India is cheap, cheerful and very easy to travel around when you get there. The people are friendly and helpful, the transport and cities are simple to navigate and the attractions and activities are foreigner-friendly. Two weeks in Rajasthan was enough to see that it is all in the preparation before you board the plane.
Sometimes monuments or buildings come with such high expectations that you can't help feel disappointed when you visit. The Taj Mahal is not one of these places. It was everything I expected and so much more. It was magnificent and I still can't believe I've actually seen it in the flesh.
Arriving into Sawai Madhoper was a breath of fresh air after the hustle and bustle of Jaipur. It felt a million miles away. Our time in this rural town was full of incredible safaris, dramatic storms and heaps of time to relax. It was just what we needed and we managed to see a range of wildlife across our 3 safaris.
Jaipur for me was a whirlwind and had many ups, a few downs and moments of pure confusion. We spent 3 days wandering around The Pink City, visiting palaces and forts, and taking in as much of this insane city as possible. There is so much to do, both in and out of the city, and it truly is a remarkable place. Where do I even begin with our stay here?
Our first impression of India's Blue City was a good one. Nestled amongst the tight streets and alleys in shades of blue, was our unique hostel and its rooftop, looking up at the imposing fort above. I was expecting pure chaos but Jodhpur has a tranquil side to it, only minutes from the main streets full of tuk tuks, mopeds and cows.
Our third and last full day in The White City was full of endless wandering around the busy streets, taking in the striking city from the middle of the lake, enjoying an incredible meal from a rooftop at sunset and immersing ourselves in the loud, colourful festival. Udaipur just kept on giving.
Udaipur was everything I expected and more. It was grand, full of exquisite architecture and littered with colourful fabrics, food and flora. What I didn't expect was to find some of the kindest people I've ever met, to feel relaxed and at ease quite so quickly, or to see cows sit at the top of the pecking order when it comes to road rules. No one is safer than a cow on an Indian road.
Letter 158 In just 1 week I will be taking my first of 4 flights over to India. It will not only be my first visit to India, but also to the continent of Asia, and I can't wait. Expect sunrises, temples, patterns and people. Also expect a very tired, sweaty Lou returning to the … Continue reading Our Rajasthani Roadtrip
Letter 157 In the space of a year, or 40 letters, my plans have completely changed. Plans for work, for living and, most importantly, for travel. It's strangely apt that I wrote letter 117 about my travel plans after university, and letter 137 about how they've changed and how much travel I would be doing … Continue reading My travel plans have COMPLETELY changed.
