In Canada sunny Sundays are when we head out for some climbing or lake swimming. Here in South India, sunny Sundays are about eating Birhyani and hiding in the shade. The 35 C+ afternoon heat is an energy drain. To stay cool on this blistering Sunday, we’ve taken our positions in front of our respective computers - Rik squashing bugs, Natalka getting Sugared and myself - bouncing between booking a room in Bangkok and learning more about the Golden Temple. The past three weeks have been rich. We’ve set up our office, hired 2 new programmers, taken 2 road-trips and joined in the full-moon walk (14km) around the mountain.

Initially, I set out to create a guide that other small businesses could follow to set up an offshore office. Instead I’ve discovered that establishing an office in India is not a linear process. We’ve faced various obstacles over the past few 3 weeks from power-outs, to hook-up delays, to crappy equipment and bowel troubles

Perhaps with some time and distance a step-by-step procedure may become more apparent. Up to now - our saving grace has been our relationship with Bala and his family. They have graciously welcomed us into their home and taken us under their wing. As I see it, if you’re thinking of setting up an office in India, the key is not “what” you do but “who” you know and their personal motivation to build a successful office and career.