered how it would be to bring my Reiko here. DISASTER!! This was the way of their life. While we went to malls and the movies, these guys went outdoors, spending time on adventure activities. I wish I had these options back home.

Once I was on the top, I sat under the warm sun for a while. Warm, not by Indian standards. it was 6 degrees, but I had broken into a sweat with the vigorous hike. It was so serene to sit by the waterfall, hearing the gentle burble and splash of the water against the rocks. Dogs were rolling around playing and couples were sitting having a picnic. I decided to move on, before this happy feeling fades and I start missing my family and friends. I loved how people, random strangers said hello to you when you passed by, smiled at you. I was moved with the multiple smiles and Dobry den (Good day in Czech) coming my way all day. If some random stranger behaved the same way back home, I would think either he/she is crazy or has some sinister motive.

On the walk to the station, I had a bout of shopping fever no. 3 (1 in Prague, 2 in Cesky Krumlov) I shopped for my family, friends, friends kids (also like my family) Poorer than I was in the morning, I knew it was time to leave.

Once back at Poprad, I went to the Supermarket, an idea given by Annabelle. Broke people's hack. Apparently, most people's hack. But, this was not my ideal way of spending my vacation. Eating out, enjoying the local cuisines, trying out new flavours is a big part of my experience. But, I wasn't in a position to do that anymore. So, I went to the store and bought myself some soup, a sandwich and some fruits. Yesterday, I had taken an Orange (Vodafone for us) sim, which wasn't working. So, I went back to the store today, asking them to look into it.  After a few calls, the girl tells me that the sim won't work on my phone and she can't do anything more. I give her a piece of my mind, tell her that this is the worst customer service I have seen in my life. She asks me to call customer care, I tell her it's her responsibility and she should do that. She sighs, looks at me and returns me my money. Job well done Deepika Rao!! Don't you mess with an Indian!!

At home, Branko, Kadri and I sat talking about India, tolerance, travelling and finding oneself. They had traveled through India years ago and were sharing their experience, which was quite similar to what most foreigners face and go through in our country. I absolutely loved how they believe in the principle of "Family before individual" ( I coined that term, at least in this post) which was quite evident. They spent a lot of time together and every weekend they went out on little excursions with the kids, exploring their world.

Next morning I was off to see the Ice caves. I had to take a train to Liptovsky mikulas and then a bus. I had so many goddamn coins by now that they kept spilling out of my purse. After a similar embarrassing episode in the bus, I was on my way to the Demanovka Cave of Liberty. The landscape was spectacular and I was dreaming of a road trip here. How great would it be to cruise around in an open top car!! The cave, was just not worth it. I had paid 18 Euros for entry with my camera. The guide spoke only in Slovak and I was pissed. The saving grace...I still got to see some magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations and a gorgeous underground river.

Underground river

Next, I took a bus and I went to the Demanovska Ice caves. I was hungry and decided to grab lunch at the restaurant outside the entrance. The cheapest thing on the menu was Halusky for 6 Euros. Aaaarggghh!! I am so so broke. No point crying now, is it? Miss fancy shmancy, I think you should just stick to exploring India for a while. Now, let's just enjoy this moment, shall we?

Halusky

The restaurant was set next to a river, it was a bright and sunny day. There was a park next to the restaurant full of kids playing around. I was literally in tears. I was missing my son. It was way too long and couldn't wait to get home and hold him.

To access the caves we have to climb up a steep incline. After that heavy Halusky meal, I was scared I would throw up with the exertion. But, I kept reminding myself to think of the awesome calf muscles I might get with this workout. In the cave, climate change had played spoilt sport. There were barely any ice formations. The guide told us the same and all of us were quite dissapointed. All we could see was a big slab of ice. Well, a few more of my hard earned rupees for nothing.

Damn you climate change!!

Evening back at Branko and Kadri's place we sat around talking about various things. Branko had made dinner. Apparently he did every weekend to give Kadri a break from the housework. He had made some delicious soup and all of us had dinner together. I was off tomorrow morning to the next stop Spisske Podhradie. It was time to bid goodbye to Branko and Kadri's lovely family and the so very adventurous Anabelle.

Bye bye lovelies

Next day, I took a bus to Podhradie. I had a gorgeous view. Meadows with cows grazing on it, a church spire in the horizon. The only not cool thing... the bus driver was texting!!

I had an Airbnb booking at Podhradie. I was staying with Miro and his little son in their house. Miro owns and runs a joint in the small town, called Dabar. It is quite a landmark, you can even see street signs for it. I was given his son's room. I had a bed with little beetles painted on the wall and a bathroom where Winnie the pooh stared at me while I showered. There wasn't anything to do in this town except for the castle and it was too late to do that today. The blanket smelled so good, wonder what is the detergent they used. With nothing to do and inviting, fragrant bed right next to me,I curled up with my next episode of GOT.

Next morning, I ate a breakfast of bread, cheese, ham and the most delicious ever Strawberry jam and was on my way to the castle. It was such a glorious day! Sunny, with a breathtaking view at every step. I took a complicated route there and had to fight through thorns and rocks and creepy crawlies.
Pictures couldn't do justice to what my eyes were seeing. I tried my hand at taking some selfies, and well, I think I did a decent enough job. Nope, I am not sharing any of it here!!

I took an audio guide and walked through the castle. Spissky Hrad or the Spis castle is a UNESCO heritage site which is the oldest and largest castle in Central Europe. I was tanned as hell by now. The audio guide narrated a love story of a prince and princess which ended tragically. I started to cry. Like tears rolling down my face. I knew I was physically and emotionally exhausted. I need people. I need my people. I wanted to get back home. But cause I had already come this far, I would straighten up and keep on trucking.

Castle kitchen

View to kill for. And people did. 

Chapel

Castle grounds

Branko had recommended checking out Drevenik, beautiful rock formations hidden in trees opposite the castle. There was little trail up a hillock and to get there I had to pass the parking lot where the old man at the curio store took a look at me and started screaming out Bollywood stars' names. He didn't have a shirt on and claimed he was Salman Khan! Hilarious!! I saw a bunch of cute biker grandpas.

The trail to the Dreveniks is quite interesting and a bit scary. I could hear rustling sounds from the forest and I was walking on a thin trail which was marked by a yellow ribbon. Just when I was wondering if being attacked by a bear would be my greatest adventure this trip, there came out these beautiful rock formations. I sat there for a while and played around with my lenses taking pictures of the castle.

Grandpa Bikers

Drevenik

 On my way back, I walked through the town looking for a restaurant or a store to buy some food. Found nothing. I got back home starving. Miro had already informed me that he would be going to his sister's place with his son and the whole house was mine. When he realized I hadn't eaten anything, he went to his sister's house, packed some food for me. Some is an understatement. It was a sausage fest. Ermmm, not the kinds you are thinking about. The sausages one can eat. God No! Sausages made from pigs!! Goddamn it! What's the right way to explain? I hope you know what I am talking about.

After a super filling meal, I went into his backyard and sunbathed. Just when I was sure the bathing was turning into burning, I went into his Bar (It was shut that day) and checked it out. Loved the place. Coffee and wine, board games on the tables, playpen for the kids. Why can't we have something like this back home?

Sunbathing view

After a satisfying, beautiful and emotional day, it was time to go to bed to wake up at a godforsaken hour tomorrow morning.

So up at 3, I had a bus to Poprad at 4 and a train to Bratislava from there. Miro came to see me off at the station. I had a real tough time dragging my million bags on the bus and then to the train. Bratislava was cold and wet. I found my hostel quite easily. I was staying at the Freddy Hostel. The check in was at 2 and I still had a long way to go for it. I put my bags in their locker and went in search for some food and money. Had delicious pancakes with fruits and cream at Stur cafe and it was time to start swiping my card. But, it wouldn't work. the debit, credit, none of them!! I paid it with my dwindling cash stash and the next stops were the multiple ATM machines on the street. Same story. So, next I went to the bank and exchanged all my remaining CZK to Euros.

Hostel common room

Frankly I don't remember much of my time in Bratislava. I was in a haze. Not the good kinds. I had lost interest and the weather was not helping. So, the highlights of Bratislava..

The painter. This street artist, Italian man, asked me if I wanted my portrait sketched. I smiled, said no thank you and started moving on. He did an exaggerated jump, told me I was beautiful ( my smile, more so. Blush blush) and offered to do it for free. When I politely declined that too, he offered to take me out for a coffee. Well, my coffee experience with the Macedonian whacko in Berlin had taught me a very valuable lesson and I wasn't falling for that again. Time to do my best version of brisk walking.

Man at work. Not anymore.

 The blue church. My favourite favourite place. So goddamn beautiful. I probably shouldn't use goddamn while describing the house of god, you think?

The UFO observation deck. I didn't go here. Cause it was too far to walk and I was too broke to pay for transport. And mainly, cause I got too engrossed watching this couple, stark naked, doing the deed in one of the cabins of the cruise ships docked by the bridge. Hey, what?! Not my fault! They should have drawn the curtains!!

Yup. That is the cruise ship

The guy from Marseilles. Sigh. French men. Sigh. We met for the first time and spoke for a few minutes just when he was leaving. He was very disappointed that we hadn't met a day before. Sigh

The guy from South Korea. Weirdo alert!! I had came across this guy on my first day while he was checking in. He was in my room and like most people do in hostels, we were sharing our travel stories. Each time I walked by him, he spread his arms like he was going to hug me, complete Shahrukh Khan style. I am a very light sleeper and every time I opened my eyes in the night, I could see this guy, on his bed (Bunk bed opposite mine), glasses on, staring at me. Next morning, he wanted to have breakfast with me and kinda tried to imply that I would have to pay for it. FO!

The other girl from Singapore. She introduced me to a great offline map app and thanks to her, my last day of the trip was manageable.

Trip to Vienna. On Branko's recommendation, I went on a day  trip to Vienna from Bratislava. the bus ticket is just 5 Euros. I couldn't find my bus and had given up hope, and was planning where to go next when another bus driver came up to help me and guided me to the right one. It was a great drive with windmills on the sides. There was a bunch of Spaniards in the bus who were having a great time laughing and talking. I decided, next time onwards, solo trips should not last more than a week. I start missing people and get home sick after that. I just saw a few places quickly in Vienna. Didn't have the time to explore it well.

Vienna State Opera

Vienna State Opera

St.Stephen's Cathedral

St.Stephen's Cathedral

St.Stephen's Cathedral

St.Stephen's Cathedral

Theseus Temple

Hofburg Palace

Theseus Temple

Museumsquartier

Leoplod Museum - Museumsquartier

Dream come true

Mozart

View from the Biergarten

The guy who passed out in St.Stephen's cathedral. This guy just fell flat on the floor, completely unresponsive to anything the people around him did. Splashing water, slapping his face. The security came in and carried him away. The general talk was that the man was drugged out. 

Shopping fever no.4 #facepalm

Love across the generations in Vienna. (In the train, from the bus drop point to the city center) I saw how affection was being displayed by couples from two different generations. This old couple, holding hands and sitting while these teenagers... The boy had his hand between the girl's legs like it was nothing more than just holding hands. To come to think of it, this was probably just lust and had no love involved in it. (I am getting old!)

And that's love.

The old man in Vienna. I had my meal at the most affordable place I could find. But once I had ordered my meal, I came to know that they did not have WiFi. So, post my meal, I went hunting for a restaurant with WiFi as I needed it to book my ticket to Bratislava. There were many, but I couldn't access it without ordering some thing. So, I went into a cafe and ordered a glass of wine while my phone charged. A pleasant looking old man, on the table next to me asked me to join him and started talking about his life, he was from Egypt n bla bla. It was all nice till he suggested that he would show me around Vienna and I could spend the night at his. So, off I ran with him following me till the local train station.

Cappuccino in Vienna

Ravioli with sheep cheese and prosciutto

Siti and family. The train from Vienna to Bratislava had auto shutting doors, like most trains there. I missed boarding it and the doors were shut. I didn't know what to do and couldn't think of shelling another 13 Euros for the next train. Luckily the next compartment had a manual door and I got through it. In the cabin I was sitting, I met Siti and her family. A Malaysian family living in Ireland where Siti is studying and so her family has moved there with her. We had a great time talking about various things and are still in touch, thanks to Facebook.

New friends

That's it. Next day I was off to Prague and then off to India. I went crazy shopping at the duty free and met an interesting Argentinian guy on my flight who presently lives in New Zealand and is madly in love with his girlfriend and adores her daughter. :)

A must have!! Sweet, moist absolutely drool worthy cake. 

Heaven!!!

So, here I was, back home. Exhausted, broke but happy. Fridge door fuller with the new magnets and my soul content with the memories and now back in the presence of my loved ones.