Will I Ever Meet You?

In my last entry, I was filled with excitement because all of my documents had been successfully submitted to the "Visa Company". It would just be a matter of days before my passport containing my newly acquired Indian Visa and I would reunite. India would finally be in reach. With that in my mind, my focus shifted toward preparing myself to endure this 15 hour flight to New Delhi.

But what would life be like without another surprise!! The next day, I was awakened by an email from the Visa company stating that some of my documents had been rejected (when the day before I was told they were accepted)! AHHHHHHHHH! Thats exactly what I did, screamed in frustration. Im positive it didn't help the situation but it gave me some momentary relief so hey. LOL.

Anyhow, I have been going back and forth with the visa company. I have went to Fedex at least 10 times to fax and print documents. Every time I send them something they ask for they either tell me its not good enough or tell me there is something else that I need. So, Im praying that what I send them today will be sufficient (crossing my fingers) If it is, there is still 7-10 days of processing. India is starting to seem like a mirage. It appears to be there but you just cant get to it.

My first official challenge of my adventure is GETTING THERE! Im getting antsy. I've given up my condo weeks ago. Im currently living out of suitcases just waiting for India. To answer the infamous question: When are you leaving? The answer is I don't know. I truly don't know. I cant even give you an estimate lol. I mean, praying that they accept my documents I may be granted my visa by August 1st but in reality who knows.

India, will I ever meet you? Im certain I will. I just have no clue when.

Lesson 1- Make Sure They Will Let You In!

When you are traveling the world there is so much to learn. While my journey hasn't even begun yet, I have learned an important lesson. There is so much work for you to do before they will even let you on the plane. I was supposed to officially leave for India 2 days ago. Well that was the plan. Silly me!! I thought paying $200 for a passport should get you into any country. Apparently not!!! Not only does a passport not grant you entry but the paperwork is Excedrin worthy!

So, lesson #1 is to know the requirements for entry. Be sure to contact the local embassy of the country you are visiting to see if you need to get a Visa. For example, India has all types of restrictions. You have to get a visa just to be a tourist. However, there are even more rules. If you are on a tourist visa, once you complete your visit you cant re-enter the country for another 6 months. An employment Visa is a whole different monster. I had to gather my life history and submit 20 pages worth of documents for a 1 year entry Visa.

 The funniest thing that I have learned in this whole process is that even Visa applications are outsourced. The Indian Embassy hires an outside company to collect all the application materials and fees and verify them. You have to go through them before your application even reaches the Embassy. I understand the cost efficiency but from my experience it just pushes back the timeline on granting Visas. However, I have the feeling that I will only see more of this on my journey through India. Most major companies like Dell, Bank of America, AT&T etc, have their call centers in India. I guess no job is safe these days.

Anyhow after nearly 3 weeks, $235 in visa fees, numerous trips to Fedex and mountains of paperwork, the Indian Embassy finally has all of my documents. I will be leaving for India in just a few days. Am I nervous, not al all. I can barely contain my excitement. Yes, I know I will have major jet lag and I will have to get used to eating Indian food but traveling is my biggest dream.  So, let the games begin!!!

Introduction to City Girl Travels the World

I consider myself a city girl. I love the fast paced life, the noisy streets, close proximity to shops and restaurants. So, you would think I have been in the most ultimate cities like Chicago or New York. lol. Not at all. Im a "city" girl from Buffalo, NY whose been living in the lackadaisical south for the last 7 years. But I can dream right.
Anyhow I absolutely loved Louisiana. The food and culture are so rich, the people were hospitable and well lets just say its a place like no other. I have met some really great people and had some fabulous experiences. From frequenting the drive thru daiquiris spot to festive parades and carnivals. To say the least I was sad to say goodbye to the place who adopted me and took me in like one of its own.

While I had a great experience in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, I will soon be starting a new journey. Im moving to India!!! I know your thinking who moves to India? Well, I do. I have always been a tad bit daring, nomadic and curious. So, I am going off to India to teach at an International Charter School. I will be spending the next year teaching and exploring every inch of Asia from Thailand to Tokyo. While Im at it, Im going to get a taste of Europe and Africa too. The journey begins in just a few days and I am super excited. In the mean time, I will appreciate all the love and support from families and loved ones as I say farewell.