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ONE WEDDING, THREE TRAVELLERS, AND ONE VERY BIG COUNTRY SARASWATHI, BALU AND KAMALA

 

ONE WEDDING, THREE TRAVELLERS, AND ONE VERY BIG COUNTRY
SARASWATHI, BALU AND KAMALA

USA TRIP – 24.04.2011 to 29.05.2011 

My brother Chinnu, who had been living in America since 1966, was extremely keen that I should visit the U.S. He saw this wedding as the perfect opportunity and planned our entire trip with great care, affection, and attention to detail. Every place we visited, every journey we undertook, and every arrangement we enjoyed reflected his thoughtful planning and his desire to show us America at its best.

Chinnu was only two years younger than me, but our bond was far deeper than that of mere age difference. We were very closely attached, sharing mutual respect, affection, and an understanding that needed very few words. His enthusiasm, warmth, and joy during our visit made the trip special in ways that go far beyond sightseeing or travel experiences.

Chinnu passed away in November 2015, at the age of 77. His passing left a void that time cannot fill. While revisiting this diary years later, I felt a strong urge to rewrite and edit it—not merely as a record of a journey across a country, but as a tribute to the brother who made the journey possible.

This rewritten travelogue is therefore offered in his loving memory—as a remembrance of his generosity, his meticulous planning, his love for family, and the special place he continues to occupy in our hearts.

This journey was across America, but this book is also a journey back to moments spent with my brother—moments that remain alive, warm, and unforgettable.

— Balu

24th April 2011, Sunday 

The Big Day- At last, the long-cherished dream took flight—quite literally. We left Chennai Airport at 5:31 in the morning by British Airways, sleepy-eyed but wide-awake inside. By 11:40 a.m. London time we landed at Heathrow, already feeling very international. After a short halt, another flight at 3:00 p.m., and finally—Atlanta! Though it was 4:35 a.m. in Atlanta, our bodies firmly believed it was already 25th April morning in Chennai. America welcomed us with its famous efficiency—and equally famous distances. Airports here are not places; they are cities. After customs, we were transported in wheelchairs and battery-driven trains, crossing no less than eight levels. By the end of it, we felt we had already done our first sightseeing tour—Atlanta Airport. 

Outside, standing with broad smiles and warm hearts, were Chinnu and Raji, each in their own elegant cars—Chinnu in his Toyota Lexus and Raji in a Toyota Camry Hybrid. From that moment onwards, we were treated like royalty. The drive to Chinnu’s home in Mableton—about 22 miles from the airport—felt like a journey through a dream. Saraswathi was given a grand room downstairs with an attached bathroom and television. Kamala and I got a similar room on the first floor—everything the same except the television. Clearly, seniority had its privileges! The house itself was huge—about 4000 square feet—with a basement and two floors. We silently wondered how many such houses could fit into our Chennai Street. 

During the drive, while I was in Chinnu’s car and Kamala and Saraswathi were with Raji, we sat with our mouths open—not from jet lag, but from astonishment. It was still daylight at 7 p.m.! The highways were spotless, traffic moved like disciplined schoolchildren, and there was not a single horn to be heard. No pedestrians, no shouting drivers, no arguments. I boldly concluded: even a child can drive a car in America! After dinner, exhaustion finally caught up with excitement. As we went to bed, one thought echoed in all our minds: “This is a dream come true—we are in America! Thanks to Chinnu, Raji, and Arun.” 





25th April 2011 Monday 

Morning began in true American style with a breakfast that looked simple but felt very efficient—corn flakes in milk, bread toast, fruit juice (tomato, apple, or orange), and coffee. No sambhar, no chutney, and no arguments about which dosa is crispest. We adjusted quickly. 

In the afternoon, we went to Arun’s house at Decatur, about 20 miles from Mableton, after visiting two malls—because in America, malls appear naturally on the way, like temples in India. 

Arun’s house was also a two-storeyed one with a basement, though smaller than Chinnu’s. Arun, like all well-settled Americans, owned both the house and a BMW car, which seems to be standard issue once you live there long enough. What truly caught our attention were the bowls of peanuts and almonds, always kept within arm’s reach. Arun’s house encourages continuous munching—no appointment required. 

26th April 2011 Tuesday

After breakfast at Chinnu’s house, we went for lunch to Rajagopal and Vijaya’s home. Chinnu has known them for over 40 years, and it clearly showed. Rajagopal is an authority on Geography, and Vijaya is an authority on all Tamil TV serials. Saraswathi, who considers herself well-informed in serial matters, was completely outclassed. Compared to Vijaya, Saras was still in kindergarten. Lunch was excellent, and the hospitality was even better. Both Saraswathi and Kamala were honoured with saris and E.S. trays, presented with warmth and affection. Geography and TV serials together created a perfect balance that afternoon. 

27th April 2011 Wednesday 

After breakfast, we visited the Atlanta Hindu Temple. The temple was striking—white-painted gopuram and walls, spotless surroundings, and an overall cleanliness that would make even a hospital feel shy. The entire complex was maintained like a church. Inside, the deities were easily visible in the sanctum, arranged thoughtfully in a spacious, fully carpeted hall. There were two such grand halls—one for Perumal and company, and another for Sivan and company. There was also a separate hall for religious functions, and yet another large hall in the basement for concerts, weddings, and gatherings. The basement also housed a counter selling prasadams. We had lunch right there—laddu, chakkarai pongal, and thayir saadham. Simple, tasty, and comforting. The priests impressed us greatly. They were well qualified, neatly dressed in traditional panchakatcham, all sporting the tuft proudly. They lived comfortably in quarters built for them, owned cars, and conducted religious functions in devotees’ homes—earning both blessings and extra income. Our biggest surprise came when the priest gave us almonds as prasadam. Truly American prasadam—healthy and premium! This, we later realised, was the standard setup of most temples we visited in the US. From the temple, we proceeded to the famous DeKalb Farmers’ Market. Located in Decatur, it is a paradise for fresh vegetables, breads, pastas—and confusion. The place has a strange smell due to its massive seafood section, and it is always quite chilly inside, as if vegetables prefer cold climates. We were amazed at the varieties of vegetables—each one coming in different sizes, shapes, and colours. Saraswathi enjoyed this market the most. On our final visit, she even bought a huge piece of ginger as a souvenir. America offers many things, but Saras chose ginger. Every visit to DeKalb included free tasting—mango juice and tiny pieces of bread, which we never missed. We usually ended our shopping with half a litre of coffee each, Kamala and I generously adding 50 to 75 grams of sugar, just to maintain Indian standards. 


From the market, we went to Arun’s house and then back home, tired but satisfied. 

28th April 2011 Thursday 

After breakfast and lunch, we went shopping again—first to Walmart, the giant international discount store where you can buy everything from needles to furniture, and then to Dollar Tree, where every single item costs only one dollar or less. This store makes you feel rich even when you are careful. At night, we went to Royal Indian Cuisine at Duluth, Georgia, for a very special event—unlimited dosa night. Every Thursday, you can eat any number and any variety of dosas for a fixed price. All of us tried our best to do justice to this offer. Special appreciation must go to Saraswathi, who bravely managed dosas despite her damaged and missing molars. True dedication to South Indian food.After returning home, we slept peacefully, dreaming of dosas, malls, and almonds-as-prasadam. 

29th April 2011 Friday 

The day began with a very important mission—cake shopping at Macy’s Mall. In America, even buying a cake feels like an event. After successfully collecting the cake (without eating it on the way), we proceeded to Arun’s house. There, we celebrated Chinnu’s 73rd birthday in advance. His actual birthday was on 3rd May, but in America, dates are flexible and celebrations start early. The mood was cheerful, the cake was excellent, and Chinnu accepted his “early birthday” with the calm dignity of a man who knows more cakes may follow. After the celebrations, we returned home, pleasantly tired and well-fed. 

30th April 2011 

Saturday, brunch was at a very American time—10.30 a.m., neither breakfast nor lunch, but something safely in between. Soon after brunch, we headed to the airport to fly to Los Angeles by Delta Airways. We landed at 12.30 p.m. Los Angeles time, and were promptly received by Shankar, who arrived in style in his BMW. 

From the airport, it was about an hour’s drive to his house. Waiting to welcome us were Shankar, Geetha, Dr. Ashwin, and Neel—proof that hospitality runs strong on the West Coast too. Shankar’s house was another American surprise—a sprawling ground-floor home of about 4000 square feet, complete with a swimming pool. But the real star of the house was an 18-month-old German Shepherd, a sweet-natured, neutered male with one drooping ear. He looked tough, but behaved like a polite host who was curious about Indian guests.        

SHANKARS     




In the evening, we did what America encourages everyone to do—we went to

three malls. By the third mall, our legs were tired, our eyes were full, and our wallets wisely stayed closed. 

1st May 2011 Sunday 

After breakfast, we set out for a spiritual and scenic journey combined. We visited the Los Angeles Hindu Temple, travelling via the Pacific Coast and Malibu. The drive itself felt like a movie—blue ocean on one side, neat roads, and views that demanded frequent pauses and silent admiration. Faith, family, and fresh sea air—America once again managed to mix everything neatly into a single day. 



From the Temple to Hollywood Boulevard. From the peaceful atmosphere of the temple, we moved to a completely different kind of pilgrimage. From gods to glamour, America allows smooth transitions. 

Hollywood Boulevard was busy, colourful, and full of people who looked like they were all going somewhere important. The famous Walk of Fame stars were on the footpath, and we carefully walked over them, hoping the stars would not mind. We searched for familiar names and clicked photographs whenever we found one, we recognised—or pretended to recognise. Street performers, loud conversations, and nonstop activity made the place lively. Compared to the calm discipline of the highways, Hollywood Boulevard seemed to be where America relaxed its rules and allowed noise, excitement, and a bit of madness. 





In the evening, we went to COSTCO Wholesale Mart in Los Angeles. COSTCO is not just a shop; it is an experience. Everything is sold in large quantities, clearly meant for families that eat, store, and survive together. We purchased almonds and salted cashews, which seemed to be compulsory buying items wherever we went in America. 

From there, we went to the 99 Cents Store, where every item cost one cent less than a dollar. This mathematical adjustment makes all the difference to the mind. We bought useful items like a closet light and a book light, feeling extremely economical and intelligent. Even small purchases in America give a sense of achievement. 

2nd May 2011 Monday 

This day was marked in bold letters in our minds—Disneyland Day. Disneyland is about a 30-minute drive from Shankar’s house, and we reached there by 10.00 a.m. Fully prepared, excited, and slightly worried about how much walking would be involved. To be safe, we hired two wheelchairs, a decision we never regretted. 

From the parking area itself, Disneyland ensures that visitors do not walk unnecessarily. A battery-operated train and a bus transported us neatly into the park. Even before entering, we felt that Disneyland takes comfort very 

seriously. Inside, the place was magical—not only for children, but also for seniors who had grown up watching cartoon characters on black-and-white televisions. The colours were bright, the arrangements perfect, and everything moved like clockwork. 

We spent the entire day there—from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m.—moving from one attraction to another, sometimes watching, sometimes riding, and often simply observing the happiness around us. Children were thrilled, adults were smiling, and we were enjoying the sight of happiness without having to rush. The wheelchairs turned out to be a blessing. We could see everything comfortably, without testing our knees or our patience. The staff were helpful, polite, and endlessly cheerful, making sure everyone—young or old—felt welcome. 

By the time we left Disneyland, we were physically tired but mentally refreshed. It was truly a memorable trip, one that reminded us that joy does not depend on age—only on willingness. That night, as we returned home, there was one silent agreement among all of us: Disneyland had earned its reputation. 

BATTERY TRAIN –BUS TAKING US TO DISNEY LAND


AT DISNEY LAND















                

3rd May 2011 Tuesday 

The day was intentionally quiet. After several days of continuous excitement, America finally allowed us to rest. There was no major sightseeing—only visits to a few departmental stores and a medical shop. Even a relaxed day in America somehow involves shopping. 

4th May 2011 Wednesday 

We travelled by car to Livermore with Shankar and Geetha. By 5.00 p.m., we checked into Room No. 328 at the Double Tree Hotel, Livermore. Hotels in America are large, efficient, and make you feel important the moment you enter. That night, we had a grand dinner with Chinnu, Raji, and several others—16 of us in total—at a North Indian restaurant. Conversations flew across the table faster than rotis, and the atmosphere felt festive. It was clear that the wedding mood had fully set in. 

5th May 2011 Thursday 

Wedding Day. The long-awaited event—Arun’s wedding—took place amidst family, friends, and cheerful chaos. Everything went smoothly, beautifully, and with that special happiness that only a son’s wedding can bring. Smiles were plenty, photographs were endless, and blessings were generously distributed.
















After the Wedding, we checked out of the Double Tree, Livermore, and proceeded to Walnut Creek, where we checked into Hotel Renaissance. The change of hotel felt like a change of chapter. 

Dinner that night was Mexican food, right at the hotel. Different flavours, unfamiliar names, and cautious tasting—but overall enjoyable to all except yours truly. With my peculiar palate permanently trained on rasam and thayir saadham, the Mexican dishes—vazha vazha and kozha kozha in both look and feel—were complete strangers to me. I therefore resorted to the time-tested survival skill: slowly moving food around the plate, nodding appreciatively, and convincingly pretending to eat and enjoy, while quietly praying for the next meal to be South Indian. America constantly reminds you that variety is its speciality. 

6th May 2011 Friday 

After breakfast, we went by car to San Francisco, accompanied by Chinnu, Raji, Shankar, RV, and Chandra. The city welcomed us with cool air and famous sights. We admired the Bay Bridge, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and the lively Fisherman’s Wharf. Each landmark looked exactly as seen in pictures—only larger, colder, and more impressive.

One highlight was the car ride down the world-famous crooked street. The road twisted and turned like it was designed by someone with a sense of humour. Going down was exciting; coming up would have been terrifying.

SAN FRANCISCO










Car ride down the world famous “crooked street

                       



Returned to Walnut Creek at 3.00 pm.  4.30 pm-To San Jose by car with Shankar & Geetha. Dinner at Vaidyanathan’s son’s house and returned at 9.45 pm. Vaidyanathan, Chinnu’s Guindy engineering college mate uncle to Geetha.

07.05.2011 Saturday

To Napa and checked in Hawthorn Suites and Inn at 12.30 pm. Lunch at an Indian Hotel (Neela). Left at 3.40 pm for reception.










“KUDIKARA KUDUMBAM”

8th May 2011 Sunday 

At 12 noon, we left Napa by car with Kamala, Saraswathi, Chinnu, Raji, and Kumar (Vijaya- Sankaran’s son). We reached San Francisco Airport at 3.00 p.m. and flew by Southwest Airlines at 5.25 p.m. We landed in Las Vegas at 7.30 p.m. A rental car was arranged, and we checked into the famous Excalibur Hotel—a place that looks like it belongs to a fairy tale. That night, we attended the “Jubilee Topless Extravaganza” show at Bally’s. The 90-minute show (10.30 p.m. to midnight) was breathtaking, colourful, and very professionally presented. It was extraordinary in every sense and thoroughly enjoyable. 

After the show, we drove around Las Vegas, watching the brilliantly illuminated casinos. Lights everywhere, buildings glowing, and energy flowing even past midnight. We returned to the hotel at 1.45 a.m., eyes wide open and sleep slightly delayed. 

9th May 2011 Monday 

After breakfast, we visited a few casinos. Feeling adventurous, we tried our luck at the slot machines. The machines enjoyed our company, but the feeling was not mutual—we played and lost gracefully. 


Soon after, we proceeded towards the Hoover Dam, wiser, lighter in pocket, and still smiling.

From Las Vegas, we proceeded to the Hoover Dam, located on the Colorado River at the Nevada–Arizona border. Hoover Dam – Where Nature and Engineering shake hands. Standing there, one immediately feels small—both in height and in knowledge. The dam controls the flow of the Colorado River, supplies water to people living in the surrounding regions, and generates electricity. It is named after President Hoover and is considered one of the largest dams in the world. More than that, it is a historical landmark and a true engineering marvel. Because of the dam, Lake Mead was formed—a massive man-made lake holding over 29 million acre-feet of water. This water serves multiple purposes—drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. Looking at the calm lake and the massive concrete structure, it was difficult to imagine the planning, labour, and courage that went into creating it. After taking in the view and clicking the compulsory photographs, we returned to Las Vegas. 




In the evening, we had tiffin at an Indian restaurant, which felt comforting after all the sightseeing. Later, we visited the famous Venetian Casino. The highlight was the Gondola ride, gently floating along artificial canals. Inside the casino, the sky above looked bright and blue, but it was the ceiling—cleverly painted to look like daytime. Time disappears in Las Vegas; even the sky is carefully managed. 




The sky you see inside the casino is the ceiling built to appear like the sky.

10th May 2011 Tuesday 

At 9.18 a.m., we flew to Washington, D.C. by Delta Airlines—minus Kumar, who returned to Jackson. Our journey took us via Minneapolis, where time advanced from 12.05 p.m. to 3.05 p.m., reminding us once again that time zones are not for beginners. We arrived at Washington Reagan International Airport at 7.00 p.m. and checked into the Marriott Courtyard Hotel. Dinner was at a North Indian restaurant near the hotel, ending the day on a familiar and satisfying note. 

11th May 2011 

Wednesday At 9.30 a.m., we set out by Metro from Union Station for a full day of sightseeing in the capital. We visited the Historical Museum, the Capitol Building, the Washington Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and of course, the White House. Just before we reached the White House, an unexpected event added excitement—President Obama, along with his entourage, passed ahead of us. Traffic was held up for just a few minutes, causing minimal inconvenience. We couldn’t help noticing how smoothly everything was handled. Even the President’s movement was efficient and disciplined—very American. 

















 From the White House, we took a taxi back to Union Station, then a train to Reagan International Airport. From there, we travelled by rental car to Saravana Palace, an Indian restaurant run by a Telugu gentleman. After a comforting meal, we returned to the hotel at 11.00 p.m., pleasantly exhausted. 

12th May 2011 Thursday 

At 9.00 a.m., we checked out of the hotel and travelled by car to visit the Siva–Vishnu Temple and the Murugan Temple. Preparations were underway for the Kumbabishegam, scheduled for 13th May, and the atmosphere was vibrant and devotional. 

 




After temple visits, we went to Udupi Palace for a buffet tiffin—crispy, familiar, and comforting. Soon after, we headed to the airport. At 5.30 p.m., we flew by Delta Airlines to Buffalo, via New York (JFK). We reached Buffalo at 11.30 p.m., rented a car, and checked into the Holiday Inn at 1.45 a.m. The bed never felt more welcoming. 

13th May 2011 

Friday After breakfast, we checked out at 10.00 a.m. and proceeded to one of the most awaited sights of the trip—Niagara Falls. We took the famous “Maid of the Mist” boat ride, which carried us almost into the heart of th falls, covering both the American and Canadian sides. Water roared, mist drenched us completely, and excitement rose beyond words. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The power, the sound, the spray, and the sheer force of nature left us speechless. No description can fully capture the thrill—we could only feel it. As we stood soaked and smiling, one thing was certain: Some experiences are meant to be lived, not written. 

 




















Back to New York – Big City, Bigger Energy At 1.45 p.m., we had a satisfying buffet lunch at a Punjabi dhaba—heavy food, strong flavours, and full stomachs. From there, we proceeded to Buffalo Airport. By 9.45 p.m., we arrived at New York LaGuardia Airport. A taxi took us straight to the Crowne Plaza Hotel at Times Square, Manhattan. The moment we stepped out, New York announced itself—lights, people, noise, and energy, all at once. Sleep came late, but excitement came easily. 

14th May 2011 Saturday 

After breakfast at 10.15 a.m., we set out for New York sightseeing on a Gray Line Tour mobile bus. The tour lasted till 5.00 p.m., covering Central Park, the Empire State Building, the United Nations Headquarters, and the Statue of Liberty. Seeing all these famous places in one day felt like watching a fast-forward documentary. 

After a short break, we again boarded the same bus for a night tour from 6.00 to 8.15 p.m. New York at night is a different personality altogether—brighter, louder, and endlessly awake. Dinner was South Indian tiffin at Hotel Pongal. We tried to get seats at the nearby Saravana Bhavan but failed—apparently, even New York respects Saravana’s popularity. 

 



15th May 2011 Sunday 

By train and taxi, we went to the Pillayar Temple on Browne Street, Flushing. The atmosphere was peaceful, familiar, and comforting. We had brunch at the temple itself, which tasted better because of the setting. From there, we went shopping at Jackson Heights, a place where India seems to have quietly settled in New York. We returned to our hotel room at 9.15 p.m., tired but content. 

16th May 2011 Monday 

The day started simply—with coffee at McDonald’s at 9.00 a.m. Lunch followed at 11.55 a.m. at Saravana Bhavan, Lexington Avenue, a long-awaited visit that finally succeeded. We then headed to LaGuardia Airport and arrived in Atlanta at 5.30 p.m. Rajagopal received us and took us to his house. After dinner, we went to Chinnu’s house by 9.30 p.m., returning to familiar ground.

17th & 18th May 2011 Tuesday & Wednesday 

These two days were devoted almost entirely to shopping and visiting familiar places—DeKalb, Patel Store, Cherian, Arun’s house, Dollar Mart, Kohl’s, K-Mart, Walmart, and back home. The distances were long, the bags were heavy, and the enthusiasm somehow never reduced. 

At 10.00 a.m., we left Atlanta by car for Jackson. As we crossed time zones, the clock politely moved back to 9.00 a.m.—a rare moment when time cooperates. On the way, we stopped at a highway rest area, one of the many well-maintained facilities in the US. There were clean restrooms, an information office with pamphlets, and enough space to relax. We ate puliyodharai and thayir saadham, proving once again that homemade food travels better than anything else. 

By 5.00 p.m., we reached Sankaran–Vijaya’s house at Jackson. We received a warm welcome from Sankaran, Vijaya, and Harini. We also met Raji’s father, who, though bedridden due to age, looked bright and cheerful—a moment that quietly stayed with us. At 7.30 p.m., we went to the local temple, where Sankaran serves as manager. 

    



We were honoured with parivattam and saris, a gesture that left us deeply touched. From the temple, we went to Dollar Tree and a mall, and then to Vijaya’s house, ending the day gently.

20th May 2011 Friday 

At 12 noon, we went to Kelb Mart and then drove to Vicksburg. We visited Chinnu’s old office, where he was given a spontaneous VIP welcome. The respect and affection shown by the staff for their former boss, fondly called “Radha”, spoke volumes. We were taken around the campus and could see Chinnu’s contribution everywhere. Saraswathi, Kamala, and I felt extremely proud, though we missed the presence of Chinna attimber at that moment. We also drove around the Vicksburg Battlefield, visited the Ameristar Casino, and saw the houses once occupied by Chinnu and Raji—places filled with memories. Dinner was at RV–Chandra’s residence, where both food and hospitality were excellent -  french fries, apple pie, peach pie, and coffee.

21st May 2011 Saturday 

Near Dalton, we even spotted a small replica of the Statue of Liberty, quietly standing and doing her duty. We reached Atlanta at 9.30 p.m. Dinner was adai, vadai, thayir saadham, followed immediately by bed—no negotiations. 

22nd May 2011 Sunday 

At 9.30 a.m., we attended Ayusha Homam for Chandru’s grandson at the Siva–Vishnu Temple, Atlanta. Lunch was buffet tiffin at Udupi Hotel at 1.15 p.m. The rest of the day involved shopping, a visit to Arun’s house, tasty pizza for dinner, and return home by 9.45 p.m. 

24th May Tuesday1.30 pm 

To Swaminarayan Mandir, 460 Rockbridge Road NW Lilburn, Atlanta. It is one of the largest traditional Hindu Vedic stone temples outside India. The Mandir is located on 30 acres of land and the estimated cost is $19 million.  No steel or metals have been used in the construction.  The exterior of the Mandir is made of Turkish Limra limestone. The main floor is made of Italian Carrara marble The ground floor and basement is made of Indian Sandstone. 

 

25th May 2011Wednesday 

Slowing Down These days followed a familiar pattern—Arun’s house, DeKalb, malls, Brands Mart, Macy’s, Saravana Bhavan, and back home. 

26th May Thursday

There was a mild thunderstorm and power failure, which was restored by 11.30 p.m., just in time to remind us that even America has its off days. 

27th May 2011 Friday 

At 10.30 a.m., we began our return journey to Chennai—American Airlines to Dallas, British Airways from Dallas to Chennai via London. The journey felt longer, quieter, and reflective. 29th May 2011 – Sunday We arrived in Chennai at 3.30 a.m., but without our six checked-in bags. We finally came out of the airport only at 6.30 a.m. Latha and Eshwar received us warmly. Five bags arrived on 30th May, and the final one followed on 31st May—America made sure the trip ended in instalments.

HIGHLIGHTS

Total Distance Travelled by Air

RouteDistance (Km)
Chennai to London8,217
London to Atlanta6,787
Atlanta to Los Angeles3,125
San Francisco to Las Vegas672
Las Vegas to Washington via Minneapolis3,569
Washington to Buffalo via New York804
Buffalo to New York via Detroit455
New York to Atlanta1,218
Atlanta to Dallas Fort Worth1,166
Dallas to London7,659
London to Chennai8,217
TOTAL DISTANCE BY AIR41,889 Km

Note:

  • Earth’s Circumference: 40,075 Km
  • Distance between the North and South Poles: ~20,004 Km

Total Distance Travelled by Land (Car)

(Local travel excluded)

RouteDistance (Km)
Los Angeles to Livermore545
Livermore to Walnut Creek40
Walnut Creek to San Francisco and back80
Walnut Creek to San Jose and back80
Walnut Creek to Napa59
Napa to San Francisco80
Atlanta to Jackson564
Jackson to Vicksburg and back140
Jackson to Atlanta564
TOTAL2,152 Km

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