There is something in Manali that I cannot get enough. New trainees asked me to join them on their trip to Manali and after a slight hesitation –not because of the company but the uncomfortable bus ride – I decided to join them. There were girls from the Netherlands, Mendi and Janneke, German boys David and Martin and John from UK.

Accommodation was arranged by the same hotel as we had last time, though we were very happy to choose that, only breakfast let us down for waiting an hour, very hungry and tired we finally got food, one by one. Weather permitting us to take a long walk, we directed to other side of the town where the hot tubs are and some nice shops, not to forget World Peace Café with a stunning view. As I was supposed to know the way through Manali, we lost it somehow and walked some extra miles for to see where local low caste live. It was not like slums in cities but like in countryside farm; modest houses and shelters, animals living closely with people and people working outside. I guess it was the first time for the new trainees to witness poverty in India, as their expressions varied from amazed to desperate. People in small towns in Himalayas have an advantage over the people in big cities, where people are trapped and dependent on others contribution. Regardless of the poverty, people look happy and children play, dogs look quite healthy and life seem to be calm.

On Sunday, we walked around the town and ended up in old Manali, which we missed on last trip. For the atmosphere, it was relaxing, beautiful old town, where the streets were narrow and restaurants were outside. We ate at a restaurant where served very good Indian food and the prices were not bad. The toilets were unfortunately horrid but it is as a rule in India. Rarely do you find clean and non-smelly toilets.

Going back home to Finland is oncoming, sooner than I expected. So much have happened since new people have arrived and incidents in the house have heated up being tense among people. One Chinese girl had to leave, which rather was a relief for many of us. Not all the personalities get along despite the effort we make. Clashing with different characters was inevitable. Some people are searching for a better flat to live in, though it is difficult to find someone who would rent a flat for foreigners for couple of months. Turkish guy Saltuk and German Tobias are unhappy with the house and want to move out. Actually if I were to spend more than three months I would do the same, winter season is going to be very cold, and no heating is provided. It is very understandable for trying to find something better.

For the last weekend in Chandigarh I was thrown a party in our house. We went to eat out and after gathered our backyard to taste some liquor and snacks. Typically, there was a power cut and there we sat in completely darkness only one candle to lighten the room. AIESEC came to check and it was something worse which needed an electrician, but not until next day. So, it was hot and dark and I decided to go to sleep early. Sweating the night through and going to work next morning very tired was not my plan but everything can happen here. I have learned not to be upset because these things happen and you just need to get accustomed to them. 

Before I leave India we are going to Delhi for two days with Sally. I look forward to exploring the capital and its markets and spend my last salary on sweets, clothes and shoes. Happy! I arrive in Helsinki at 8 am if there are no delays.