Elen's Arrival

Hi from all three of us! We've had some unusual experiences here in Goa- and have also spent a lot of time swimming and enjoying the lazy beach life- the only option when it gets to the heat of the day. The little cafe's and bars are all temporary, for the season, and everyone is on the move, whether tourist, traveller, worker or holy man.
It was wonderful meeting Elen at the airport- suddenly there she was smiling! On our way back to Arambol by taxi we saw our first Indian elephant! The experience of seeing India for the first time was quite overwhelming. Thick-leaved trees, bright pink flowers, dwellings that range from a tent to a jungle palace and thousands of faces. The feel of the air is like walking into a hot-house in Kew Gardens and the scent hits you the second you step out of the plane.
A few nights ago Elen and Rhiannon had a crazy adventure when we went on a 'guided' tour into the jungle. After a steep climb we encountered a temple with candle lit statues of gods where we sat to watch the sun rise. Our goal was to reach Sweet Lake (which means fresh water) but our journey went on and on through thickening forest, cacti and steep boulders. In the end, our confused and apologising guide was saved by a pack of semi-wild dogs who led us to the river. With some relief we began to see signs of human life- travellers who make their homes in the jungle.
On another day, all three of us visited the same place (much easier to reach along the beach) and had a mud bath!