I came to India with only a vague idea of what this trip was to be about and because of that there was a lot of learning that had to be done the hard way. I've written down all I wish I'd known before I came in the hopes that I can save someone else some of the hard knocks that I took.

I knew I was getting some bad impressions from Israelis I'd seen on this trip but I'd never spent any time with them personally. I have the opportunity and join Noam and Gal for the ride across Nepal and learn a bit about where my perceptions were right, and where they were wrong.

One must hand it to the Border Roads Organization for keeping up the humor on Indian roads with some very amusing signs. Even better these signs which seem to come every few kilometers are there to help encourage responsible driving, something which is sorely needed.

As always seems to happen, I find the perfect book on understanding Leh and Ladakh after I get to Leh. This book by Janet Rizvi is a wonderful introduction to the region which is not only a pleasure to read but well researched and informative! Coming into Leh I only wish I'd read it before I arrived

A Dutch girl walking along the road reminds me that I have been brainwashed by living in Asia too long and becomes an inspiration to just get out there and live life!

As I'm sitting eating lunch a middle-aged man comes up to me and asks me the same question that has been on my mind for some time - how do China and India compare? Who will be more powerful. A guest in this country, I'm reluctant to voice my opinion, but as the question was asked I answer with what I've seen.

Something that you could only get in Taiwan is how one friend put it - several million fireworks and bottle rockets aimed directly at 120,000 visitors who for one night a year show up in a small Taiwan town to face down the dragon!