American, Indian.

Take stock over a few morning teas and decide that can,t really explore too much new territory with only the one working brake. Decide to make my way to the road-head at Rimbick some 30 k away and head back to Darjeeling to organise another disc. Set out at frenetic pace as informed whilst slurping down my third cup of tea that the last jeep out of Rimbick is at mid- day. Half push and half peddle through the undulating thick forests and reach Rimbick with 10 minutes to spare. Friendly American trekking group offer me lift in their privately chartered jeep causing me to reflect on the general good nature of the average travelling American an opinion strengthened when they refuse to accept any payment for the ride. Shame about the res............
Nothing to do with the days events but have decided that holidaying Indians are mad. All Indian's on holiday follow the same pattern of behaviour which means waking up at before sunrise, here about 4.30 a.m. Children and adults alike will put the T.V on full blast, swing and bang doors to make sure they work, shake or rattle anything at hand before embarking on synchronised throat clearing and burping. The next few hours are spent munching crisps and fizzy drinks before a big breakfast. After that they retire back to bed just occasionally venturing out of their hotels to throw some empty crisp packets about or go in search of more food.