The Full Flip

After all the positive blogs last time around, I'm sure mine stuck out like a sore thumb. But don't worry, the moaning is well and truly over from me.

The sleep and anti-nausea pills that came right after the last blog really helped. India without your head to the pavement and your lunch on your shoes is really a magical place. The positivity, optimism and smiles you see around the city are truly awe-inspiring, and most people back at home with many more luxuries than a street begger could learn a thing or two about the true meaning of happiness.

So why the sudden change in opinion? It's simple. When in a bad mood, you constantly focus on the bad things that you see, feel and hear. Mr Skeen told me while walking down a crowded street to catch someones eye, smile, then watch for the reaction. The smiles and greetings I got in return really blew me away and I was able to feed off other's happiness. Since that moment the city has taken on a whole new light.

Kolkata is a city with a rich way of life. Often termed the "City of Joy," it is full of people making the most of everything they have. In a previous blog of Mr Skeen's, he mentioned the old lady that approached me outside Cafe Blue Sky while I was enjoying my breakfast for a second time in the wrong direction. After seeing the distress I was in, she did not in fact ask for money, but instead invited me to her home to share a small meal with her family for no cost. It is this love and spirit that has changed my views.

But while there are so many positives, one thing that brought us all crashing down after the highs at Freeset was the dead boy on the pavement. This had an odd effect on me. At the time, despite being so unusual, it did not register as being anything other than the norm. Still, as I sit in a small internet cafe bumping Angus Grant's elbows as I type this, the fact that not one local (or even myself) gave the boy a second look is disturbing. The city takes no prisoners and if you cannot eat, you die. What makes it worse however is that there is probably no one who is worried about him, or will mourn his passing. One of the boys asked a Jungle Crow what would happen to the body. They replied "When it starts to stink and be a nuisance, the rubbish men will pick it up". This is incredibly sad and definitely brought me back to earth with a bump.

On a brighter note, seeing the work that the fantastic people at Freeset do has been a great highlight. They go through a constant struggle to get women off the "line" and, unlike many of the products made in India (including the customized "Hanish" Indian cricket jersey I am currently wearing), their bags and shirts are of a high quality. I splashed out on two bags and since then I have realized that India is not the place to be an impulse shopper as I have burned through most of my money already.

The few hours spent with the Jungle Crows rugby team was also over much too early, and it made me realize that even though we live half a world away and under completely different circumstances, we are all the same, and it was great to spend time cracking jokes and talking rubbish with the boys. Two of the senior boys have a documentary coming out and they really are as amazing in real life as they are portrayed in the trailers.

So my attitude really has undertaken a full flip. My 200 rupee Casio watch, that I was assured was of the highest possible quality, is telling me that it is Thursday, really only two days since we arrived but it does seem like we have been here forever. However, later this afternoon we are heading to Future Hope, an organisation which takes kids off the street and puts them in school. It is something I am really looking forward to and I feel like it is going to be an experience that I will not forget in a hurry.

There are many more notable experiences that I simply don't have the time to cover, such as Harrison being hit by the least dangerous form of Indian transport, the human rickshaw and the great touch game we had on the Maidaan. 

So, India. What a fantastic place. I am now thinking about moving here permanently.

"Hanish" Fox

Brendon McCullum

Hi all,

Kolkata is beginning to feel like home! All the loud noises, yelling etc. are something I'm getting used too. Today I purchased an "authentic" Kolkata Knight Riders shirt from the sports market. Soon after this, Mr Skeen pointed me in the direction of an on-the-spot shirt printer who was offering prints on the back of a shirt for 3 rupee per letter. So I got MCCULLUM printed onto the back of my shirt (he plays for the Knight Riders). On my way home I caught the attention of several budding Knight Rider supporters and they said "Ohh Knight Riders! Good! Good!" and after I acknowledged their appreciation for my shirt, they saw the name McCullum printed on the back and yelled "Ahh Brendon McCullum! New Zealand!!" this gave me a real sense of pride for where I'm from and a reminder of how much I have been missing everyone back home. I'm going to continue to wear the shirt for that very reason (even though it is extremely tight fitting and short despite asking for an XXXL).

Sam

Double Take

Yesterday morning Alex and I were approached by a beggar asking for milk for her child. Only when walking past her again 20 minutes later did I realise that the little girl she claimed was sick wasn't sick at all... she was well and truly dead. Later that day the group walked past a dead boy on the side walk that had no one to care that he had left this earth as the world continued around him. Just these two moments have really cut deep with me; if a lady is reduced to carrying around a dead child she may have just hit rock bottom. This has made me feel almost helpless. We go to Freeset and hear of the 10,000 prostitutes that are abused, attacked and disrespected in the red light district (if they go the police they would be "ignored or raped again"). So with all these problems glaring you in the face, it is kind of hard not to feel overwhelmed by how useless you are and how impossible it seems it would be to make a big impact on this country.

But only when I think harder do I realise that all is not lost. There are thousands of organisations out there (we are about to go to Future Hope) and it is only by trying that we can save the ones we can. It is all about perspective...

Just a thought,

Hugo (Irene)

Prince Ali

I would like to preface this post by saying how stoked we all are about the response this blog has got and that we are loving all your messages when we read them out at dinner or breakfast.

Among my purchases so far, I purchased a pair of Ali Baba pants and I think I'm in love. As maybe a few of you will know, I was involved in a production of Aladdin a week before departure and as part of my costume I had a similar pair of pants. They do not even compare. The Ali Baba is a triumph of design, spaciousness, and light material. If I didn't think the crappy fabric (I bought these for Rs 200, around NZ$4) would disintegrate as soon as they get anywhere near water for a wash, I would live in these things. I've only had them for less than a day, but already I'm contemplating the purchase of more. 

For those of you that don't know what the Ali Baba pant is, here's a run down. They cost me Rs 200, but if you're Will Allen, Chris Moses or Alex Krofcheck then they cost around 3 times that amount. They have one pocket, and elastic around the waist and bottom of the legs. The rest is just pure space. Once you put on a pair, it feels like you are wearing nothing. Like seriously nothing. The freedom is astounding. They might not be the most good-looking of pants, but hey I'm not trying to impress anyone with these. With Ali Babas you just don't care.

On a slightly stranger note; last night I was approached to purchase "good quality hashish from the mountain". I politely declined, but could not escape the thought that these lovely pieces of cloth around the bottom half of my body make me look like a total stoner. Oh well.

Reilly

Thin Coat of Craziness

Hello all of our dedicated blog followers. It's awesome for all of us here to hear your support and messages from home in NZ and it's very inspiring but also very pressurizing to know that we are having so many hits on the blog page. Apologies to all, but for now I have to kill the happy mood a bit. 

When we first arrived here in India I was so overwhelmed by the craziness of it all that I that I ignored the obvious signs of extreme poverty and suffering, I guess subconsciously trying to avoid facing the reality which was that the country we were in is far more sinister and scary than I saw it over the first day. This novelty value of of the culture had quickly worn off and very quickly the reality of India has revealed itself to me. Beyond the constant horn blaring and strange sights and smells this place is home to hundreds of thousands of  sick and suffering people and this was highlighted by the dead body of a young boy some of us saw by the entrance to a metro station on our way back from Freeset yesterday (I'm sure many of the lads will touch on this point in their blogs over the next few days). In debrief we discussed this point thoroughly and came to the conclusion that although this would have been a huge tragedy and news story in New Zealand, Indians don't care and further more can't afford to care as a moment taken to tend to a dying boy or bury or cremate his body is a moment you haven't spent making money to get to the next day. Someone said that if you were to stop and care today, than that body would be yours tomorrow, a sad, stark and eye opening thought which is just part and parcel of life here in India. The tragedy of this point was compounded by the afternoon we spent traversing the with members of the Jungle Crows U19 rugby team, some of whom were ex street kids who were saved from a life of poverty. We found today that those guys are just like us. They have Facebook, they make jokes, the check out the girls in the park and the fact that they were just like this dead boy was a real reminder that there is a total lack of justice and fairness in the world. Hiding behind the thin coat of craziness is a world full of injustice and misery. Fortunately there is a shining light in all of this, the people at the Freeset organisation who I'm sure Mr Skeen will have mentioned in his post. The work they are doing to help change the lives of people here is inspiring and humbling and I hope by the end of this tour I will be brave enough to find a way to help as well. 

HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!!!

Apologies once again for the depressing post but I wanted you guys should know what it's really like here right now for me. 

Gus     

BenT

Just in defence of your dig at Ben Toogood's popularity, Mr Skeen, I think it's fair to point out that he once had a birthday party where 7 people turned up, not including our cat, Gandalf, and not one of them was paid to be there.

Well - OK - one was, but he was the clown we hired to do magic tricks.

Putting that aside, you have reminded us all how fortunate we are to be living here and not in Kolkata.  What a privilege for our Grammar men to be learning so much so quickly.

Kit 

Local Intel

Yep, gotta agree the experiences are quite moving............Heading down to the local rugby club, ....gouging the opposition in the eye, ....the silky moves of a light footed winger dancing down the touch-line for a try,.......heading back into the changing after rooms for a drink and laughs........aaahhh, does bring a wee tear to the eye boys!

Sounds like a real mix of highs and lows, laughs and shocked silence..........be good to the teachers fellas......especially Mr Jordan as sounds like he's out gathering local intel which could be very useful.

Manksy-Snr

Mothers who want to protect their boys

Well said Fiona, I couldn't agree more….
Meagan xxx

Most emo mother

It seems that although we are separated by half the globe, Mr Skeen can still make me cry.

Can't help feeling my role is to spare my son some of these realities, not to facilitate him encountering them. But that is probably why you don't take mothers. And why it's probably a good idea that he is there.

Kia kaha koutou.

Fiona

 

 

Memories Revived

I’m not much of a blogger – I think I posted once when I was on the first India Immersion trip in 2009 – but I just wanted to say how much I’m enjoying reading about your experiences, impressions and insights. They have conjured up some powerful personal memories of Kolkotta; the sights, the sounds, the smells, the tastes.

Ben, thanks for the links to the Maidaan Trailer. I have really fond memories of the day we spent with Zaf in 09, and it was a real delight to see him and Paul in the video clip. I hope all you blog followers took the time to play the clips. They provide some tantalising glimpses of the craziness and joy of Kolkotta ( and India ) that your sons are immersed in. India can be incredibly confronting but did you notice in the video the beaming smiles on the children’s faces, regardless of the situation and the context ? That’s probably my most enduring of memory of India. You will see some amazing things in India but make the most of your opportunities to interact with the people. Remember, the most important things in life are not things.

I hope you boys are taking good care of Ben, Shane and, of course, Rachel.  I look forward to following your progress.

Mark V.

Tim Burns- you are now an uncle

Or technically a step-uncle – your step-niece arrived last night, all well and looking forward to meeting you. BTW – It sounds like you could get some good advice from Chris re buying some nice items for her

Kate

My Para

Tonight we took a moment to read out the blogs/comments that you, our families and friends have uploaded to the site over the last day and a half. As we made our way through the large quantity of feedback (which we absolutely love), it was remarkable to realise we are newbies, having only been in this manic country for less than 48 hours, even though it feels like it has been forever already.

Since my last blog we have all witnessed moments of delight and scenes where hope has seemed to run away from any substance which should be breathing life. This truly is a remarkable place and the boys are handling it with great maturity and fortitude.

So, what have these moments been:

Tuesday 10 December (cont'd)

4pm- Our very good friend from the previous two tours, Paul Walsh, arrived at Hotel Emirates. With him he brought a large network of people that we would come to call friends in no time at all.
4:15pm- We head to the Maidan to join the Jungle Crows, a rugby club/charity, administered by Paul and his band of big-hearted individuals, in a game of touch. For the Editor it was especially good to catch up with Zaf and Tudu who were key drivers in the interactions that boys from prior groups enjoyed. The matches, obviously between AGS (representing NZ) and the Jungle Crows (representing India), were even sided affairs, with a little bit of blood being shed (Angus Grant's finger nail took at battering when he poked an opponent in the eye as a method of ensuring he made the touch). Another notable feature was the toe (physical speed that is) of Ivan Jin- I suppose you can't be in an all conquering Premier Badminton team though unless you can dance on your feet
5pm- It is decided that it is too dark to continue the games as the rubbish which surrounds the entire surface of the Maidan (the venue of the touch fixture which is the Kolkata equivalent of the Auckland Domain) has now become a slip and slide safety hazard. As such we all retire to the Rangers Club, approx 1km further down the Maidan, to partake in a round of cokes and laughs.
5:10pm- We order up several crates of coke/sprite/fanta and transform the garden of the Rangers Club into our own. At this stage Mr Skeen raises his speed dating initiative as a possibility. It is met by little to no interest by both the AGS and Jungle Crow boys, which therefore encourages Mr Skeen to follow through with the original idea (never one to follow the crowd). The 'game' is one where mini groups from both sides meet and talk. From our perspective it was invaluable as our boys got to ask the locals about local issues, local customs, local pride. After 15 mins the groups changed around to meet new people with new perspectives/stories. In all it was envisaged that after 60 mins this interaction would be completed. Instead at 7:30pm Hamish Fox superbly thanked our new found friends after a series of speed dating rounds which proved to be a good idea after all (obviously it goes without saying that Miss Candy was not allowed to join in because she is a girl)
8:30pm- After walking past the hotel to freshen up we arrive at the venue of the evening's main meal. Jojos Restaurant, as per previous experiences this restaurant has zero patrons in it (kind of like the popularity one would find at a birthday for Ben Toogood). Therefore it made complete sense to the Editor that this was safe dining venue
8:45pm- After ordering the meals, Sam McConnell steps up as our first Expert in the Field. Sam delivers a very good talk on the history of Kolkata, touching on the present day vibe and distinctions the city has become known for
10pm- Dinner concludes with Callum Ross thanking the waiter for his fine establishment and for being so willing to accommodate our numbers on what was such a busy day for his business
10:15pm- Debrief starts with the focus being on what has changed in the last 24 hours. The boys speak of being more comfortable, yet no less frustrated by the events unfolding around them.
11pm- Lights Out

MVP/Thought- both covered in a prior blog


Wednesday 11 December

7am- Wake up occurs. That is 8.5 hrs for those who slept right through, which clearly didn't occur in Mr Jordan's case as he disappeared in the middle of the night to go partying (seriously, we are sharing a double bed and he didn't think I would know he had left the room . . . . some people!). What is undeniable is that all of the boys not surprisingly have much greater energy, especially both Hamish and Jonty who bounced back to good health as the bug comes and then goes from their respective bodies
7:30am- Breakfast back at Blue Sky Cafe with Sam the Head Waiter all ready outside the door to hug the crew as we walk in
9am- After another massive feed we head on a casual walk, which becomes a jog. Alex Krofcheck notes when the pace starts to increase that smoking and exercise should mix and that because he couldn't stop 'smoking' (breathing the Kolkata air in at that moment in time) it was better just to walk. With total disregard, the poorly behaved Skeen, demands more pace. Which does pay off, as we were tight on time
10:02am- We arrive at Freeset- a hugely impressive place/venture. We are generously welcomed by Dave, Ian, Mairi, Dan and Sam who take us on an informative, interactive and inspiring journey through the history of the organisation they find themselves working for in Kolkata. With 4 out of 5 of them being from NZ (yes the land of the long white cloud) we are immediately at home on the roof as they answer our questions with great honesty and passion. In short, Freeset provides employment opportunities to women who have decided to no longer be 'on the line' (involved in the sex trade/prostitution). What was expected to be a 15 minute Q&A lasts for 40 mins as we attempt to capture the depth of the problems and the attempts to solve them. Perfectly, when Dan is asked what will Freeset do into the future with such a significant problem (10000 are still on the line in the red light district of Kolkata- many having been kidnapped, or even sold into the trade by their own families), Dan simply responded 'What are you going to do?' Our boys find the tour and opportunity to purchase bags and t-shirts produced by the charity a real highlight. Sincerely we are in awe of Freeset and strongly urge you to pause now and go to www.freesetglobal.com to watch their promo video that will provide you with a great glimpse into what we saw today. Even buy their products to support Freedom!
12pm- Fletcher Boswell offers our thanks for the time afforded to us by the Freeset staff and we leave on a high about the power of people. Within one minute everyone is at rock bottom again. En route to the Metro station we can't escape the fact a young boys lies on the pavement, totally unresponsive to life, covered in flies around and in his mouth. The realities of this country just hurt
1pm- The Jungle Crows (a massive 20 of them) arrive at our hotel. There is excitement in the air as the respective groups are split into groups of 3-4 and sent off to adventure across Kolkata. The aim is simple- let the locals highlight the beauty of their city. Our boys visit a combination of the Howrah train station, Howrah Bridge, flower markets, Eden Garden (largest India cricket stadium for the uneducated); with most also catching a ferry. In all the boys are out for 4 hours doing what young people do- laughing, exploring, learning from their peers- very powerful stuff. Meanwhile the staff go off the beaten track, but up a track so to speak (a mountain in fact the size of Mt Eden). Sadly and shockingly it is the rubbish dump- an accumulation of the most recent 15 years of Kolkata/Howrah rubbish that is now as high as the iconic Mt Eden in Auckland. The smell is unbearable, the flies and pigs unmanageable, and the families still looking for a recyclable gem of a plastic bottle, metal scrap, etc is heartbreaking
5pm- Everyone returns from their own individual adventures to Hotel Emirates. Badges of the Grammar Lion are handed out as a memento to our Jungle Crow friends. It was at this point Hugo Stewart starts singing the record breaking single 'Roar' for the public audience
5:30pm- We all head down to Fairlawn Hotel. A venue that is so similar in this efficiency and service as the famous Faulty Towers series- it appears the wheels could fall off at any stage. Although Mr Skeen has brought in 45 customers he is still charged 250Rp ($5) to use the available internet. As a result he uses the waiting time to show each table on the iPad how Naf and Tudu, two key figures in the Jungle Crow Club's history, are about to become stars of a documentary/movie. Again I sincerely urge you to stop at this point and watch the two trailers regarding it- http://vimeo.com/32712267 and http://vimeo.com/65408406. I hope you agree that your son is going to be all the more richer for the time he has spent meeting people of this calibre
8pm- Dinner ends and it was a remarkably good meal. Paul Walsh as the elder statesman ordered on behalf of all of the tables and the tapa style affair (with a collection of curries and chow means on each table) goes down a treat. Reilly Hodson then smoothly rounds the night out by thanking our visitors for the opportunity to host them for a meal post their generosity shown during the afternoon
8:30pm-Tim Burns delivers an accurate account on the Expert in the Field topic of Christianity. In particular the focus on Mother Teresa is very well thought through
9pm- The groups head into debrief. It is an open floor tonight in each group ie no scripted question/focus but everyone wants to address the fact they witnessed death today in all its simplicity and disconnection from the living. Understandably the highs of the day pale in significance
10pm- Most of the students chill out on the deck of the Hotel, listening to the Tour playlist of 50 songs, rounding off the day on a very relaxing note
11pm- Lights Out for all but a couple of diary writers who are still trying to place the thoughts in their heads onto paper


So well done you Mr and Mrs Blog Reader in getting to this point. It has been a massive day and siting here now with the boys well and truly in dream world, it is great to reflect of a period of two days very well lived. The crazy thing is we are only just starting! I'm sure the boys will love the 7:30am wake up call as much as the horns that beep endlessly in this indescribable city. Furthermore, I'm very confident that you will enjoy their blogs that come through over the next day as time with be freed up for them to hit up the typing machines again. Until then, good night.

Ben


MVP- Chris Moses. This young man, woman, or a mix of both, is truly showing his real colours. His clothing purchases are all of the female variety however strangely they aren't in his bag as presents but rather on this body as some sort of fashion. He needs serious help.

Thought- we all want something to call ours. Our own toy tractor, or doll, or house, or place to call home. In Kolkata your 'Para' is your hood. On the back of a truck today was the phrase 'My India is Great'. Both got me thinking- Where is your place, your hood, somewhere that you belong? And, is it great?

Belated Blogger

Great to hear from you on the blog Reuben, wondered when you would make an appearance!  As all the parents are saying it makes for compulsive reading and is quite a distraction from daily life in Auckland.  Think Mr Skeen must have set it up to keep us sleep deprived along with you!  I couldn’t get myself to bed last night as the posts started rolling in.  Keep them coming.

 

Kristin x

 

 

Noise in Abundance

India has been insane. It has also been extremely noisy. From the moment we left the airport, we've been surrounded by unceasing car horns and shouting Indian men and for me, this has been the most tiring aspect of the journey so far. There is always something to listen out for, whether it is the barking of stray dogs in the street, or the Muslim call to prayer at 5am.

Our time spent in reflection and meditation today at the Mother Teresa House was much needed and appreciated by all.

Alex

A Different Normal

Kolkata defines organised chaos. There is not a bin for miles and as such rubbish has no home. Instead of everyone simply dropping it everywhere as you'd think, they dump it in accumulating piles in the low points of drains. The streets are by no means immaculate as a result, but this scenario works. On top of this the driving is manic, in theory everyone drives on the left hand side, but any slow auto-rickshaw is promptly overtaken via the right hand side of the road, even if there is oncoming traffic. Such a situation would cause great stress for any Remuera mother, but instead of panicking they simply move over and proceed as if all is well. And that's the crucial thing, for these people 'all is well' in all of these situations - there is no revulsion at the piles of food scraps or panic at speeding oncoming taxis, because this is normal for them. It is this that will take me a while to get my head around.

Reuben

An imposter in the ranks.....

Hi everyone!

We too are loving the blogs and were very excited to hear from all of the group today.
Our friends and family have been hugely impressed ( and maybe a little bit surprised, but hopeful ) by the newsy, witty, charming and articulate posts of the first two days signed off simply "Ben".

Today, however, with his informative post containing tasting notes of the soft drinks available in Singapore, the real Ben May has revealed himself!

Love to you all
Mandy and Pete

Juxaposition to NZ

Hi everyone

I am riveted to this blog ! – incredibly entertaining reading !! . It sounds like an amazing juxtaposition to your lives on the Northern slopes of Remuera!  Your blogs show that you were all incredibly moved by the  visit to Mother Theresa’s charity and tomb - Tim, does this mean that I can now give all your discarded sporting ‘fad’ gear to charity for the greater good eg the boxing bag and gloves, the inflatable boat and outboard motor , the scuba gear including underwater camera and Hawaiian sling etc etc? just banter! On the plus side it sounds as though there will be no more criticism of my driving or cooking!  Keep well and safe everyone – can’t wait for the next update – it really makes us feel we are with you, but in a comfortable and relaxing way!

Kate

Awesome updates!

Thanks so much for those incredible updates – the Kolkata 'traffic' stories in particular are hilarious.  Auckland seems a very calm and dull place compared to what you are all experiencing!

Ben – loved the reference to 3 men on one scooter with a cage of chickens!!

Keep the blogs coming – we are really enjoying them – doesn't make you all seem so far away.

Pip

PS Ms Candy – how are you finding it all?

Welcome to Kolkata - birth place of Reilly's grandmother

Watching the coverage of Nelson Mandela's funeral from South Africa has got me thinking – is Mandela South Africa's Ghandi? Both were lawyers who fought the injustice of apartheid and went on to change their countries and the world. Reading about Mother Theresa and her nuns makes me realise how many people devote their lives to the service of others and don't get a state funeral in a 95,000 capacity stadium. Love the blog and the eloquence of all the young writers.

Nick Hodson

Tired too but hooked on the updates

I have quickly gotten into the habit of waking at 2am, I then lie in bed for a while and think about what you are all up to.  This then progresses to a “quick” check of the blog site which inevitably turns into a full on read of every post!  I am absolutely riveted by these blogs – every one of you adds a little more colour to our vision back home.  Mitch I am a little concerned about the mouse, I checked with Trish and she assures me that she didn’t pack it into your bag.  Personal hygiene baby, I always said your room smells a little feral J.  I can see why the mouse was attracted to you….

Loving every update!

Chris

Addiction

Okay, I confess, I am another one of the serial refresher mothers who keeps upping that page view count. I don't drink coffee, can do without alcohol if I have to, and even manage my sugar addiction most of the time, but I can't stay away from this blog. Boys, this morning you made me late for work as I savoured each and every one of your entries. It was so worth it! I can only begin to imagine what you are all experiencing, but thanks to your fantastic descriptions I feel like I am there alongside you.

Rachel, I hope you are getting some food, Ben, do try and actually get some sleep, and Shane, make sure you scout out a slummier version of the Hotel Emirates for the next crew, sounds far too luxurious after the renovations…

Take care all; I eagerly await the next round of blogging.

Meagan

36,000 ft

Hi team.....ditto Johhny Mac - the stories are unique and compelling reading guys. Having never been to India, it's hard to appreciate how challenging it is for you......in saying that, I've flown over the country at 36,000ft a few times and during one flight the air con was too cold, no Monty Python, no HD screens and they didnt have any 1993 chateau denerf to go with the quail!.....arguably more uncomfortable than actually being on the ground I know, but we all have our own horrific experience's to tell

Fairly sure all the parents/families back home would kill to be there with you all having rickshaw accidents or listening to the chaos outside the serenity of the temples. Keep each other UP, your eyes and ears open to the experience, and the stories coming home for us to enjoy please.

ps Ben...newbie to this blog thing and ended up somehow setting up my own blog site with this message which was posted into cyberspace!...would've made absolutely no sense to anyone as no other context yet 3 people managed to read it within the 5mins it was live before I deleted it...nuts

Wow. Jake.

Pretty surreal reading the blog and think that I can claim at least 2000 page refreshments – sorry guys!

Keep up the good work – we are all enjoying living vicariously through you for the next 24 days.

Kirsty x

Special mention to Ms Candy – you must feel like Wendy from Peter Pan with your tribe of lost boys…..

Having a good time?

Hi everybody,

I am Reilly's little brother Cormac. Having a good time? I would imagine it would be very different to what I'm doing these holidays. The one thing I am enjoying is eating lots of cheese, the same cheese that when Reilly has it he vomits. And I get to be...
AN ONLY CHILD!!!!!!!!!
So while I get luxury here at home, you guys are staying in 1&2 star hotels!
But do have a good time.
Cormac

It's different over there

OK - so I'm getting the picture: "traffic" isn't Shore Rd at 8.15am on a weekday in term time. And I'm assuming that you will all return fully acclimatised to the Skeen Sleep Pattern, i.e. somewhere between a couple of hours whenever and none.

Kit

Chaos

When my last image was the luxury lifestyle of Singapore, Kolkata comes as a significant shock.
From the confused soldiers playing drums on his Gun to the stare every one in our group gets as we walk, it became clear India was something entirely new. Probably the most obvious shock is the driving...as our rickety taxi chokes its way into the center of Kolkata it becomes very clear that there is little need for the lanes as cars begin driving in the middle of the road. From this ride alone i knew that there was to be some sort of incident involving the road. However i did not guess that i would be hit by the slowest transport in India, the rikshaw. Being only the second day and already enough stories to tell, India is looking up.

Manksy

Culture Shock

Wow. No doubt this is a culture shock. This won't be long due to eating into valuable sleep time, but this place is more than I could have ever imagined. The noise is never ending, and it fills the whole town. All the time something is happening, and there is never a time where a peaceful moment is had, which is the hardest thing. Me and Hamish also have the unfortunate title of first to get sick, lasting about 8 hrs here for both before it hit us. Does not make the experience a totally favorable one!! I believe we are off to play some cricket, which will be very interesting for those that know my coordination.
Best Wishes to all.
Jonty

We are Here

I would've thought that after 15 months of preparation for a trip there would be very few surprises and I would have a fair idea of what to expect. But when a country introduces itself with a warning sign in the airport telling the public not to bribe the officers, it's a fair tell tail sign that maybe everything will not pan out as I expected. Then to follow this with a cab ride that involved 12143 near crashes, an impromptu staring contest instigated by a dude driving the car next to us, seeing 3 men in shirts and jeans constructing an overpass by themselves, a 5 person rickshaw fitting in over 8 decent sized adults and of course Fletcher Boswell sleeping in the back for over half the ride, the comedic values of the crazy city that is Kolkata was finally seen in reality. However this impression was quickly built upon as within 2 minutes of a walk around our hotel, the reality of the place was apparent when it slapped us all pretty hard in the face. From being beeped at by every single motor vehicle thats within a 100 meter radius, or being waved at for literally 5 minutes straight by the strong willed security guard as you try to write in your diary (His persistancy was rewarded with a wave back every 20 seconds), to being led to an internet cafe by a new best mate named Kahn we've only had the slightest taste of what's to come and how it will effect us. But that's the exciting part, we've got an interesting time ahead of us to say the least.

Tim Burns

Wow

After such a long wait, after a year that has both flown by and dragged on, we are finally in India.

Although we have been in Kolkata for less than 24 hours, it feels like 3 days already. Whilst we have been bereft of priviledges such as mobile phones, televisions and most significantly a cold bottle of V to keep us energised, Mr Skeen seems to view sleep in the same catagory: India, it appears, is always awake, and so must we be.

After a hectic taxi ride from the airport to the wonderful Hotel Emirates, and an adventurous late night walk around the block, things really kicked off at 5am this morning with the Muslim call to prayer, and far more audibly Hockly Allen's tummy rumblings.
One down, 24 to go.

We were all extrenely excited- the energy of this city is as infectious as it is draining. After a brief telling off from Mr Skeen for our noise levels (the hotel did have other guests staying, including a mouse who chose Mitch's bag as it's home for the day), it was off to the Mother Teresa House. Although I knew she was an incredible woman, the various displays showed the work of someone who had totally sacrificed herself for something most of us believe is right, but that few of us do anything to really help... I mean, I thought I was a pretty decent person, but I just felt totally humbled by the work of the nuns, as did everyone else.
That place had a very special feeling about it.
Cliche though it sounds, although Mother Teresa is dead, there was a strong sense of immortality about the house. I was renered speechless for a few minutes, and as my family will know, that is no easy feat.
Chris
And then it was back out into the chaos of Kolkata. The city of joy, according to Mr Skeen. And I must admit, I can start to see what he is getting at.

Chris

It's like being in a movie

Thank you so much for the wonderfully descriptive Blogs. I know it's impossible to understand it without being there, but I feel like I'm there in "virtual reality" from the wonderful descriptions, vivid scenarios and colourful events you are writing in the Blog.

Please keep taking us on the journey. It's like a true novel that I can't put down!

John Mc

Big wide world

Hi guys
That number of page views is astonishing - I'd be making a fair contribution like Reilly's mum I suspect. Thought about you all a lot as I journeyed from NZ to the US yesterday: a contrast to your journey in almost all respects, but still about wonder at our world and how people live. Your blog will keep me going through ten days of meetings - already you prove to be very evocative writers. I hope you can get well/stay well. Look after each other.
I'm wondering if Mr McNeil is not there because Mr Skeen was mean to him on the blog. What has poor Mr Jordan done to deserve such remarks? He is the bank after all, I'd have thought some respect was due!
Arohanui
Fiona (Angus' mum)

Still alive

As we exited the airport we set off in our taxis, and from the moment we left the car park we realised just how insane the drivers are, as we encountered some very near misses. Driving through the busy streets we had the feeling that at some point this taxi is going to collide with someone or something. We began to realise that nearly anything goes on these roads and in order to make your way through the traffic the car horn is a vital piece of equipment although sometimes the drivers use this horn just for the sake of it. During the first ten minutes of our ride we were all feeling a little bit scared although after so many near miss saves from our driver we now had full confidence in the skills of our driver and felt safe drivng on the wrong side of the road.

Callum

Breakfast on the Pavement

So, after months of planning, packing and nerves we have finally arrived in what has to be the most crazy, unorganised and chaotic place on earth. I'm sure the other lads will touch on the manic taxi ride and the awakening walk that followed, so I'm going to say how India has one upped me, with the score now firmly at 1-0.
The 5am wakeup was no joke, but just after Mr Skeen finished giving his instructions for the morning, I vomited. Apparently Mr Skeens words have this effect on many people, but what annoyed me most was that I hadn't even had one bite of Indian food yet. And I was already sick.
Thus my first impressions of India by day come from a skewed perspective. I was tired, grumpy and sick. So I hated every minute of it. The dirt especially is something I will have to get used to, but my biggest bugbear is the air. It is so polluted that when Mr Jordan suggested I "get some fresh air", I promptly vomited again. There is also nowhere to escape it, as the city is so large that the pollution sits on you like an itchy blanket unable to be shaken off.
While I have little doubt that India will grow on me after a greater level of sleep and less of my breakfast being vomited into the gutter, the current situation is this: I will not let this country (or Mr Skeen) get the better of me.
Hamish Fox

First Impressions - Patrick

Although, we've only been gone for no longer than 3 days, it seems like it has been an absolute age. All sense of time has been completely lost in a mixture of jet lag and as a result of our travels, utter exhaustion. Personally, i'm sturggling to keep up a log in my memory of the last two days. Two things stand out most vividly in my mind.

Firstly, walking through Singapore and observing some of the tourist attractions the city had to offer proved to be an interesting experience. For a country that claims to be so clean, I was somewhat disappointed by the extent of the poluution in the Marina Bay water. At the same time, I was very surprised by the presence of aquatic life with numerous schools of fish spotted by the boys and even a shy turtle. The people of Singapore were very friendly and, judging by the extensive shopping mecca, lived rather exotic lifestyles (although this may be too far a leap, given our experience was very brief). Jake Robson made a critiical observation. "You know for a rich country, there aren't that many poor people." 

The second moment that stands out was first arriving in Kolkata. Having spotted a cabin worker somking a cigarette out the back of a commercial plane after first landing, my expectations of Kolkata International Airport were somewhat low. I was pleasently surprised. AIrport officials were very helpful, shedding further light onto our accomodation in Kolkata, bursting into laughter upon hearing it was the Hotel Emirates. Having recently been renovated, the airport had top notch facilities. Shane Jordan was quick to express his dissatisfaction with the renovations. 

The airport did not reflect the city in the slightest. I felt somewhat duped into a false feeling of comfort. Observations from the taxi revealed a muddle of people, automobiles, animals and mostly dirt. 

Today was a good day. By night the city was rather imtimdating, but by day it is much more enjoyable. The sounds are not so much frightening, but add vibrancy to the city. Potholes are easier to spot. You can see the faces of people and realise that they are smiling at you as they stare.

Initial impressions have been mixed, but enjoying it so far.

Patrick

Holy Moly

I'm writing this post in a n internet cafe in the back of a dodgy building just around the corner from our hotel in Kolkata. Wow wee. I thought Singapore was intense and exciting but India has just taken it to the next level. I thought I'd share with you all a conversation I had with a border guard last night at the airport. It goes as follows

Guard: Why are you coming to India?

Me: For a school tour

Guard: What is your occapation?

Me: I'm a student

Guard: I don't think you understand sir, what is your occ-u-pation ( At this point I'm beginning to worry whether he's going to let me in)

Me: I don't have an occupation, I'm a student, I go to school, I'm 17

Guard: Do you play sport?

Me: Yes. I play cricket

(Short pause)

Guard: Welcome to India sir!!

(firm hand shake and he sends me on my way)

Today has been long already and its only half three. Exploring the surrounding streets has been eye opening and quite surreal. I still can't quite believe that I'm here doing this but it's starting to sink in now. Today it's felt like we've seen two sides of India. Having visited Mother Teresa's house this morning the peaceful, religious side, reflected in the calm morning streets has hugely contrasted with our experience in the markets where men were trying force cheap goods on us. I'm feeling exhausted and hopefully the days will start to get a bit shorter and more sleep is had soon. So far this experience has been totally overwhelming from all angles. Only 25 days to go...

Angus

Expectations

Hey guys. India is exactly what you think it will be times 7. Kolkata is an exaggerated cararicature of what I expected and has been amazing. Firstly, I'd just like to let mum and dad know that my taxi driver would have failed his restricted as well. He didn't indicate once, mainly because he didn't have any indicators, he changed lanes with checking his blind zones or "mirrors" and spent 3/4 of the ride talking on his phone so don't get worried about my missing of one road works sign. Today we went to Mother Teresa's centre and I realised what amazingly special things people can do when they sacrifice for and believe in something, her story is pretty inspiring. Also Singapore was mint and mum I got a shirt that you will love. We spent most of our time in Singapore walking around in the ridiculous humidity and heat with Mr Skeen's confidence masking the fact that at many times he didn't really seem to know where he was going but it was pretty cool. Took some photos of the high class shops like Lacoste and Gucci for you Patrick. As I write this Tubby, Mitchell and I are sitting in the sweaty, dirty and dark upper floor of a random internet cafe in the middle of Kolkata and loving it.

George (the cool one)

Welcome

Up until now, i didn't believe it was possible to have an instance of perfect chaos. One would think a lane system on roads was absolutely essential, but the fine inhabitants of the city of joy seem to get by just fine with constant tooting of horns and erratic swerving, which actually makes life on the streets highly entertaining, for both passengers of vehicles and pedestrians alike.

One thing that will never cease to amaze me about Kolkata is the ability of the locals to impossibly maximize space, one image that sticks out most vividly was seeing three Indian men and a cage of chickens wizzing 65mph done a motorway, crammed onto a tiny scooter. Second to that, this tiny internet cafe tucked away off a main road cant be any bigger than a garden shed, but the four computers and the giggling indian gentleman brushing arms beside me seems to doing perfectly well, and besides, the internet is costing me 6 NZ cents an hour, so i am far from complaining!

- Ben Toogood

Game Time

After two really long, exciting, but tiring days on Sunday and Monday I fell into bed last night dreading the5am wake up call for morning mass at the Mother Teresa home this morning. However when I woke up I felt suprisingly good and energised, as we started on an experience i'm unlikely to forget.

When we hit the Kolkata streets at around 5.30 this morning we experienced India waking up. Already the smells of deep fried takeaway type foods came from the stalls around the streets along with some much less pleasant odours. We arrived at the Mother Teresa Home just before 6am and witnessed the prayers and singing from the Sisters for the next hour or so. After breakfast we returned to visit Mother Teresa's tomb and her room. It was an odd experience as I am not religious at all and watched members of the public, sisters and other members of the group kneel beside the tomb to pray and I felt awkwardly out of place. I knew little about the history of Mother Teresa and her humanitarian work she had done around India and beyond, and am happy to have learnt about some of that now. It was awesome to sit silently beside the tomb as the craziness of Kolkata just outside seemed to have been toned down to irrelevant background noise for the first time since I have been here.

Mitch

You can't ask for more

India is like nothing I've ever seen before. Coming from the luxury hotel and shops in Singapore to walking outside the Kolkata Airport into the absolutely craziest ride of my life in a taxi was mind-blowing. I can say that my mum is not the worst driver after all. It seems weird how we can put our complete trust in one of the billions of Indians to drive us safely to our destination: Hotel Emirates.
I was expecting much worse stepping into the hotel where we would stay for a week but the cement-like double bed Mitch and I were sharing to the bucket we shower in was a 5 star hotel compared to what Mr Jordan told us it was going to be like. We even got a friendly visit from a mouse in our room. What more could you ask for?
I was amazed when we walked the streets of midnight India to see how they lived. I was straight away approached by a grunting woman begging for money (we got a hell of alot more the next day), saw plenty of people sleeping on the streets, dogs barking and biting each other and not a single star in the sky. But it was the next day that made me realise how much they appreciate the little they have.
I thought to myself, "so this is India."

George Harman

Anxious, Overawed, Excited

Well it has been total full noise on our front and we have been in India less than 24 hours!

Firstly, thank you to those following the site. This morning over breakfast we read out your posts from overnight with many a laugh being shared, so please feel free to keep your contributions coming.

Importantly now that we are 'established' in Kolkata you can expect the boys to start uploading their thoughts on the chaos that is unfolding. If I'm able to take the liberty of doing so, I'd confidently conclude feelings of being anxious, overawed and excited have been rocking around in the boys' guts over the last 24 hours. However I wish to thank each of them for a sterling start to the programme. They have shown resiliency, flexibility and fine senses of humour as we have kicked off this manic first leg. Now for the details:

Monday 9 December (cont'd)

7:30pm- As the plane takes off the Editor attempts to throw the whole programme into disarray by noting that the delay we experienced at take-off time was the result of the pilot having second thoughts about whether flying into Kolkata was such a good idea. Further comments like 'Mr McNeil, who did two of these tours, isn't here anymore boys, because he is sensible' heightened the anxiousness of several group members
8:50pm- After a relatively easy 4.5 hr flight we arrive at Kolkata International Airport when the pilot conveniently nose dives (of sorts) into the runway. The boys are abuzz as they share with the staff the images of the flickering flames from the slums and street side dwellings that they were fortunate to see on approach into the city. Their attention quickly turns to the fact that dogs appear to be running around on the tarmac- something that must be awfully normal by the lack of response from the local workers
10pm- We finally leave the airport, which may I mentioned has been completely made over. It now is a state-of-the-art facility which understandably removes the shock for the boys. However that wow factor comes moments later as the collection of cabs containing our crew take off into the smog of the night. The boys will claim almost fatal car crashes occurred during their individual journeys across town to the hotel. Unfortunately, I disagree as I sipped on hot chocolate and talked politics with our driver. So let's be serious boys and not pretend it was some sort of roller coaster ride, or maybe . . .
10:45pm- The final cab arrives at the hotel, albeit they were the third taxi out of 7 to depart. Apparently the driver had to stop four times to ask for directions to our hotel. The next shock follows when the group realises that Hotel Emirates has been renovated. Apologies to the last group, but honestly it has really raised the standards. No more holes in sheets and torn curtains, although a mouse still roams the corridor
11pm- We set out on a walk around the block. It is a brief but compelling experience. The group is immediately targeted by a beggar and the pavements are covered with dozens of the citizens of this great city sleeping openly under the night sky. Not surprisingly the group find this a little hard to take in
11:20pm- Debrief takes place. Rather short due to the levels of exhaustion but still very worthwhile as a taster to the exercise of reflection that we will be partaking in each night. The focus tonight was simply explaining 'where you are at'. Many speak of this being the day they have waited so long for to occur, with emotions of excitement, nervousness for the first full day ahead, and confused/overawed being witnessed by the staff who were facilitating these small groups
12pm- Lights out. 3 boys to a King sized bed in many cases

MVP / Thought (both already completed for this day on a prior blog)


Tuesday 10 December

4:55am- The local mosque belts out a call to prayer. Those who weren't awake now are.
5:20am- We all jump over a stick lying across two chairs in front of the hotel's security guard who devised this little trap to catch any would-be thieve, whilst he personally sleeps off the day (because clearly his job is 24hrs per day- he is however grateful for the job he has)
5:40am- We arrive at the Mother House (the HQ of the late Mother Teresa) and experience a mass that starts at 6am (after meditation which has occurred prior to it)
7am- We leave the Mother House to head to Blue Sky Cafe
7:30pm- Mr Skeen has a moment of man love with the head waiter who in turn continues on to touch the cheeks of, tickle, hug and laugh loudly with the other members of the touring party. We fill the restaurant and they fill our stomachs, with chocolate banana pancakes, grilled cheese sandwiches and eggs on toast being the popular choices. Brilliantly, everything Miss Candy orders doesn't come her way as the waiter decides to play a game of taking her order and then bringing her something different as a joke
9am- After a final round of public affection from the waiter to each member of our team we are allowed to leave. Clearly handshakes aren't the done thing, probably as an outcome of 1) he knows the score- a huge tip is always given by us, 2) we will be back tomorrow.
9:30am- We arrive back at the Mother House 3 hrs after the conclusion of the earlier Mass the boys sat through. Now was the opportune time to walk through the museum dedicated to the life of Mother Teresa, with many of her thoughts on life etched across the display. We were left thinking, wouldn't it be great to echo the same words she said on her death bed when our time comes; that being "My job is done" (whatever our own individual job/s would be). The boys then spend some serious length of time just sitting by Mother Teresa's tomb, surrounded by many of her Sisters of Charity. Some think about the long year they have had, or the taxi ride yesterday, or life, or death, or religion, or nothing other than being at peace in their own mind for that solitary moment
10:30am- We leave the Mother House and head to Newmarket - the 'Kolkata version'. Upon arriving at 11:15am some Einstein, probably the Editor, decides a walk around the meat market with flies, crows and animal blood running through the cracks in the floor, is worth a shot. Several hold their hands to their mouths as the stench is overpowering.
11:30am- A 30 min task is given. It was called Buy One Item and Don't Get Ripped Off. Team India (the vendors) won that competition with Team New Zealand (us) feeling confident at first before eventuating getting dealt to by our more fancied opponents in the emporium where 'all your dreams come true!'
12:30pm- We head to Park St and drop in on a street vendor who makes the most amazing Hot Tati Rolls in the world- sort of a mix of a kebab and omelette (poor Jonty Morreau joins Hamish's club - see the MVP notes- by throwing up right next to the vendors cart). We are guessing something on their plane from Auckland to Singapore must be the cause as everyone else is in good spirits- rest assured he will bounce back after some much needed sleep
1:15pm- We stop in on a local 'supermarket' of sorts. Manks proceeds to point out that 'corruption' is everywhere as the counter operator grabs and scans random items for him that he didn't even pick or want
1:30pm- Everyone is given time to 'take rest' and to blog prior to meeting back up at 4pm to start the next adventure

In all the boys have acclimatised well- it definitely isn't easy, but nothing good ever is.

I sincerely hope you enjoy the blogging the boys are in the process of starting.

Ben


MVP- Hamish Fox. Poor Hamish pays 1400Rp for an item well and truly a 10th of the price (I'll leave him to explain) whilst shopping in Newmarket. Added to the above error, he has unfortunately been sick (more than likely a result of exhaustion, dehydration and a new environment as nothing had even been consumed in India yet). Whilst throwing up in a gutter outside our breakfast venue, a local beggar still feels it is appropriate to ask him for money. Through all of this Hamish smiles and just rocks along- well done that man!

Thought- Breath in, and out. listen, don't worry about speaking. I'm sure all of our parents have said this at one stage in our lives. At the moment that advice is being repeated constantly as the boys struggle to draw their thoughts together. Isn't it true that the best advice is always glaringly simple (but hard to do).

Kolkata - Perfect Disaster

Last night's cab ride was something I will never forget. The Indian road code is something you would probably find on a crumpled up piece of paper in a gutter, with words written on it, "stay awake, beep your horn" because the extent of there driving is basically just that, lots and lots of tooting. I have to agree with Tim Burns when he explained that the tooting of horns is slowly, wearing him down. The smell I'm surprisingly coping with, however my nose was really pushed to the limit in the meat section of the market we went too today. India is in your face, walking down the road is mentally tiring, you have to have your wits about you at all times, something very different to Auckland. However the people are bringing closure to my anxiety, the re assuring smile is something you will find everywhere you look, which gives you a warm feeling.

Sam

Brilliant first blog Reilly

I was a bit worried when I heard about the group dancing to Lorde in Singapore Reilly, I know the trip is supposed to be life changing but i can't believe your strident views on her have changed that fast :) I loved reading your blog, and everyone else's too - glad of the "surprisingly not disgusting hotel". More than 1000 blog views a day is pretty impressive - possibly 500 of them are me refreshing the page on my iPad every time I come out of a meeting during the day! don't edit, we're lapping up every word back here. Love mum xx

Smelly smells

Where to start? Over the past 2 days(?) journeying to both Singapore and Kolkata the number of crazy things that have been thrown at us is just wonderful - I doubt that the smell of ... things I have no idea about... in 'Newmarket' will ever disappear from my mind, nor from my shirt. Luckily it seems that I've kinda gotten used to it, so alguds aye? Then you blow your nose, (yes, I'm going to be kinda gross) and you find out  that all those amazing smells have just stuck themselves onto your snot...black and beautiful.. 
Right now I am typing this out while stuffed in a beautiful 1x3 meter room together with 2 of my tour buddies as well as 3 locals - I can only say that this is one of the many unique experiences that India will continue to offer.

Ivan

Players and bum cheeks

Everyone will hear stories about what we have been experiencing the last couple of days and there is soo much to talk about so I just picked this llittle moment early this morning. It was roughly 5:30 A.M as we were walking to the mother terasa house when I noticed a man bending over. He appeared to be tending to wiring or some form of machinery. However he bent over and wedged inbetween two indian buns a pair of plyers emerged from the deep in the valley. This was extremely odd as he seemed to have many pockets on his three quater trousers and he didnt look like he needed to hide the plyers, as his pants were half way down his legs fully revealing his rear end. Perhaps he simply liked the feeling! Guess thats India...

Jake

A New Normal

Kolkata defines organised chaos. There is not a bin for miles and as such rubbish has no home. Instead of everyone simply dropping it everywhere as you'd think, they dump it in accumulating piles in the low points of drains. The streets are by no means immaculate as a result, but this scenario works. On top of this the driving is manic, in theory everyone drives on the left hand side, but any slow auto-rickshaw is promptly overtaken via the right hand side of the road, even if there is oncoming traffic. Such a situation would cause great stress for any Remuera mother, but instead of panicking they simply move over and proceed as if all is well. And that's the crucial thing, for these people 'all is well' in all of these situations - there is no revulsion at the piles of food scraps or panic at speeding oncoming taxis, because this is normal for them. It is this that will take me a while to get my head around.

Reuben McGregor-Sumpter

My shopping experiences....

India and Singapore both have so many different things to buy, and I can already feel that by the end of the trip I will not only be broke, but will also have a suitcase full useless items and memory of weird food. In our first night in Singapore I decided to buy myself a birds nest flavored soft drink. I can now confirm to you all that birds nests don't taste nice. I then bought a wheat grass flavored soft drink and it too was very disappointing. The following day as we explored Singapore's landmarks I tried some agar agar, it's kinda like jelly but also very different. My most recent purchase was in 'new market' Kolkata, where I purchased a Angry Birds board game for 300 rupees (around $8). My first quality purchase with many more to come!

Ben M.

Fresh Meat

After just under a day in India the thing that has struck me most is the meat market. This area occupies about 100m by 50m but you can smell it from almost double that distance. It doubles as a butchery and a slaughterhouse but walking through a street covered in fresh blood and screaming animals is just so different from anything I've seen. To Indians it's part of daily life and to a country which has so many living on nothing this visual display of animal suffering doesn't seem to be so much of an issue- animals live animals die, and according to Hinduism they'll all come back in some form or another, no harm done. When a man in the middle of slicing up something that looked suspiciously like dog asked me what was wrong it was hard to put it to one thing. Tiredness, homesickness and culture shock is in the picture but I guess this will change as the trip does. To India we're only fresh meat.

Fletcher

Why's it so difficult to smile?

I wasn't planning on writing anything deep or profound in my first blog, however i was also not planning on getting both sick, queasy and having an emotion filled experience at Mother Teresa's museum/memorial all before 10 am on my first day in Kolkata, but i guess Skeen wasn't lying when he said India really just hits you right in the face, only 27 more days...

In explanation of the strange title of this blog, it was while visiting the Mother Teresa Home and reading through her life story and take on religion that I started to question mine, it was difficult to stand there reading what this amazing woman had to say on Christianity and not take a look at my own view of the faith and how I've been brought up in it. Needless to say it wasn't long before i had come to the conclusion that what i believed was my 'faith' was totally egocentric. Ive grown up to believe that the most important part of my Christian journey is the development of your own relationship with God, and I'm not taking away from the importance of such a task however what Mother seemed to have focused on is the simple act of loving everyone around you, rich, poor, healthy, sick, young or old, something anyone can do anytime anyplace, whatever religion, whatever age.

Three of Mother Teresa quotes that stood out, "Peace begins with a smile" "We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do" and "Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty" yet why do i find something so simple can be so difficult? Its easy to find oneself smiling around friends and family, however why is it that we cant find ourselves to smile at the beggar or homeless man on the corner whether it be in Kolkata or down Queen Street, when that simple action, can sometimes be exactly what they need, to be acknowledged and accepted as a fellow person, not some rubbish on the pavement barely worth a look at.

I seem to have just confused myself more and more while writing this, hopefully it made some sense to people reading back in Auckland?? Although it was difficult to portray through a simple blog, India is crazy and frightening, I don't know if I'm ready for a total turn around every day whether it be in my faith, health or just view on this weird but wonderful place. Hope things are amazing back in Auckland, and the weather is amazing.

Keep smiling :)

William

First impressions

So it has finally begun. We are now in India proper, and I'm sitting in a refreshingly air conditioned internet cafe for our first break since we left Singapore, which was a while ago (changing time zones confuses me and I have no idea where my body clock is at right now.

To recap on the past day's events so far, we arrived in Kolkata, a stark contrast from the wealth, organisation and cleanliness of Singapore, at a time that seemed really quite late but was in reality only 7pm. Go figure. We dumped our bags in our surprisingly not disgusting hotel, and went for a walk around the block. We saw countless people sleeping on the side of the street (Mr Skeen says they are the wealthy ones, but I'm not sure how), but what really struck me was this old lady who came up to us asking for money with this sort of whining grunt sound. It was quite frightening and will stay fresh in my memory for a while, I'm sure. The other startling things were all the stray dogs and the friendly Indian people who seem to have no qualms about coming up to complete strangers and giving them their full life story ("I'm a Roman Catholic and I've just broken off a marriage" Sam M: "Hi, nice to meet you"). All of these characteristics have continued so far. We went back to Hotel Emirates, refused the gatekeeper's requests for tips, and went to sleep after a brief recap session at around 1.

We awoke after some, if not a large amount of, sleep at 5. It was straight into clothes and on our way. In our first of 4 experiences of this particular walk in one day, we walked to the Mother House, the home of Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity for morning mass. I was struck by the way these sisters had given up everything they owned to devote themselves to this cause and God. After mass we went to Blue Sky cafe for one of the cheapest, most delicious breakfasts I've ever had. Each of the boys chipped in 150 rupees ($3) for pancakes, toast and drinks. We all made the acquaintance of Sam who seemed like a good guy, very happy. After that it was back to Mother House, a sanctuary of calm in the middle of one of the most hectic places on earth. I sat by the tomb and felt calm, even as the trucks whizzed past, beeping the horns crazily. We then went to New Market and I got totally ripped off for an apparently pure silver necklace which I knocked down from 1200 rupees to 450. Could have been worse but it has meant I've almost run out of money.

What I really can't understand about this crazy city is how it all works. It's impossible to put in words how crazy everything is, and in such disarray. It shouldn't work, but it does. 

Well that was long. Sorry, I'll work on my editing.

Reilly

The first look at this crazy country.

You know your in India when you barter down the price of a gimmick from 2000rupee to 200rupee walk out feeling pretty chuffed only to be smugly told by Mr Skeen that you have been completely played and could have got it for 50.Before coming here i was always being told what to expect with this country - that it will completely blown your mind etc etc... and i am happy to report that Kolkata has blown my mind. Surpassed all expectations and left me kind of reeling in the insanity of how it works. (i really dont know how this all works... how you can get things for litterally 1000th of the NZ price.. how you havent already crashd the cab for the 100th time... the list goes on.) Where in Singapore you could count each individal ciggarette butt you see in a day on one hand these street are quite the... slap in the face. AND I LOVE IT.

Hugo (Irene)

The Fine Master

Have to question the decision to put Reuben in charge of anyone else’s money???

 

Kristin x

Fleur Helsby "Tearing Up"

Ben just to be clear. Fleur did not shed a tear over George's departure - just as she shed no tears over Ollie's departure 4 years ago. She may have been upset about missing her morning coffee however.

Grant

While your away the sister will play

Hey boys hope you're all having a swell time!!!
I know it's only been 3 days or so but the effects of Harison's departure is noticeable i.e, more food around, faster wi fi etc.
Harry I've been playing 

under your

 

fifa 

account

 

a bit and I must say I'm getting really good! 

Well not that the commentators are being very supportive and since when did have the crowds started booing?

 Anyway

, 

I got offered to sell Fernando Torres for $2.5k and I thought that was a great deal so I took it! 

 

Everyone on the auction site seemed really happy and posted things like 'there's a sucker born every minute' ..sure hope the buyer doesn't change his mind and try return him...deals a deal.

 

I'm looking forward to reading more blog posts from you all and have a good trip!

Grace :)
P.S Charlotte says love you and see you soon Harry

...

 x

'gentle' men

I hope you guys are looking after my girlfriend!

Mrs H

Tim Burns recording dumb things said?

A bit of a ‘pot calling the kettle black’ don’t you think? - J

Can’t wait to hear how your next meal goes guys!

Cheers

Kate Moodabe

It’s all happening....

Fantastic blogs Ben, I look forward to the novel when you publish, great work!

 

Amazing to think that you're all now in India and about to start this incredible adventure, it'll be fantastic and we can't wait to hear all about it as it unfolds.

 

And yep, the local cafés are getting hammered with one less (large and hungry) mouth to feed, a little bit quieter round the house as well….go figure.

 

Cheers,

 

Ian McLean

Sleeeeeeeeep

Glad to hear you are all safely in bed.  Slightly concerned about the boy who struggles to function on less than about 17 hours sleep a day……better start double dosing on those Berrcca’s Jake Robson! Love Mum zzzzzzzzzzzzz

Safe and Sound

Hi all,

Just an extremely quick note to say we have arrived safe and sound. Everyone is totally shattered but in bed catching up on some precious sleep.

I will give you all a good update after some rest ahead of the 5am wake up that awaits our group in 4 hrs time.

Ben

Loving the daily reports, Ben

But can I suggest cheap compasses should be first on the shopping list at the Kolkata markets.  Don't worry, Hugo, I promise not to say anything about McDonald's and you at Monday's rowing committee meeting.

All best

Kit Toogood

Welcome to Kolkata

Thanks for the updates. We are enjoying reading the blog every morning, it's much more interesting than the Herald. No pressure Ed. Good to hear the squad is all together after the late arrival of Usain and his team-mates. We are very relieved to hear Fletch is not the first to lose something, although does losing his moneybelt somewhere between the kitchen and his bedroom the night before he left count? Still haven't found it Fletch. Editor you will need to carefully verify stories about Fletcher and William Allen as in tour uniform they can be easily mistaken for each other. This could work in Fletcher's favour. It was much more likely to be William enthusiastically introducing himself to the air hostesses and working the crowd of fellow passengers. Looking forward to hearing more soon, From the Boswells

Breaking The Ice

Come on parents, post some blogs!

Sorry Sam, but I couldn't leave your Aunty Lucy with the only parent blog. I know most families haven't had time to write anything yet because like us, they've been taking the rest of the family out for a considerably cheaper dinners and breakfasts since Sunday.

Brace yourselves for Kolkatta team. I can't wait to here news of your first day!

Cheers,
John McConnell.

Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me

Well, that box is ticked. Thank you indeed Singapore for your hospitality, it was sincerely appreciated. In particular it was mighty impressive of you to turn on the sun and boy did it have a bit of a punch to it whilst we frolicked around in the humid surroundings.

Sadly though the sun does go down on all good things, as new challenges replace old privileges. But before saying greetings to India, the day in picturesque Singapore was as follows:

Monday 9 December

6:45am- Having read the blog merely 5 hours prior, Mr Jordan, aka Shane Train/Plane/Pain, chartered a private jet and flew to Singapore to be with us out of the kindness of his heart. He also managed to encourage five other AGS boys to join him, with Allen, Boswell, Fox, Morreau and Ross, all jumping on board for the ride. The text at this hour of the morning simply stated 'We are here- thanks for the 1st class tickets, they were much appreciated after the NZ Secondary Schools Road Race we competed in earlier yesterday morning- please put the jug on- see you in 30 mins'
7:15am- The dirty half dozen named above arrive at the Hotel to find Mr Skeen completing laps in the swimming pool (all in a mornings work). Fletcher Boswell is quick to be mentioned. He claims 3 different individuals spotted his tour polo and asked him to explain what the big deal was whilst flying over. The others claim Fletcher used the flight time to introduce himself to everyone on board before proceeding to volunteer the itinerary of the programme. The Editor won't be drawn into taking sides on this debate
7:30am- The rest of the group get a wake up call after the late arrivals are subjected to a 15 min history of Singapore lecture from a certain History master on tour (the other poor souls had to hear it the day before)
8:10am- All 22 students arrive in the Lobby having showered properly for the last time in the next 28 days. The blog is then read so that the boys could appreciate to what volume their movements are going to be tracked (1694 hits at that stage which was very impressive). In particular a sincere thank you to those throwing up comments- we love the interaction and banter (as a side note anyone is free to post blogs using the email address that had been sent to the families- Lucy we applaud you!)
8:30am- We depart for a McDonalds breakfast, the last of the western fast food buzz for 2013. Now this is where the fun begins. Mr Jordan feeling bad about his notable absence to date requests the ability to play tour guide. He then proceeds to exit the Hotel and walk 14 blocks to the right, in the hope of finding a McDs in Chinatown (go figure). All the mean while Candy and Skeen reflect on how much easier it would have been to walk one block to the left to the Golden Arches sign we had seen the night before. Interestingly hindsight assisted the boys as they started to mention 30 mins later how weird it was that a man handing out McDs flyers outside the Hotel was so worked up when the large group was walking in the wrong direction. Now people are starting to understand the MVP decision of last night
9:30am- With breakfast finally located at 9:10am and consumed in the space of 20 mins the boys are split into three groups to complete a 150 minute navigation challenge. This included working in their own groups without staff presence to locate and take photos at the following locations- Raffles Hotel, the War Memorial Park, Marina Bay, Raffles Landing Site on the River, Fort Canning Park and finally Paragon Mall on Orchard Rd. The staff do come across Hamish Fox's group and a snake charmer who took their photo (whilst they held his pet snake) on the edge of the river. The excitement was all too much for Hamish who ran off in a time quicker than Bolt could ever achieve in a century of training
12pm- Everyone arrives safely at the Paragon Mall and go exploring for lunch bargains. At this stage Reuben McGregor-Sumpter realises he has lost his wallet- thankfully the store owner has it when he retraces his steps (thankfully it wasn't his Passport or else a depleted squad would have been going onto Kolkata tonight. Consequently, it seemed appropriate to name Reuben as the 2013 Fine Master. His job will be to collect Rupees off any tour member (staff included) whose dumb behaviour justifies a financial punishment. These combined funds will be used on New Years Eve to order up the meals of a lifetime on the beach in Goa. Reuben will be joined by Hamish Fox whose sleeping technique includes leaning out across half of the aisle in the plane. As such the plane flew with the left side slightly up as all foot traffic on board had to travel down the right aisle. On the subject of areas of responsibility Tim Burns and Jonty Morreau have been named the 2013 Quote Masters. Their job is to record the dumb things tour members say throughout the trip.
2:15pm- All present and accounted for outside the Paragon Mall entrance. As we walk off Lorde is belted out over the loud speakers. Her hit song, Royals, strikes a little sense of pride (some break into dance led by Miss Candy)
2:30pm- We dropped into Orchard Central and took the lift to the top (12th) floor to gain an insight for a rooftop position as to the breath of development in Singapore. Toogood counts 29 cranes on the northern side
3:20pm- Arrival back at the hotel followed by last minute purchases of trashy rip-off gear, prior to throwing on our tour issue gear to head for the airport
3:50pm- We departed for the airport on time. Is this a sign of things to come?
4:45pm- A seamless drive to the airport, followed by a very efficient check in at the Group desk of Singapore Airlines (all is going very well)
5pm- Well done to the boys as they endured 45 mins of 'that Skeen creature' providing the last formal instructions regarding our expectations as staff, what will happen upon arrival tonight, and a general reinforcement of the programme's aims.
6:30pm- "Flight SQ516 is now ready for boarding to Kolkata".

It's time to go. A 4.5 hr flight awaits before the real culture shock begins.

Catch you later Western World.

Ben


MVP- Hugo Stewart. Young Hugo stepped into McDs and actually consumed something from their selection for the first time ever in his life. Absolutely no lies!

Thought- Everything is relative. A Kirin beer in Singapore cost the Editor $19 Singapore dollars today. A flat white at the same establishment was $9.50. Even in such a wealthy country it appears there clearly are downsides.

Sparkling Singapore

Well Singapore, you truly have turned it on. We arrived tonight to see you crying from the sky. Mitch McLean randomly mentioned that he often had that effect on people and places when he arrived somewhere new, so humbly took responsibility for the weather patterns (top bloke that guy).

While most of you will be waking up to a new day soon, your sons are finally laying down to rest after what has been a never-ending Sunday (who said weekends can't last forever). It would be fair to say the boys are gutted by the fact that while we are staying in the very classy Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel, a certain Tour Leader's desire to cram as much as possible into 24 hrs means no time for swimming or working out in the gym (NB- Harison Manks in particular was very angry by the lack of available bench press time).

Putting that aside, a new day awaits the boys in less than 6.5 hrs, so I should tell you what was experienced today before the list of events becomes too long to remember. It kind of went like this:

Sunday 8 December

10:30am- A collection of happy faces arrived ready to check luggage in for the SQ286 flight at the Auckland International Airport. Surprisingly that Skeen idiot actually decided to be present on time to call a roll ('Roll of Honour' obviously due to the inclusion of the wonderful Miss Candy in the 2013 touring party)
11:20am- Customs cleared by all members of the touring party, although Pat Jung was pulled aside and searched for being too clever (clearly he has made many enemies for being in the 7A stream this year). In a true display of team unity several others demanded to be randomly searched by the poor man who was just doing his job. In other developments George Helsby even commented that he saw tears in his mother's eye when he said goodbye which he noted was rather awkward considering he had vivid memories of her being incredibly happy when his older brother Oliver went on the 2009 programme.
1:45pm Take-off occurred without any dramas, with Jung again showing his underground mafia tendencies by cleaning up in multi-player Poker. Ben Toogood on the other-hand spent the entire flight winking at people- probably partly due to the fact he could 1) see, and 2) was actually on the plane, following a freak eye accident that earlier in the week almost derailed his participation in the tour.
7pm- Touchdown in the rain. Someone was heard to say this plane is skidding all over the show just like I will be in . . . (I will protect that student on this occasion!)
7:25pm- Customs is cleared after Jake Robson rewrites his Arrival Card thirteen times after realising he still doesn't have a manly signature
8pm- All members boarded the bus for the Peninsula.Excelsior Hotel (the hotel's location is a 100m walk from the Singapore Cricket Club for those that know the area)
8:45pm- After a 30 min drive, the boys head to their rooms to 'quickly' drop their bags
9:15pm- The final two group members arrive to meet the 9pm deadline for being in the lobby (pretty solid start if you ask me). Again Skeen bucks his own personal trend by being on time (twice in one day, I might add)
9:40pm- Arrival at the Bugis St Markets, after walking the complete block around the Hotel first to see if any of the boys noticed (they all failed!). Then it was all about diving into the market place and getting disorientated and trying to walk back out again. Some showed a sharp sense of direction, while others will be using their bag chain as a leash over the coming month.
10:15pm- Dinner at a local food court with Thai being the choice of the night ($5 per head for a bowl of noodles or fried rice or an unknown substance/texture). George Harman offers to buy the staff their meals- what a generous fella
10:45pm- A decent walk ensues around the 'must sees' of the Singapore landscape by night- these included The Eye of Singapore, Suntec City, Marina Bay Sands, The Lotus, the City Skyline looking from across the river with the 'floating' football field in the foreground. All the mean while a certain staff member kept yelling 'take a photo of that for your mum- she will love the pretty lights (and it wasn't a female staff member making these suggestions, so whoever it was it a real smooth operator)
12:20am- Back to base and into bed. Very tired boys after being up all day and all night

Well it is the equivalent of 6:21am Monday here in Singapore if it was calculated as NZ time (1:21am local time), so I'm off to enjoy a Sunday night sleep.

Best wishes to those starting a working week.

Ben

MVP- Mr Jordan. The guy hasn't arrived yet which is probably the most valuable way in which he could have added to this trip. If he doesn't arrive tomorrow he will continue to be a clear favourite for the winning this crown everyday. However if we do see his Irish eyes in the morning when we awake then there is no absolutely no chance he will ever complete something worthwhile enough to be recognised positively on this blog-site again.

Thought- A comment was made within the group tonight about how artificial Singapore feels. It got me thinking; How often do each of us work hard to gloss up our lives so it all appears picture perfect from the outside, whilst beneath the surface we are struggling to be something authentic?

Happy travels Sam!

Hope you all had a great flight and recover from the jetlag soon!

Lucy

Final Call Gate 16

Tickets- Sorted
Customs- Cleared
Boys' Nerves- Gone

Well done to the parents- impressive performances ranging from tears to complete relief that there is now one less family member to raid the pantry over the next 4 weeks.

Next step . . . Singapore!

Ben

And So It Begins

Rewind back to 3:15pm on 22 August 2012 and applications were closing for this, the third Auckland Grammar School India Immersion Programme.

 

Fast forward another 15 months and the time has come. 

 

On Friday the group completed their final preparations for what shapes as a significant formative experience that they are about to undertake. The highlights of this Preparation Day included:

·         Trading/swapping/begging with members of the Auckland public in Newmarket to accept one simple pen for an item that was bigger or better- the outcomes included a golf bag, live tadpoles, handbags, clothing, food, etc (I look forward to reminding the boys of their harassing antics when they get fed up with the beggars of India who eagerly await their arrival).

·         A return of members from the 2011 India Immersion Programme to send the current group off with their own very best wishes.

  

Only two hours now before everyone is expected to arrive at the Auckland International Airport.

 

I sincerely hope that you enjoy this blog-site over the next 28 days.  It will record the thinking and feelings that are stirred up within each of us as we journey across a beautifully contrasting landscape, interacting with the people of India that will guide us in a process of self-discovery.

 

We leave you the reader to create photographic images in your own mind.

 

Ben

 

Thought   

A friend of my often claims that he will ‘smash it in the face’ when referring to challenges that lie ahead of him.  Collectively our group should be thinking- ‘it would be great to meet you face to face India; to truly see you, know you, and value know’.