Goa to Mumbai

Sadly our time in Goa was up, and it was time to get ready to pack up and go to Mumbai... the wedding of the year was awaiting! Leaving the Taj Exotica was not an easy task... such a beautiful resort designed for complete relaxation, we could have stayed another month. Alas, we could not. The day started with another massive portion of papaya and Ian ventured in trying some puri. In the middle of breakfast a British gentleman approached our table and said: "I could tell you are not Russian... you know how I knew? You were smiling." True, there were many non-smiling Russian tourists in the hotel, with horrible haircuts and swimsuits, but more importantly, we are having the time of our lives and are smiling all the time :)

Papaya and guava

Puri

Off to the airport... this was the only time we ventured out of the resort in our time in Goa, so it was only speak peek into Goan village life. One this is for sure... they love to pain their houses of lovely bright colors. 

Colorful house along the road in Goa

Our flight on Kingfisher back to Mumbai was delayed by 1.5 hours, which allowed us to chill and eat Pringles at the airport. Kingfisher is an interesting airline... I had noticed that all the flight attendants had a look, there were all pretty Indian women with small noses, the same height, and the same-length pony tail. My suspicions were confirmed, when in the message from the Chairman in the on-board entertainment system, he proudly announces that he "personally selects all the flight attendants". Ew.

Flying over Mumbai gives you an amazing perspective of the size of the megalopolis of 15 million people. You see the contrast of amazing high-rises right next to expansive slums. Quite a sight from the sky. As we arrived in Mumbai, we hired a Cool Cab at the airport (AC taxi) and headed to the Trident. We had the opportunity to travel on the new amazing bridge over the bay (for a toll fee of 50 rupees). Then as we headed down Marine Drive past the Taj, we saw an amazing sunset setting over the Haji Mosque. A heart breaking part of the journey were the kids selling books. "Be my good luck charm sir, my commission is 20 rupees. (40 cents)"

The impressive bridge!

Mumbai skyline through the mirror

Hazy sunset over the Haji Mosque

We got into the Trident, and checked into our unbelievable room on the 31st floor with incredible views of Mumbai. Our next blog entry will detail the first wedding party! Great pictures to come.