Geoff's Motorcycle Adventures: Day 20 and 21

Friday

Well Friday 15th is India Independence day and its a big thing in India. We watched Prime Minster Modi on the TV at the Red Fort in Delhi giving his speech which actually included some excellent policies. (Take note Cameron).

Following some breakfast and the wrapping up of my metal box in cardboard for the trip home we decided to go for a walk. Well we were warned nothing was open. It was like Christmas morning outside. Nothing was moving and roads were empty. All the shops were closed. In the space of 10 minutes we must have been approached 15 times by auto drivers telling us it was Independence day and it was all shut but he knew a place open.

Empty roads

Empty streets

We bumped into another couple of Brits whilst out walking and they were having similar troubles with the local Auto drivers. We went back to hotel after buying some fizzy drinks and watched Transformers on the television before venturing out later in the day when things had opened up a bit. We found a bakery and bought some biscuits for home and had dinner in the restaurant upstairs. Very good and very cheap.

Back to hotel and watched Wolverine on the television. The Indians have great film channels. A hot sweaty night without the AC on as it was just way too noisy.

Saturday.

Up early, breakfast, paid the bill and then into the pre booked taxi for the trip to the airport. So we were at the airport by 0945 flight time 1300. Once we had convinced the Border Security Officer at the door of the airport we were on a plane he eventually let us into the airport. Not flying then no entry to the airport.
At check-in they were not impressed by my cardboard box but with a few more stickers and a fragile tag (I did explain it was a metal box) it was put on as checked baggage. They lady must have liked us she upgraded us to extra leg room seats for no extra charge.
Immigration/Customs and security all cleared, Mrs G got a bag search must be those dodgy biscuits we bought yesterday.
Mrs G then thoroughly abused the remaining Indian cash around the duty and tat shops in the departure lounge. I found an article in FAST bikes about Teapot one.
In due course we were called to the gate and loaded. By god the security was tight. Following boarding passes were checked by Border Security officer, then another boarding pass check all within 30 feet of each other. Overkill.
A very pleasant flight home with good food excellent legroom from the upgrade. Watched 4 films the last ending as we dropped into Heathrow.
Got the car and drove home. After 3 weeks on Indian roads it was a shock to be passed on the M25 by dickheads 100mph+.
Glad to be home and see the little G's