Well!! I being from Hyderabad was not very much fond of telugu movies but when I got married and moved to Bangalore…, Missing has become a common word in my dictionary now. I miss my Parents, friends, college days, my colony, previous office, hobbies ….etc. in that list it also includes telugu songs…..movies and the language!! Its very rightly said that distance makes you know the worth.
This time when I went to Hyderabad, I was asking my brother which Telugu movie is good and to that he told me that he heard “HAPPY DAYS”!! is a good movie!!
I thought maybe its a children’s film. Later, I came to Bangalore and got a chance to watch the movie!! to my delight, the movie was about college life.
Rewind to the good old college days...Walk down memory lane...Go on a reflective trip. Well these could be some labels to describe the film Happy Days. The film is indeed a huge portion of college life -- the days and years which are cherished/ embedded in most minds. Watching the film is indeed sweet and refreshing -- a aroma of fresh air which has permeated the celluloid horizon otherwise stuffed with mostly stereotypical and run-of-the-mill fare. But in Happy Days, the positive side of student life is highlighted. Imagine a film revolving around four years of life in an engineering college. Its beautifully crafted by the writer, the director, the characters in the movie ….which makes you want to go back to college!! As indeed they are the Happy Days!! You could have been in. The film unfolds with freshers, ragging, hostility between the seniors and juniors and their fights, freshers' parties, friendships between freshers, jealousy, competition, love, betrayal, crush on the teacher, sentiments, campus interviews and spending happy times together. Get set to wind the clock back.
Though I have done my MCA and was in only girls/women’s college still I could related few things of college life from the movie!! I miss my college days so much now. All the while in college it was like when will we get a job and become independent. Now that josh is something I miss! All the meaningless laughters, all the fun, treats for every small and big reasons, oh! the exam preparations. … All the post "Dil Chahata Hai" promises and schedules of keeping in touch with each other no matter what, all the crazy photo sessions and autograph books, and how any one could forget the very touchy and teary farewell party. I cherish all this even now.
I am sure the engineering students would have had lot more fun in the four years of college life!!
A must watch movie!! for all generations as the story is well told. The storyline of Happy Days is very simple but a simple story may sound easy to film but on the contrary it is not -- it requires perfect story telling to keep the audience engrossed.
Happy Days is one of the best Telugu movies I have ever watched and I am sure it will revolutionize the Tollywood. What a movie!!!! I liked the movie and the songs are very melodious. The movie has a unique freshness which is its USP. This movie was a treat to watch as I did not have any expectations when I was watching the movie but as it progressed and the way it was narrated makes the movie just fabulous!! it was like one of your friends narrating a story to you! That’s the attention you will end up giving the movie “Happy Days”. For a good movie even language will not be a barrier and I am sure those who will not understand will be able to follow the movie! Don't miss Happy Days for you will be reminded of the Happy Days gone by. Really one of the best Telugu movies I have ever watched.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Chunchi Trip Travellog
On 15th Nov, 2007 we all were to attend a marriage of a close relative in Kanakapura. The day being a Thursday - My Husband, brother-in-law and myself took leave from work to attend the wedding. We left home to goto Kanakapura as early as 8:30 A.M. My husband was driving the car. We took the ‘nice road’ to reach Kanakapura. This way we avoided the traffic at the peak hour. Kanakapura is about 100 Kms from Bangalore City. I’ve heard of this place as the art of living ashram is also here. We reached the function hall at 10:30 A.M. The marriage went on well then my husband’s cousins were discussing that we could go to Mekedattu after lunch as it is close by to this place. Most of the close relatives attended the function. We wished the married couple, had our lunch and went to a Vishnu temple nearby in Kanakapura. By now it was 3:30 P.M. and all the cousins were deciding should we go or not. My father-in-law kept telling that it was too late to go to the place but others decided that after coming so far its better we goto Mekedaatu. Now our family (Raghu, my in-laws, Raghu’s grandfather and me), Mama, Mami and their little daughter and another cousin decided to go t
o Mekedaatu. We went in our car and the others came in the bike.
On the way to Mekedaatu my MIL was telling me that to reach Mekedaatu we have to cross the river Cauvery. On the other side of the bank there would be bus which will take us to the hill point where one can see a narrow gap where water passes. To see that place we should go early as the place is a forest. The roads on the way to Mekedaatu for some distance were bad. We had to travel through the village hence we got delayed, the road was dusty and after sometime we were finally out where the air was clearer, and roads devoid of the usual traffic, we were rushing towards the destination. We reached Mekedaatu at 4:30 P.M. On enquiry, few localities there told us that the last boat has gone to the other side of the river and there will be no more boats now as it is evening. We were disappointed as it was of no use coming so far. This place is also called Sangama. This Sangama is place where three rivers join. We spent some time walking in the Sangama water near the bank. Then Raghu said why not goto the Chunchi falls!! On the way to Mekedaatu we could see a landmark pointing to the opposite direction called Chunchi Falls. Someone in Mekedaatu said that the place is good and we must reach there before 6:00 P.M and we can see wonderful view. Hearing this we all rushed from there as quick as possible. The road was narrow but good. We noticed a board and moved in the same direction to Chunchi falls.
You will need to take a deviation from the main road towards Mekedattu. i.e.while coming from Mekedaatu you get another deviation towards the right, 5km - 6km more from here is the water fall. On driving for 30 minutes we reached dead – end. There was a huge hill and Raghu parked the car under one of the trees. It was deserted and no one was around as it was a working day. We found one local old person sitting under the tree where you can also park your vehicle. We confirmed from him if this was the place and he said yes. Raghu's grandfather said he will sit under the tree there and will not come down to the waterfall. We thought the waterfall is very close by to the place and got down from the car and walked till the dead end - We looked for water and thought where the waterfall is as it was dry rock hill everywhere but we could hear the sound of the waterfall. We didn’t know from where the water was falling. There was not a single soul around.
My husband, FIL, BIL, his cousin, mama along with their 3 year old daughter said this is an adventure and got down the way through the rocks and trees. We (my MIL, Kavita mami and me) thought we will also go slowly behind them.
At some distance either of them would shout and inform us all to be careful if there is a narrow way or if it skids...etc. They would scream from a distance and ask us to come in that path and we would follow them. After some time we could hear no voices, we were just going ahead then my FIL came back and told the guys have found the waterfall and as he was tired he wanted to go back near the car. He also advised my MIL to accompany him back to the car as the way ahead was difficult and the rocks were slippery but my MIL wanted to go ahead as she was concerned if the guys will take care of themselves near the fall. We started our mini-trek from there, we had to get down few rocks (few were really slippery), my BIL and his cousin came back saying that my husband and Subbu mama had found the waterfall down and now they came to guide us. Rajeev (My BIL) was helping my MIL to get down the rocks. There we saw a small stream of water flowing across the way and we jumped across this. Kavitha Mami and I were coming behind together. The way was narrow and towards our left was valley filled with dense plants. By now the sunlight was decreasing; it was dusk and I was enjoying this trek because when we started to this place I did not expect that I would be trekking here to see waterfalls! The best moments in life is when you least expect it to happen.
Little ahead what we saw at first was a small stream flowing down the rocks and were a little disappointed (and I was wondering how can one call this falls?!! and for this we came from so far!!) To my relief my BIL said this is not the falls...its very much ahead. We clicked few photos from the mobile on the way and I was wondering oh!! Why didn't I bring the camera today? We walked for few more minutes and I could hear the waterfall sound clearer now. Little ahead I could see Raghu there near the end of rock waving his hand enthusiastically at us. He shouted my name from there and asked me to get down there. By now we had already walked for more than 30 minutes. The natural light was fading away. It was better if we all would go back as soon as possible. We got down about 60 meters by now. To reach the place where we could see the waterfall we had to get down another 30 meters down and we were bit tired by now. I was also timid to get down near the waterfall. Raghu came up and forced us to come down and even Kavitha Mami was interested to go down then I removed my slippers as there were more slippery and irregular rocks ahead and thought its another few meters down and reluctantly got down. My MIL also wanted to come down as near the tip of the rock was the waterfall and she wanted to ensure everyone's safety and with Raghu's help we got down.
After the short trek what we saw was amazing!! I am out of words to describe it and good I got down. There are huge rocks all around us, with water flowing down from a crevice in the rock (Maybe it's the Arkavathi river which ultimately joins Sangama…I am not sure). There was not much water in the falls maybe because of the season, at this place particularly we were looking like tiny insects surrounded by these huge rocks!! There were two sources of the waterfall. One was very narrow and just beside this there was another waterfall flowing between the rocks. The water was flowing aloud. All were surprised to notice that the water below the falls were still (waterfall was not making the water below to flow so it might be flowing elsewhere not sure).
What I missed the most at this point was the camera (we were taking photos by mobile) and another thing that was not on our side was the time....it was getting dark and the time was 6:30 P.M. I was awed by the beautiful scenery in front of me. The guys were just going near the tip of the rock and below were the still water. They were screaming and having fun. My MIL shouted at those who went near the tip as little carelessness anyone could fall in that still water and we had no clue how deep the water would be. We were forced to leave the beautiful place behind as we had to get back to the car before it gets dark as we had to go through the difficult way up to the car. After a quick photo session we quickly climbed up. I was finding climbing up easier than getting down. My husband Raghu was helping my MIL climb up and ensured all were going in the right route towards the car. The sun set now and we could hear a familiar voice calling all of us there in little height we saw my FIL was calling us as it had got dark. Right on time we reached our car and it was dark around us now and the time was 6:30 P.M.
Well people, even if the rocks are not very slippery you could slip and fall! As the rocks are irregular, so better be careful!! This is a small water falls on the way to Sangama. It would have been worth it if there was more water (our timing was not good). We spent around an hour there and returned back. Thanks to these guys curiosity as they wanted to see some place even after the disappointment at Makedaatu they went ahead to find this place - a waterfall.
Chunchi falls are best by your own vehicle. The total drive is close to 95 KM from Bangalore. ‘Chunchi Falls’ are located in Kanakapura Taluk on banks of river Arkavati. Take the Sangama Road after Kanakapura and after 23kms you can spot a road on the left side going to Chunchi falls. 5km more from here is the water fall. Please keep asking people on the way, as there are many chances that you miss the small deviations. (or) Drive out of Bangalore on Kanakapura Road. After Kanakapura, you can proceed for another 10 KM and then you can just ask anyone on the road for Chunchi Falls.
"Chunchi" is a pretty much hidden place and not many know about it. But it is definitely a place worth visiting because you are away from the city buzz in a short time, you get a chance to do mini trekking and I can say that it is a treasure for the artists and nature lovers. It definitely has taught me to appreciate and care for nature.
o Mekedaatu. We went in our car and the others came in the bike. On the way to Mekedaatu my MIL was telling me that to reach Mekedaatu we have to cross the river Cauvery. On the other side of the bank there would be bus which will take us to the hill point where one can see a narrow gap where water passes. To see that place we should go early as the place is a forest. The roads on the way to Mekedaatu for some distance were bad. We had to travel through the village hence we got delayed, the road was dusty and after sometime we were finally out where the air was clearer, and roads devoid of the usual traffic, we were rushing towards the destination. We reached Mekedaatu at 4:30 P.M. On enquiry, few localities there told us that the last boat has gone to the other side of the river and there will be no more boats now as it is evening. We were disappointed as it was of no use coming so far. This place is also called Sangama. This Sangama is place where three rivers join. We spent some time walking in the Sangama water near the bank. Then Raghu said why not goto the Chunchi falls!! On the way to Mekedaatu we could see a landmark pointing to the opposite direction called Chunchi Falls. Someone in Mekedaatu said that the place is good and we must reach there before 6:00 P.M and we can see wonderful view. Hearing this we all rushed from there as quick as possible. The road was narrow but good. We noticed a board and moved in the same direction to Chunchi falls.
You will need to take a deviation from the main road towards Mekedattu. i.e.while coming from Mekedaatu you get another deviation towards the right, 5km - 6km more from here is the water fall. On driving for 30 minutes we reached dead – end. There was a huge hill and Raghu parked the car under one of the trees. It was deserted and no one was around as it was a working day. We found one local old person sitting under the tree where you can also park your vehicle. We confirmed from him if this was the place and he said yes. Raghu's grandfather said he will sit under the tree there and will not come down to the waterfall. We thought the waterfall is very close by to the place and got down from the car and walked till the dead end - We looked for water and thought where the waterfall is as it was dry rock hill everywhere but we could hear the sound of the waterfall. We didn’t know from where the water was falling. There was not a single soul around.My husband, FIL, BIL, his cousin, mama along with their 3 year old daughter said this is an adventure and got down the way through the rocks and trees. We (my MIL, Kavita mami and me) thought we will also go slowly behind them.
At some distance either of them would shout and inform us all to be careful if there is a narrow way or if it skids...etc. They would scream from a distance and ask us to come in that path and we would follow them. After some time we could hear no voices, we were just going ahead then my FIL came back and told the guys have found the waterfall and as he was tired he wanted to go back near the car. He also advised my MIL to accompany him back to the car as the way ahead was difficult and the rocks were slippery but my MIL wanted to go ahead as she was concerned if the guys will take care of themselves near the fall. We started our mini-trek from there, we had to get down few rocks (few were really slippery), my BIL and his cousin came back saying that my husband and Subbu mama had found the waterfall down and now they came to guide us. Rajeev (My BIL) was helping my MIL to get down the rocks. There we saw a small stream of water flowing across the way and we jumped across this. Kavitha Mami and I were coming behind together. The way was narrow and towards our left was valley filled with dense plants. By now the sunlight was decreasing; it was dusk and I was enjoying this trek because when we started to this place I did not expect that I would be trekking here to see waterfalls! The best moments in life is when you least expect it to happen.
Little ahead what we saw at first was a small stream flowing down the rocks and were a little disappointed (and I was wondering how can one call this falls?!! and for this we came from so far!!) To my relief my BIL said this is not the falls...its very much ahead. We clicked few photos from the mobile on the way and I was wondering oh!! Why didn't I bring the camera today? We walked for few more minutes and I could hear the waterfall sound clearer now. Little ahead I could see Raghu there near the end of rock waving his hand enthusiastically at us. He shouted my name from there and asked me to get down there. By now we had already walked for more than 30 minutes. The natural light was fading away. It was better if we all would go back as soon as possible. We got down about 60 meters by now. To reach the place where we could see the waterfall we had to get down another 30 meters down and we were bit tired by now. I was also timid to get down near the waterfall. Raghu came up and forced us to come down and even Kavitha Mami was interested to go down then I removed my slippers as there were more slippery and irregular rocks ahead and thought its another few meters down and reluctantly got down. My MIL also wanted to come down as near the tip of the rock was the waterfall and she wanted to ensure everyone's safety and with Raghu's help we got down.
After the short trek what we saw was amazing!! I am out of words to describe it and good I got down. There are huge rocks all around us, with water flowing down from a crevice in the rock (Maybe it's the Arkavathi river which ultimately joins Sangama…I am not sure). There was not much water in the falls maybe because of the season, at this place particularly we were looking like tiny insects surrounded by these huge rocks!! There were two sources of the waterfall. One was very narrow and just beside this there was another waterfall flowing between the rocks. The water was flowing aloud. All were surprised to notice that the water below the falls were still (waterfall was not making the water below to flow so it might be flowing elsewhere not sure).
What I missed the most at this point was the camera (we were taking photos by mobile) and another thing that was not on our side was the time....it was getting dark and the time was 6:30 P.M. I was awed by the beautiful scenery in front of me. The guys were just going near the tip of the rock and below were the still water. They were screaming and having fun. My MIL shouted at those who went near the tip as little carelessness anyone could fall in that still water and we had no clue how deep the water would be. We were forced to leave the beautiful place behind as we had to get back to the car before it gets dark as we had to go through the difficult way up to the car. After a quick photo session we quickly climbed up. I was finding climbing up easier than getting down. My husband Raghu was helping my MIL climb up and ensured all were going in the right route towards the car. The sun set now and we could hear a familiar voice calling all of us there in little height we saw my FIL was calling us as it had got dark. Right on time we reached our car and it was dark around us now and the time was 6:30 P.M.
Well people, even if the rocks are not very slippery you could slip and fall! As the rocks are irregular, so better be careful!! This is a small water falls on the way to Sangama. It would have been worth it if there was more water (our timing was not good). We spent around an hour there and returned back. Thanks to these guys curiosity as they wanted to see some place even after the disappointment at Makedaatu they went ahead to find this place - a waterfall.
Chunchi falls are best by your own vehicle. The total drive is close to 95 KM from Bangalore. ‘Chunchi Falls’ are located in Kanakapura Taluk on banks of river Arkavati. Take the Sangama Road after Kanakapura and after 23kms you can spot a road on the left side going to Chunchi falls. 5km more from here is the water fall. Please keep asking people on the way, as there are many chances that you miss the small deviations. (or) Drive out of Bangalore on Kanakapura Road. After Kanakapura, you can proceed for another 10 KM and then you can just ask anyone on the road for Chunchi Falls."Chunchi" is a pretty much hidden place and not many know about it. But it is definitely a place worth visiting because you are away from the city buzz in a short time, you get a chance to do mini trekking and I can say that it is a treasure for the artists and nature lovers. It definitely has taught me to appreciate and care for nature.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
UK Trip Travellog
I had to go to the UK as part of my Knowledge Transfer for a month from my office. Below listed is a travel log about my stay and places I visited in UK.
See Sept 1, 2007 to read details on Edinburgh Trip.
See Aug 26, 2007 and Sept 2 to read details on Glasgow Trip.
See Sept 8, 2007 to read details on London Trip
See Sept 9, 2007 to read details on Loch Lomond Trip
Aug 24:
We boarded the Emirates flight at 18:30 to Dubai first; it was very exciting as it was my first time to a foreign land. The flight looked very long with lot of seats unlike the domestic airlines. I was traveling in an economy class but I saw the business class which was very good on my way to the seat. It was 4 hours flight. I was like having all mixed feelings as I would miss home but was happy to go abroad. I could not view much from the flight as it was getting darker instead watched some movies like Namesake, Dhoom…listenend to some song. I had some Dal – Chawal in the flight. Very soon we crossed the Arabian Sea (as I could see it in the aerial view inside the flight). 
As Dubai approached, I could see there were lots of bright lights on the road from that height. I just wished if I could go around the place but I did not have visa. The flight landed and the weather was close to 35 degrees Celsius. It was warm outside and the time there was 21:00. It was about 4 hours journey. I adjusted the time in my watch to the timing in Dubai. We came inside the huge Dubai airport. There we had to wait for a connection flight to UK which was at 7: 50 A.M. next day. Our colleagues had informed us that we can go to Safar restaurant and ask for a complimentary dinner. Inside the airport there were many shops, you could buy chocolates, dates, purses, wallets, antiques, gold jewellery, watches, soft toys…etc. There was place to sit and rest. After having our dinner at Safar restaurant, Lakshmi and I went around the airport for sometime and rested at our gate for sometime.
Aug 25:
We re-freshened ourselves and enquired about our flight. We were waiting to board our flight at the gate. We showed our boarding pass and got into the Emirates flight at 7:50 (Dubai time). It was a seven and half hours journey to Glasgow and I thought I’ll sleep for sometime. Again Lakshmi and me were sitting quite far away but were happy that we were sitting beside the window. It was a bright sunny morning in Dubai and the flight took off. On the way I saw this huge mountain range from the aerial map it appeared as Zagros Mountains. I wish I had the camera with me in the hand baggage. It was beautiful scenery. I saw many seas, deserts and mountains at that height. I wish I had carried the camera with me in the hand baggage. It was kept in the check-in baggage. While coming I wanted to make sure I take the photos. There were two girls sitting beside me and they were having fun listening to music. I had my veg lunch and then watched movie, slept for some time and then listenend to some songs. 
There were huge clouds when we entered Europe but I could see clear sky in Dubai and ahead too. After we entered Europe, I was waiting to see UK as the time in the aerial map showed 20 min to land. I was looking out from the window and as Glasgow approached it was covered with thick dark clouds and even as the plane was landing we were cutting across lot of thick cloud. At last just before landing I could see greenery and immediately we landed, it seemed it was raining outside. I guessed that it might rain a lot and the weather is very chill outside. It was 12:25 noon (UK Time) there when we reached. I reset my watch to the UK time.
I was too excited to step my foot on the UK land. I met Lakshmi(we were sitting at different seats for the window seat) and we both took our baggage and went for the immigration check. After that, we were eager to know who would come to pick us up and as we were coming out, we saw Kishore (one of our SAIC Colleague) waiting in the Airport for us. We thought Kishore would have left two days back and he was here to pick us up from the airport. It was raining outside and the weather was chill on Saturday afternoon. We called our home and informed them that we reached safely from Kishore’s phone.
We were going to our flat in a taxi. Lakshmi and I would share the same flat. The flat no. was 220/4. I was thrilled to see so much greenery, wide smooth roads, the GPS system inside the car …etc. 
Kishore was telling us about the place, where we could go on week-ends..etc. Lakshmi and I were very hungry to think about anything. We came to our flat; the stop is called Hairmyres in Eaglesham Road, East Kilbride. The flat was beautiful with all required furniture and things. We could view beautiful sceneries from the window. The train station, bus stop was all close by to the flat were we stayed and Kishore informed us that few minutes walk and his flat is also close by. We could see his flat from ours. For lunch he had prepared tomato curry and chapatti. We heated the frozen chapatti and had with the delicious curry. Kishore informed us that we can go to the East Kilbride complex in the evening to buy curd, vegetables, milk, oil..etc. On quick site survey we found that we had a fridge, microwave along with microwave safe plastic bowls, stove, vessels, OTG Oven, washing machine, sofa, iron box….etc. We had two bed-rooms – so we arranged our clothes in the wardrobe in our individual rooms’. Lakshmi and I planned that all the week-ends we will go around and see places and will not sit at home. We rested for a while and got ready to go to the East Kilbride complex to buy some vegetables, curds, milk, and oil….etc. We both are vegetarians. We bought this in a place called Sainsbury. We went around few places and did window shopping. Luckily, the time we were traveling in UK was summer so shops were open till 6:00 P.M. else they close by 5:00 P.M. in winter. We thanked Kishore and asked him where we could go the next day – Sunday and he said he is planning to go to Glasgow and we can come along with him to Glasgow. The next day another colleague of ours Pramod was coming from Bangalore. We thought if we leave early then he will not have the key. So, we thought we will start in the afternoon by 3:00 P.M. to Glasgow. We thanked Kishore for taking us to the complex. There was faint light till 8:30 P.M. in the night and it never felt that it was 8:30 P.M. It seemed as though it was just 6:00 P.M. in India because of the light.
Lakshmi and I together prepared dinner, had it and cleaned the kitchen. We were tired after the journey and we slept soon.
Aug 26:
It was a very warm, pleasant morning. We had our breakfast (heated chapatti and had it with MTR Rajma masala – Ready to eat). We took few photos near the flat. Then went around the place for some time and came back had our lunch (Ready to eat stuffs). By 2:30 P.M. we got a call from Kishore that Pramod came and we could go now. Pramod was sharing the flat with Kishore. We saw when the next train to Glasgow central was. We took tickets and got into the scot rail to goto Glasgow which is 30 minutes from the place where we stayed. I was just seeing the beautiful sceneries on the way. They were just awesome. The train journey was good. We reached Glasgow…the weather was bit chill now. I was wearing my heavy jerkin – which will protect me from the cold. Glasgow is the third largest city in Britain, and has the reputation of being one of the friendliest. 
Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and third most populous in the United Kingdom. We walked a little while and Kishore said with the time in hand we can see – the Kelvin groove art gallery and museum. I was looking around the place while walking towards the bus stop. 
There were so many monuments, high buildings, the roads were wide, clean and made of stone in few places. Many people and many shopping malls. We got into a bus to goto the Art Gallery. Someone in the bus told us that the art gallery will close by 6:00 P.M. and it was already 4:30 P.M. then. We reached the place by 5:15 and looked around the place for a while and few minutes later it was the time for the art gallery to get closed. We could not see all the places inside the museum but were happy that we saw this place today. We had some photo session here. Though it was 6:00 it was a bright day with a chilly weather. Then we walked around the place, we went to the Glasgow university road and then from there to a park took few snaps and then returned back to home (now we came in a Double – Decker bus to Glasgow central and then took Scot rail and reached Hairmyres station). It was a tiring day again. The next day was another exciting day as it would be the first day at SAIC – UK office.
Aug 27:
We met Pramod who was coming for the fourth time to UK. He told us that the office cab comes at three different time from morning once at 8:15 A.M., second time at 8:50 A.M., and lastly at 9:15 A.M. If we miss, then we have to walk till the office. The cab would wait for few minutes till a train came as there would be few SAIC employees in its. We chose to come at 8:50 A.M. as we have to be in office by 9:00 A.M. So, I got up at 7:00 A.M. prepared coffee for Lakshmi and me. Got ready, now for the breakfast and lunch, Lakshmi bought MTR ready to eat packets. I had a lot of MIL made stuffs as well as few packets of MTR. For the first day, I had Gojh Awalakki for breakfast and Lakshmi made the Upma from MTR Upma mix. For lunch, we heated another MTR packet – Rasam rice and took it in a Tupperware box. 
We were on time for the cab and went to the office. The office was big and was nice. Pramod said he will introduce us to our TLs. First he introduced Lakshmi to her TL and then introduced us to Ramesh (Ramesh handles India related KT and recruitment). Ramesh further took me to my team and they were sitting at the second floor. I was introduced to my team. I was happy to meet Ellen - our TL. She was a very nice lady. She introduced me to the rest of the team. I got to know that one of the team members Shekhar was from Maharashtra (India). She made me feel comfortable in the new place. She told me the reason for my arrival there. We planned how to fill the gaps, getting my profile installed on the computer to start work. It was a good opportunity to know my onsite team members as we have always spoken on phone. It was nice when I met all of them.
For lunch, I met Lakshmi. I re-heated my food and had lunch together with Lakshmi. I noticed that in the onsite nobody takes long breaks. They grab a burger and energy drink, have soup or they eat fruits. I was getting my profile set up on the system.
Ellen informed me that the cab would leave at sharp 5:05 P.M. and the next one is only at 5:45 P.M. So, I better leave early. But I missed the cab that day and so did Lakshmi. We waited till 5:45 P.M. and took another cab at that time and reached home by 6:00 P.M. Pramod meanwhile had got both of us calling cards and we called our home in India and spoke with them for few minutes everyday till the currency in the card got over.
Aug 28:
I got up early i.e. 7:00 A.M. as I had to prepare breakfast, pack the lunch box, get ready, catch the cab to office.I got my profile set up and started working. At work Ellen gave me a KT Plan. Training was going on smoothly. Colleagues at work were very cool. There were varieties of coffee in the office(there were so many options in coffee at the cafeteria). I liked no.14 coffee as it had sugar and milk in proper proportion. The others would have less milk, less sugar,…etc.
We would reach home by 5:30 P.M. and I would call up Raghu. Then watch TV for a while. Lakshmi informed me that she has her husband’s boss’s contact no. He too stayed close by to our place. She called him and up. Lakshmi informed me that the boss has called us for dinner today. I was like both of us…she was like telling me that today is Onam and he stays with his family and has invites us too. She said the boss will be here in another hour and we need to get ready. The boss came at 7:00 P.M. picked us up and told us about the place. As we reached his house, it was very cold outside. I was taking pictures of his house - a very nice place. One of Lakshmi’s husband’s colleagues too was there. Lakshmi’s husband was also supposed to come to UK at that time but in his office, the plan got changed. 
As we entered I saw a beautiful flower Rangoli was made and now the boss’s wife came out and welcomed us in. They were from Kerala and Onam is a very important festival for them. The boss’s wife is a doctor and now is a house-wife. She was pretty and smart. They played perfect hosts. Their kids too were adorable most of them they were watching TV. After chatting for some time – we all sat down to have our dinner. The dinner was delicious all the special Kerala dishes was made. We appreciated her patience to prepare so many dishes and were surprised that they are following all these customs in UK too. Whereas being in India we are always questioning on why do this, why follow that custome…why that?? So on and so forth. The boss dropped us both back home.
Aug 29:
This day was my Brother Pranav’s B’day. I wanted to call up home so I gave him a call at 7:00 A.M. (India time)…he was having exams and was sounding tensed. I wished himm all the luck and asked him if he wants anything from here. He said ask Amma …..I spoke to my mom and she asked me if it was midnight in UK….yeah! It was 3:00 A.M. in UK. I slept for some time.
After coming back from home Pramod asked us if we wanted to buy anything at Lidle. Lakshmi and I had not seen the place – Lidl. 
It is the only super market close to our flat. We decided that we will go and see the place. Lidl was a big super market…we bought some curds and vegetables. On the way back to our flat, Pramod was telling that we should atleast goto London for 2 days as one day we can’t cover a lot of places. Pramod said he could book the tickets for us two but we had to make sure where we could stay for a day as we closely knew no one in London. Lakshmi also seemed excited at the idea of staying for 2 days in London. I thought I will ask my cousin if he knows any Indian family with whom we could stay for a day as earlier he had told that he can help me. I knew one of my friends Kiran from Satyam who stayed in London but I had no contact no. of his. After coming back to the flat, I gave a call to my cousin and enquired him if we could stay in London….if he knew some family there. He asked me for 2 days time. Then we decided that the coming week – end we will goto Edinburgh as there was this Edinburgh festival going on. We were eating Vangibath, Upma, Gojh Awalakki, Curd rice, Noodles, Lakshmi was having ready to eat packets and she too had bought catnipudi, Gojju, pickle, corn flakes.
Aug 30:
This day was Thursday and I was planning to goto the East Kilbride complex. Pramod said he would accompany us from the office. We reached the place at 5:20 P.M. and the shops would get closed by 6:00 P.M. we looked at few places, I bought a butterfly shaped ear-ring. We went to Primark…did some window shopping. We did not want to buy in a hurry. The coming Sunday we were planning to goto Glasgow, so we wanted to shop there too. We brought some grocery for home. The afternoon I received a mail from my cousin, who was telling me that he mailed his friends and one of them have agreed to this but on second thought I felt a day should be fine to see London, I mailed my cousin about the same. We asked Pramod to book tickets for us both (Lakshmi and I)to London on 8/09/07. We went to an Internet center and as we were browsing, Pramod came across the Loch Lomond day tour that was 10 pounds if we booked for 9/09/07 that day but in the next coming days the prices may go up hence we thought for a while and we decided that on Saturday we would goto London and on Sunday we will goto Loch Lomond. The bus timings was 9:00 from Buchanan station in Glasgow but Lakshmi and me thought it could be tiring weekend but we decided to go for it as its not everyday we get opportunity to visit places in UK. 
We booked two tickets (the ticket costed us 35 pounds each) on 8/09/07 to goto London, the bus was silver coach which would start from East Kilbride bus stop and booked two tickets to Loch Lomond too(the ticket was 10 pounds each). Pramod was not sure of coming as he thought he might have some office work that day. Kishore was leaving to India the next day. So, we called Kishore and Pramod to have dinner with us. We prepared Vangibaath and curd rice. That was special for the day. We had bought ice-cream. We all had food and discussed about which places we could be visiting during week-ends. We asked Pramod to accompany us as we knew nothing around. Pramod said he would think about it and will let us know. After they left, Lakshmi and I were cleaning the kitchen and chatted about college days…etc.
Aug 31:
While in the office I was checking mails…the system was slow and I was checking many mails. I happened to see Kiran’s mail too. He said he is staying in London and he also gave his contact no. I was happy that we know someone here.
Then back home I called up Kiran and was happy to hear his voice. We were colleagues in my previous company. He informed me that a day is enough to see London. I informed him that Lakshmi and I would come to London on 8/09/07 and if he could make himself free and guide us in the city. The bus would arrive at London at 6:30 in the morning and in the night; the bus would depart at 9:30 P.M. He said he will be free that day and he will be happy to take us around the city of London.
After that Pramod too conformed that he will accompany us to Edinburgh and we need to get ready early the next day. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and its second largest city, after Glasgow, which is 45 miles (72 km) away to the west. We were happy that we have proper company to accompany us to these unknown places.
Sept 1: Edinburgh Trip
Lakshmi and I got ready early. Had our breakfast and packed few things to eat on the way if we are hungry. Pramod had taken the tickets to Glasgow central and we need to catch another train from Glasgow to goto Edinburgh. We came to down to the Hairmyres and waited for the Train to Glasgow. It was a bright day and we were lucky that it was not raining that day as the weather there is unpredictable. 
This time I had taken my camera out and was taking snaps at every scenery that came on the way. This was the asli Europe in countryside…..greenery, beautiful cottage, clear sky, cows, garden, fences, flowers, hay rolls..etc. I could see the rainbow too.Inside the train, the system was good…every station was announced and the next station would be scrolled at every compartment. Within 30 minutes we were in Glasgow central. It was Saturday and there was lot of crowd inside the station.We had to walk to a different platform to catch a train to Waverly station in Edinburgh. Pramod kept planning where and all we should be visiting. He told us the main attraction is the castle but if we go inside it then the whole day will be spent there. We could also see castle in Sterling as we were planning to see one. Then we decided that we will not goto the Edinburgh castle as it was even 11 pounds and what if we can’t see it in detail. We reached the Waverly station, Pramod went to Mc Donald’s to have his lunch. We decided to take finger chips and eat what we got from home.
Meanwhile we were looking at the monuments on the way, the parks, the beautiful gardens with lovely flowers. We went walking till the Edinburgh castle, took photos from the outside. We all took photos outside the Scotch whisky tour. We saw one park went inside it and opened our lunch box to have lunch. Pramod was laughing and saying we won’t change. I could remember Shahrukh’s dialogue in DDLJ on this – “Bade Bade Sharoon mein Aisse Choti Choti Baatein Hoti rahati hai”!! Edinburgh is well-known for the annual Edinburgh Festival, a collection of official and independent festivals held annually over about four weeks from early August. The number of visitors attracted to Edinburgh for the Festival is roughly equal to the settled population of the city. But the day we went it was the last day and all the fireworks would happen in the night and we did not have time and in the day, we did not see anything happening on that.
We hired a city tour (Sightseeing) bus to go around Edinburgh. We went to the top of the double – decker bus and were viewing the place. It was drizzling a bit but it could not take away the spirit we had. We did a lot of photo session at every street of the city. Pramod was our photographer for the day. Edinburgh Castle dominates the urban skyline , Here we went to the Scottish Parliment, saw the famous castle from outside ..etc.)We did not go inside any museum due to shortage in time. We just took photos from the outside. The guide was telling us about Edinburgh and its history. In fact, the city is one of the most vibrant, cosmopolitan cities in Europe and is regularly voted as one of the most desirable places to live in the world. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland. The guide told us that like many other cities in the UK, Edinburgh has numerous nightclubs that play popular and chart music. We could see many bagpipers playing great music. After the total sightseeing, the tickets are valid for the whole day. We went inside the Scottish Parliament; it was huge and was really great inside. Someone was telling that every Thursday the session begins here. We decided we will goto the Royal Botanic Gardens – it was a park cum garden with beautiful flowers. Then we went to 
The Royal Yatch Britannia…it was a beautiful place with huge ships and lovely breeze. It was a lovely day and thank God!! It did not rain. The capital is bustling with arts, culture, sports and attractions and is famous for playing host to the world’s largest arts festival. The city of Edinburgh includes urban Edinburgh and a 30square mile rural area.We were tired by the evening; we caught the train till Glasgow and waited for another train to goto Hairmyres station. On the way back home, we planned the next day we are going to Glasgow again for shopping!!
Sept 2: Glasgow Trip
It was a nice Sunday morning and again we are not going to rest at home. It was the day to goto Glasgow for some shopping as well as sightseeing. We carried our lunch box and some fruits in the bag if we are hungry as I found the bungers are not filling. It was a pleasant day, we reached Glasgow by bus this time and we had taken a pass for the whole day. One strange thing happened this day, the system here is as soon as we get into the bus we should have proper change to take ticket else no change would be given and you will end up paying more. 
We checked changes and found few pence shortage. Either we had to give more to take tickets or ask someone for change. We asked an elderly lady if she has change for 1 pound. She was happy to help us and she gave us the change but she felt short of 11 pence, we were like that’s ok as we were not paying more to the bus. Later, don’t know what changed the lady’s mind she came to us and gave us 10 pounds and said that she too was helped a lot by others in the foreign countries and she is happy that she is helping us. We were confused on why is she giving us money. I politely refused the money and told her that we don’t need it but she insisted that we keep and pray for her. I was surprised as how could someone help strangers in foreign land. All three of us shared the amount. We reached Glasgow (Buchanan bus stop) we went to Transport museum and it was interesting to see so many modes of transport. It had all varieties and collection of yester-years. Right from buses, ships, chariots to cars, bikes, baby pram...etc. We clicked few snaps and spent good time at these collection. 
Pramod kept on reminding us the time as we had to manage the time to see few places. Then we went to Modern art gallery. It was good. Now, we were feeling hungry. Pramod had been to Mac Donald’s and had a burger. We had bought our lunch boxes and we had it at the George square. George Square is the central square in the Scottish city of Glasgow. Named for King George III, George Square was laid out in 1781 along with the beginnings of what would become Glasgow's innovative Georgian central grid plan that initially spanned from Stockwell Street east to Buchanan Street, which reflected the growing rational influence of the Scottish Enlightenment.
It was nice as there were many pigeons there and there were many people sitting on the benches and feeding these pigeons and the area was surrounded by beautiful flowers. Summer is the right time to visit Scotland as the place is decorated with beautiful flowering plants everywhere on the streets. Its a very beautiful scenery. We had our lunch, sat for few minutes and it was time for shopping as it was already 3:00 P.M. We went to few shops, I bought few folding purses for my MIL, Mom, Grandmom and myself. I bought few chocolates to give it to all friends and cousins. I bought a T-Shirt for Raghu. Lakshmi too was buying quite a lot of stuffs to gift. Now it was heavy to carry the articles we bought. We were tired too as we had walked the whole day. After the shopping by 6:00 P.M. many of the shops started closing and we were tired too…we had finger chips at Mac Donald’s and went back to the bus stop to catch a bus to East Kilbride and again from there to Hairmyres. It was a tiring day with so much walking.Sept 3:
Another bright beautiful Monday morning and everything was a routine now. My KT (Knowledge transfer) was going on fine. Scott came back to work after a brief vacation. Ellen was on leave for some time. Pauline was coordinating with other team members for the KT. In the evening Lakshmi and I would go for a walk have our evening snacks, call up home, watch T.V. prepare dinner or chat.
Sept 4:
It was getting colder by now and we wondered if the summer was ending. By now we were quick getting ready on time and coming down to catch the cab on time. At work, things were going on fine. My onsite Team leader Ellen was on leave for sometime. Pauline, Tony, Scott and Ken would give me KT whenever they had time. The onsite team was very busy.
They hardly took breaks - not even to have lunch. When they would go for coffee breaks they would ask all the team members if we would like to have something to drink and in a cup holder one person would bring coffee for the team members who requested for it. Their lunch is burger and energy drink. I wondered if the Indian lunch will suprise them. Once Tony did tell me that he likes the Indian curies. Pramod by now had started to have only soups. He would bring soup and heat the soup in the microwave placed in the office cafeteria. Shekhar one of the onsite colleagues would join Lakshmi and me for lunch sometimes. In the evenings we went for long walks around our flat.Sept 5:
Whenever the onsite team members were free, they would give KT. I was doing my regular office work when they were busy. Even my team mates from India would give me questions to ask if they had doubts. Today I thought was the right time (though very early) to click the team photo as many of my team members were going to different location or would be on leave. In the evening Pramod met us and he told us which the places to see in London are and some tips on how to catch the bus to goto Loch Lomond the next day...etc. I called up home and informed them of my plan.
Sept 6:
It was another Thursday and it was time to go to East Kilbride complex and this time Lakshmi and I wanted to do some good shopping. We left office on time and reached the complex by 5:15 p.m. and we went to a place called Primark. I bought one leather purse for me, one T-Shirt for my brother and brother-in-law. I also bought Thermal T-Shirt for Raghu as I had already bought one T-shirt for Raghu in Glasgow. For pranav I wanted to buy a watch I looked around but did not find anything interesting. I bought more chocolates and one coloring Crayons for one of Raghu’s small cousin sister. We had been to Sainsbury’s and bought few things for the week like soups, curds, bread...etc. Lakshmi too bought few gifts for her home.
Sept 7:
I was just too excited to goto London. Whenever I would hear someone telling they had been to London that would make me feel – Wow! Today when I am going I was feeling just good. London is most populous city in the UK. I have heard that it has a metropolitan population and its diverse population draws from a wide range of peoples, cultures and religions, with over 300 different languages spoken. An important settlement for two millennia, London is one of the world's leading business, financial and cultural centers, and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion and the arts all contribute to its status as a major global city. I was just too excited. I informed Kiran that we were starting at 9:00 from East Kilbride (EK) and would reach London at 6:00 or 6:30 A.M. and Kiran was like he will be there on time. Pramod guided us on the bus we have to catch, the platform no…etc. After coming back from work…we prepared the dinner and we got ready. Left home on time to catch the bus to the East Kilbride bus stop. It was a chilly week-end.
At the EK bus stop, there were so many teenagers all enjoying the week-end. Lakshmi and I were waiting in the bus-stop for the silver coach bus to come. We did not find any crowd at that time i.e. 9:30 P.M. Pramod phoned and was enquiring if we got the bus. A little later a small bus came with silver coach written on it and we enquired they said they have come to pick us up as there are only two members from East Kilbride. After a little while we reached a place in between Edinburgh and Glasgow and the bus stopped there and much to our surprise we saw a bigger luxurious bus and a lot of people boarding the bus; we got in too. Though it was night, the moon was brighter than any other day and it seemed like a full moon that day. The moment just seemed as a painting and in those thought I didn’t know when I slipped into sleep.Sept 8: London Trip (A day long trip around London)
I woke up and saw that we have almost reached London……big building, traffic, lot of greenery...etc. I could not sleep anymore. London is a major tourist destination, with four world heritage sites and numerous iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the London Eye among its many attractions, along with famous institutions such as the British Museum and the National Gallery. Its main geographical feature is the River Thames which runs through the city from the south-west to the east. It also has the World's largest underground railway system when measured by route length.
I gazed and gazed at the streets of London till we reached the Victoria station bus-stop. I called up Kiran and I informed him that we both have reached London. He was on his way to meet us. He asked us to come to Buckingham palace (which is close by to the bus stop). We refreshed ourselves and ate few biscuits had fruits to start a high active day. I was wondering how we are going to cover so many places in one day. I left that to Kiran as he would be the best judge as he was our guide for the day. I was looking forward to meet Kiran too as he is a good friend and it was more than a year since I last saw him. It was really kind of him that he is spending his time to show us London, which he might have seen several times.
We walked down till Buckingham Palace. Lakshmi kept on telling me that she wants to travel in the London tube and if Kiran knows the place well, we might as well travel the whole place in tube instead of sightseeing bus. The previous day Shekhar from our office had told us that the London tubes might go on a strike on Saturday so we were not sure about that. The weather too seemed to be fine though it was cloudy it was not raining thankfully.
On reaching the Buckingham Palace, we found out that during August and September when The Queen makes her annual visit to Scotland, the Palace's nineteen state rooms are open to visitors. We had to take tickets to enter the palace. We also got to know that The State Rooms are lavishly furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection.
Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. The palace is a setting for state occasions and royal entertaining, and a major tourist attraction.
Since we had to visit many places in a day we did not take the ticket to enter the palace. We took some photos from the outside around the palace. Just opposite to the palace is the Victoria Memorial. We took few photos, went around the place and waited for Kiran. Lakshmi was asking me can you recognize him and from far someone was smiling and coming towards us, I thought for a while its Kiran but was not sure then he said Hi!! I was like Hi! Kiran what happened to you…he has become thin and it was surprising to see him that thin. To my surprise even I reduced my weight in UK though we had good food. We never skipped our breakfast, lunch, tiffin or dinner and to top it all never exercised. Maybe it’s got to do with the weather. Anyway, Kiran was the same with his witty one liners and good sense of humor. Kiran told us that we will come back to the palace to see the change of guards at 11:00 A.M. Now the time was 10:00 A.M. and it was time to see the other places in London. So quickly we moved along with him.
We came across St.James Park but decided that we will see it later.
I was in high spirits to see the places in London. At that time Camera was my best friend I was with it all the time and all I wanted was to capture every moment and monument in my lens. The memory space was pretty good as I had 4GB and I had already taken nearing 1000 photos by now. I was sure I would click another 1000 along in London. The battery life, 12x zoom, additional features of my Canon Camera are good.
We were walking on the streets of London, which are wide and clean. We came across few monuments and it was a pleasant morning but was a little cloudy. To begin with we went to the Trafalgar Square. 
Kiran said this place is very famous in London. Trafalgar Square is a square in London that commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar (1805) a British naval victory of the Napoleonic Wars. The square consists of a large central area surrounded by roadways on three sides, and stairs leading to the National Gallery on the other. We wanted to go inside the National Gallery but it was closed at that time so we took few photos at the Trafalgar Square, Kiran was busy planning ho to cover the places in order with the time in hand. He took the map and was telling us that we will travel in the tube throughout and we better take the day pass for the same. Kiran had the pass with him already and Lakshmi was very excited to be traveling in the tube. We enquired the local sightseeing bus and they said it was 15 pounds for the whole day and the tube pass costed us just 5 pounds added to that was the excitement of traveling in a different mode of transport.
Since Kiran knew all the places it was easy for us to travel in the tube. Our next destination was St.Paul’s Cathedral, I wanted to see it. All three of us reached the London tube station in a short while.
The London Underground is a railway system - also known as a rapid transit system - that serves a large part of Greater London, United Kingdom and some neighboring areas. It is the world's oldest underground system, and is one of the longest in terms of route length. We got into the train and Kiran told us that most of the people in London travel by tube as its fast and saves time. Within 20 min our stop came and we got down. Time for breakfast first…..so we went to a café, we had carried fruits but them we thought we will have some thing. Kiran told us that fruit base roll was good there and all three of us took that one. Kiran had some coffee too. It was cold day and we had to be in our Jerkins. 
We went to St. Paul’s Cathedral; the cathedral is one of London's most visited sites. St Paul's Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral in the City of London, England and the seat of the Bishop of London. A Cathedral dedicated to St Paul has overlooked the City of London since 604AD, a constant reminder to this great commercial centre of the importance of the spiritual side of life. Million people have come to worship and find peace. We spent some time there and took few photos. The time was already 11:00 A.M. it was time for us to go back to Buckingham Palace to see the change of guards. We went back in the tube and by the time we reached the palace, there were lot of people gathered. There was no place to stand and see the change of guards. We managed to get a glimpse of the events. It was good. After that we went to St. James Park and saw beautiful birds and flowers. We spent sometime there. We were discussing on Indian Films, London City, our culture, and how youngsters can help India grow...etc. 
The next place in the list was London Eye but Kiran told that us let there be some sunshine to go on the London eye else we will not be able to view anything. So we went in the tube to London Eye and on the way to London Eye, we saw few places from the outside – the Big Ben, 10 downing street, Palace of Westminster. 
We took few photos and now we were going to London Eye…it looked huge, magnificent and a big giant wheel. The London Eye has become the most popular paid visitor attraction in the UK. The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is an observation wheel in London, England. On reaching the place we got to know that we can buy combination ticket like London eye and Madam Tussuads which will cost us 32 pounds. Anyway we were planning to see both. We enquired what time Madam Tussuads would close and we were informed since the day was a weekend it might close at 6:30 P.M. 
We wanted to go on the cruise over Thames River but that day there was some race going on Thames River and the cruise was closed for the day. We were disappointed but thought that anyway the next day we were going to Loch Lomond there we can go on the cruise. Individually it would have costed us more. It was 2:00 P.M. by then it was pleasant and there was sunshine now. We were happy ‘coz we could view the surrounding at 140 meters high. There was a long queue to get into the London eye box. We waited for our turn and Kiran preferred going around the place instead of coming to London eye as he has been there many times. Lakshmi and I waited for our turn to get into the box. Finally after all the security checks and waiting for nearly 45 minutes, it was our turn to enter the London eye box. I was a bit scared as the wheel would reach certain height and I am scared of heights. So I was wandering how this experience will be for me. There were as many as 15 people in each box and maybe there are around 12 boxes like that (not sure) but the wheel was large and looked like a fairy tale. It started and we both got busy viewing the place from the box. 
I was busy clicking photos and even viewing the scenery below, around. It was awesome experience. I saw the London Bride, the famous bridge and also the Palace of Westminster which looked splendid from the London eye. The Thames river was flowing below and added to it was the breathe taking beautiful view from say 140 meters high. Yes, within no time and with the wheel moving very slowly, we reached 140 meters height and I was not scared at all. We were going and viewing the scenery from every where in the oval box. Totally it took about 45 minutes for the wheel to complete one round. We got down and met Kiran who was waiting for us. Now we were feeling very hungry and had to cover two places – one is Madam Tussuads and the other is the famous Tower Bridge. Kiran told us that he knows a good Indian restaurant in London and we can have our lunch there quickly and reach Madam Tussuads on time. We got into the tube again and went to this place called Oxford Street. Oxford Street is home to major department stores and numerous brands' flagship stores, as well as hundreds of smaller shops. It is the major shopping street in central London. 
While we walked down the high street it was vibrant with lot of people walking beside us. Kiran told us that there is a good Indian restaurant there, we walked for few minutes, I was very tired as since morning we were just walking to so many places. The time was 3:30 P.M. now and we thought we will have a quick lunch and go to Madam Tussuads, Lakshmi was missing Dosa and we told her lets see if we get Dosa there then U can relish London made Dosa for a change. I was also excited as I wanted to have desi food here. 
My friend was heading towards a place called Masala Zone, we entered and I found the ambience good. Bollywood music was played and it was good to hear Hindi music in UK, the interiors were filled with ethnic paintings on the wall. My fried told us that it is a Punjabi restaurant; we took our place and ordered for Veg Thali. Kiran ordered for a Special Veg Thali. The veg-thali was 7 pounds and the Special veg thali was 10 pounds. I was thinking 7 pounds for a veg – thali is very expensive compared to the cost for the same food we get in India. We waited for some time; our thalis arrived at our place. The special thali contained two chapattis, five-curries, and little Pulav rice. The veg – thali was similar without the chapattis. The Veg Thali (Pulav, 5 kind of veg curry - Dal Makhani, Paneer Masala, Allu - Mutter) was good. After a long time we were eating good Indian food in UK. I also got to know that people there like the spicy desi curries. One of my onsite colleagues too had mentioned that he like the spicy curries we prepare. We had finished the lunch and Kiran said that it was his treat.
It was already late i.e.5:00 P.M. and we had to go to Madam Tussuads. We knew that we would take a long time to see the wax statues there. We got into the tube and reached the place. Madame Tussauds is a famous wax museum in London with branches in a number of major cities. It was set up by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud. Madame Tussaud's wax museum is now a major tourist attraction in London. We were excited to see the wax sculptures.
It was 5:45 P.M. and as we were entering the receptionist told us that the museum will close in another 40 minutes. It was a shock for us as all kept telling us that they spent atleast 4 hours to view all the sculptures there and now we have just 40 minutes!! We rushed in, Kiran said he will wait outside.
We got into the lift and were taken to the third floor as soon as the door opened we could see all flashlights at us. Well, it was our few seconds of fame. At the museum they have created effects which would keep flashing to give the visitor a celebrity feel. 
We reached to see a whole lot of wax statues, in the next 40 minutes we had a time of our life. We would see the statues quickly take a photo with it and run to see the next one, take a photo….and so on. We had three floors to cover and we did not want to miss on seeing anything. As we were about to finish seeing the sculptures in the third floor, announcements started to vacate the floor as it was nearing time. In the third floor we saw Brad Pitt, Angeline Jolie, Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Salma Hayek, Will Smith, David and Victoria Beckham, Hugh Grant, Marilyn Monroe, Leonardo–di-caprio (I was a big fan of Leo after Titanic), Charlie Chaplin, Oprah Winfrey, Nicolas Cage, Mel Gibson, Jack Sparrow, Michael Jackson, The Rock...etc. We got down to the second floor quickly and could see many people here. 
I was wondering where our bollywood people are!!! I saw many Indians here and went a little forward and there was Amitabh Bachhan’s Wax sculpture, it was well done. 
We took a quick snap and not far away is the current King Khan, ShahRukh’s sculpture. All the guys from India were too very excited to be clicking photos with their favorite heroes. We were not far behind. One of the persons from India asked the security there – “Where is Aishwarya Rai, Not to be seen here?” to that the security said Aishwarya’s sculpture has gone for maintenance. Indeed a loss for many of her fans who were looking to take photos and one being me too. After the photo session here we moved very quickly to the other celebrity section. We were left with 20 minutes more and we did not know more how many wax sculptures were there to be seen. In the same floor we saw lot of sports, scientist, leaders like Indira Gandhi, Tony Blair, George Bush, Benazir Bhutto, Hilter, Saddam Hussain, Abraham Lincoln, Bill Clinton, Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela...etc. We could not see wax sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi. We also the wax sculptures of Prince Charles, Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Queen Mother, Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. There were many sports person, scientists, as well as musicians and other famous personalities’ sculptures like Muhammad Ali, Viv Richards, Elton John, Spice Girls, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, The Beatles, Louis Armstrong, William Shakespeare, Einstein, Netwon, Nein Armstrong....etc.
We made sure we took photos and even see the sculpture for few seconds as we had very little time. Sometimes we would mistake people to be wax statues and kept wondering who this is?!!>
London's most famous tourist attraction has come to life; the wax statues are just too good. There were many people inside. Now it had come to closing time and we were asked to go down and all were in a hurry taking last minute photos going around the place. We got down and saw a dark room someone told us that this room is full of ghosts’ sculptures, we just peeped in and saw all scary images and did not go inside. We walked to another hall and there we saw few more sculptures and also how the wax sculptures are made. Then we entered into a big stage and we were all asked to take our seats, there was a show on celebrities, it was humorous show. It was for 10 minutes then we came out by 6:30 P.M. It was a pleasant evening. We met Kiran who was waiting outside and he enquired if we could see all sculptures in the short time. Then he asked us what else we want to see…we said Tower Bridge of London. By now we were very tired but were enthusiastic to see the famous monument of UK. Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, England over the River Thames. It is close to the Tower of London, which gives it its name. It has become an iconic symbol of London. It is not similar to the famous London Bridge, which is over River Thames. It is between Cannon Street Railway Bridge and Tower Bridge. When we were waiting for the tube, I saw many people coming wearing the blue T-Shirt of Indian Cricket as well as Navy Blue T-shirt o England. That day India lost the cricket match to England. The match was going on in London stadium. We were all feeling bad that India lost. The other Indians looked very depressed. That day there was a Rugby match too and once the match got over and there was a crowd in the tube station. I was thinking with so many people in the station we will reach the Tower Bridge late as we thought we will wait and take the one that is less crowded. To my surprise just in two tubes the whole crowd got in and the station was again empty within no time. We were thinking that’s why everybody prefer the famous London tube(underground trains) to travel as its faster, spacious and saves time.
We got into a less crowded tube and within few minutes reached our destination. We got down from the tube and walked towards Tower Bridge, on the way we saw a big building. It was Tower of London and this is where the Kohinoor jewel is kept. We saw the place from far. It was 7:00 in the night yet it seemed as 6:00 PM. it was dusk and the weather was chill. 
We were walking on the tower bridge to reach the high-level walkway on Tower Bridge. The monument of the tower bridge was just awesome. Kiran was telling wait I will tell you a beautiful place from where we can take photos but for me the surrounding was just mesmerizing and I wanted to grab all photos as my camera had 4GB space hence took few videos too. As we were walking, we saw London Bridge, illuminated at dusk. The River Thames looked so beautiful at dusk with illuminated light from the ship (there was a huge ship sailing over River Thames), the place around Tower Bridge was illuminated and looked wonderful at dusk and now it was getting dark.
We reached the high-level walkway and from this viewpoint, the Tower Bridge looked breathtakingly beautiful. The Tower Bridge looked so huge and the places surrounding were with lights illuminated made the view look more splendid. Towards the right side of the Tower Bridge at some distance we could see huge buildings illuminated with shining lights and Kiran told us that was Canary Wharf. Canary Wharf is a large business development in London, located on the Isle of Dogs in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, centered on the old West India Docks in the London Docklands. 
Kiran also told us that there are many major banks like HSBC, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, and Barclays...etc. If we had more time we could have gone there. We just saw the view from far. London in the night looked very beautiful with all dazzling lights. We suddenly recollected that we did not buy souvenir. We wanted to buy London bridge souvenir at London eye but we thought we will buy it later and now all the shops were closed.
The weather was cold and inspite of me wearing my jacket I could feel the cold. We took few photos (which is one of my best photos) here. The time was already 8:00 P.M. and we had a bus at 9:30 P.M. to catch to go back to Scotland (where I stayed is around 9 hours from London). We were all tired and we were now heading to the bus station which is close by to the Victoria Station. We thanked Kiran a lot as he guided us throughout the places and we could cover most of the places we wanted to see in such short time. London City is a very big place and cannot be covered in a day or two maybe it requires a week to see everything. We missed seeing the museums there. 
I wanted to go to the British Library…other museums too but due to shortage in time we could go. Its good that we cover atleast all the mentioned places and all credit for that goes to Kiran for his planning to cover these places in the time we had. We got into the tube, Kiran said he will go to his home in the same tube and we were to get down at the Victoria railway station stop. We were all too tired to speak a word. As our stop was nearing we thanked him again and got down. Now we had to go to the bus stop to catch the bus, we headed in that direction. We ate fruits for dinner and waited for our bus on reaching the bus stop. At 9:30 PM. Sharp the bus arrived and we got into it. It was a very memorable and awesome trip to be cherished forever. We were happy that we covered most of the popular places in a day.
Sept 9: Loch Lomond Trip 
We reached Scotland (Edinburgh) at 6:00 P.M. and from there the silver coach tourism had arranged a cab for Lakshmi and me to come to Glasgow. In that we reached our flat and the time was already 6:45 P.M. we had to get ready soon as we had to go to Glasgow again to catch the 8:30 bus to Loch Lomond. The all day travel would take us to Sterling Castle, the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond. We were excited to go there and in this excitement our fatigue just vanished. We got refreshed, had our breakfast (Noodles, Corn Flakes...etc) and took some biscuits, fruits to eat on the journey. We thought we will have lunch on the way.
We got ready quickly to catch a bus to Glasgow but the time was already 7:30 P.M. so, Lakshmi and I thought that we will take a taxi to Glasgow. We had to go to the Buchanan bus station by 8:30 P.M. We reached the bus station very much early by 8:00 P.M. and we waited for our bus to arrive at the platform. After some time at 8:25 P.M. the bus arrived and we showed our tickets got in to the bus and caught hold of window seats to view the beautiful scenery that we would come across. The Driver was happy to know that we have come from India. To my surprise apart from us both, none of them were in the bus. The driver said they will get in to the bus at Edinburgh. The bus started and we relaxed to enjoy nature at its best on the travel.
The weather was pleasant partly cloudy. We saw some fantastic scenery on the way, I made sure I capture it all in my wonderful camera and the bus stopped at the Edinburgh and many people got into the bus and the bus was now full. Our first destination was Stirling Castle. On the way we saw many hills and splendid sceneries of the hill, river, flowers and pretty towns. The Castle is visible for many miles; we reached the Stirling castle at 11:30 P.M. The bus driver gave us 2 hours to go around the castle. We took the entrance ticket, which is 7.5 pounds per head. Stirling Castle is a castle in Stirling, one of the largest and most important, both historically and architecturally, in Scotland. The Castle sits atop the Castle Hill, a volcanic crag, and is surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs, making it easily defensible. The castle was huge and we were happy that we are seeing a castle finally. The guide told us about the Stirling Castle, he also said that many battles were fought there and he also briefed us about the Scottish history.
Stirling’s history is probably one of the most famous in the world, especially since the major motion picture ‘Braveheart’, starring Mel Gibson, was released. You can re-live the movie experience with staged battle scenarios as well as other historical events at the castle. From the 12th Century it became one of the principal royal strongholds in Scotland. Sterling Castle is excellent; there is a mideval kitchen to explore, including the lighting of that time. We saw a musuem which depicted history of Scotland, it was good.
The varied types of statues and stone carvings that are mounted around the castle walls and on display in the gardens have a wide diversity of sources. Stirling Castle rock has been used as a fortress for centuries - probably since Roman times. We went around the place and took some photos and by this time it was already time to go back to the bus. We just boarded the bus on time as time management is a key factor there. The driver would not wait a minute if we are late to board the bus. We got in and started our favorite hobby clicking photos and reviewing them. We saw some superb sceneries; we saw many hills, lowlands, highlands, loch (River), and greenery. We also came across the south queensferry bridge which was amazing. Here ferry means Ship.
The next destination was Trossachs National Park. We got down and we were given an hour time to have lunch and go around the place. We were going around the place, even while wearing the jerkin we could feel the chill. No where we could find vegetarian food there. We bought wafers (Potato chips), Chocolates and we brought fruits from home we had that for lunch. The place was perfect for a vacation; it had beautiful sceneries, beautiful summer flowers, woodlands, birds, mountains and lochs (river). A photographer’s delight to capture pictures in this place. 
This place will be preferred by those interested in scenery, walking, cycling and hill walking. I loved the nursery there – there were variety of beautiful flowers. The place was refreshingly good and different. We boarded the bus to our final destination of the trip – the much awaited Loch Lomond. We were going on both lowlands as well as highlands. Loch Lomond must be the world’s most famous Loch and has been much written about, both in song and verse. Loch means river and Lomond means hill in scottish language. The area is renowned for its beauty and tranquility. Both Lakshmi and I wanted to go for a cruise on the loch. The driver said he would wait for us till we came back from Cruise and also booked our ticket to the cruise and we paid 5 pounds each for the cruise trip. 
On reaching the place we saw there were many birds at one corner of the loch and other side there was a bridge and many ships. We waited for our turn to get into the cruise. There were many visitors to the Loch that Sunday. There was no trace of sunlight; the time was now 4:00 P.M. and the weather was a bit cloudy. We got onto the ship, it was fun as it was the first time I was boarding a cruise. I was quite excited. The ship started sailing and we decided lets go atop of the ship to view the area as I felt this was a great way to see all the places of interest along the way. The sail was for 45 minutes.
The ship was sailing smoothly and now the weather was breezy and cold atop of the ship. We just enjoyed the scenery around us. There we could many small islands far away. We clicked some snaps. It started drizzling at the center of the river and we decided to come down. There was a place to have coffee, …Etc. There were many people having loads of fun on the Ship, there were kids playing around. .
We were just to sitting and admiring the beautiful landscape. Loch Lomond itself is the largest freshwater lake in Britain. It makes for a scenic trip round by the cruise on the loch itself. There are also woodland walks, the West Highland Way or hill walks all around the Loch Lomond area. We clicked many pictures and we were back into the bus to go back to Glasgow. On the whole Loch Lomond truly is a gateway from the Scottish Lowlands opening up to the Scottish Highlands. Everything about it and the towns and villages, places are just a painter’s imagination. We were now tired and just wanted plenty of rest after the two days of hectic but wonderful trips. By now we had traveled in all modes of transport here (Bus, tube, train, plane, cruise and taxi). I spent quite good money on these trips but its like once in a lifetime opportunity to go there and I enjoyed traveling to these places.
We reached Glasgow by 5:30 P.M. We thanked the driver for the wonderful trip and caught a bus from Glasgow to East Kilbride bus stop and then from there to Hairmyres. By now we became familiar traveling in buses and knowing the routes. Came home at 7:30 P.M. Prepared our dinner (Just rice) we ate with Chatnipudi, thokku...thats all. Our legs were paining ...we relaxed to get re-charged to go to office the next day.
Sept 10:
At work my KT was going on well and fast as by Friday the KT plan should be covered and completed. Pauline too was going to a different location so she was coordinating my KT. This is my first experience to see the hands-on work which takes place in the on-site location. I learned a lot, and hoped to share what I learned here with my team in Bangalore.
I learnt problem-solving and reasoning skills. The topics covered during the KT helped me to understand the process better. In the evening, I briefed Raghu, in-laws, my parents about the week-end trips.
Sept 11:
After work, we came to our flat at 5:15 P.M and went to Lidle (a super market close to pur place) to buy few chocolates, different flavors of curds (I loved it)…etc) and after a walk came back to our flat. We could see the weather change now as earlier even at 8:30 P.M it is like 6:00 P.M. in India, I had read in book about days being longer in summer but I never saw dawn at 8:30 P.M. It was quite surprising but now by 7:00 it would become night, we could see frost on car, windows. The weather was changing slowly. It was getting colder day by day.
Sept 12:
This morning when I went to office, Ellen (TL) was back in office after few days leave. We reviewed the KT plan and Ellen also gave KT on few topics. Later during lunch time Lakshmi and I clicked some snaps in the cafeteria, entrance…etc. In the evening, we preferred to walk once from office to home. We thought it will hardly 2 kms as the taxi just takes 10 minutes from office to home. We left office at 5:15 P.M. and the walk was really longer than we expected. Lakshmi was worried if she would catch cold as the weather was cloudy and on the way it started drizzling. It took us 45 minutes to walk. I was sure the distance was little more than 2 kms. We were tired by the time we reached home. I was happy that we walked one day from office to home as the scenery was good and nice place to walk.
Sept 13:
Today was another Thursday, the day for shopping at the East Kilbride complex. 
Thursday is the only day when the shops are open till 6:00 P.M. which is good for us as we can go after the office hours (after 5:00 P.M.)Today was the last day to shop so we wanted to make sure we buy all we wanted today. We reached there by 5:20 p.m. and I wanted to buy wallets for my father and in-law. I also wanted to buy a T-Shirt, some chocolates and good perfume or my husband. That was in my list. I also wanted to see good watches but wanted to buy it in Dubai for my brother. Lakshmi wanted to buy clothes for her kid. We shopped for a while and bought the gifts that we wanted. We took a taxi back home.
Sept 14:
It was a bright, sunny day. If I would be in India then I had to do the Gowri Pooja. Today was my last day at SAIC – UK office and all these days it was good at office, I learnt a lot. Good to know my onsite team. Ellen met me today to know if I understood the topics covered in the KT. All the team members enquired about my travel and how long it would take. Tony – another onsite team member had been to India but not via Dubai. Everybody were surprised to know about the long hours of stay at Dubai airport for a connection flight. Yeah! We had to wait for almost 10 hours to catch the connection flight to Bangalore. 
I was happy that all the team members were bit relaxed today unlike other days when they are extremely busy. They all together came to my place and Ellen said this is for you. They all spoke to me for a while and gave me a memento (Card, scented candle and a tea cup shaped memento which had Edinburgh carved on it) and chocolate (a pack of famous Thorntons chocolates). They were telling me that please do not take the sunshine from here. They also gave a biscuit box to the team in India. It was very sweet of them. I thanked them for the time and advice they gave me during my visit for KT to SAIC - UK office. I said goodbye and walked towards the cab. Lakshmi was waiting for me. We came home chatted for sometime and started preparing for dinner. Today we had invited Pramod for dinner. I had taken the Knor Vegetable – Tomato soup packets so I prepared soup and Vangibath. Soup, Vangibath, Curd rice, Chatnipudi, Tamarind Thokku, Pickle was for the dinner. It was good. Pramod informed us hat we had to get ready by 10:00 to go to the Glasgow airport as our flight was scheduled at 2:00 P.M. Lakshmi and I spent some time chatting about the days spent in UK. All these days we just had our routine. Good that Lakshmi was there else it would be very boring to stay alone there. We had lots of time there unlike in India. We packed our bags so that we are cool in the morning and get ready fast.
Sept 15: At Dubai
The morning we heated the Chapatti and had that for breakfast. We got ready faster but then too it was 10:20 P.M. and the taxi was waiting. Pramod came and helped us to take the luggage down. We saw if everything was OK and we verified if we have taken everything from the flat. The taxi was waiting for few minutes and that day it was raining. Luckily none of the days we were site-seeing it rained. We reached the Glasgow airport by 11:00 A.M. We checked in and took the boarding pass. After that I wanted to call home and talk to my parents and Raghu for some time. There was some currency left in the calling card. It was time to go for the security check and we thanked Pramod for the help. We later moved ahead for the security clearance. The flight was at the scheduled time and we got into the flight by 2:15 P.M the flight was not starting immediately then there was an announcement that there was some technical problem with the flight. Lakshmi and I were sitting at different places as we wanted window seats. 
The flight started after a 1 ½ an hour at 4:00 p.m. This day was the vinayaka Chauthi, one of my favorite festivals and I was away from home. Last year I was at my mom’s place and this was the first time at in-laws place but I was traveling back to India. It was cloudy and I could not see anything from window. Beside me a girl from Kerala was sitting and she was talking about her stay in UK.
I watched Taxi no. 9211, the movie was good. I was listening to songs and passing the time. Now it was twilight at 6:30 P.M. and the sky looked very beautiful in orange color. We reached Dubai at 12:40 P.M. (Dubai local time). I wanted to buy few things here. As we got down from flight we went to Safar restaurant and had our dinner. Then we started shopping. I bought 24 Karat pure gold, 10 gms biscuit for 120 pounds inside the airport. I just wanted to buy some gold in Dubai and then we bought dates (Khajur). I wanted to buy some souvenir from Dubai so bought a soft toy camel key chain for 2 pounds. At Dubai pounds was accepted but they gave change in Dirhams. Now I wanted to buy an electronic watch for my brother. I found a good watch, it was timex brand. We went around the whole Dubai Airport and it was now 2:00 A.M We were tired, exhausted and wanted to rest. The next connection flight was at 11:45 (Dubai time). We saw a seat for us at the airport and relaxed there.
Sept 16: Back to India
We went to the enquiry and found out the gate where we could catch the connection flight. Still there was a long time. The time was 7:30 A.M. we were wandering around and relaxed for a while, took few photos and now it was time to catch the connecting flight. We got into the Emirates flight and from here it is another 4 hours flight to India. I was excited to come back home. I wanted to meet my family; I was waiting to meet my husband. I wanted to have chats, some spicy food which I missed for so long. I knew Raghu would come and pick me up. I also planned to go to Hyderabad as soon as possible within a week of coming to Bangalore as it was a long time since I went to Hyderabad. I was thinking about all this in the flight. 
The view was wonderful outside. I wished to see the Zagros Mountain but could not see it now. I saw desert, water, small hills from the flight since I was tired I took a short nap and then listened to music. At 5:30 P.M. the flight landed at the Bangalore Airport. It was very cloudy and it was raining heavily outside. I switched on my mobile and Raghu was trying to call me. He said he will be there in another 30 minutes. I thought it would take time to collect my baggage and other formalities. We took our baggage and came out after the required formalities. Lakshmi’s husband was waiting for her at the airport and after 10 minutes Raghu came there with Rose flowers to welcome me back home. Back home I started chatting with him about the trip and had my favorite chats on the way back to home.
To summarize the trip, the best part of the trip was we had come in Summer (though its cold - cloudy yet there is sunshine too) the place was green with beautiful flowers everywhere...everywhere there was lawn...where there is yards of lawn/grass we could see sheeps, horses, cows...etc. a small cottage....Just imagine what wonderful scenery it would have been. The country side is just an excellent view. There are many museums here. The places are culturally and historically very strong. One can see these monuments throughout the city too. Its modern too. If they say 19:23 then the bus/train comes at that time. Right from the buses, trains to Tubes they are all so convenient and so very well organized. The city is very costly. On the whole a trip I will cherish this trip as it was my first onsite travel.
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