INDIA

went with two of my colleagues to meet with professionals in the Bollywood entertainment industry. Mumbai is known for Bollywood movies, and the actors and musicians we met with are some of the best in the industry. Many people in Mumbai speak Hindi, as it is the official language of India. It was difficult to communicate, as I do not know how to speak Hindi but I was able to learn a few words and pick up on certain cues.

By Blaine Ochoa

Ihad the incredible opportunity to travel to the beautiful country of India in December of 2022. There is so much beauty and history in the rich culture. I’m very thankful for the memorable experiences I had while there. My adventurous spirit, love and desire for traveling and learning more about another culture was definitely full-filled during my trip to India.

The trip started in Mumbai, where I stayed a week at the JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, which overlooks Juhu Beach and the Arabian Sea. The city of Mumbai is 10 and a half hours ahead of us here in Houston and the Bay Area. (The jet lag is no joke). It is a very large city and is very populated.

The country of India is very vast, and during our second week we ended up flying north to visit some of the other famous landmarks of India. We landed in the city of Jodhpur "Blue City" first, which is located in the state of Rajasthan.

The city is known for the blue indigo painted houses that span across the city. I was able to visit the beautiful Umaid Bhawan Palace, which still houses the royal family today, and visit the historic Mehrangarh Fort Museum. We also visited Jaipur, which is historically known as "Pink City", after being painted pink to welcome Prince Albert, Queen's Victoria's husband, in 1876.

Also on my journey I attended a traditional Indian wedding, visited a religious Hindu temple, saw an ancient 300 year old stepwell (water well) called Toorji ka Jhalra, street shopped, danced with locals, and tried a variety of different Indian foods

(a lot of which were very spicy). I also got a Henna tattoo for the first time, saw a lot of cows (as they are considered holy there and many are free roaming), and I really loved wearing the beautiful, colorful traditional Indian clothing. My very favorite place to stay was The Leela Palace in Jaipur, which was absolutely stunning.

One of my favorite experiences was being able to see the incomparable and iconic, Taj Mahal in Agra, one of the 7 Wonders of the World. The detail, design, architecture and beauty is absolutely breathtaking. It is made of ivory-white marble and semi-precious stones (which sometimes glow depending on the time of day and season), and is the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. It was commissioned by the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan.

The tomb was built in honor of Mumtaz, who was the emperor’s favorite wife, who died in childbirth. The Taj Mahal also later became the tomb of emperor Shah Jahan. The world renowned mausoleum is one of the greatest symbols ever that celebrates love. No photos are allowed to be taken once inside, and all visitors are required to wear foot coverings.

I was also able to see the Taj Mahal at night, the evening before we toured and it was a remarkable sight, it seemed to sparkle in the moonlight. I spent three weeks in India and I came home just in time for Christmas to be with my family. It was a special trip and one that made a lasting impact on me. Music is universal. Love of good food is universal. The importance of family is universal. And ultimately, love is universal. Namaste.

By Capt. David C. Dillman galvestonbaycharterfishing.com

(832) 228-8012

Ever had one of those days that nothing goes right? Like getting ready for work only to find your vehicle with a flat tire. Hopefully you are prepared by having a spare tire. When you are on the water being prepared for a emergency can prevent a disaster.

Anytime you are venturing out in the water, you have to be diligent in your preparation. First, check the weather and plan accordingly. In adverse conditions it is best to launch from the nearest point where you are planning to fish. Wear a PFD especially when conditions are less than ideal. They make inflatable PFD's that are comfortable and not bulky.

Cell phones should be carried must must be kept dry. Pelican makes waterproof boxes for your cell phone. They also come with clips that can be attached to you or your PFD. I also suggest having a handheld VHF radio. Many of the new ones are submersible and float. This gives you direct contact with the USCG in a emergency situation. File a float plan and leave it with someone. It should include the body of water (West Bay,Trinity ect..), launch site and the time you plan to return. Things can go from good to bad in a hurry on the water.