Traveling Alone

Okay, I will admit that in the past I have been a total travel snob, and when people say they do not like to travel alone, I usually sniff, "Oh, I prefer it!" But pride always manages to catch up with you and trip you when you least expect it. I am very happy that Kerri is coming tomorrow. This trip has completely revised my view on independent travel. Now, I still think that travelling alone can be great -- but only when you speak some of the local language, know the culture, and are going to places where it's easy to catch up with other tourists for dinner or a trip. Traveling alone in a developing country in the off season is expensive, confusing and at times lonely. In the past, my solo travels in Africa and Asia were always backed up by a purpose for being there and a network of local and international coworkers to give me advice and laugh with me over my travel foibles. This time, I'm just a young woman adrift on the great and ancient sea of Indian culture. SO! Consider me a changed and more humble traveller. I am very excited that Kerri arrives tomorrow -- not only because it will be fun to have a companion, but because she is my smart, funny, beautiful little sister and we will have quite the adventure together!