We spent most of last night in Joey’s pub having a drink, eating a Sunday roast and watching the world cup. It was great to see Australia hold out Brazil so well, even if we lost. The loss was made worse by the Indian bartender who was a really sore winner. We’d bet him backing Australia just to shut him up, even though we knew Brazil would win, but his gloating annoyed us all. Especially when he had no real connection to Brazil. He was simply backing the favourite team to get some easy money and could have been gracious about it. I took heart from the excitement the Brazilians showed at each goal and on winning the match – as though they’d been genuinely worried about the game and the strength of the Aussie team.
This morning was an occasion of mixed feelings. We had an extremely greasy breakfast on a balcony of a snack bar – the sausages seemed to be oil held in shape by a bit of pig flesh. But while we were eating, the mist cleared to give us a sight of the highest mountain in India. I’ve seen more impressive views from Dochula, but it is the highest mountain I’ll probably ever see, a great view in itself and Brady’s excitement was infectious.
We’ve booked a train to Varanessi for the day after tomorrow. It will be my first train in India and I’m very excited by that.