Namaste
I have been living, studying and collaborating with an NGO in India since 2014. I am finishing my PhD in Mimamsa Philosophy at the Sanskrit University of Varanasi.
When did you feel the "Call of India"?
Rather than feeling the call, I ended up in India by chance or twists of fate, but as these two things do not exist, it must have been a call, only I did not know it.
What was the main reason that made you choose India as a destination?
DESTINY with capital letters. I did not choose him, he chose me.
Your favorite place in India
Varanasi, Varanasi, Varanasi (it seems that Maria is very clear about this)
How would you describe the sacred city of Varanasi?
It is true what they say that it is tremendously subtle... That they say that it is not on Earth, but that it rests on the trident of God Shiva... Apart from being a marvel for the senses, it is also for the sixth sense. I always say that in Varanasi "things happen".
What did you like most about your trip?
The magic, the flowers, the Ganges River, and above all... the glimpse of something very big, very indescribable that I am still trying to fully decipher.
What about what you didn't like so much?
Noise and pollution.
Your biggest learning experience on the trip?
On my first trip I learned to relativize western "problems" and to see life in a different way.
What has been "India's Footprint on You"?
Bufff....a complete change of course...It changed me from being a flight attendant to a student and advocate of Sanskrit and traditional Indian culture.
What impact has that "footprint" had on today's Maria?
Well, a total impact... Everything, the way I dress, the way I eat, my routine and my daily habits are very different from living in India.
Describe India in 3 words
Intense, subtle, passionate
What would you have liked to know before your trip?
Nothing, I don't want to change anything about my experience with India.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to travel to India?
If it is your first time, perhaps you should be well informed about the route and the sites. where to stay...and for recurring times sincerely, find something to do there apart from sightseeing, tourist India is a totally different world from India.
And what would you say to a person who has not felt the desire to visit India (to motivate them to do so)?
Well, I had never felt the desire and I ended up living here... It is an experience that can change your life...
Do you think India is a safe destination for women travelers?
Yes, totally. I have never felt insecure, even traveling alone, sometimes on night buses and arriving at my destination at late hours.
untimely. The same care must be taken as everywhere else.
What are the must-haves in your suitcase for your trip to India?
You can find practically everything here...Living here, I bring olive oil, which you can find here, but it is of poorer quality and very expensive.
What is it about Varanasi that attracts many expatriates to make it their home?
second home?
It is the city of light and learning and that is why so many people come to learn arts (music, dance, painting or philosophy...).
Those who end up learning the most is about themselves. Besides having spectacular sunrises and magic in every corner. The walks in Varanasi are truly magical.
I hope you have enjoyed this travel interview getting to know Mary's story in India and inspire you to discover this country that has so much to offer.
Don't miss the rest of the interviews with travelers in India and their tips for traveling to India.
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