India- Kolkata

August 2006. First time in India. Really. Never in my life stepped into India before. Never thought of going there for holidays. And furthermore its my first duty travel. Nervous. Worried i might mess up the project.

So before i went, did alot of background study. Make sure i understand the project fully.

Anyway, i didnt realised i need a visa until less than 1 week before the departure date. Had to rush down to the High Comm. They dont accept nets or cc. And worst of all they dont have ATM machines. And the queue is terrible. Worst of all, i cant collect the visa until tomorrow. All in all, i made 3 trips in total just to get a travel visa.

Finally visa obtained and all ready to go. Reached there very late, think 11pm. Fortunately the manager stationed there is taking the same flight with me. So at least someone from Singapore.

His driver, Raj was already there. So back to the hotel to rest (very nice hotel!). Along the way, the mgr tell me to expect to hear alot of car honks. They honk every other minute even for nothing. And its very true as i realised for the next 2 days.

The next 2 days were all abt work and staying in the office because it was not safe for us to walk on the streets or on our own. Alas when i couldnt take it, the manager's secretary brought me out for a while to get some indian sweets for my office colleagues. As we walked on the street, really a once in a lifetime experience for me. Very crowded with people, noise and air pollution from the cars. Basically quite a messy scene.

Initially thought there might be a chance to do some sightseeing. I heard there is a famous Mother Theresa memorial place. Also heard there is a interesting "building" that looks like a church, temple and mosque together. But didnt visit anywhere, no time!!

My stomach was weak when i was there. So although personally i like Indian cuisine, i couldnt enjoy the food. They add more spices in their food and also the spices are stronger in flavor.

The way to the airport to catch the flight back was abit daunting. I was alone as the other colleague who went with me had to stay for 2 more days. So i took the hotel "limousine"which is just a nicer looking vehicle. For the journey there, the car had to pass through quiet streets, almost deserted at certain points.

So i keep looking out for signs which says "Airport"to ensure that we are on the right way. When we finally reached, so relieved that i gave him the remaining rupees.

Enjoyed my first duty travel cos everyone was nice to me. Treated almost like an "indian" princess :) Pulled seats for me, open car doors, ladies first for everything...

First duty travel, first time to India. first time taking business class .....