After a 13 hour bus ride, we arrived at my grandmother's hometown, and was picked up by my granduncle in his mini-bus.

A few points observed:

1) Driving

The driving skills of these old folks are really good. Navigating between a two way traffic flow on a crammed dust road no wider than 3 metres. We urban dwellers can only stare in fear and disbelief, as the mini-bus steers past chickens, kids, dogs, cats, people, vegetable stalls and piles of bricks strewn haphazardly at the sides of the trail.

2) Food

Apparently, my granduncle and grand aunt are a little over-hospitable. We had like 5 meals everyday, with servings at least 5 times our portion here. No doubt the food is good, fresh chicken, mutton, beef, vegetables, fish, oysters... everything somes straight from where they are planted / bred. The vegetables are extremely fresh, and the honey is so pure you needn't stir it with the water to have it blend properly.

3) Temperature

It is VERY VERY VERY COLD!!! My room is -0.5 degrees celsius. Had to settle with a mountain of blanket sheets over myself when it comes to the night. The wind is also cutting, even the heavy trenchcoat doesn't help.

4) Architecture

Allthe buildings are made of solid granite, and all seem to be under construction. Seems like these village folks are getting more and more affluent. And, every house is huge!

5) Alcohol

My granduncle is a mad drinker. All drinks are above 36%, normally 52%. And ever dinner we down a few bottles. I hardly remember what happens after that...