These photos were taken under cover on Go Live Day, photography is strictly forbidden within the WNS building as it contravenes the security rules in place, that’s what makes these photos priceless. Don't Ask!!!As you can see everything was pink, even the flowers, which were ordered at 11.30pm and picked up next day. The man at the flower stall has since retired and living off the proceeds. 
I’m sure everyone here in India will agree…when you get off the plane in Mumbai, the first thing that hits you is the heat…once out of the airport, the next thing you notice is the traffic. In one word…Horrendous, and noisy…just hooters constantly beeping.
Now road rules are somewhat elastic, you will see people on motorbikes driving up the incorrect side of the road. Also at junctions and side streets, stopping is optional, so most don’t else they’ll never join the stream, so just hoot and jump right in.
We have had the odd squeal from within the car, me I just close my eyes….thankfully there aren’t many serious accidents, the traffic, though heavy is somewhat slow, also, in the local religions, life is sacred, so no-one will ride over you, though they may come with millimetres.The above video was taken by Julianna from a motorised rickshaw…note the motorbike that shoots out in front of us, and right at the end, my ‘jeez’s’ as we nearly hit the chap on the scooter.
Another word of advice, when crossing the road on foot, never run, EVER, the locals will literally fall about laughing at you. Just walk, they will hoot and swerve around you. It’s perfectly safe…(see paragraph above about life being sacred, in fact repeat this to yourself whilst crossing the road, it’s very comforting!!!)
India is great for shopping as your £ goes very far. It quite an experience though, and makes Bond St at Xmas seem very quiet and organised.
Shopping here is completely different from shopping in the UK or USA. On arrival, I suggest trying to walk up and down the road to get an idea of what is for sale and what the prices are, you’ll then know what you want to purchase and can go back to specific shops (if you can find them!!).
Once in a shop, remember that only a few things are on display, most things are stored on numerous shelves, so definitely ask. Once the assistant knows what you are looking for, then she or he will haul out samples from all over the place. If the quality is not to your choosing, or the colour, then ask, for better quality or a different colour.
Only once you have found what you like, do you start negotiating price. Ask them what they want, and divide by two, that is basically the fare price. Stick to your guns and be prepared to walk away. You may be invited to sit down, and may even be offered tea while you shop (sit down by all means, but I suggest you avoid the tea!!!).
Also try shops further away from the masses, they are usually cheaper. Some shops are ‘fixed price’, normally the fancier shops. This includes the shops found in shopping centres and mini malls.
But most of all, just go out and enjoy it, it sure is an experience…
There are many places of interest to visit that are just on the Hotel doorstep.
There is a fairly large shopping mall close to the St Laurn the Central Mall, where you can purchase most products that you can get at home in the UK.
A big thank you goes out to Carol and Fiona back in UK for dealing with the single sun bed issue.
Previously known as quite a prestigious hotel, rumours were rife today, that a contingent of rather colorful characters were about to descend on the St Laurn Hotel.
