Finally Rode the Indian Helicopter

The Rickshaw.

Since the park I wanted to visit today was across the river, I figured it would be a good idea to get a rickshaw. I could have gone for the auto version (three tires, no doors) but the cycle one was calling my name. I felt every bump and dip but rather enjoyed the adventure. I especially liked my driver: Babu Khan.

Babu Khan immediately asked me if I was married. I said yes per usual. I told him my husband's name was Bob and that he sold motorcyles for a living. Babu Khan really liked this and told me he has eight children, hence the Khan after his name. Kham apparently means great. And having eight kids puts you in that category here. If you get what I'm saying...

Anyways, Babu wanted me to book him for the day but I told him no no no, just the park! But since he told me how to get into the park for free and was waiting for me when I returned, I figured it would be good karma to give him some more business. "Across the river and to the markets Babu Khan!" I told him. Most guide books tell you this is a bad idea. Rickshaw drivers receive a commission for taking you to shops so your prices automatically go a bit higher. As usual, I am too soft for India and decided a few extra dollars in Babu's pocket was fine by me. He did in fact take me to a wonderful jewelry store where I purchased exactly the necklace I have been looking for. It's two strands of coral (real!) and silver. I was also super pumped at my bargaining skills.

When we left the shop, I told Babu Khan that I didn't want to do anymore shopping. "No more?" queries Babu Khan. "No more," I reply. "Oh, one more shop! Just look no buy, they give me 30 rupees just to bring you. You don't need to buy anything." Once again, the old heartstrings were tugged and I said, "Okay Babu Khan."

Off we helicoptered to a new store. This one was a carpet shop. Immediately the salesman insisted I come into the workshop and he could show me how the rugs are made. He sat down at the loom and explained the intricate process that stems from Kashmir. "Are you going there?" he asks me. I say, "no no no Kashmir not very safe right now!" He nods and suggests I spend $400 on a rug instead of going to Kashmir. We had a great looming lesson and he showed me wonderful other handicrafts, but I managed to walk out without a new rug.

Babu Khan and I laughed at this foolery, I had so much fun I even suggested we go to another shop! However, he took me to yet another rug shop. I got the same lesson in looming and the same story on families in Kashmir. However, the rugs were nearly irresistible and I found myself winning the bargain. $200 for a handwoven Indian rug. I nearly bought it but then snapped to it and realized that would be a lot of beer money in Thailand. I guess I am finally learning. I just kept repeating to myself, "Stephanie, you are homeless."

After that, I decided enough was enough so Babu Khan and I helicoptered back to my hotel so I could get ready to head to my next destination: Varanasi.

As I finally post this (maybe a week since I wrote it), I can't believe the luck I had in finding new friends and new fun in Varanasi. I promise to catch up come tomorrow or the next day, but yes, I have plenty to share!