Global village

From Kochi, India (Cochin)

I read a passage on Marshall McLuhan today that summarized my holiday in Kerala. McLuhan coined the phrase "Global village" and it refers to the way technology and media is transforming traditional space time barriers. It is enabling people to live on a global scale and the world is truly a small place. Kerala is the undisputed gem of the Indian subcontinent. I encourage everyone to go see old world charm and progressive thinking coexisting. I particularly enjoyed old Cochin ; buying fresh fish on the coast, that we later prepared for lunch, just felt right; and the prawns were out of this world. Alleppey is the Venice of the East and you are overcome by a sense of calm just driving through this region. Visiting the regions where my parents were born was incredible and well worth the long flight there.

From Kochi, India (Cochin)

I think I've rediscovered the best kept secret in Asia . The shopping and food near Bazaar Road could occupy me for months. Seeing the wholesale spice markets and curio shops was well worth the sometimes annoying shop keepers. I would suggest checking out the reputable antique dealors, flower oil fragrance shops, and the textile dealers.

From Kochi, India (Cochin)

I took this photo outside of my auto rickshaw. I would encourage everyone to take a hair raising ride on on of these vehicles in chaotic traffic at some point in their lives. The great irony in India is that the bikes are the best way to get around. The tourists get stuck in traffic! The blur is the man on the bike whizzing by my auto that is stuck in traffic.

From Kochi, India (Cochin)

I took this shot out a window too. These are rice paddies somewhere between Thiruvilla and paradise. Can't wait to go back again. A friend suggested I read a book and the timing was such that I read it while taveling in South India; this qoute resounded with me: "I was looking for the key for years / but the door was always open".