Friday 22 February

Mumbai is Mental.

That's about all I have energy to write just now. Some Indians are kind of bullshitters. Have come to an expensive hotel today - needs must - have to wait till Sunday to get a train out of here to Cochin. Sinusitis. Terrible chesty cough. Hotel reception staff, one of whom has lived in Coventry and didn't much like the English, said it would be nice and quiet in a room nearby reception. I had my doubts as I know how loud Indian voices can reverberate ... 

I came back to the hotel from what was the most unpleasant major road I have ever had the misfortune to walk down. I arrived to a find huge 100-MAN party on the huge garden roof. There's some celebration on. Banging music, live DJs, and though I've been  moved to the furthest end of the corridor, it is still Fucking Loud.

Clearly, the idea of  'quiet' Indian-stylee is very different to my idea of QUIET.

Indian business bullshit has a particular vibe about it that is unique. It goes a little bit like this. I just want to help you. A friend has a hotel. Why pay so much more when you can pay a massive discounted rate at the Metro Mumbai ...?