Qutab New Delhi

I didn't expect to post again before the weekend, but we've been quite busy this week. On Monday, I went to Tibet House, a very small museum and bookstore. It was there that I met two young men (whose names I have forgotten), one from Quito and the other from Paris. They had been traveling throughout Northern India together and making one last stop before returning to their respective countries (too bad, it would have been great to share an evening meal, to include Shawn and hear about their ...

Back into the peace van, driven by "Deep", hand signals out 'shotgun' courtesy of his silent partner. Our guide from Compass "Kapil", was also there. Our first stop was "Jama Masjid", an Islamic mosque built by Shah Jahan. Outside, we were attacked by Indians hawking cheap wares. Inside the walls, both women and men had to have their legs covered - most of the group had to wrap cloth around their wastes. We saw people taking prayer in the hall to one side of the open area. Our second stop was...

Jennie and I separated from the rest of the group this day. They were headed (via peace van) to Jaipur, and she and I back to Delhi for one night. After some time at the Taj's pool, we met John (Compass) in the lobby and were transported to the Agra train station. This place was incredible - the best example yet of how many Indians live (although still those above poverty level). It was a madhouse... we were grateful that John stayed with us until the train came. We were the only white people...

Arrived Delhi airport, met by Raj from Compass Tours. Outside of airport was mobbed... cars lined up, 'porters' waiting to help you with your bags and away from your money. Four of us - Steffen, Alex, Jennie and myself, went with Raj into the "peace van" - an old tourister van with interior fabric (on ceiling and as curtains) that looked like material from the 70's. The ride to the hotel (at about 9:30 pm) was dark so we couldn't see much. Arrival at the Hotel Qutab - checked in, got settled....

Rajasthan Special Tour Package Number of Days: - 14 Days and 13 NightsDestinations Covered: - New Delhi – Jaipur – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Pushkar – Agra – New Delhi Day 01: New Delhi: Welcome to India!!! On arrival you will be received and transferred to your hotel. At New Delhi, evening to be used in shopping and visiting the local bazaars. India Gate Lotus Temple Day 02: New Delhi: After a leisurely breakfast move out for a daylong sightsee...