06/10/2024
So here's the thing, many foreigners who don't know much about India's regular lifestyle go back with an impression that India is poor! This is thanks to many of our local tourist guides who mostly show them the poorer parts of old Delhi. Not that it is not interesting, but that is not the only side and not the normal, typical Delhi. I had a friend who came to India from Switzerland with a tourist day planned, visiting old Delhi, Paharganj, Jama Masjid Road, Chandni Chowk, etc. That is what is all over social media!
She did have an impression that Delhi, rather India, is poor, but the fact is the opposite! Indians (plenty) in India are rich (super rich). They spend time shopping, eating in affluent spots, and having a good time too. As she had a day before her main touristy things to do, I took my friend Barbara Balimann and showed her what a typical day for a Delhi resident is like. I did add that traditional touch too, by having a brunch at Kwality for a royal experience, going to Saket Mall for some shopping - she was amazed with Siss brands stores and then visiting Khan Market for some window shopping, ending the day with cocktails and dinner. She was definitely impressed that India is so normal and affluent! She has a day out planned for old Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur with her tourist guide, but I am glad I had the chance to show her the normal life of an Indian.
I told her-- this is what I would do on a casual Saturday hanging out with a friend!
