Trivandrum

Whilst it's only just under a month since we hit the ground here in Bangalore, it's been brilliant to get away for the weekend for a bit of rest and relaxation, a few drinks, great company and some of the typical fun and games you'd expect with 4 expat couples heading 'out of town' for a weekend. Clarky has met some great people through the Overseas Women's Club here, some of whom kindly invited us to join them for a weekend away to celebrate the birthday of one of the husbands. So four Aussies, two Irish, a Brit and a Dutchman pitched up on Friday to a beautiful beach side resort in Trivandrum. The first that 'hit us' getting of the plane in the South-Western state was not surprisingly the humidity - the thick air quite literally feeling like something hitting us in the face. One of the fortunate aspects of Bangalore is the absence of the humidity that is (apparently) present in much of the rest of the country, so this was our first taste of thus far: For a guy not great with the sticky weather, hitting the tarmac again in B'lore this afternoon was quite a relief.

I guess it's an aspect of human nature to seek out those we feel most comfortable with, often in many ways those that are most like ourselves. As much as I have probably done quite the opposite thus far, there is something quite enjoyable, almost relaxing, about 'easy' conversations with new acquaintances. Affinity at a basic level. Being able to 'chat' without the need to concentrate. And whilst I have no less of a passion for learning more about almost every aspect of our new home and the people around us, it's also great to enjoy the company new found friends and know we'll be spending more time with them in the weeks and months to come.

The first day of each month in the state of Kerala is a 'dry' day, with no alcohol is served or sold at all. Having this knowledge prior to the weekend, however, allowed for appropriate planning and preparations, ensuring the birthday celebrations continued in style. But amongst the drinking games, stories and playful debates (what is a 'sport' and what is a 'game' always a reliable classic) we also managed to unwind, relax with a book or two, and partake in some tennis and swimming; all-in-all a fantastic weekend.


Photos from Trivandrum and more updates to come in the next edition, as we've not long arrived back 'home' to our serviced apartment here in Oakwood...Hope all are well, for those of you who have tried to load comments on here let me know if you're still having issues!