Beyond being just another trip, my journey through India and Sri Lanka has both brought me closer to my own origins and opened my eyes to a new perspective of living. I saw the extremes of poverty, with many people selling trinkets for money alongside the roadways. I saw how people survived with very little and still were happy and jovial. At the same time, there were magnificent displays of wealth and power, such as the grand Taj Mahal and the various other elaborate Buddhist and Hindu temples and structures throughout the countries. Both nations also intrigued me with their deep respect for traditions and culture. Within each nation there were a number of well maintained World Heritage sites that show the deep and rich history of each culture. It was also notable how India and Sri Lanka had a significant British influence, with British architecture, traditions, and other cultural influence still seen there today. With a civil war only recently ending, Sri Lanka remains in disarray in some parts, however huge progress is being made to repair the infrastructure and bring back tourism as a key industry. I have gained a new understanding and respect for the culture of each of these countries through my travels.
