'You have to take changes in the right spirit'

Expat zone

Being deputed as a representative from one country to another comes with its own set of challenges.

 The responsibilities are vast. But Ian Felton, British Deputy High Commissioner, Bangalore, who has been posted across the world, is not only at his diplomatic best at all times but instantly settles down in new places.

“You have to be prepared to adapt to the ways of a new country, if you want to make it your home,” says Ian.

Ian moved to Bangalore to further the ‘prosperity agenda’ between Britain and India — two countries that are growing at a tremendous pace.

 “I am here to further and encourage a strong research collaboration between
Indian universities and Cambridge. And there is so much to share in terms of science and innovation as well,” Ian points out.

His work takes up much of his time, leaving him very little space to pursue other interests.

But Ian and his wife Judith have snatched some time and driven down to a couple of places in Karnataka.

They say that driving to different holiday destinations gives them the luxury to stop anywhere they choose.

Ian concedes that driving on Indian roads isn’t easy, though.

“Recently, we drove to Madikeri in Coorg. That’s the most fun we had. When I was posted in Cambodia, the rules of driving there were different and now in India, they are different too — it pays to be careful. You have to take changes in
the right spirit and be careful at the same time,” he points out.

Work has also taken Ian to Srirangapatna, Mysore and a few other places.
Ian and Judith are pretty adjustable to Indian food and seem to have their favourites.
 “We really love masala dosa. Sometimes, it turns out to be a life saver because that’s the only thing you get in plenty in any corner of Karnataka. I find Ayurvedic drinks particularly rejuvenating but I need my dose of caffeine,” beams Ian.

Mention Indian food and the first name that comes to Ian is the chain of MTRs in the City. Ian and his team make it a point to eat the Indian thali once a week.

“The variety is interesting. I love Indian food and have no complaints. It’s not very difficult to adapt to Indian food,” he adds. 

Ian has rented out an apartment close to his office, near Kasturba Road, which saves him the trouble of having to drive long distances to the office everyday.
So, the question of getting stuck in traffic doesn’t really arise.

He finds Bangalore safe compared to a lot of other cities across the country and says that he settled in sooner than he expected to.

It is the City’s cosmopolitan nature that has impressed Ian.

He and Judith love to visit Cubbon Park. “My wife and I walk in Cubbon Park every morning and we have felt very safe. We also go to Lalbagh on the weekends,” he adds.

Judith is particular about staying fit. She never misses her long walks in Cubbon Park and her day is incomplete without a round of tennis.

“When not working or studying, the perfect weather allows me to play tennis.
I also like to walk and run in Cubbon Park in the mornings before the
traffic is allowed into the park. I love the trees there,” says Judith.

The couple feel clubs such as the Overseas Women’s Club (OWC) not only help expats find their way around the City. but help them settle down well.

“We’ve been to a few get-togethers of the OWC and I find the activities truly
enriching. My wife has also been a part of several activities,” he sums up.