Hey all

Finally found an internet cafe, so thought we'd update on our progress so far....

So far India is a bit of culture shock (understatement!) We had mentally prepared ourselves, but were obviously not physically prepared and were a bit overwhelmed when we left the airport. The guy who met us whisked us through to his taxi - we had to keep our heads down along the way as various children were begging and as soon as you make eye contact they won't leave you alone! One small child tried to grab my (Lisa's) hand and another told Chris he will clean his ears for him..! The taxi ride to the hostel was crazy (again, an understatement!) It seems the roads out here are a free for all - along the way we narrowly hitting other cars - as well as bikes, people and massive cows just strolling in the road. There is a constant background noise of 'beeping' here - the roads are just so chaotic!

Our taxi guy (who we named Yogi, as he looks like the bear) showed us to our room and seemed very proud of the 'homestay concept' of the place. I think he'd tried to make it as homely as he could: there are random ornaments placed across the room and a massive pink flowery rug (which looks really strange?!)

Last night we ventured out into Delhi (we are currently staying in South Delhi and plann to get out of there asap!) We were a little apprehensive - I guess it takes a few days to get used to and you kind of feel 'famous' as people are constantly staring! We ate at Chaska restaurant/bar which Yogi said is famous.....we didn't believe him. I (Lisa) was fine until I had a tandoori mushroom...very hot!!! This food will take some getting used to. Chris was in his element with his 'drums of heaven', which we think (or hope) were chicken wings... All in all, it was very cheap: 4 dishes and 3 large Kingfisher beers for approx 7quid! On the way back we flagged down a rickshaw which was quite an adventure. I was a bit scared at first, but Chris was really excited! The driver couldn't find our hostel and we were driving round like maniacs for agesssssss - it was a relief to finally arrive 'home'. Chris was alright as his side had a bar whereas mine was completely open and I felt like I was going to fall out a few times..!

Today were in Connaught Place which is the main centre in Delhi. We've seen a few more tourists and people aren't staring as much, which is always reassuring. However, we have seen some things we wish we hadn't: there was a man in the subway with broken legs (they were facing the wrong way) and another man lay in the middle of a busy road begging.

Chris nearly broke his back: He lost his footing and fell over a barrier, landing on his back!! It's funny now, but at the time I was a bit worried. Some locals ran over and picked him up (probably hoping for a tip).

Next were going to head to some shops and might be meeting a new friend Chris has made for dinner. His name is Chintan and he is a doctor....and a chatterbox!!! I (Lisa) might need a stiff drink.

Hope everyone is well. Take care and we will write more soon...

Much love, Lisa & Chris xxx