As you can see in the front yard, there are many potted plants. Most homes here have potted plants on their cement terraces. Most of the plants have something to offer, though I haven’t learned them all yet. There are aloe vera, lemon grass, cabe (hot peppers), strawberries (no fruit yet), ginger, and more. I bought a few plants, pots, and soil before we left for the summer, and my helper grew the collection while we were gone. Most locals get creative with their ‘pots’, using plastic bottles, empty oil bags, just whatever they have.

Read More

Our favorite thing about our flat is our balcony. It is unusual to have a balcony in apartments in our city. We use it for everything—from bbq-ing, to laundry drying, and even as a “pop-up” swimming pool for our son during lockdown.

The worst thing about our flat is the noise. Our flat faces the main street; everyday we can hear the traffic. Also we hear random gun noise that is used to scare the pigeons away. Also, during big festival seasons, it’s so loud, and you can hear the parades and all the firecrackers.

Read More