I have wanted to visit the "hill stations" and tea gardens of India for a very long time. I can't remember which book it was, but some piece of Indian fiction must have put a picture in my mind of a peaceful, cool and idyllic place. It is busier and bigger than I had expected. But I am loving it! Count a visit to Darjeeling as another item on my life list I am lucky enough to check off. It is just amazing to be here.
It's a little hard to get your bearings since the city and region is so steep and the roads wind and turn and access is through alleys and stairways. It is virtually impossible to photograph. There must be some special lens needed capture the depth and angles. I hired a cab who took me 40 minutes down the most amazing, rugged and winding road to a tea garden and factory where he talked a worker into giving me a private tour. There were no green tea leaves being processed, they wouldn't be ready for two more days, but he walked me through all the rooms and in very rough English, tried to explain the steps involved. There was top quality tea being dried and I can't tell you how much I wish I could add scratch and sniff to this blog. It was like perfume. The building itself was fabulous. Entirely wood, with tin floors and coal burners. And I was the only tourist in sight.
I then went to the Tibetan Refugee Training Center and the Women's weaving guild and did my part to support the local economy. I'm going to have to hire one of these Sherpas to haul all of my shopping home! I have been a little excessive lately! (And don't count on anything because most of it is mine, mine, mine!)
I have no need for any food other than the marvelous momo's. They are basically just chewy boiled dumplings filled with vegetables or meat and served with spicy chilie sauce. A plate of 8 costs about .40. Finish that up with a cup of good tea and life is good! 
a dream come true to be sure! tea. nothing better and nothing like it eh? we miss you terribly. since it's not all about me i guess i'll add that i'm so glad you're there! enjoy for us all Sue!
Posted by: susan | March 27, 2008 at 10:44 AM
p.s it SNOWED today!
Posted by: susan | March 27, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Hey, Sue!
Talked with your Mom today & she shared your blog address! What a journey! Good for you! I loved your colorful descriptions of the areas you've visited so far & appreciate your honest assessments of the whole scene & your reactions!! Looks like it's about time to head to Seattle. Congratulations on your solo trip! Kudos! with hugs,
Mickie and Dave Hooks
Posted by: Mickie & Dave Hooks | March 29, 2008 at 03:39 PM