My Fun Times

Ahmedabad Expat Travels to Kutch, India

2010-11-05T17:04:00.010+05:30

old coins

Our Boat crew

Fishing Village

The boat

Recently, Ben and I traveled to Kutch, India. This is what I thought India would look like when I first arrived. It is nothing like Ahmedabad and for this Ahmedabad Expat it was a nice break. We went to to private beach in Mandvi, which was so quite and beautiful. I could have never dreamed that it could be so peaceful. At this beach there are "tents" that you can rent, kinda like hotel rooms, for the weekend. There are just a few of them and get this they are air conditioned! The bathrooms are big and clean. Showers. It was truly amazing that someone could do that with a tent. It is nothing like I had thought it would be. Also, we seen were they were building wooden boats by hand. These are not boats, these are actually ships. It takes them 3 years to build. Check out the pics ....enjoy.

2010-10-19T18:22:00.001+05:30

Rickshaw drivers may strike work on Tuesday

To protest the price rise by Adani Energy, autorickshaw drivers’ assn threaten to go on a three-day strike from Tuesday

Ahmedabad Mirror Bureau

Posted On Monday, October 18, 2010 at 02:20:50 AM

Auto drivers will stay off the city road from Tuesday if Adani Energy does not roll back Rs 2.10 price hike which has come into effect from Sunday midnight. The members of the Ahmedabad Autorickshaw Drivers Sangarsh Samiti have threatened to go on a three-day strike if its demand to withdraw the hike is not considered.

Adani Energy has increased the fuel price five times in last seven months which is very unfair, alleged the association members. “The company has introduced the hike suddenly, without intimating us which is quite unjust. This is for the sixth time that the prices have been raised without taking us in confidence. We survive on our daily earnings.

If the prices will soar like this, we will not be able to make both ends meet,” said Raj Sirke, vice- president of Ahmedabad Autorickshaw Drivers Sangarsh Samiti. Moreover, the price has been increased after election. It means that it was pre-decided, he added. “We do not want to hassle commuters but this is too much. Every two months, we face price rise. But this time, we have decided to protest,” Sirke added.

When contacted, an official of Adani energy said: “We have to hike prices of the gas because Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) has increased price. The GSPC officials told us that the decision was taken earlier but was held back due some reasons. They will also be raising their prices now.”

Ahh.. back to work

2010-10-17T13:43:00.005+05:30

Hello, I have decided that I need to get back to blogging. I have missed it actually. I have done some traveling and have had a lot of fun, lately. Seems that in next weeks we will be traveling to close to the Pak border. That will be so incredibly cool. I will make sure I get lots of pictures and post them. I would love to go inside Pakistan just to get a look around.

For Christmas I will be hosting a Christmas party in which I am very excited about.

Things here in India have been pretty calm not excitement to speak of. The weather is pretty nice as well. The last day of the festival was today. I must say thank goodness because the music was so loud or I am just getting old. The Diwali holiday starts soon and that will make for some excitement as well. Just as a warning look out because everyone will be asking for money.

Business seem to be doing well right now here. I will post some articles in the next few days about how Ahmedabad is booming.

Anyway, that is all for now. I will be writing again really soon.

2010-04-17T12:33:00.000+05:30

U.S. Embassy New Delhi

American Citizens Services Unit

Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, 110021, India

Telephone: 91-11-2419-8000; Facsimile: 91-11-2419-8407

E-mail: acsnd@state.gov website: http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov

April 16, 2010

Dear American citizens:

We bring this message to your attention so you can carefully consider the information it contains. Please pass along the information below to the American citizens in your area or put this information on your notice boards for dissemination. This message and other important travel information can be found at www.travel.state.gov. Thank you for your co-operation.

For travel information, call 888-407-4747.

Internet Address: http://travel.state.gov

Travel Alert

United States Department of State

Bureau of Consular Affairs

Washington, DC 20520

INDIA

April 16, 2010

The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to ongoing security concerns in India. The U.S. government continues to receive information that terrorist groups may be planning attacks in India. The February 2010 bombing in Pune and the November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provide a vivid reminder that hotels, markets, trains and other public places in India are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where U.S. citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit. This replaces the Travel Alert dated January 29, 2010, to note the February 2010 bombing in Pune, and expires on May 30, 2010.

U.S. citizens are urged always to practice good security, maintain a heightened situational awareness and a low profile. U.S. citizens are advised to monitor local news reports and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or choosing hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues.

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. U.S. citizens without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad."

For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). U.S. citizens are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Embassy's website and on the Department’s website.

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11- 2419-8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. For after-hours emergencies, call 91-11-2419-8000.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363- 0350. For after-hours emergencies, call 91-22-2363-3611, ext. 0.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. For after-hours emergencies, call 91-44-2857-4000, 91-44-2811-2000, or 91-44-2811-2021.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91- 33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. For after-hour emergencies, call 91-99030-42956 (cell) or 91-33-3984-2400, ext. 0.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300. For after-hours emergencies, call 91-90-0060-4234.

Misc pics

2010-03-11T17:00:00.005+05:30

He was so good he got a rock?

Look at those cheeks!

Monkeys?

Ben doing Nana's hair

Cutest kids ever!

Just some pictures of Ben's 8th birthday and some from our recent trips.

Ladies Coffee

2010-02-04T18:07:00.002+05:30

Tomorrow 12, noon, at Barista on Drive In opp of Drive In Movies. Please call me if you need a ride or have questions. 9909717031

Also, check out our Facebook group "Ahmedabad Expats" for any expats that are thinking of moving, currently living or visiting Ahmedabad.

2010-01-07T20:45:00.000+05:30

American Citizens Services UnitU.S. Consulate General78, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026, IndiaTelephone: 91-22-2363 3611 ext. 4306; Facsimile: 91-22-2367-7026E-mail: mumbaiacs@state.gov website: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov Date: December 31, 2009Dear American citizens:We bring this message to your attention so you can carefully consider the information it contains. Please pass along the information below to the American citizens in your area or put this information on your notice boards for dissemination. Thank you for your cooperation.Travel AlertU.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATEBureau of Consular Affairs This information is current as of today, Thu Dec 31 11:42:48 2009.India - Security Issues December 29, 2009The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to continuing security concerns in India. The U.S. Government continues to receive information that terrorist groups may be planning attacks in India. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where Americans or Westerners are known to congregate or visit. In addition, there continues to be a possibility of violence in the south-central Indian state of Andhra Pradesh over the contentious issue of creating a separate state within Andhra Pradesh. This Alert replaces the Travel Alerts dated October 29 and December 9, 2009, and expires on January 31, 2010. The November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provided a vivid reminder that hotels and other public places are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. U.S. citizens are urged always to practice good security, maintain a heightened situational awareness and a low profile. Americans are advised to monitor local news reports and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or choosing hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues. There is also the possibility of violence in the south-central Indian state of Andhra Pradesh as civil unrest continues over the contentious issue of statehood for the Telangana region. The Department recommends that U.S. citizens defer all non-essential travel to Telangana and certain parts of Hyderabad (especially the Assembly and Secretariat, Osmania University, Panjagutta, and Ameerpet areas). The Telangana Region includes the districts of Rangareddi, Warangal, Medak, Nizamabad, Karimnagar, Adilabad, Khammam, Nalgonda, and Mahbubnagar. There has also been sporadic unrest in the coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema regions, most notably in the cities of Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Ongole, Kurnool, and Chittoor. Andhra Pradesh continues to experience episodic civil unrest as pro- and anti-statehood political groups rally supporters to their respective causes. A number of strikes have shut down schools and businesses, making it at times difficult to obtain essentials such as gasoline. Protesters have targeted public transportation, attacking trains and burning numerous buses. Public transportation networks have been forced to shut down several times. There have been repeated clashes between police and protesters, damage to private property, and a number of deaths and injuries associated with the disturbances. Government security forces have been augmented in many parts of the state, especially in Hyderabad and in the Telangana region. U.S. citizens resident or traveling in Andhra Pradesh during this period are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and large crowds of any kind. U.S. citizens should monitor the situation via media sources, including TV and radio and via the Internet.U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad." For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Consulate’s website, Embassy's website and also at the Department's website.

2010-01-05T20:43:00.000+05:30

American Citizens Services Unit
U.S. Consulate General78, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026,
IndiaTelephone: 91-22-2363 3611 ext. 4306; Facsimile: 91-22-2367-7026E-mail: mumbaiacs@state.gov website: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov
Date: December 24, 2009

Dear American citizens:We bring this message to your attention so you can carefully consider the information it contains. Please pass along the information below to the American citizens in your area or put this information on your notice boards for dissemination. Thank you for your cooperation.Travel AlertU.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATEBureau of Consular Affairs This information is current as of today, Thu Dec 24 08:35:10 2009.India December 23, 2009The Department of State wishes to alert U.S. citizens with Indian tourist visas about new regulations that may affect planned travel. Travelers are urged to review travel plans in light of these new regulations. This Travel Alert supplements the Travel Alerts for India dated October 29 and December 9, and expires on January 21, 2010.
Foreign tourists departing India with visitor (T) visas will now receive a stamp in their passports at the port of departure that indicates that the bearer will not be allowed to reenter India for two months, regardless of their length of stay or validity of the visa. Tourists who wish to return to India before the two-month period has passed must visit an Indian Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate abroad to present their case for reentry, and must provide documentation in support of the request. If approved, the traveler will receive a letter authorizing reentry to present at an Indian port of entry. Only one request for reentry may be made during a two-month interval. Tourists who have been granted permission to return to India may also be required to register with the nearest Foreigners Registration Office within 14 days of their return, regardless of the length of their stay. The procedures and requirements for registration can be complex. Travelers are advised to follow directions as stipulated on their visas regarding registration procedures irrespective of the visa category. To date, these changes have mostly affected tourist (T) visa holders, but the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India have also received reports pertaining to other visa types and about inconsistent implementation of the new rules, which have not been widely publicized and are subject to change. Prior to traveling to or departing India, Americans who may be affected by these changes are urged to contact the nearest Indian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate overseas or Foreign Registration Office in India to determine proper procedures to follow. U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration website so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad." For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet website where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts, including the existing Travel Alert for India, can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Consulate’s website, Embassy's website and also at the Department's website. U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information: -- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419-8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. -- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. -- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. -- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. -- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300.

Going home for the Holidays

2009-12-15T11:35:00.002+05:30

We will be going home for the holidays. Ben is so excited he wants to see everyone.

2009-12-14T12:40:00.001+05:30

American Citizens Services Unit

U.S. Consulate General

78, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026, India

Telephone: 91-22-2363 3611 ext. 4306; Facsimile: 91-22-2367-7026

E-mail: mumbaiacs@state.gov website: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov

Date: December 9, 2009

Dear American citizens:

Warden Message: Potential Changes in Indian Tourist Visa Regulations

The U.S. Mission in India wishes to inform U.S. citizens traveling to India that the Government of India is reviewing its regulations pertaining to the entry of American citizens holding long-term Indian tourist visas. To date, these new regulations are not finalized and are being implemented inconsistently. The U.S. Embassy and consulates throughout India have received conflicting information regarding the new rules, but it is clear that the rules will only affect those who wish to enter India on a tourist visa within two months of their last departure from India. Tourists traveling to or departing from India are urged to review travel plans in light of these changing procedures and to contact the nearest Indian High Commission or Foreign Registration Office to ensure they have the most current information.

The U.S. Mission in India will follow with updates of the new regulations as they are clarified.

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov.

http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov, and also at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419-8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. The Embassy's Internet home page address is http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. The Internet home page address is http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. The Internet home page address is http://chennai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. The Internet home page address is http://kolkata.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300. The Internet home page address is http://hyderabad.usconsulate.gov.

Misc pictures of Ben

2009-11-26T08:52:00.002+05:30

Ben's fish tank. The fish just keep dying....

Thanksgiving The Ahmedabad Expat Way

2009-11-24T08:42:00.001+05:30

Ben decorating the Christmas tree

Ben made this cake all by himself

He loves to cook

The cooks

What a surprise to thaw the turkey only to find it's head and feet

Thanksgiving dinner

2009-11-11T22:23:00.001+05:30

Thanksgiving dinner is going to be Saturday night Nov 21 at 8pm. Call or email me for details.

V wrote this to us about being in hospital

2009-11-10T22:22:00.001+05:30

Hello All

I am back at home and wanted to thank all of you for taking such good care of me from the beginning, the middle and even now. I could not ask for anything better. From day one you all were there. Reasa was there to hold my hand while I was in pain, contactng doctors, you all, everyone and making sure nothing was done without her not only letting me know but talking with the doctors and myself about whatever they were doing, my meals, everything. She offered to take me in post-surgery, and Robert, Reasa and Ben were the ultimate hosts, and took very good care of me. Thanks to Bob and Kathi for their visits and laughs, presents and concerns. Thanks to Gijs and Licia for coming to see me and laugh with me also and the meals and fruits..and just always laughing as they always do.. Thanks Snehal, Vatu, Kosher and her beloved for coming and seeing me and making sure I was doing well, and speaking to the nurses. Thanks Alex for always checking up on me and getting me thru that terrible day.. was so glad to see you u have no idea. I love you all even more than I did before if that was even possible. You all are NOT just my friends for life..but my family for life..bcs you guys saved my life. I could not ask or even think of anything better.. I have had a great month...I was in the right place at the right time surrounded by the right people, getting the right medical care... Could not have been better! So thanks again, love you all...and I just love you all...

V

Killer V in hospital

2009-10-26T19:32:00.003+05:30

As many of you know V was in the hospital. She had to have surgery. She has had a rough time but, she is finally getting better. Thank you all for helping so much!

All he wants for Christmas is his 2 front teeth...

2009-10-25T19:25:00.000+05:30

MMMM.

Lost both front teeth

Pulling the loose tooth

Braces?

First look at these shoes he picked out. Then see how BIG his feet are.

Lost one tooth.

2009-10-24T00:46:00.001+05:30

India: New Guidelines for Stricter Enforcement of Business and Work Visa Requirements

Indian diplomatic posts worldwide are no longer accepting employment visa applications from individuals who are not nationals of the country where the post is located. Instead, these applicants are advised to file their applications at the post in their country of citizenship. This change does not affect business visa applications. The government has issued new guidelines which prescribe stricter enforcement of business and work visa requirements for foreign nationals engaging in contractual or project work, including specific processes in relation to Chinese nationals.

The Indian government recently issued guidelines introducing new requirements governing where foreign nationals may submit employment visa applications. The guidelines also prescribe stricter enforcement of employment visa requirements for foreign nationals entering India for contractual or project work, and clarify the procedures for the adjudication and issuance of employment visas to Chinese nationals engaged in contractual or project activities.

Work Visa Applications to be Filed in Home Countries

Pursuant to the guidelines, Indian diplomatic posts now accept employment visa applications only from nationals of the country where the post is located. Other nationals, including those with work or resident status overseas, are now required to file their employment visa applications at the Indian diplomatic post in their country of citizenship.

This change does not apply to business visas, which can still be obtained at the diplomatic post nearest to the applicant’s current place of residence.

Clarification on Permitted Business Activities and Work Visa Requirements

The guidelines clarify the scope of allowable business activities for business visa holders and the eligibility criteria for employment visas with reference to certain provisions of the Visa Manual, an internal policy document of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

It is no longer possible to use a business visa to enter India and engage in project or contractual work. While there is no official definition of “project or contractual work” in India, it typically refers to working in oil exploration, power generation, heavy engineering, and similar major projects. However, in this context, the Indian immigration authorities likely intend to cover productive work in general, regardless of industry or service area.

The new guidelines now limit the issuance of business visas to strictly business-related activities, which generally are regarded as attending business meetings and discussions, although the guidelines refer specifically to exploring opportunities for investment, establishing a business, and purchasing or selling industrial products in accordance with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s internal criteria. For activities that do not clearly fall under the usual permissible activities for business visitors, an employment visa is required.

The guidelines state that business visa holders already in India and performing contract or project work must leave the country by September 30, 2009 or before their existing visas expire, whichever is earlier. An employment visa will be required to re-enter India to continue the relevant activities. While the guidelines do not specifically discuss consequences, the immigration authorities have the ability to impose penalties for non-compliance, which under current practice are determined on a discretionary and case-to-case basis.

Similarly, individuals with pending business visa applications to conduct contract or project work activities will have their applications returned by the consular authorities. They will also be directed to obtain employment visas.

The guidelines also tighten the criteria for individuals who intend to perform contractual or project work to qualify for employment visas. Applicants must hold a senior-level, skilled position with the sponsoring company, such as a senior executive, technical expert, or manager. This requirement applies to intra-company transferees and directly hired employees alike. Applications involving jobs for which a large number of Indian nationals qualify or which are low-skilled in nature will not be considered.

Processes Affecting Chinese Nationals

Chinese nationals applying for employment visas are subject to an additional requirement called a security clearance. In the past, security clearance applications were referred by Indian diplomatic posts to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and were often delayed there indefinitely. Until the issuance of the guidelines, the clearance process was known only internally to the relevant government agencies.

The guidelines clarify the application process for security clearances. Individual applicants and their sponsoring entities are required to file the application with the relevant Indian diplomatic post and submit a copy to the MHA in New Delhi. The diplomatic post endorses the application to the MHA, who in turn forwards copies of the application to the Intelligence Bureau and the Ministry of Labour for review. Based on the recommendation of these agencies, the MHA conveys the approval or denial of the application to the diplomatic post. The clearance process is expected to take around 60 days or longer.

The guidelines also announced that the Indian government is monitoring Chinese nationals who may be on expired business visas and working on projects or contracts in India. Diplomatic posts are working with the Intelligence Bureau to compile information on business visas issued to Chinese nationals since January 1, 2008, including the visa holder’s name, sponsoring entity, visa validity period, and educational qualifications, among other details. Individuals and sponsoring companies found in violation will face penalties, which under current practice are discretionary and may take any of the following forms: negative publicity against the company, monetary fines, blacklisting of the company or individual, re-entry bars on the individual, or imprisonment.

Further updates on these developments are expected to be announced shortly. Fragomen is monitoring these developments in India and will issue updates as they become available.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen Global Immigration Services or send an email to INInitiations@fragomen.com.

Source: Fragomen

Ben Ben Ben.......

2009-10-13T17:58:00.002+05:30

Blue footprints all over my floors

Ben after a hard day at school.......

Ben asked.....

2009-10-12T17:27:00.002+05:30

Ben is preparing is Christmas list which includes a laptop, back scratch er, touch screen Dell and play station. He is not getting any cheaper.

So, I know he loves music and his ipod so I suggested a stereo for his room. When I said this his eyes got really big with a confused look and he said "What is that?" Man, that made me feel old.

2009-10-08T22:12:00.003+05:30

Ben after Oreo snack. He is by far the funniest and cutest kid I have ever met.... He makes me laugh all the time.

Ben's first halloween......

Ben fishing...yes that is a fish... 4 years old

This is Ben at SGVP fashion show last Saturday....He is the most handsome boy of that school...

More recent pictures of our Ahmedabad Expat life

2009-09-28T17:26:00.003+05:30

Ben and his 3rd eye

I bet Pops is proud

At the carnival- all he want to do is shoot guns

Ben and the paintball gun

Ben getting his hair cut. with every hair cut you get a head massage. Despite the look on his face he does enjoy it.

2009-09-26T21:40:00.002+05:30

Govt tells expat workers on biz

visas to leave

TNN 25 September 2009, 03:08am IST

AHMEDABAD/SURAT: Pack your bags and leave the country
before September 30! The terse notice has rattled and
scared expats across Gujarat.

"This is rather rude and a very short notice. We are not sure
what to do now," said a US national, who has been
living in Ahmedabad for the past two years.

GS Malik, additional commissioner of police (special branch),
has sent notices to the expats saying: "All foreign nationals
who are already in the country on business visas and
engaged in executing projects/contracts should leave
the country on expiry of their existing visas or by
September 30, 2009, positively, whichever is earlier."

"We are just following orders from the ministry of external
affairs (MEA). We have not been told why the
Centre wants this," Malik told TOI.

According to sources, the Centre has decided to stop misuse
of business visas by expats for employment. "Employment
visa applications are examined thoroughly while business
visas are easily procured," said a source.

Special branch officials said in Ahmedabad there are 21
registered business visa holders. These include nine from US, six
from UK and the rest from other European countries.

"Employment visa has a limit of six months and requires constant
monitoring by the employer. Business visas have much
relaxed norms and can be issued for up to one year and
can be extended by another six months," said an immigration official.

The impact of the notice has also been felt in other cities in Gujarat.
Foreign nationals were vacating hotels in Surat. Three, four
and five-star hotels have been instructed to ask such foreign
nationals to vacate rooms before September 30.

"We are confused about the order. We will meet the city
police commissioner on Friday for clarifications," said
Sanat Relia, hotelier in Surat. "These were long-term
guests who used to stay with us for months together," said Relia.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://netspiderads2.indiatimes.com/ads.dll/clickthrough?slotid=36036" target="_blank"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;img src="http://netspiderads2.indiatimes.com/ads.dll/photoserv?slotid=36036" border="0" width="670" height="70" alt="Advertisement"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

Recent pics of our Ahmedabad Expat Life

2009-09-22T20:03:00.002+05:30

Carnival

The Okies have arrived in Ahmedabad

Ben at the art and craft show

Paintball day change..

2009-09-17T22:05:00.000+05:30

Paintball has been rescheduled to Next Saturday night. There will beer and lots of fun. Contact me to join in.

Paintball Sunday!

2009-09-15T22:09:00.002+05:30

We are getting together a paintball game on Sunday. If you are interested please contact me.

Recent Pictures.........

2009-09-15T00:02:00.003+05:30

Sleeping Beauty

Killer V, Ben and yes, me

Do not mess with me!

Ben riding his bike...

Travel Alert for Ahmedabad Expats

2009-09-13T16:53:00.001+05:30

TRAVEL ALERT from American Citizens Services

INDIA

September 12, 2009

The Department of State reminds U.S. citizens of the continued possibility of terrorist attacks throughout India during the current Indian holiday season, which includes Hindu, Islamic, and secular holidays as well as the period surrounding the commemoration of the September 11 terror attacks. The November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provided a vivid reminder that hotels and other public places are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. U.S. citizens are urged always to practice good security, maintain a heightened situational awareness and a low profile. Americans are advised to monitor local news reports and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or choosing hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues. This Travel Alert expires on October 30, 2009.

http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov, and also at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. The Internet home page address is

http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. The Internet home page address is http://chennai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. The Internet home page address is http://kolkata.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300. The Internet home page address is http://hyderabad.usconsulate.gov.

Travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.

Ben's midterm exams....

2009-09-09T21:16:00.002+05:30

Oh man it is that time again. Ben is doing midterms starting Friday. So, that means he has tomorrow and every other day off for the next week. Then he has 9 days off for a festival. That should be so much fun. If you have time and have his email you might wish him luck.

A must read for all Ahmedabad Expats..

2009-09-08T22:34:00.001+05:30

For those of us that shop at Hind Supermarket at Vijay Charsta you know that it is not cheap to get that much "needed" items. It seems that every week when they get a new stock that the items are increasing in price by 40 up to 100 -/. That may not seem like a lot until you are buying as much as we do. I spoke with him about it and he insisted that the price increase is because all prices are going up in Dubai and USA. But, still I cannot see paying $10 for a bag of Doritos. But, the owner of the store says that no one has what he has. Then, I remembered a place that I had shopped before that had similar items and were supposed to be getting more items like that. So, I went to check it out. Man, was I happy. They had all the same stuff, plus organic, at cheaper prices. So, the next time you want to go to Hind Supermarket, stop by this place instead and check it out. The store name is:

H. Arjandas & Sons - Dry Fruit Specialist
29 "Advait", B/H Sandesh Press, Opp. Soham Tower
Bodakdev, 380054
Phone 9824017593 or 26765653

Another cool place for jewelry and neat hair items is:

Lady Grace
CG Rd "Aniket" -- it is by Metro Shoes at Municipal Market
Phone 26400396

In this same complex is a pretty cool leather store.

Tips on eating leftovers in Gujarat

2009-09-07T05:00:00.000+05:30

This was written by Bob as a tip.

I used to hate to waste food as much as the next man and I've got the advanced girth to prove it, but when dining on non-veg here, (which btw seems to be getting easier everyday), I got a few tips for you.

#1. When ordering things from the menu that sound familiar to you, the food that gets served is VERY rarely what you were expecting. Lasagna has a unique look and flavor at every restaurant I've had it at. And it won't come with sausage or beef. It will come with lamb, mutton or chicken, at least at your better restaurants.

So the next time you order a prawn, (shrimp), salad, you're not going to get a martini glass with six good sized shrimp hanging on the rim. You may get some kind of 1000 island sauce with tiny chopped pieces of shrimp in it or you may get some kind of red gravy thing with 3 big king prawns. It could be anything. Anything that is except 6 shrimp hanging on a martini glass with cocktail sauce in a bed of lettuce.

#2. If you like diet sodas, you can forget any kind of diet soda other than diet coke and diet pepsi.

I've had what I considered unusually fortunate success in getting that Indian head nod, ( which I took for an affirmative response back then), when asking for diet 7-Up and DIET ROOT BEER but alas, each time I was served diet coke., get used to it or acquire a taste for diet dr pepper because there are a couple of places that carry that but only because Reasa and I went on a binge and ordered like forty cases over less than two months, then theurge went away and now those places are stuck with substantial inventory. You could probably negotiate the price down from the $2 each we were paying
#3. If you like to take your left overs home, you won't get much more than that nod asking for take out or wrap it up, or we want to take this home. You simply wave your hand in the general direction of what you are wanting to take home and say PARCEL. THAT they understand everywhere.
#4. My advice is NEVER take left overs home with you unless you know you are going straight home, you know you can get there in less than an hour and the temperature is under about 85 degrees.

a good friend and I had some tandoori chicken and cauliflower masala for lunch the other day. It was delicious but we should have gotten the half because we couldn't eat it all. She told the wait staff Parcel and I reminded her we had a couple of more stops to make and then a 40 minute ride to bopal where my bungalow is. She assured me in that special way that only female ex-pats seems to be able to do, that the chicken would be fine, I wasn't about to argue. This woman is a Tae-Kwan-Do champion. She could kick my ass. Of course so could most of the children and canines here.
We made our stops, we drove to bopal and after a while she micro upped the chicken and woofed it down. I've seen lizards eat bugs slower than she went through that chicken. I've never seen sparks come off bones before.

about 7 hours later she started feeling a little funny, yesterday she didn't feel like getting out and was running a bit of a fever. Later that evening ugly things started exiting her body from variouos orifices often at the same time.

Luckily in India you can call a doctor that will usually show up at your house within about an hour and bring with him a little magic bag of various liquid and solid medications that many of which can be inserted a variety of ways. Of course this kind of medical service doesn't grow on tress so you can expect to shell out about 7-15 dollars per visit but that would incloude the pills/shots/suppositories.

Delhi belly we almost all get at some point. it's really not that bad except foir that 4 toi 8 hiour span when some actually beg god just to take them now and stop the flow. It really sucks kids. Even mild versions will kick your ass all tghe wayy to bed and make you feel like crap for at least one whole day.

when you consider the low cost of food even at some of the most expensive rest., (hotels), it is still cheap enough that you can afford to leave the parcel instead of dragging around food growing bacteria that slugs wouldn't eat by the minute and having that for a midnite snack!

Peach Y'all
AhmedaBOB

More of Our Snow Day in Ahmedabad....

2009-09-06T08:07:00.005+05:30

Yes, that is Snow in Ahmedabad!! A Great Place for an Ahmedabad Expat to Visit...

2009-09-05T21:23:00.010+05:30

Today we went to Wonderland. It was very cool. It has a playground and best of all Snow World. It was so cold and so fun. It was a few minute drive from the city but worth it. Each activity and there are a few cost something different but most all prices are reasonable. They also, have some good chi. Check out the pictures. Oh, yeah for information call 079.926890257. Just another FYI - the address on internet is wrong so call first. Just a note the background noise on the videos is loud.

A few clicks from my birthday....

2009-09-04T19:18:00.003+05:30

Devesh and Reasa

Bob and the Killer V

Me on my 31st birthday. Man, I am starting to feel older.

Thank you all for the great gifts and birthday wishes.

You know the hardest part of my birthday and being in India is this - the people you think and want to call you. Don't. So, all my calls and most of my emails came from friends here and I am grateful for that. It is just another lesson in life. Man, it is tough getting old.

2009-09-02T21:28:00.000+05:30

Wow!! Tomorrow is the big day.

Again, I just want to thank everyone for all the kind words and gifts that I have gotten even before my birthday.

Some pictures that I got for my Birthday.....

2009-09-01T21:18:00.006+05:30

Sneak peak into my special pictures that I had taken

These are some of the pictures that were done for me for my birthday.

Wow! It is not even my birthday and I am getting such great gifts. Thank you all!! I am such a blessed girl!!

it is just 2 more days!!!!!

Update on Hugo Boss the dog and the Ahmedabad Expat

2009-08-30T17:19:00.002+05:30

Ahmedabad bids Hugo tearful goodbye

Vasundhara Vyas Mehta, TNN 29 August 2009, 05:47am IST

AHMEDABAD: A cage softened with an old rug, a bone to chew on, an old slipper as a reminder of the Ahmedabad home and some tears. That's what Hugo will carry to his new home in faraway Canada. This stray dog, rescued a month ago by a Canadian now based in the city and nursed back to health, bid goodbye to the city on Friday. When Lisa Warden sat at the Ahmedabad airport, her arms tight around Hugo, waiting for the flight out to Mumbai, it was an emotional moment.

Her moist eyes betrayed the deep bond that developed between the two in the four weeks Hugo spent in her house. Hugo, who will be put on a flight to Canada from Mumbai on Saturday, was off to Ottawa to his new home. A lady there, Sarah O'Neill, reading about Hugo on the Networking site” posted by Warden” has adopted him. It's only been a month, but he became special. It is like bidding goodbye to your own child. But, I did pray that Hugo gets a good home and I am happy for him now, said Warden.

The preparations to send Hugo to Canada began about two weeks ago. The Warden couple went through the rigours of paperwork, dealing with the bureaucracy, vaccination, sterilisation operation and the logistic preparation. The special cage, with puppy pads, was sent by an NGO helping stray dogs in Mumbai. After TOI wrote about Hugo last week, offers for help poured in. â€œPeople came up with donations to help the cause of stray dogs. As much as Rs 20,000 was collected which will be used for sterilisation programme for stray dogs, said Warden, who has three stray dogs as her pets.

Somethings an Ahmedabad Expat must endure...

2009-08-29T09:38:00.001+05:30

SEEING RED

WHEELS OF DEATH

AMTS buses have turned killers on city roads as rash drivers continue their deadly run

Parth Shastri & Kumar Manish | TNN

Ahmedabad: On Sunday morning, driver of an Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) bus lost control in Ghatlodia when its front wheel came off and rolled into a house. Rajeev Shah of Chandralok society, in whose house the wheel barged in breaking the gate, refused to give the wheel back to the AMTS till the police intervened. This is one of the very tame encounters of the public with AMTS. The same evening a motorcyclist was hit by an AMTS bus whose brakes failed on Subhash Bridge. Fortunately, the biker escaped unscathed.
Over the last month, AMTS buses have turned into monsters on city roads, killing two persons in four accidents. The drivers of these buses have for long been accused of speeding, overtaking and breaking traffic rules with impunity. Bob Massa, an American working for a US-based company in the city, had a harrowing experience with an AMTS bus.
Massa recounts, “Recently, I was literally run over by an AMTS bus near Bopal. I was driving a two-wheeler with a kid pillion riding with me. The driver was driving rashly without any concern for fellow commuters on roads.”
“The bus knocked me down and I suffered ankle, knee and shoulder injuries. It was strange to see the driver speed off even though I had fallen from the vehicle. It was a narrow escape for me,” he said. Even traffic experts opined there is a dire need for corrective measures in running of AMTS buses. Member of Ahmedabad Traffic Consultative Committee (ATCC) Amit Khatri said, “Just like Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) drivers, the AMTS drivers should be trained properly while plying their buses on the roads. This can result in prevention of unnecessary traffic jams and accidents.”
Traffic police personnel deployed at various traffic junctions on city roads are also having a tough time controlling the callous drivers. Sub-inspector of traffic police KV Rathod said, “AMTS buses have created a ruckus on a number of occasions. On important junctions like Dilli Darwaza and Shahibaug that lead to the airport, even if a bus gets stuck, it can lead to traffic jams up to 15 minutes."
“The new AMTS bus drivers are sometimes caught driving rashly. Not many break traffic rules but it does not mean that they are good drivers,”
added Rathod. On the spate of road accidents involving AMTS buses, deputy municipal commissioner, AMTS, MS Patel said, “The recent cases of privately-operated buses under AMTS involved in road mishaps in the city is worrying. We have asked the authorities concerned to look into the matter. AMTS is also carrying out a modernization plan where these issues will be dealt with."
A senior AMTS official said, “One of the major concerns for us is getting qualified drivers for buses. AMTS authorities have been training drivers on proper driving skills, good behaviour with passengers and road discipline.”
FATAL ACCIDENTS INVOLVING AMTS
July 24: Chhoturam Rajput, 21, a resident of Meghaninagar, was boarding a bus near Chandkheda Crossroads when it started off suddenly. Rajput fell down and came under the wheels. He was taken to Civil Hospital where he died.
July 28: Pratik Dudhela, 22, a resident of Naranpura, was passing by Gulab Tower at 1pm when an AMTS bus came from behind and rammed his bike. He sustained severe head injuries and rushed to VS Hospital where he died after primary treatment.
August 8: Abhishek Goswami, 19, a resident of Subhashnagar, was pedalling through Kotarpur water works when an AMTS bus on came from a diagonal direction and ran him over. He died on the spot.
August17: Geeta Patel, 40, a resident of Chandkheda was trying to board a bus bound for Chandkheda near RTO circle when she felt a shove and fell on the road as the bus started moving. Her legs got crushed. She was taken to Civil Hospital where she succumbed after two hours.

CRUSHING REALITY

An accident on Ellisbridge

Saturday Night Expat Night Out

2009-08-27T07:03:00.002+05:30

Saturday night we are getting together for dinner and a movie. I already have many confirmations. If you are interested please let me know today as I am booking the tickets at 5:00 sharp. We are going to see The Taking of Pelham 123. Join us.

You can email me reasa@selph.name or call/sms me at 9909717032.

Cheers,
Reasa Selph

My Birthday!!! Just some thoughts...

2009-08-26T19:38:00.004+05:30

I wonder if this will be my birthday cake?

I just want to say that I am by far the luckiest most blessed girl alive. I am living in India, get to travel and I am treated like a princess everyday, by everyone. It is amazing. I have so many wonderful friends that I can can count on anytime. This time in India (I have probably said this before) had changed my life, forever. I am the person that I want to be. I am happy and confident like a woman should be. I feel that I can handle anything with grace. I think that turning 31 will only make me stronger and a better person. I have realized over, the past year, so much about myself. I have learned that I am beautiful inside and out and that I am a very direct person. These things are appreciated by the people in my life, at least most of the time. You know, I pray that every woman (especially my niece) when they turn 30 begin to find themselves as I have and know just how wonderful they are.

8 days and counting........I am getting excited......

Today's events

2009-08-25T18:31:00.003+05:30

Well today was an interesting day. I am now officially a licensed driver in India. Wow!

Also, tomorrow Bob will be in the Times of India for his accident that he had. I will be sure to post it.

I also, today got my first ever crowns on my teeth. I am going to take pictures of the dentist's new office because it is nicer than any dentist office I have ever been in. Stay tuned for those.

The last thing is that for my birthday my friends said we could go anywhere I want to. So, I am thinking of going to the Taj. Where do you think I should go?

9 Days and counting!!!!!!

Countdown to my BIRTHDAY!!

2009-08-24T11:26:00.004+05:30

1o days.....and counting

More pictures.....We love taking pictures

2009-08-24T06:00:00.001+05:30

Never said he did not have talent

He is worried about his feet being too big.....I tried to explain.

Turtles....

Ahmedabad Expats on Facebook

2009-08-23T20:25:00.001+05:30

I want to encourage all of you Ahmedabad Expats to join the Ahmedabad Expats facebook group and feel free to post.

School Function....misc pictures

2009-08-23T08:42:00.004+05:30

I know this is sideways but the other way mashed me together..

Ben being silly

He is scared of dark, sleeps with bathroom light on and his eyes covered..

The Good Deed of an Ahmedabad Expat

2009-08-21T08:07:00.000+05:30

A’bad ‘slum-dog’ finds home in Canada

Vasundhara Vyas Mehta | TNN

Ahmedabad: He presented a sorry image — scared, malnourished and covered in filth. He had lost his way and sat huddled in a corner, waiting for death.
All of a few weeks old, this tiny, stray pup had lost the battle to life, almost, when he met his fairy tale moment.
Lisa Warden, who had moved to the city from Canada about a year ago with her husband, was walking her dogs in her residential colony in Shilaj when she spotted this pup. She took him home, posted details on the web and had a lady from her country asking her if she can adopt the pup.
Hugo the “slum-dog” is now Canada-bound. Sarah O’Neill, a resident of Ottawa, will give him a new home. Warden too belongs to Ottawa.
“When I got him home three weeks ago, his rib cage was showing, he was starved and had tar and ticks all over him. It took me almost three days cleaning him up,” said Lisa.
“My husband and I have three pets, all stray dogs we picked up from the streets. So, we decided to look f or someone who could adopt Hugo. We put up posters in the city and uploaded his photos and videos on social networking sites,” she added.
“Recently, I received an email from Sarah, asking if she could adopt Hugo and that she would be paying his air fare,” she said.
The paperwork to enable Hugo fly to his new home is in process and he is expected to be on a flight next week.
“I have tried to find out the family Hugo is going to. They seem to be nice. But, I am going to miss him. He is wise, intense and loving dog,” said Lisa.

Lisa with Hugo

Ben says....

2009-08-18T18:48:00.002+05:30

Ben says that I am better than a trophy.....

Me defying the widow maker....

2009-08-18T06:00:00.000+05:30

Stay tuned for more of me cheating death and learn how I got my driver's license in India....

Pictures of Ahmedabad Expats on thier adventures

2009-08-17T06:00:00.000+05:30

The Spinning Restaurant

Bob and Reasa

Ben

The river view from restaurant

Ben and his girl Killer V

This is a nice restaurant for the most part. The food was not that great. But, the dessert was great. The theme of the spinning restaurant is a great idea from TGB. Oh yeah, the bathroom could use a good cleaning. It is worth trying just for the experience.

Just some pictures...

2009-08-15T17:40:00.003+05:30

Bob on the Widow Maker

Ben wants to drive

Ben doing his part to combat swine flu

Me and Killer V at 5 am ...We look spunky for that early...

This is what happens.....

2009-08-12T22:47:00.004+05:30

This is what happens when you park illegally at the mall in Ahmedabad, India...

Another Embassy Warning For Ahmedabad Expats

2009-08-11T18:58:00.000+05:30

U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai

American Citizens Services Unit

78, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026, India

Telephone: 91 22 2363 3611, Extn: 4306; Facsimile: 91 22 2367 7026

E-mail: mumbaiacs@state.gov Website: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov

Date: August 11, 2009

Dear American citizens:

Warden Message

American citizens are advised to be alert to the continued possibility of terrorist attacks. There is a continuing threat from terrorism throughout India and the upcoming series of major holidays (including the August 15 Independence Day celebration) could provide terrorist groups an opportunity or pretext to stage an attack. The November 2008 attacks in Mumbai provided a vivid reminder that luxury hotels are especially attractive targets for terrorist groups. U.S. citizens are urged to always practice good security, maintaining a heightened situational awareness and a low profile. Americans are advised to monitor local news reports, vary their routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or choosing hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues.

U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. The Internet home page address is http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov.

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Pictures of Ben....and one of me...Oh the life of an Ahmedabad Expat...

2009-08-11T06:00:00.000+05:30

Ben playing outside..

Ben at hospital getting ECG...He is being treated by a cardiologist from Michigian

Ben getting hair cut

Ben getting foot massage. He saves his 100-/ to get this done often...what can I say

Me with a fake smile

Ben

Ben at dentist

First real rain

Going to school

Having dinner with friends..

Wow...I am turning 31......I never thought...here is just some of my thoughts

2009-08-10T06:00:00.001+05:30

I never thought that I would be 30...Not to mention 31. I am getting old. What to do? But, you know I feel better than ever about most things in my life. Still confused about somethings but, daily somethings become clearer and others just more confused. I was always told that as you get older it gets easier and the choices you make are more clear as you are more sure of them. That does not seem to be happening for me. Any advice? Is this normal? Though, today, as I realize that I am getting older I also realized that all the mistakes and decisions that I have made in my life...well, I do not regret any of them. I can proudly say that.

Swine Flu hits Ahmedabad....Be careful

2009-08-09T21:43:00.000+05:30

NRI in Ahmedabad dies of swine flu, toll rises to 4

Sun, Aug 9 08:06 AM

Ahmedabad, Aug 9 (PTI) A 43-year-old man died of swine flu early this morning at the city civil hospital here, a senior official said. Confirming the first swine flu death in Gujarat, State Health Secretary Ravi Saxena said Praveen Patel, an NRI, died of swine flu at city civil hospital at around 1.30 am. "He was admitted to the hospital in critical condition yesterday morning. His left lung was badly damaged," Saxena said. Patel, who had returned from Atlanta (in US) on July 31, was admitted to a private hospital for pneumonia and common flu on Friday. "He was referred to the civil hospital after doctors treating him realised that it was not common flu," Saxena said, adding where he was confirmed having swine flu. Patel''s wife has also been confirmed suffering from swine flu and is being treated at the civil hospital, he said. So far, 10 people have been tested psitive for H1N1 virus in the state, he added. The country has now seen four deaths from swine flu with the number of infected cases rising to 782. Yesterday, 53-year-old Fahmida Panwala from Mumbai and 42-year-old teacher Sanjay Tukaram Kokre from Pune had died of swine flu. Earlier on August 3, 14-year-old schoolgirl Reeda Shaikh also from Pune, had died due to the H1N1 virus.

New US Embassy Warning....

2009-08-07T22:20:00.000+05:30

Warden Message

August 7, 2009

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Embassy's website at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov, and also at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

Better late than never...more Thailand pics and video...more to come promise

2009-08-06T18:20:00.006+05:30

He is going to have women all over the world.

Dinner at the Selph house....

Ben and his new friend from Bangladesh doing spiderman moves.

Ben on his private elephant ride.

He wrestled this to the ground.

The show in Thailand.

Wow!! Friends I have as an Ahmedabad Expat

2009-08-02T15:44:00.002+05:30

First, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Friendship Day!!!
It is great to have such wonderful friends. I am truly blessed.

Last night, we got together and oh my...........what the fun we had. You know since living here I have truly experienced friendship. The friends that I have made here I pray that I may have them for a lifetime.

An email from US Consulate-- Must read for Ahmedabad Expats

2009-07-30T21:07:00.001+05:30

Consulate General of the United States of America

American Citizens Services Unit

78, Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai 400 026, India

Telephone: 91 22 2363 3611, Extn: 4306; Facsimile: 91 22 2367 7026

E-mail: mumbaiacs@state.gov Website: http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov

Date: July 30, 2009

Dear American citizens:

Worldwide Caution

July 30, 2009

The Department of State has issued this Worldwide Caution to update information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against American citizens and interests throughout the world. In some countries, the worldwide recession has contributed to political and economic instability and social unrest. American citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated February 2, 2009 to provide updated information on security threats and terrorist activities worldwide.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. Americans are reminded that demonstrations and rioting can occur with little or no warning. Current information suggests that al-Qaida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings. The July 17 bombing of the JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton hotels in Jakarta, Indonesia, where at least nine people were killed and six Americans were among the 50 or more injured; the February 2009 kidnapping of an American UNHCR official in Pakistan; the kidnapping of four European tourists in January on the Mali-Niger border; the kidnapping of two Canadian diplomats in Niger in December 2008; and the kidnapping of NGO workers along the Kenya-Somali border in July 2009 all illustrate the continuing desire of extremists to strike Western targets and perceived interests.

Extremists may elect to use conventional or non-conventional weapons, and target both official and private interests. Examples of such targets include high-profile sporting events, residential areas, business offices, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, public areas, and locales where Americans gather in large numbers, including during holidays. Terrorists attacked two hotels, a railway station, restaurant, hospital, and other locations frequented by Westerners in Mumbai, India, on November 26, 2008. Over 170 persons are believed to have been killed, including six Americans, and hundreds were injured. On September 20, 2008, terrorists bombed the Islamabad Marriott Hotel killing two U.S. Department of Defense employees and one Department of State contractor. One private American sustained minor injuries. A July 9, 2008, terrorist attack on Turkish police guarding the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, Turkey, killed three police officers and wounded other police personnel. The March 15, 2008, bombing of an Italian restaurant in Islamabad, Pakistan, injured several Americans.

Americans are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems. Bombs exploded near city buses in Tripoli, Lebanon, on August 13 and September 29, 2008, killing twenty-one people. Other incidents include multiple anti-personnel mine detonations on passenger buses in June 2008 in Sri Lanka, multiple terrorist attacks on trains in India in 2006, the July 2005 London Underground bombings, and the March 2004 train attacks in Madrid. Extremists also may select aviation and maritime services as possible targets, such as the August 2006 plot against aircraft in London, or the December 2006 bomb at Madrid's Barajas International Airport. In June 2007, a vehicle was driven into the main terminal at Glasgow International Airport and burst into flames, but the bomb failed to detonate.

The Middle East and North Africa

Credible information indicates terrorist groups seek to continue attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East and North Africa. Terrorist actions may include bombings, hijackings, hostage taking, kidnappings, and assassinations. While conventional weapons such as explosive devices are a more immediate threat in many areas, use of non-conventional weapons, including chemical or biological agents, must be considered a possible threat. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Increased security at official U.S. facilities has led terrorists and their sympathizers to seek softer targets such as public transportation, residential areas, and public areas where people congregate, including restaurants, hotels, clubs, and shopping areas.

In January 2009, unidentified gunmen opened fire outside the U.S. Embassy in Sana'a, Yemen. No injuries were reported. On September 17, 2008, armed terrorists attacked the U.S. Embassy in Sana'a, Yemen, killing several Yemeni personnel, one embassy security guard, and a few individuals waiting to gain entry to the embassy. On January 15, 2008, a roadside explosion in Beirut, Lebanon killed three Lebanese and injured an American citizen. On December 11, 2007, two vehicle-borne explosive devices were detonated at the UN headquarters in Algiers and the Algerian Constitutional Council. There were a series of bombings in Morocco in March and April 2007, two of which occurred simultaneously outside the U.S. Consulate General and the private American Language Center in Casablanca. Additionally, an attack took place on the American International School in Gaza in April 2007. These events underscore the intent of terrorist entities to target facilities perceived to cater to Westerners.

Potential targets are not limited to those companies or establishments with overt U.S. ties. For instance, terrorists may target movie theaters, liquor stores, bars, casinos, or any similar type of establishment, regardless of whether they are owned and operated by host country nationals. Due to varying degrees of security at all such locations, Americans should be particularly vigilant when visiting these establishments.

The violence in Iraq and conflict between Palestinians and Israelis has the potential to produce demonstrations and unrest throughout the region. The armed conflict between Israeli forces and Hamas in Gaza in December 2008 and January 2009 raised tensions and sparked demonstrations throughout the world. The Department of State continues to warn of the possibility for violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests in the region. Anti-American violence could include possible terrorist actions against aviation, ground transportation, and maritime interests, specifically in the Middle East, including the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa.

The Department is concerned that extremists may be planning to carry out attacks against Westerners and oil workers on the Arabian Peninsula. Armed attacks targeting foreign nationals in Saudi Arabia that resulted in many deaths and injuries, including U.S. citizens, appear to have been preceded by extensive surveillance. On February 22, 2009, there was a bomb attack targeting a popular tourist destination in Cairo, Egypt's Old City. Tourist destinations in Egypt frequented by Westerners were also attacked in April 2006 resulting in many deaths and injuries, including Americans. Extremists may be surveilling Westerners, particularly at hotels, housing areas, and rental car facilities. Potential targets may include U.S. contractors, particularly those related to military interests. Financial or economic venues of value also could be considered as possible targets; the failed attack on the Abqaiq oil processing facility in Saudi Arabia in late February 2006 and the September 2006 attack on oil facilities in Yemen are examples.

East Africa

A number of al-Qaida operatives and other extremists are believed to be operating in and around East Africa. As a result of the conflict in Somalia, some of these individuals may seek to relocate elsewhere in the region. Americans considering travel to the region and those already there should review their plans carefully, remain vigilant with regard to their personal security, and exercise caution. Terrorist actions may include suicide operations, bombings, kidnappings, or targeting maritime vessels. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Increased security at official U.S. facilities has led terrorists to seek softer targets such as hotels, beach resorts, prominent public places, and landmarks. In particular, terrorists and like-minded extremists may target international aid workers, civil aviation, and seaports in various locations throughout East Africa, including Somalia. On July 17, three NGO workers were kidnapped by unidentified gunmen from their base in Mandera, Kenya, located on the border with Somalia. Americans in remote areas or border regions where military or police authority is limited or non-existent could also become targets.

Americans considering travel by sea near the Horn of Africa or in the southern Red Sea should exercise extreme caution, as there has been a notable increase in armed attacks, robberies, and kidnappings for ransom at sea by pirates in recent months. Merchant vessels continue to be hijacked in Somali territorial waters, while others have been hijacked as far as 300 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia, Yemen, and Kenya in international waters.

The U.S. Government maritime authorities advise mariners to avoid the port of Mogadishu, and to remain at least 200 nautical miles off the coast of Somalia. In addition, when transiting around the Horn of Africa or in the Red Sea, it is strongly recommended that vessels travel in convoys, and maintain good communications contact at all times. Americans traveling on commercial passenger vessels should consult with the shipping or cruise ship company regarding precautions that will be taken to avoid hijacking incidents. Commercial vessels should review the Department of Transportation Maritime Administration's suggested piracy countermeasures for vessels transiting the Gulf of Aden.

West Africa

The terrorist group, Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), has become increasingly active in the West African countries of Mali, Mauritania, and Niger, as well as in parts of North Africa. AQIM uses regions of these countries as safe havens and platforms from which to conduct operations. Formerly known as GSPC (Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat), AQIM has been designated a terrorist organization by both the United States and the European Union.

AQIM has declared its intention to attack Western interests and targets. AQIM is known to operate in the northern region of Mali, the southeastern region of Mauritania, and along the border between Niger and Mali. In addition to being a threat to Westerners, AQIM contributes to civil unrest and banditry, which reinforce longstanding security concerns in West Africa. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid travel to these areas. U.S. government personnel are required to obtain advance written approval to travel to these areas. For additional information about travel in this region, please consult the Country Specific Information (CSI) for Mauritania, Mali, and Niger.

South and Central Asia

The U.S. Government continues to receive information that terrorist groups in South and Central Asia may be planning attacks in the region, possibly against U.S. Government facilities, American citizens, or American interests. The presence of al-Qaida, Taliban elements, indigenous sectarian groups, and other terror organizations, many of which are on the U.S. Government's list of foreign terror organizations, poses a potential danger to American citizens in the region. Terrorists and their sympathizers have demonstrated their willingness and capability to attack targets where Americans or Westerners are known to congregate or visit. Their actions may include, but are not limited to, vehicle-born explosives, improvised explosive devices, assassinations, carjacking, rocket attacks, assaults or kidnappings.

In June 2009, gunmen stormed the Pearl Continental Hotel in Peshawar, Pakistan, and detonated a bomb that resulted in several deaths and scores of injuries. In February 2009, Taliban insurgents conducted a coordinated terrorist attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, which resulted in the death of at least 26 and the wounding of 50 individuals. Between October 2008 and June 2009, several American citizens were kidnapped in Afghanistan and Pakistan. In November 2008, coordinated terrorist attacks on luxury hotels, a Jewish community center, a restaurant, train station, hospital, and other facilities frequented by foreigners in Mumbai, India, killed more than 170, including six Americans. On November 12, 2008, an American government contractor and his driver in Peshawar, Pakistan, were shot and killed in their car. In September 2008, more than fifty people, including three Americans, were killed and hundreds were injured when a suicide bomber set off a truck filled with explosives outside a major international hotel in Islamabad, Pakistan. In August 2008, gunmen stopped and shot at the vehicle of an American diplomat in Peshawar. Also in August, three western non-governmental organization (NGO) employees, along with their Afghan driver, were gunned down as they traveled south of Kabul, Afghanistan. On June 2, 2008, a large bomb exploded in front of the Danish Embassy in Islamabad, killing at least six people and wounding nearly 20. In May 2008, a series of coordinated bombings occurred in market and temple areas of the tourist city of Jaipur in Rajasthan, India. In Afghanistan, kidnappings and terrorist attacks on international organizations, international aid workers, and foreign interests continue.

Previous terrorist attacks conducted in Central Asia have involved improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers and have targeted public areas, such as markets, local government facilities, and, in 2004, the U.S. and Israeli Embassies in Uzbekistan. In addition, hostage-takings and skirmishes have occurred near the Uzbek-Tajik-Kyrgyz border areas.

Before You Go

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site to obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad".

U.S. Government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Americans abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

As the Department continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, outside the United States and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays.)

U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information. Each of the telephone numbers listed below is available 24 hours a day for emergency services. (The “+” sign refers to your international access code, which is 011 if dialing from the United States or 00 from most other countries.)

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. Internet home page address is http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Calcutta (Kolkata) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. The Internet home page address is http://calcutta.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2857-4443. The Internet home page address is http://chennai.usconsulate.gov.

Some much postitive points about India

2009-07-29T21:12:00.003+05:30

OMG!! I got food poisoning...

Oh my... I have not really got sick since I have been here but the good Doctor to me to have lunch and he got sick then I did. I thought I was going to die. Well, actually, I would have had to get better before I died. ha ha ha

I called the real doctor and he was at my house in about 15 mins and gave me a mean injection and a few hours later....almost as good as new. I felt much better.

Another thing happened that shows that India is not so bad...it is really kinda nice...

The other night (Saturday) we had another game night. My friend rode the "widow maker" to my house and on the way his bag, of cds and scotch, fell off. It had many other important things but as any Ahmedabad Expats knows these are the most important. Anyway, he was quite upset but it did not hurt our night as he had asked someone to go look for it. They did not find it, though. But the next day I get a delightful email that said:

"I got a text msg said, "hey, did you lose a bag?" and I thought how the hell did he know I lost my bag.

In my bag I had my scotch, my CD's, my phone cord, a towel, a change of pants and shirt in case I got wet and my notebook. The notebook had my friend's phone number from the other day when he offered to help me and I said I would call him the next morning. So guy from the society here had found my bag and looked through the notebook for any kind of contact, found my friend's number and called him,.

I sent someone to go and go it and EVERYTHING was there!

So anyway, it certainly made my day go much better. What a great country!"

That is two nice stories that, anywhere in the world, you do not hear very often. So, the next time you think of India think of the kind doctor that comes to your house and cares for you, with top notch service, and think of the honest citizen that returns your bag of invaulable cds and scotch. Thank you India!!!

Misc Pictures of our Ahmedabad Expat Life....

2009-07-26T19:10:00.007+05:30

Me feeding a baby tiger...I got a lot of private time with her. She kept roaring at me...She is so beautiful..

Ben at Hard Rock Bangkok.. He insisted that we go there twice..I wonder why?

I was ready to take him home in place of Ben...

They are better trained than most men I know...

What can I say...We were in the Bangkok airport

Bangkok Hard Rock

Ben and his girl "killer V"

Ben and Rowen...She is the cutest and sweetest girl..

Ben loves the girls

Rowen says "Ben's shoes are smelly"

Dylan, Ben and Rowen at Ben's Pajama party...He host it while mommy host the grown up parties...

He is an excellent host

Ben after he cleaned his face...

update........

2009-07-25T16:19:00.002+05:30

Hello! I have been one busy girl......

Things are going well in Ahmedabad. It is finally raining. Each day I am meeting new and interesting people. My life is very exciting. God has truly blessed me.

I have been getting a good response to my blog so, that encourages me to do more. Thank you for all the support.

I have been hosting "parties" that everyone seems to have a lot of fun. At least that is what they tell me. ha ha

Ben is doing really well in school and socially. He is really thriving.

Some of our expats are leaving or have left but we are getting new ones everyday which sometimes makes for a nice change. I do miss the ones that have gone though.

I will continue to update daily and if you email me and I am a bit slow on the response .... I am sorry.. I am just busy. I will get to it. But please keep the emails coming.

Cheers!

Ahmedabad Expat Friendly Places

2009-07-24T18:49:00.001+05:30

I wanted to start the listing of expat friendly places...so here are some of my thoughts...

Curry's Restaurant on SG HWY--serves excellent non veg, and the wait staff is very helpful. The restaurant seems to be very clean and the bathrooms are also, clean That is a big plus. I believe that you can judge a place by how clean the restroom is. My favorite dish to get there is the grilled prawn sizzler and the hot fudge nut sundae. Hmmm.....

Indian Airline--- not so expat friendly--- I took this airline recently to Thailand. We flew first class but the air host were very rude. The food was ok but the tv selection (mostly Hindi and OLD English shows) was not that of Singapore airlines or Emirates. The hassle of getting a new ticket each time we departed was insane. We waited in long lines and the people were less than helpful. I was so disappointed with the service that I will not fly them again.

Please tell us what you think...

What I have to say about being an Ahmedabad Expat -- moving advice

2009-07-19T21:55:00.003+05:30

My post about advice on moving here......This was done about 1.5 yrs ago....Tomorrow I will add what I have learned and how this has changed. Also, look for more videos and pictures from our trip to Thailand.

Expat Advice: Moving to Ahmedabad, India

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Ahmedabad, India

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Brought:

1. steak/more food

2. Better converters

3. boots

Left:

1. Jacket

2. Sonicare toothbrush (doesn't work here with the brown electricity)

3. skirts

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

My advice is have someone that is familiar with the area and housing market find and negotiate the terms of the house. You are likely to get it cheaper and the best location.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

We live in a flat. Which works perfect for us. A few other expats live in flats as well but for the most part they live in bungalows. But one thing we all have in common is we all live in gated secured communities.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

We actually paid someone before we came to set up our home. But, in my husband's business that is something that we do. Locate and set up housing for foreigners in India. So, we base it on location to malls, stores, and other places we find expats like to frequent. We also, consider the place of employment along with cost.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

I have not been in the US in nearly 2 years so I do not know is housing is more expensive. But, I do know housing cost here are on the rise. Most expats I know pay at least $1,000 per month for rent. But our flat is a bit smaller (there is only 3 of us) but still is 4 bedrooms and we pay a little more than $500. The best part is we are in a great location. I take the smaller flat vs. the big bungalow for the location any day.

Oprah says.....

2009-07-17T21:31:00.002+05:30

The Sex Files

An active sex life isn't just good for your relationship, it's also great for your health. Dr. Berman says frequent sexual activity makes you look seven to 12 years younger, improves your immune system by 33 percent and decreases heart disease by 50 percent. It also decreases stress and insomnia and acts as a natural pain reliever, especially for menstrual cramps and headaches.

Dr. Berman says couples need to keep gender differences in mind when striving for a good sex life. Men take an average of five to 10 minutes to reach orgasm, while women need about 15 to 20 minutes. "If men are a microwave oven, women are a slow-burning stove," she says. "It's a big difference."

I am a firm believer in this and have been for years.....

More trip stuff..........

2009-07-16T20:21:00.001+05:30

Sleeping

Hard Rock Bangkok....

Everywhere we went the girls loved him

Hard Rock Bangkok

Me in my new DG glasses

See what I have to live with

Me and my new Armani glasses

Rickshaw ride

Dunkin Doughnuts!!!!!!!!!

Giving at the Temple

This is the largest reclining Buddha in Bangkok

Temple in Bangkok

These were cool

Bangkok city

The UN building

Picture of the King

I bought several of these rings. They are hand carved out of wood. They are beautiful.

More to come tomorrow!!!!!!!! Stay tuned!!!

More pics from the trip.......More to come tomorrow........

2009-07-15T20:02:00.007+05:30

At a temple in Bangkok

Temple in Bangkok

Bangkok

Rickshaws in Bangkok

He believes in Peace and Love

Silly kid

His favorite place to sleep

Asleep again........

On a bus in Bangkok

She gave him a massage......

My traditional massage

That Thai girl did this to me with a traditional massage...if you ever get the chance get one!!!

Ben eating quail eggs...He loved them

ME!!!

Tomorrow I will be posting more pictures and some videos. I will also be telling about my trip.... So, stay tuned!!!!!!!! Hope you are enjoying!!!!!

We are back!!!!

2009-07-14T00:33:00.001+05:30

One of my favorite photos.......

Pattaya Beach...he loves that hat

Pattaya Beach
Ben took to this Indian woman, notice his hand on her leg...He just left me on the boat...boy I got so sea sick and if you know me then you know that I do not like boats

Pattaya beach

My first taste of DQ in 3 years......it was sooooooo good

The nice security guy

The best chicken noodle soup I have ever had and it cost about $0.25

This is a taxi in Pattaya

The Selph's flying first class!!! That was a nice free upgrade.....

It will take some time to get my post all up about the trip that we took. It was so great. I have so much to tell you. So, each day, over the next week I will post telling about each leg of the trip. So, please keep reading................

Here are some pictures to get you started, there is more to come tomorrow............Just to warn you I took about 575 photos and about 20 short videos!!!!!!!!!!

Just to tell you Ben and I have traveled all over Asia and the Middle East and Thailand is were we had the most fun....

Just a few photos before I am off to Thailand!!!

2009-07-09T15:10:00.009+05:30

This is after the volcano erupted...What a mess......

Mile high mountain

I am so cool!!!!

Me and my dad building a volcano

Don't I look cute!! ha ha ha Wow that is some frizzy hair. Humidity!!

How is this look working for me?

Mr Bob thinks everything Ben does is cute...ha ha

We are off!!!!!!!!! Be sure to follow our journey by watching my blog......

This is why we buy our liquor legally.......

2009-07-09T06:35:00.002+05:30

Smooch of hooch, kiss of death

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Gandhinagar: Two more labour-dominated localities of Amraiwadi and Odhav in east Ahmedabad reported hooch deaths, taking the toll to 54 on Wednesday, even as public hospitals saw a continuous stream of patients with signs of vision loss, nausea and burning in the stomach.
Anger and grief came out in the affected areas as residents of Amraiwadi attacked police vehicles following the deaths. Kagdapith area where the hooch deaths were first reported on Tuesday saw a complete bandh as women vent out anger against the authorities for the ineffective prohibition laws. It was not clear whether all these areas had sourced brew from the same place and what exactly went wrong.
Director general of police Sabir Khandwawala admitted at a press conference that there was serious negligence on part of the police in checking the flow of liquor. This, even as families of victims alleged that the cops were hand in glove with bootleggers. Banners put up on the main Kagdapith road detailed the nexus between police and bootleggers, naming women from Kantodiavaas, who reportedly sold the brew.
Khandwawala said police suspect that Harishankar Kahar alias Hari Om, a bootlegger from Bapunagar, had supplied the liquor to residents of Kagdapith and Odhav.
He, however, admitted that police have not been able to find the source of the spurious liquor – whether it came from outside Gujarat or was made within the state. “We have suspended and transferred four police inspectors and two assistant commissioners,” he said.
AMC staffers among victims: Two AMC employees were among the victims. Gaya Prasad Yadav, 45, a resident of Rakhial and a teacher in Municipal Hindi Shala No 4 and a class IV employee - Pankaj Purohit, 45, of Saraspur - were among the dead. BREWING A DEADLY TRAIL
PROBE PANEL SET UP
Government has appointed a four-member commission, headed by Gujarat HCJustice (retd) Kamal M Mehta, to inquire into the hooch tragedy in Ahmedabad. Minister of state for home and prohibition Amit Shah told the Assembly on Wednesday the commission will include Dr MS Dhaiya from Forensic Science Laboratory, retired director general of police GC Raigar and Dr Kirit Mithawala from MP Shah Cancer Hospital. The report will be submitted on or before November 30, 2009.
BOOTLEGGER BEHIND TRAGEDY HAD COPS’ SUPPORT
The man who was blamed by the DGP for causing the hooch tragedy — Harishankar Kahar alias Hari Om, 32 — has been running his business with the blessings of some cops. Hari Om, a notorious bootlegger, is well-known among Bacchus lovers in the city and police officials. He began bootlegging 10 years ago at CMC Canal, a section of Kharicut Canal. He used to work for Ramesh Thakore, a bootlegger then. Soon, he started his own business near Kheta Vanzara na Chhapra. He was arrested and jailed under PASA for four times. Till February, 2009, he did roaring business. Then came state government’s pre-poll orders to crack down on liquor dens which forced him to scale down his operations. After the rath yatra in June, he reopened his den with the tacit support of Odhav police. Till Tuesday evening, said sources, he was doing good business. Long after the tragedy, a police team raided his place and seized 200 litres of liquor. He is still at large. TNN
DEATH TOLL | 54
Daily wage labourers who drank regularly in the chawls of east Ahmedabad did not know Sunday’s brew would prove fatal. So far the killer drink has claimed 54 lives and there could be more

Hari Om

Recommend for All Ahmedabad Expats

2009-07-08T18:29:00.002+05:30

If you know me then you know that I am picky about customer service and rarely recommend a place unless I know it is great. Well, I signed up for Call Library last month to try them out. They passed with flying colors. The customer service that they showed far exceeded any customer service that I have ever had here in India and possibly the USA. As I said before they came on time, nicely dressed and spoke great English. They always responded to my emails in a timely manner and the best part is when I discontinued the service (just for a short term) they came with a smile and refunded my deposit without question. They are a great service. I did ask if they deliver to the small communities outside the city and they do. If you like to read then give them a try. Good job Call Library!

How to get a Permit to Drink Liquor for Ahmedabad Expats

2009-07-06T06:22:00.004+05:30

Gujarat is the only Indian state where alcohol is prohibited. But this applies only to Indians. If you have a non-Indian passport / green card holder/ PR status, you can get an alcohol permit valid for one month by going to a liquor shop large hotel and purchasing one at their liquor shop. Hotels that have liquor shops include: Comfort Inn President Hotel at CG Road among others open from 12 noon to 8 pm Monday to Saturday ph no. +91 79 26467575. Many local people will be able to direct you because they can purchase alcohol on a 'health' license. If you are non-resident of Gujarat, then one can get liquor permits issued at liquor shop on showing proof of travel to Ahmedabad like (1) Air/Train/Bus ticket,(2)any Identity proof by Govt. with Photo, Address & birthdate preferably driving licence and (3a)your Ahmedabad Local address proof like Residence Address of Local friend/relatives electric/telephone bill/ driving licence or (3b)Proof of stay at hotel.

However, if you are staying longer you will need a non-resident permit. For that, you will need: a photocopy of passport including your entry stamps, a photocopy of visa, a photocopy of a local resident’s ID card (drivers license will probably be easiest, if you have it) and your lease copy. As of January 3rd 2009, 1000 INR (although the person may ask for Rs. 50 extra as a bribe but should not be given). Note: If you can get a local person to go with you, the entire experience will be a lot easier.

Directions-- 1) Get your copies notarized as ‘true’ copies. If you don’t have easy access to someone who can do this, the Prohibition and Excise Department will direct you to a nearby office. This will cost about 10INR per copy. 2). Go to Prohibition and Excise Department which is just off the Ellis bridge on the Victoria garden side of old city . 3). Pick up the bank payment form, and get copies notarized if you haven’t already done this. 4). Fill in the name and local address for the permit holder 5). Get a rickshaw and go to the State Bank of India which is very near by. If a rickshaw is not available, the bank is in walking distance. 6). Pay 1050 (or the asked fee) at the State Bank of India 7. Get an ink stamp on form from bank 8). Take your copies, your payment slip and your forms back to the Prohibition and Excise Department. 9). The Department office will provide you with form F.L. /A-1. Fill out form and ask for more than the maximum allowed (ask for about 6 units) to ensure you get the maximum. 10). Pay 2 rupees at the Department office. Receive two stamps which are to be stuck onto get form F.L. / A-1 form to show you have paid.

You will either be able to pick up the license immediately, or in a few days. Once you have your license, you take it to a large hotel where they have a liquor shop, and make your purchases.

But booze is strictly a private affair and don't expect to order a drink at a restaurant (obviously there are no bars here) and you will have to drink in your hotel room or at someone's home. If someone invites you to a party, there is a good chance you will be offered a drink there. Under a new amendment to the law prohibiting alcohol, you cannot be arrested or detained for consuming alcohol illegally unless you misbehave under influence or indulge in bootlegging. However, it is best to consume alcohol at your hotel room or at a very close friends place. Majority of the guests staying at a hotel consume it in their rooms and there is always an implied consent from the hotel who will serve you ice, soda and glasses.

Ben's Offical Movie Reveiw of Ice Age 3

2009-07-05T13:39:00.002+05:30

Happy 4th of July!!! How great it is!!

2009-07-04T20:08:00.007+05:30

Just a glimpse into what an Ahmedabad Expat sees in traffic

2009-07-03T16:37:00.000+05:30

Ahmedabad Expat Movie Night

2009-07-02T17:48:00.003+05:30

We are going to see Ice Age 3 tomorrow and if you are interested in going with us as a group please email (reasa@selph.name) me tonight because I am buying the tickets in the morning. We also, plan to have dinner before hand. We are going to the movie that begins around 8:30pm.

Bizarre Indian News...

2009-06-30T21:23:00.004+05:30

Marriages on hold for the want of a Dowry Snake

The snake charmers' community in Chhattisgarh's Korba District observes an ancient bizarre ritual of making the bride carry nine different species of snakes as dowry.

Refusal to do so ends up in a marriage not being solemnized.

It is often the case in the remote tribal hamlets of the state that parents of a girl are desperate to collect nine different snakes to ensure that this dowry ritual takes place without a hitch.

The 25, 000 snake charmers in the state are very particular about carrying out this age-old custom.

Eligible bachelors and betrothed youngsters have to wait for a long time, and even sometimes indefinitely, till their parents are able collect the nine snakes. Some marriages are cancelled in despair.

"In our community, we cannot get married till the time we get the nine snakes of different species," claimed Durjan Sapera, a member of the snake charmers community.

Boy marries dog in India to ward off tiger attacks

An infant boy was married off to his neighbors' dog in eastern India by villagers who said it will stop the groom from being killed by wild animals, officials and witnesses said.

Around 150 tribes people performed the ritual recently in a hamlet in the state of Orissa's Jajpur district after the boy, who is under two years old, grew a tooth on his upper gum.

The Munda tribe see such a growth in young children as a bad omen and believe it makes them prone to attacks by tigers and another animals. The tribal god will bless the child and ward off evil spirits after the marriage.

"We performed the marriage because it will overcome any curse that might fall on the child as well on us," the boy's father, Sanarumala Munda, was quoted as saying by a local newspaper.

The groom, Sagula, was carried by his family in procession to the village temple, where a priest solemnized the marriage between Sagula and his bride Jyoti by chanting Sanskrit hymns, a witness said.

The villagers then ate a feast with rich food and alcohol to celebrate.

The dog belongs to the groom's neighbors and was set free to roam around the area after the ceremony. No dowry was exchanged, the witness said, and the boy will still be able to marry a human bride in the future without filing for divorce.

Indian law does not recognise weddings between people and animals, but the ritual survives in rural and tribal areas of the country where millions are illiterate.

Girl forced to marry dog in bizarre ritual
Villagers in Jharkhand have married off a young girl to a stray dog...

Villagers in Jharkhand have "married" off a young girl to a stray dog to ward off an evil spirit which they believed was threatening the family.

The locals at Munda Dhanda village in Jharkhand state, performed the ceremony as they believe it will overcome any curse that might fall on the family.

Interestingly, the girl is free to get married later in life to a man without even seeking a divorce.

Superstitions are widespread in India, especially in rural areas where literacy is scarce.

This is all real and very recent.......

Solar Eclipse....... This will be so cool

2009-06-29T21:09:00.001+05:30

Printed from India to view longest solar eclipse till 2132 on July 22

NEW DELHI: India will view 21st century's longest solar eclipse July 22 which will provide a life time opportunity to
scientists and sky gazers to study this grand spectacle of nature.
The total eclipse is expected to last 6 minutes and 44 seconds, making it the longest eclipse till 2132.
"The eclipse begins at 5.28 a.m. (IST) when the shadow of the moon touches the earth at local sunrise point in the
Arabian Sea, close to the western coast of India. The eclipse ends at 10.42 a.m. (IST) when the moon's shadow
finally leaves the earth at local sunset point in the South Pacific Ocean," said an official at the Ministry of Science
and Technology here Tuesday.
N. Rathnasree, director, Nehru Planetarium said: "This eclipse is of special interest for the scientists and general
public of India as its path of totality passes through thickly populated regions of west, central, east and north-east
India."
People in parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and northeastern state will be able to watch the
total eclipse while other parts of the country will witness a partial eclipse.
The next solar eclipse will occur Jan 15, 2010.

Ben and I will be up and watching.

Ahmedabad Expats Saturday Night!!!!

2009-06-28T09:47:00.004+05:30

"Reasa is the BEST!!!" That is what I heard him say.

BBQ chicken wings and potato salad. Are we really in Ahmedabad?

Bob and Ben

A picture is worth a thousand words..

No...this is not really troll's feet. It is a good thing he is smart and has a pretty face.

Ben doing a taste test. Relax...it is is Appy fizz versus grappo fizz.

Wow! Another great Saturday night! I cooked BBQ chicken wings and potato salad (Bob said it was the best he ever tasted!!). We also played Taboo. We had a great time. Check out the pictures to see how much fun we had.

What's up....

2009-06-24T21:02:00.003+05:30

Well, so much for Ben returning to school. As per Indian tradition there is a holiday every 6 days so, Ben started back to school on Monday and has a day off in Wed.

Grandpa went into surgery this morning. We are praying for you.

I am learning that I love hosting parties and being very social. Life is good.

Last but not least....We are going to Thailand on July 9, 2009 for 5 days. We are so excited. Please check back to see the pictures!!

Update..

2009-06-23T18:23:00.004+05:30

WOOOOHOOOO!!!! Ben started back to school!!!!

My grandparents--

Tomorrow is my grandma's birthday. I love her so much. She is one woman that has been beside me through it all. Though she fusses a lot-- she is still a wonderful woman. We are so lucky to have her!! We love and miss you grandma!!

My grandpa is having surgery tomorrow this is in addition to his chemo and radiation therapy. Grandpa, we love and miss and most of all you are in our prayers!!

Grandma and grandpa please watch the short video below it is from Ben.

Ahmedabad Expat Birthday Party!!!

2009-06-22T14:40:00.010+05:30

Two peas in a pod.
This is Bob's silly friend.
The birthday boy after Devesh was finished with him....

Devesh giving the cake to Bob!!
He just acts like he does not want it. He does.

Brotherly love...
Reasa and Devesh....

Bob with the band with his fancy shorts on-- make no mistake those are his fancy shorts.
The delightful band.....
This is Devesh having a guy jump up over the balcony to get the door open to Bob's place...All Devesh's idea...I said take the hinges off the door..

This the video of the Indian wedding band that we go to play for Bob. We could only stand it for about 10 mins. Listen and you will understand why.

On Saturday night we had a birthday and welcome back party for an expat, Bob. It was a lot of fun and plenty of expats showed. It was a surprise to Bob until I got there to decorate and his door was locked and he was asleep inside. So, we had to make our way in.

Devesh (aka the motivator) got me to toast Bob...and Bob sent me a wonderful thank you for that but what Bob doesn't know it that I could only get a few lines out as I was about to cry. Bob just means so much to me. It is like we have known each other in a prior life.

I want to say thank you for all the help that was given in preparation of the party. Thank you.

Happy Father's Day from Ben...

2009-06-21T19:43:00.004+05:30

Happy Father's Day to everyone

Love,

Robert, Reasa and Ben Selph

It finally rained!!!

2009-06-19T20:43:00.001+05:30

City gets first spell of pre-monsoon shower

AHMEDABAD MIRROR BUREAU

Pre-monsoon showers hit the city on Thursday evening accompanied by lightening and thunderstorms.
“We had forecast on Wednesday the development of thunder-storm activity towards evening or night. But thunder storms and showers will not occur every day as these are pre-monsoon rains.
Pre-monsoon showers were reported from Dahod, Palanpur and some places in Panchmahals district on Wednesday. These showers will not last for more than 30 minutes or an hour,” said Kamaljit Ray, director of Indian Mete-orological Department (IMD).
Ray added that it is a locally formed system with different levels of moisture and humidity at different locations.

Dark clouds glower over a building

Funny...

2009-06-17T23:18:00.002+05:30

That is why Robert got rid of his Encyclopedia's.

Nothing really.........

2009-06-16T23:09:00.003+05:30

Well, this has been a ......not bad but not great week. The doctor has increased my B12 injections to every other day. My butt is a bit sore. As some of you know my leg as been giving me trouble and I have been seeing a ortho for that. I started physical therapy today and it is rough. We are doing therapy trying to get around surgery. I am fearful of that with all the articles in the local paper about swabs being left behind. That is scary!!! But, I have good doctors and we trust them.

Ben is doing really well and behaving like a gentleman. But, he has an addiction-- that is Robert's fault-- the computer. Computer games.. But he does like books too. So, I am happy about that.

I will keep you posted. I would write more but it is almost midnight and girl has to get her beauty sleep. Be back tomorrow!!

My Fun Times

Ahmedabad Expat Travels to Kutch, India

Rickshaw drivers may strike work on Tuesday

Ahh.. back to work

Misc pics

Ladies Coffee

Going home for the Holidays

Misc pictures of Ben

Thanksgiving The Ahmedabad Expat Way

Thanksgiving dinner

V wrote this to us about being in hospital

Killer V in hospital

All he wants for Christmas is his 2 front teeth...

India: New Guidelines for Stricter Enforcement of Business and Work Visa Requirements

Ben Ben Ben.......

Ben asked.....

More recent pictures of our Ahmedabad Expat life

Govt tells expat workers on biz

visas to leave

Recent pics of our Ahmedabad Expat Life

Paintball day change..

Paintball Sunday!

Recent Pictures.........

Travel Alert for Ahmedabad Expats

Ben's midterm exams....

A must read for all Ahmedabad Expats..

Tips on eating leftovers in Gujarat

More of Our Snow Day in Ahmedabad....

Yes, that is Snow in Ahmedabad!! A Great Place for an Ahmedabad Expat to Visit...

A few clicks from my birthday....

Some pictures that I got for my Birthday.....

Update on Hugo Boss the dog and the Ahmedabad Expat

Ahmedabad bids Hugo tearful goodbye

Somethings an Ahmedabad Expat must endure...

SEEING RED

WHEELS OF DEATH

AMTS buses have turned killers on city roads as rash drivers continue their deadly run

Parth Shastri & Kumar Manish | TNN

Saturday Night Expat Night Out

My Birthday!!! Just some thoughts...

Today's events

Countdown to my BIRTHDAY!!

More pictures.....We love taking pictures

Ahmedabad Expats on Facebook

School Function....misc pictures

The Good Deed of an Ahmedabad Expat

A’bad ‘slum-dog’ finds home in Canada

Vasundhara Vyas Mehta | TNN

Ben says....

Me defying the widow maker....

Pictures of Ahmedabad Expats on thier adventures

More Thailand Pictures and Videos

Just some pictures...

This is what happens.....

Another Embassy Warning For Ahmedabad Expats

Pictures of Ben....and one of me...Oh the life of an Ahmedabad Expat...

Wow...I am turning 31......I never thought...here is just some of my thoughts

Swine Flu hits Ahmedabad....Be careful

NRI in Ahmedabad dies of swine flu, toll rises to 4

New US Embassy Warning....

Better late than never...more Thailand pics and video...more to come promise

Wow!! Friends I have as an Ahmedabad Expat

An email from US Consulate-- Must read for Ahmedabad Expats

Some much postitive points about India

Misc Pictures of our Ahmedabad Expat Life....

update........

Ahmedabad Expat Friendly Places

What I have to say about being an Ahmedabad Expat -- moving advice

Oprah says.....

The Sex Files

More trip stuff..........

More pics from the trip.......More to come tomorrow........

We are back!!!!

Just a few photos before I am off to Thailand!!!

This is why we buy our liquor legally.......

Smooch of hooch, kiss of death

TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Recommend for All Ahmedabad Expats

How to get a Permit to Drink Liquor for Ahmedabad Expats

Ben's Offical Movie Reveiw of Ice Age 3