14MAY18_XXXXXL56ENDIA: A Journey to India
India is a country rich in history, culture, and vibrancy. It can be overwhelming to a first-time visitor, but it is a must-visit destination for any traveler. My journey to India started on the 14th of May 2018 when I boarded the flight to New Delhi. The airport welcomed me with its chaos, mystique, and a hint of spice in the air. I knew I was in for an incredible adventure.
My first stop was the Red Fort, a fortification built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The structure was massive, and inside it was like stepping back in time. The intricate designs, the arches, and the domes all left me breathless. The fort also had a light show in the evening that was nothing short of magical.
Next, I visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. It was much more magnificent than I had imagined. The sheer size and symmetry of the structure, the intricate carvings, and the beautiful gardens surrounding it left me awestruck.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to a spice market in Old Delhi. The vibrant colors of the spices and the aromas that filled the air were mesmerizing. I had a chance to taste some of the spices and learned about their medicinal properties.
As the trip came to an end, I visited the Lotus Temple in New Delhi. The temple is a stunning example of modern architecture. Its unique design, resembling a blooming lotus flower, and the feeling of serenity inside made it a perfect place to meditate and reflect.
14MAY12_XXXXXL56ENDIAN小孩: The Life of Street Children in India
While indulging in the sights and sounds of India, I couldn't help but notice the countless street children. They were everywhere, from busy intersections to tourist hotspots. They were barefoot, their clothes tattered, and their eyes full of longing. I wanted to know more about their lives and what brought them to the streets.
I discovered that most of these children were from poor families and had no access to education or healthcare. Some had been abandoned by their parents while others had become orphans due to various circumstances. On the streets, they begged, sold trinkets, and did odd jobs to survive. Most of them had to endure abuse and exploitation at the hands of adults who took advantage of their vulnerability.
I visited a few organizations that worked to help street children, and I was amazed at the difference they were making. They provided shelter, food, education, and healthcare to these children. The children had a chance to learn, grow, and become independent, which was heartwarming to see.
It made me realize that every child deserves a chance at a better life, and we should do our part to make that happen. It doesn't take much to make a difference; sometimes, all it takes is a kind word, a smile, or a small donation.
14MAY18_XXXXXL56ENDIAN60: The Diversity of India's Cuisine
India is a food lover's paradise. Its cuisine is as diverse as its culture, and every region has its own unique flavors and dishes. During my trip to India, I made it a point to try out as many dishes as I could, and I was never disappointed.
One of my favorite dishes was butter chicken, a classic dish from North India. The tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and served in a creamy tomato-based sauce were heavenly. I also tried chole bhature, a popular breakfast dish in Delhi. It consisted of spicy chickpeas served with fried bread, and it was delicious.
South India had its own flavors and dishes to offer. I tried a dosa, a type of pancake made from fermented rice and lentils. It was crispy and served with a spicy potato filling. I also had biryani, a fragrant rice dish flavored with saffron and a variety of spices.
The sweets in India were equally delightful. I had gulab jamun, a fried dough ball soaked in syrup. It was sweet, sticky, and utterly delicious. I also tried rasgulla, a spongy cheese ball soaked in syrup, which was a delight to the taste buds.
India's cuisine was a reflection of its diversity, history, and culture. It was impossible to try out every dish, but the ones I did try left an indelible mark on my taste buds.