During my first full day in Kolkata, I took in the stirring city with tea at a local cafe. Cafe Aldo is located in Salt Lake, an outlying area of Kolkata. The small home-style cafe is quaint and lush with greenery at the entrance. The menu is robust and the service is friendly. It was the ideal spot to grab a coffee and sit until the day begins, which typically happens slightly later on a weekend.
My last time in India was in 2019. At the time, I was 22. As I walk alongside my partner to begin exploring, I realized a lot has changed in the last 7 years. I still enjoy traveling and the excitement of exploring, yet I have found myself taking a bit more time to get used to the pace of India again. The vibrant city of Kolkata is yet to be fully explored by us, but something is clear: the city is full of charm and character.
In the midst of the humidity and chaotic traffic, the same beauty remains apparent that I recalled during my original visit to other Indian states. The pace of life in major cities is quick, but there are pockets of comfortable quiet.
During my time in Kolkata, I am excited to take in monuments and city parks while also taking in sights and local cuisine. West Bengal, Kolkata included is rich with history and culture, so I am eager to see what time allows.
