There are several things to bare in mind when thinking about using a cycle rickshaw.  First they are not fast, and even getting started can very much depend upon the size and fitness of your rider.  Sure the younger kids tend to be cheeky and more enthusiastic, but at least make sure they can reach the pedals.  Secondly there’s not much protection in them, so in slow moving traffic (such as Old Delhi) they are fine, I’d not like to be on one any where were cars can move freely.  Third there are issues with suspension, or more accurately there is none.  Net result is you can be thrown forwards when it hits even the smallest rut in the road, so sit back and use your legs as braces on the foot rest.  And finally have a sense of humour and do not be in a hurry …

Simple plan for the day. Go to the Red Fort in Old Delhi, head to the famous Karim’s for lunch, then head over to the Spice Market, maybe via Chandi Chowk .   After all what could be more relaxing than exploring one of the world’s largest surviving forts/castles, travel through back street crowds to find a back street restaurant for which only have vague directions, then head along one of the most crowded shopping areas on the continent, but where it’s all out door. Continue reading →

In the west we’re used to postcards, in fact much of the world seems to be except Japan and … India.  I’d forgotten how hard it was to get them when I was in Chennai and now in Delhi I’ve the same problem.  Net result is I guess my familly and friends will just have to read here rather than receive badly scrawled pieces of cardboard.

Tripadvisor can be useful for restaurants, especially this time round at lunch as I don’t have to think about evening ones.  The only catch has been that up to now the map function had not been set for Delhi, net result I can restaurants online, but have no clue where they are in real life.  This morning this all changed and now I head out to Old Delhi with several badly drawn reference maps to guide me.