Last year my wife and I realised a long time ambition of visiting Delhi, and we were truly surprised at what we found. The city of Delhi is split into two. There is the old Delhi, and there is also the new Delhi, built by the British. There is an enormous difference between the two parts of the city, and it really shows to highlight the difference between the east and the west. Of course the new Delhi is still of an eastern flavour, but all of the swanky cafe’s and Italian restaurants point to something other than India.
We loved the fact that there was so much difference in the place. It was fascinating to spend the morning in old Delhi and the afternoon in new Delhi. Of course we saw some sad things there, such as children begging, and real poverty the likes of which just do not exist in our country, but although it was painful to see this, I think it is important to recognise this major difference between our societies. There is not a lot you can do about the situation – some people give young begging kids money and some don’t. Those that don’t believe that the children have to suffer for the sake of future kids who will not be taken in by adults looking to exploit them, and some help them in the belief that it is important to act now. My wife and I helped out where we could, but we were never sure if we were helping or hindering the overall situation.
Despite these difficulties I will forever be glad that we found some cheap flights to Delhi. It is a real eye opener and a great place to see.
