Madras - The week that was

The previous post though depressing has nothing to do with my state of affairs in Chennai. Ok, maybe just a little bit to do with work! I am very surprised to admit this but there has not been a single day when I have been bored in Madras so far. Yes, I had very low expectations from this place and I am relieved to say that those expectations have been surpassed and how! The city itself or the people in it can make the experience worthwhile and in this case its the people. I do not care much for the city and that will not change anytime soon.

Rooftop parties, a visit to the beach, a visit to Pondicherry and a small glimpse of the Chennai party scene have been the highlights so far. I never missed terraces when I was in Manchester but I have begun to appreciate it more now. It is very pleasant in the nights since there is always a cool breeze blowing and even the stars are usually visible. I have always wanted to fall asleep looking at the stars and I finally managed to do that here after a 15 year gap. It is also an ideal place for everyone to hang out and it happens quite regularly.

Pondicherry was a good trip despite me being bleary eyed and exhausted. I think it is an overrated place but the French Quarter was indeed nice. The food in the French Quarter was really good and certainly the best aspect of the trip. The rocky "beach" or promenade is just a very poor form of Marine Drive. The transformation of the promenade in the night is quite disconcerting. There is a mini funfair which manifests itself there in the night in sharp contrast to a smattering of people in the day.

Last up is the Chennai party scene. I have heard that places here shut by eleven and I can vouch for it now. I guess the twentyfoursevenness of Bombay will certainly be missed in all aspects. Another oft repeated cliched thing that will be missed is the autorickshaws charging you as per the meter. Food-wise I have no complaints yet. There are some really nice restaurants around and many more waiting to be discovered. There is a bakery pretty close to my house and I am happy! Finally, I am still surprised at how positive my first post about Chennai has turned out to be and I hope the trend continues.