Costs and customs

For any one travellng to India, Having left Mumbai which was fairly expensive (hotel wise) things seem to be getting cheaper as we make our way down. For example our first night in Mumbai was spent in a hotel which cost alot more than the air fare from Mumbai to Mangalore ( which takes 1 and a half hours) per night. A car and driver for nine hours amounted to 1000 rupees. A meal for two including drinks in Mumbai will cost you from 85 rupees ( 1 pound) and the food is good. I have taken some construction photos which defy all health and safety laws. Last night Patsy and i went for a meal and to the side of us was a table with about 12 lads all having a meal together, I guess they were all in there early twenties and all of them having a real good time with nothing but lassi yoghurt to drink, i could'nt see that happening in England. On the other hand we saw a child of about 3 or 4 sleeping at night in a shop doorway ,which is common place. Patsy told me I'm already looking a bit slimmer but i think i will rely on photographic evidence when we finally get back. We haven't seen any elephants or cycle rickshaws yet which seemed to be everywhere the last time i was over buts it's early days. We are trying hard to find a place where we can down load some pics but it's proving difficult, again early days. Thats all for now folks.

P and P