My very first arrival in Mumbai - as a blond woman, travelling alone (India, October 2017)
When I first arrived at the airport in Mumbai I had to go through several security checks. I was very nervous. The guys at the passport check seriously checked every single Visa. A few people in the cue in front of me were refused to let in. Then the guy behind the desk was first not able to register my visa, again and again trying to scan my passport. Half an hour later, when everyone else was already gone to the baggage claim, I still stood there in front of the desk. The officer had in the meantime asked for help of his colleagues. Another thirty minutes later I was finally allowed to go through the gate and pick up my backpack. It was already driving around alone on the conveyor. I exchanged my last twenty Euro cash in Indian Rupees. I got about 20000 Rupees for it. Wow! I never had so many banknotes in my hand before! Then my first steps out of the airport! Straight to the Rickshaws. Luckily, I was well informed and knew the appropriate prices for a Rickshaw drive to my Host