Just landed in the US nine months ago, and oh boy, has it been an adventure or what! Moving to Fargo in the peak of winter from the tropical warmth of India, I was convinced my days would be a comical series of slips and falls. But the reality? Quite the beautiful surprise. The way snow glimmers under streetlights and the whole world looks like a frosted wonderland is something else. And guess what? I survived without turning into an icicle!
Fall Feels Almost Like Home
I’ve been lucky to travel around here, seeing all sorts of stunning sights. But experiencing Fall for the first time? Absolutely magical. The colors, the crisp air – it’s almost enough to make you forget you’re thousands of miles away from home.
Politeness Overload
The Midwest is famously polite, and coming from India, where the hustle is real, this was a shock. Here, crossing the street feels like a polite-off, and everyone’s sorry about everything! It’s sweet but takes some getting used to. Imagine bringing this level of politeness home – my family would think I’ve hit my head somewhere!
Mastering Small Talk
Americans can small talk for the Olympics, I swear. Initially, I was the awkward nodder, but look at me now, chatting away about the weather and asking, “How’s your day?” like a pro. Still a long way from mastering it, but I’m getting there.
Missing the Desi Bidet
Let’s be real, toilet paper doesn’t hold a candle to a good ol’ butt hose. Every visit to the loo is a reminder of how much I miss our Indian bidets. Tip for my fellow Indians here: Flushable wet wipes are a game-changer.
Dishwasher and Washer/Dryer: My New Best Friends
Back home, I dreaded doing dishes and laundry. Here? Machines do it all, and it feels like living in luxury. I could write love letters to my dishwasher and washer/dryer.
Diversity: A Breath of Fresh Air
While not everywhere in the US is a melting pot, cities like Boston and New York are incredible. Seeing people from all walks of life on a daily basis is something you don’t get back home. It’s refreshing and gives you a sense of belonging in this vast world.
Bagels and Cream Cheese: A Love Story
I didn’t get the hype until I tried an Everything Bagel with cream cheese. It’s my go-to comfort food now, right up there with a warm bowl of dal.
Crossing Roads: An Unexpected Thrill
You’d think navigating Mumbai’s traffic would make me a road-crossing ninja. But here, the reliance on traffic rules makes crossing without lights a tad more heart-pounding.
The Chaos Back Home
You know the noise and chaos you complain about back home? Turns out, it’s the soundtrack of home. Visiting India after months here, I was moved by the familiar cacophony of daily life. It’s messy, it’s loud, but it’s home.
So, there you have it – my whirlwind of experiences in the US. It’s been a journey of surprises, learning, and a lot of growth. And while I’m adapting and enjoying my time here, the heart does tug towards the chaos and warmth of India. Here’s to more adventures and maybe, just maybe, getting the best of both worlds.
