Michaelishious - Vol. 2020

Dec. 19th: I love to tour (pt. 1)

"Gretchen Weber?"

"Here!"

"Dieter Müller?"

"Hier!"

"Theresa Schneiser?"

"It's Schneider, but yeah. Here."

"Oh. I apologize. Birgitta Gurgenmeier?"

"Right here, handsome!"

There was some giggling far back in the bus, and I felt extremely awkward. I knew they had been talking about me when they entered, and not especially quiet either, so the curious looks and knowing shoulder bumps between the two girls did not go unnoticed. Not only by me, but probably all the others in this group, too.

We were twenty-two people, including me and the two loud speaking ladies who looked so much alike that I almost thought they were sisters. And even though everyone here were German and communicated in a different language than I, most of them spoke English quite fluently.

"Good. So... Good morning, everyone. I am Michael Jackson, and welcome to Kumta. Now if I understood it correctly, it's your fourth day here in India?"

There were humming and nodding in confirmation, so I proceeded like normal.

"This week we're gonna visit seven museums, or more precisely temples, and I'm sure you already know what you've signed up for."

I knew I should be used to it after being a tour guide for almost three months, but the level of embarrassment increased or decreased based on the reaction of the tourists. Why they signed up for a tour to visit the Khajuraho group of temples without being comfortable with erotic sculptures, I never figured out. But today, the only response I got was the knowing looks from the two ladies. The rest of the group seemed neutral.

"It'll take some time before we arrive Balligavi. Almost three hours, actually. But you'll survive," I snickered. Try taking this round ten weeks straight like me, though...

"Balligavi is one of the most important historical cities in Karnataka. The Tripurantaka Temple itself is in a dilapidated state, so please follow the restrictions. No touching."

"Are there restrictions against touching you, Mr. Jackson?"

"Uhm..."

Once again there was some laughter, and I couldn't help but to giggle myself, with cheeks as red as ripe tomatoes.

"I think we'll stick to the point, ms. Schneider, shall we?"

She rolled her eyes and said something to her seat mate, while vigorously chewing on a gum. And judging by their smirks, I didn't even want to know what they were talking about.

"Anyway! As you probably know, you'll see sculptures that are considered as rare in Chalukyan art. Also, the characteristic building has unique perforated windows with spectacular stone art work, that can't be justified through a photo. They're truly pieces of fine, delicate art, and I suggest that you study them up close. But again; no physical touching."

I heard a whistling sound, and I didn't even have to look up from my manual to know where it came from. But I chose to ignore them.