With my camera, rupees, sunglasses, & Jane Eyre in stow, I set off on a solo adventure...(channeling my inner Elizabeth Gilbert). I stopped in a couple different bakeries, sipped on Fanta (oh how I love me some orange soda), took some photos and found a yoga ashram to attend in the mornings for only Rs. 300 (about $4). I lasted about two hours on my own (well, Jane Eyre was there, and mighty entertaining, but I was basically alone) when I felt like I should go home and get some real food in me.
After lunch, James (the other intern staying at my hostel) and I trekked to Thamel…and here ladies and gentlemen is where it happened. My jaw dropped, my eyes widened, pink, purple and red hearts started bursting out of my body and I felt it:LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT. Thamel is a tourist Mecca, and now I know why. The crowded streets were lined with bookshops and shops selling clothing, trekking gear, jewelry, postcards and anything else you could ever desire. It was charming, colorful, engaging, friendly...better than a man! I’m going to have to limit my time spent there because I could easily drop some serious cash in a place like that.
After meandering a bit on my own while James ran some errands, we dropped into this darling little café. It was perfect. We sat on the ground on over-sized cushions and sipped ice teas, ate hummus, and people-watched. A mix of Jack Johnson and India Arie played in the background while the breeze blew through the open windows decorated in embroidered silk curtains.
We made it back to the hostel just in time…the monsoon started right as we stepped in the door. It was as though the city was not going to allow the weather to alter my enchantment.
To end the most delightful day, I discovered that James can play my favorite Ray LaMontagne songs and indulged me and the kids in a little musical entertainment. I couldn't have asked for more.
Peace. Love. Thamel.
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