Getting a visa for India was a rather nerve wrecking experience. There is a lot of information about it on the net but how to actually get a visa is another story. In the end I decided not to apply in writing but to hand in personally my application inclusive passport to the Indian Embassy near Paddington in London. The Embassy is positioned near Little Venice in the impressive Battleship Building. August bank holiday Monday was this appointment. Notting Hill Carnival was also happening on that hot day.
I was very relieved when my visa arrived a week ago. Ready to fly on Monday 26 September from Heathrow to Mumbai and back on 21 December 2016.
I am absolutely excited as I have never left Europe apart from one week in New York.
Blogging: A couple of years ago I received the Reside Residency which lasted for 6 months. It gave me some idea about how I wanted to make use of blogs. I applied for the Reside Residency because one did not have to state intentions and projected outcomes from the residency. I plan to write more about this at later point in India. Previous residencies in England, Spain, Ireand, Germany and Poland must have contributed to me now leaving for India soon.
Vaccinations: My GP surgery advised me to have vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid fever, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis. I don’t know what I expected but not such an easy and painfree process.
Research: What a pleasure it was for the last two months to research India. The process of understanding ‘the reality of going to India’ was an amazing journey in itself, not just for me but my family and friends.
Works on paper: I asked a number of artists if they would like to give me one works on paper each to share with students I will be seeing and other opportunities. What a wonderful thing to do, taking along a delightful body of work, my support band, to communicate with others in India.
Hindi: I had all good intentions learning some Hindi but failed badly. Hopefully I start learning some on my flight!
Photos: facebook page with current images about preparation for India
What to take
This is very difficult. Taking on board the wonderful practical advice I was given by friends and good travel websites! Clothes, shoes, books, digital equipment, insect repellant, sun lotion, hair shampoo, diary and art material and what to take to share with students? Any more suggestions? Not quite finnished yet!
