Getting Lazy

We have fallen off the intrepid tourist wagon by eschewing the overcrowded local buses for a car and driver for the last two short journeys. I must say it was quite comfy and cozy. Also, after about 40 straight days of Indian food, we spied Cafe Meditteraneo featuring an Italian chef. We never saw anyone who looked Italian but we did have two tasty meals of Italian delights there including some breakfast cappuccino--a nice change from chai.

Orchha was a pleasant surprise we added to our itinerary after Khajuraho and we enjoyed the deserted feel of the place and its beautiful ruins of palace and walled medieval city--kind of a ramshackle Carcasonne. It was especially appealing because of the beautiful parakeets flying about and the giant king vultures coming in to roost in the turrets at dusk.

As we were walking around the ramparts, 3 monkeys were in our way and hissing and not letting us pass (just like squirrels, these are not the cute creatures you first think they are). Too bad I didn't have the camera at that point as R got a big stick and tore after them waving and yelling. I guess he seemed pretty ferocious, as they lit out for the top of the tree.

We have spent the last two days in a national park with fabulous birding. Pictures will follow, but internet in this place is very poor and he can't upload. Time is flying and we still have Rajastan and all its great spots to cram in. Overnight train to Jodhput tonight--yes, that place that the special riding pants come from.