I shivered through the night. I slept fully clothed, trying to save as much warmth as I possibly could. I didn’t even take my watch off, that’s how critical it was. The cold night air was pouring into the room. I needed to find out where the draft was coming in from. The window frames seemed secure enough, minimal leakage. It must be something else. Ah, yes of course. These windows have no glass. They’re just open portals between me and the outside world (full of monkeys, mind you), gently covered with plastic wrap. I got back in bed, curled up in the fetal position, and waited for daybreak. The sun began to rise, and I left immediately. I was walking the fine streets of Shimla early. The first thing I noticed was the impeccable views in each direction. Then I noticed the people around me. The women were dressed differently here. Lots of blazers and flared jeans, quite reminiscent of New York City. Then I noticed the shops: Puma, Adidas, Levi’s, Domino’s Pizza, even breweries. My god, I’m in a trendy place. A place like this is dangerous for a backpacker. If you’re not careful, you might accidentally break the budget and live beyond your means. I swore to be cautious. I walked into several hotels - fully booked. I finally found one offering a room for 2,000 rupees. That’s a bit more than my usual budget. They showed me the room and I felt the weakness come over me. I had to have it - it was most luxurious. It had internet, a real window made of glass, hot water, and a lovely desk to write at. At first, I was overcome with the guilt of extravagance, but it was quickly replaced by the euphoria brought on by the extreme luxury. That potent drug put a spell on me. I strolled through the town with the energy of a bon vivant. I walked with a slightly flamboyant gait characteristic of old money. It was still quite chilly. I figured that the purchase of a proper jacket was acceptable with the cold weather. Only slightly over budget, that’s fine. I couldn’t help but notice that the men in town wore these unique and luxurious hats. I’d be a fool to leave here without one - when in Rome, no? All of my high-end shopping made me famished, so I went to a local bistro for their tasting menu. My opulent lifestyle was changing me. I flagged the maître d’ and told him to bring me the chef’s finest preparations, and with haste – before my stomach begins to bark mhmhmhmhhh. He rushed a steaming chicken curry to my table. It was most delicious. I believe that I’m more suited to the ways of milk and honey. I simply cannot go back to the life that I lived before this day. It is only opulence from here on out. I’m ready for the next chapter of my trip: A bed of roses - the finer things in gross abundance.
It’s amazing how much you appreciate things after roughin it while backpacking
You look pretty with the new Himachali Cap on. A little extravagance to indulge yourself is well deserved I guess. Take care