Leh was the loveliest place. It existed nestled close to the north Indian border. A stark contrast to the city of Delhi. It was at peace. Beggars, merchants and hustlers were replaced with gentle smiles, small nods and people who were happy to share their craft, not squander it off. Values were held, shared and respected. With daylight there were only the whispers of the crowd as you strolled along the main street. And in the night only the crackles of the road from the occasional motor vehicle.

From the moment the plane entered the mountainous regions I knew things were going to be good. An applause erupted as the captained announced our arrival. Strangers exchanged smiles, laughter and cameras as people tried to capture the beauty that was just on the other side of the plexiglass. There was so much excitement in such a confined space that I couldn't help adding to ridiculously loud applause that already was. I like to think it was because everyone knew we had reached a place worth celebrating.