LakshAndaman Islands

Already I am feeling like time is running out on this trip. Our flatmates are leaving next Tuesday and we have to move on to new accommodations. Then, we have only 3 weeks left in Hyderabad, a few weeks of travel, and we're back to New York.

eek.

For the past few days, we've had some hard decisions to make regarding our time in April. There are some small islands off of the west coast called Lakshadweep, (brace yourself for the typically *amazing* web skillz). Lak means, literally, thousand, as it is an archipelago-- but only 2 or 3 of these islands are even legally open to non-Indians! Here, we could experience some awesome snorkeling, diving (for Bartley, as I am not certified) and amazing, uncrowded beaches (I hesitate to say "deserted", as I still think this is an impossibility, even though they actually cap the number or visitors). Unfortunately, cheap accommodation does not exist here.

Or, after our flight to Kochin in Kerala, we could take an overnight train back to Chennai and fly from there to the Adanman Islands. Also beautiful beaches, diving, snorkeling, etc... and a perhaps slightly less hefty price tag. At least, a greater choice of places to stay.

Yeah, yeah, life is hard when you're choosing your own island adventure. Boo-hoo.

In other news, at least we've found places to stay for our gap weeks in Hyderabad. Uma Banjara was starting to feel like home, so it was a bit sad when we came home last week to find furniture already disappearing as Emily and Andre prepare. This week they are voyaging through the north on camels and such, coming back just in time for their blowout bon voyage on Monday. By the way, the breadth and size of fireworks one can legally purchase in India is astounding. Good thing we're moving out the next day.