Finally here

After another day of travelling we finally reached Amala last night. We stopped at The Crocodile Bank outside Chennai to introduce ourselves to some of India's wildlife. The entrance fee was around 50p which was well worth it. We then stopped and had our lunch at Mamallapuram, where we sampled the delights of a South Indian Thali. Although some of the students felt inclined to order chips. 

The shore temple of Shiva was amazing, Joe Vernon claiming it was his favourite part of the trip so far. After all it is not every day that you can visit a world heritage site. Some students started to learn the art of haggling, buying stone carvings and drums. 

We entered Amala at 9.30pm to a fantastic welcome. Children lined the path and greeted us with jasmine garlands and tilkas. We were all moved by the hospitality shown by Raja and his Amala family. We had a lovely evening meal prepared by Victoria and went swiftly to bed (after chasing some frogs out of our rooms). I (Miss Nicholson) screamed like a girl and left it to Miss McNutt to deal with the amphibian intruder. 

This morning we have been introduced to the school staff, and Raja has shown Mr Dalgleish his office. It would seem that a firm friendship is already being forged. Our students are looking forward to getting into the classrooms and I am certain that the children here can't wait either.

Thank you to our readers, especially Owen's Grandma.