Alex White | 13.11.2008 | 13:08
Nineteen people on 15 bikes. Followed by 3 mechanics in a jeep, then a bus carrying luggage, a doctor and Claire, our Scope fundraiser.
We started the engines and within minutes were on busy streets. As we passed through each village the noise and bustle became more intense. This was the India I had come to see. Heat and dust. I clung bravely to the back seat of the Enfield, feeling quite the intrepid explorer.
Then I noticed the Indian women on bikes. They were all riding pillion too. But they were wearing saris and riding side saddle. Most carrying shopping and many balancing a small child in their lap, looking relaxed and serene. Bikes in India are family transport and three or four on a small Honda is the norm.
As it was nearing dusk we stumbled into a magnificent old fort that appeared suddenly from out of the sand. It had faded and decayed over the years and most of the people had gone, but somehow that it made it even more impressive and for the first time in my life I took a photo of my hotel room.
