Varanasi

I've spent three days here in Varanasi. It's a holy city with the Ganges running through, which means no alcohol, though you can still find a few barred shops selling 'fruit beer', 'strong soda', and 'solid punch'. I've spent the few days mainly walking around the city, visiting the Hindu University one afternoon, relaxing in the shade near the river trying to stay cool, and taking a few flute lessons (!) in a music store nearby. Last night I walked from my hotel along the river, mouth closed and head down to avoid getting hit by bugs, to where they have a Hindu ceremony every night. The lights reflecting off of the river, and the boats full of tourists and locals going to view the ceremony from the water were incredible.









This one's for mom. I woke up before dawn this morning to take a boat ride on the river. People wake up so early and get to work here. The sunrise was great. Today it's off to Agra by train. This afternoon is the Cricket World Cup Semifinal, India vs. Pakistan, which I'll be missing the end of unfortunately. Everyone is crazy about it here, I think somebody on the train will bring a radio aboard. I thought I heard Vin Scully's voice coming out of a radio the other day, must be Dodger season too. Good time of year to be a sports fan. (VCU what the heck?)