Tonight we catch the Shatabdi Express back to Delhi. Chandigarh has been another enjoyable experience. Each place we have visited has its own special characteristics. This city is the result of Pandit Nehru's dream - a city to symbolize India's freedom in 1947. The entire city was planned by one architect and is divided into sectors. The streets are wide & tree-lined. For the first time since arriving in India we have seen sidewalks made of interlocking pavers, parking stalls and lane line paintings. Although it is busy and noisy everything is organized and clean - there is not the chaos we have experienced in other cities. The buildings are modern and the tent cities few and far between. We have had a wonderful time shopping at a huge bazaar that reflects our western shopping plazas. Many of the stores carry name brands and the prices asked are similar to what we would pay at home but the selection of goods is huge and styles are very modern. Even the problem with beggars is minimal. Yesterday we hired a car and driver for a 4 hour tour of the city. We took in a beautiful rose garden, an incredible rock garden, saw the famour Panjab University and meandered along the shores of a man-made lake. It was relaxing, pleasant time on a warm, sunny day. Chandigarh is also the capital of the states of Haryana and Punjab so there are many government offices and a high court. The city planners have made a good effort catering to families and young people. We were told in Jalandhar that Chandigarh is the go-to place for the young and upwardly mobile in India. We can certainly understand why that is after spending a couple of days here. Yesterday we also attempted to visit the Chandigarh Golf Course where the Indian Amateur sponsored by LG is playing. Rupee and Damon were allowed to visit the proshop but Nicole and I had to stay in the car. So even with all the modern ammenities there is still a huge male dominance factor. After all that the proshop was closed so the men are going back this morning while Nicole and I deal with the computer - blog postings and email. D & N had a craving yesterday for pizza after almost 3 weeks of Indian food. Speaking of Indian food - Damon has gorged himself so much that he now resembles Buddha - picture posted is proof. Our driver took us to Domino's and we had a great lunch - see picture. Not only did we find Dominos but we also found a liquor store that sold Australian wine. Of course, we had to sample that. Wine has not been easy to acquire in this country - of drinks of choice have been beer, Barcardi Breezers & scotch. Last night at dinner we met a delightful Indian couple from England who are visiting family here. We're meeting them in the bar lounge this afternoon before all of us travel back to Delhi by rail. Before meeting our new friends we'll probably take a bicycle rickshaw ride just for the fun of it. Our time in India is quickly coming to an end. We can't believe how fast the time has gone by. The memories will last forever.
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