As expected, the easiest part of the journey was taking a rickshaw to the bus station. On showing the already paid ticket (on the reverse printed - we accept no responsibility for lost luggage) the driver demanded 20 rupee for the safety of our luggage. I might be stupied, but did I believe that my luggage would obtain preferential treatment for 20 rupees.....I just don't think so.
The bus was packed, but luckily we had 2 seats. No fans, no AC, and really little space to move. With the bus full, passengers crammed in the passage way; the driver continued to stop to collect even more passengers. Hot.....sweltering hot!
After an hour the bus stopped for five minutes, and the sellers of bottled water, mango juice and snacks fight their way to the open windows to make a sale. Water is a winner, but again if you haven't the 15 rupees and you pass out of the window a 100 rupee note, then you will lose it in a cloud of dust. Always take the the goods you buy, show the banknote, and only hand over the money when the seller has given you the change. You always have to think one step ahead....always. The Indians pay in the same manner.
Well after 2 hours the coach stopped in the desert, the driver alighted with a spanner for 5 minutes (not a good sign), and then drove off. The chances of getting to out destination on time wasn't looking promising. AND, as expected 10 minutes later the coach broke down. Everyone alighted into the plus 50 degrees. However, Indians take things in their stride, and 10 minutes later the driver waved down another coach, and after awhile everyone piled onto the second coach. How everbody squeezed in, I just don't know.
Later arrived in Jaisalmer, having passed even the odd dead camel in the sand; found accommodation, and although super hot ventured out for a quick look at the town. First impression................beautiful hand sculptured buildings; less noise, hardly any tourists..... a quiet, but extremely hot place to relax in.
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