Travel

Join A South African Adventure With Indus Travels

March 25, 2024 by Roderick Thedorff

South Africa, a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled wildlife, beckons adventurers from around the globe. Nestled at the southern tip of the African continent, this diverse country offers an array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s passion. From thrilling safaris across vast savannas to immersing oneself in vibrant city life, a journey through South Africa is a tapestry of unforgettable moments you’ll be talking about for years. Let’s delve into what makes this journey a must for any avid explorer.

Safari Splendor:

One of the highlights of the trip is undoubtedly the safari experience while exploring Kruger National Park. Picture yourself traversing the untamed wilderness, where the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—roam freely throughout the 20,000 square kilometer park. Every game drive is different, but each a treasure trove of encounters with majestic creatures against the backdrop of stunning landscapes. Whether witnessing a lioness tenderly caring for her cubs or marveling at a herd of elephants bathing in a watering hole, the safari experience is sure to give you memories that last a lifetime.

Cultural Immersion:

South Africa’s cultural tapestry is as diverse as its wildlife. The trip offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the country through a visit to the largest city in South Africa. Explore the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, see the historical landmarks the city has to offer and savor their traditional cuisine. You will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself into the heartbeat of South African culture during your visit to Soweto. The city is home to more than 2 million people who will give you a true sense of the word community. Of course, visiting the historical capitol city of Cape Town will only enhance your experience.

Breathtaking Landscapes:

From the summit of the legendary Table Mountain to the dramatic coastline of the Cape Peninsula, South Africa’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring. The trip takes you on a journey through diverse landscapes, each more captivating than the last. Stand in awe at Kirstenbosch, the beautiful botanical garden at the foot of Table Mountain, or visit the penguins of Boulder’s Beach. Whether you decide to take the optional tours, or stay with the group, every moment is a postcard-worthy memory in the making.

Wine Tasting Delights:

No trip to South Africa is complete without indulging in its world-renowned wine culture. Journey through the picturesque vineyards of the Cape Winelands, where centuries-old estates produce some of the finest wines in the world. From robust reds to crisp whites, savor the flavors of South African terroir while soaking in the idyllic surroundings. Wine tasting sessions offer a delightful interlude, where every sip is a toast to the artistry of winemaking and the beauty of the land. This optional tour is a daylong affair, for the wine connoisseur.

Adventure at Every Turn:

For the thrill-seekers, South Africa offers an abundance of adrenaline-pumping activities. Take the plunge with a cage dive alongside great white sharks or climb the side of Table Mountain in a cable car. Even the safari offers a thrill you won’t get any other way. Whatever your appetite for adventure, South Africa delivers an experience that will leave you exhilarated and craving more.

Embarking on the South Africa Adventures trip offered by Indus Travels promises an odyssey like no other. It is a journey of discovery, immersion, and unparalleled beauty. From the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park to the vibrant pulse of its cities, South Africa captivates the senses at every turn. Whether marveling at majestic wildlife on safari, immersing oneself in rich cultural traditions, or indulging in the finest wines, every moment is a testament to the country’s boundless allure. Embark on this adventure of a lifetime and uncover the magic of South Africa—one unforgettable experience at a time.

Witness the Heartwarming Stories at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka

September 22, 2023 by Roderick Thedorff

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka is a haven for injured and orphaned elephants.

Have you ever dreamed of getting up close and personal with elephants? If so, then a visit to the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela, Sri Lanka, should be at the top of your bucket list. This incredible sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the rehabilitation and conservation efforts aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures.

Where is The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage?

Located just a short drive from the city of Kandy, the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela is a haven for injured and orphaned elephants. Established in 1975, this sanctuary is now home to over 80 elephants, making it one of the largest captive elephant populations in the world.

The primary goal of the orphanage is to care for and rehabilitate elephants in need. Many of the elephants at the orphanage have been rescued from various unfortunate circumstances, such as abandonment, injuries from traps or conflicts with humans. Here, they receive proper medical care, nutrition, and a safe environment to heal and thrive. It’s truly heartwarming to see these beautiful creatures being given a second chance at life.

See Elephants In Sri Lanka

Visitors to the Elephant Orphanage can witness the herd of elephants in their natural habitat, engaging in their daily activities. Watching these majestic animals roam freely, bathing in the nearby river, and socializing with one another is an awe-inspiring experience. You can also observe the feeding sessions, where the elephants are given a nutritious diet of fruits, vegetables, and specially formulated supplements.

For those seeking a more intimate encounter, the orphanage offers a unique opportunity to bottle-feed the baby elephants. This is an incredibly special experience, as you get to witness the close bond between the caretakers and these adorable creatures. Just be prepared for a bit of slobber!

In addition to the daily activities, the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela also provides valuable education and outreach programs to raise awareness about elephant conservation. Through these programs, visitors can learn about the importance of preserving these animals and the efforts being made to protect their natural habitats.

Help Contribute To Animal Welfare

Supporting the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela is not only a chance to witness these incredible animals up close, but also an opportunity to contribute to their well-being. By visiting and paying an entrance fee, you are helping to fund the care and rehabilitation efforts of these elephants. It’s a meaningful way to make a difference and support the conservation of these magnificent creatures.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, a visit to the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela is a must. Not only will you have a chance to witness the remarkable work being done to protect these gentle giants, but you’ll also create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your camera and prepare for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for these majestic creatures and their conservation. To find out more contact us today at 416-818-1423 or henry@talkofthetowntravel.com.

Exploring Moroccan Cuisine: From Tagines to Mint Tea, a Foodie’s Paradise

August 14, 2023 by Roderick Thedorff

Looking to embark on a culinary adventure? Look no further than the vibrant and diverse cuisine of Morocco. With its rich history and flavorful ingredients, Traditional Moroccan cuisine offers a tantalizing experience that will leave foodies craving for more. From aromatic tagines to refreshing mint tea, this country in North Africa is a true paradise for gastronomy enthusiasts.

One of the defining features of Moroccan cuisine is its unique blend of flavors and spices. Influenced by its geographic location and historical interactions with various cultures, Moroccan dishes combine elements from Arab, Berber, and French cuisines. This fusion creates a harmonious symphony of taste and texture that is truly remarkable.

What Is A Tagine?

One cannot delve into the world of Moroccan cuisine without mentioning the iconic tagine. Named after the clay pot in which it is cooked, a tagine is a hearty slow-cooked stew that is bursting with flavors. The Moroccan tagine can be made with a variety of ingredients, ranging from succulent meats like lamb or chicken to vegetarian options such as chickpeas and vegetables. What sets the tagine apart is the perfect balance of spices like cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, and saffron, which infuse the dish with an aromatic charm.

While tagines steal the spotlight, Moroccan cuisine has much more to offer. Numerous dishes are often served with couscous, a versatile grain that serves as a food base in Moroccan households. Whether it is paired with tender lamb or adorned with a medley of vegetables, couscous acts as a canvas for the bold flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Moroccan Pastries

In addition to savory dishes, Moroccan sweets are a must-try for any food enthusiast with a sweet tooth. From delicate almond pastries known as pastilla to honey-soaked pastries like chebakia, the Moroccan dessert scene is a feast for the senses. Not to be missed is the quintessential Moroccan treat, the traditional mint tea. Served in ornate glasses, this refreshing beverage is a blend of green tea, fresh mint leaves, and a generous amount of sugar. The ritual of pouring the tea from a height adds an element of theatrics to the experience.

To truly appreciate the depth and variety of Moroccan cuisine, it is essential to explore the local markets, known as souks. These bustling marketplaces offer a vibrant display of spices, fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients that are essential to Moroccan cooking. The lively atmosphere and the intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs and spices create an immersive experience that is sure to captivate any culinary enthusiast.

Morocco Real Food Adventure Tour

For those eager to delve even deeper into the secrets of Moroccan cuisine, check out our 12-day Morocco Real Food Adventure tour. This trip provides an authentic experience of Moroccan food to try, including a home-cooked dinner, hands-on cooking classes, and a special opportunity to meet local goat’s cheese producers in Chefchaouen. From Casablanca, to Fes, the M’Goun Valley, Marrakech and more, this is one journey you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply someone looking to broaden their culinary horizons, exploring authentic Moroccan cuisine is an adventure worth embarking on. From the fragrant flavors of tagines to the enchanting experience of sipping mint tea, this North African country offers a gastronomic journey that promises to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure in the land of vibrant spices and exquisite flavors.

Everything You Need To Know About Intrepid’s Peru: Women’s Expedition Tour

January 28, 2023 by Roderick Thedorff

The Republic of Peru, or just Peru as it is more commonly known, is a country in South America known for its arid plains, tropical Amazon rainforest and the peaks of the Andes mountains. It’s a diverse country, which is the 19th largest in the world. It’s a country visitors enjoy exploring, and now Intrepid is offering an all-female expedition to the Peru for an 8-day adventure that will open your eyes to a different way of living.

The Places You’ll See

No trip to Peru would be complete without visit the capital city of Lima, which is where your adventure begins. You’ll visit the historic downtown where you will see manor houses and grand churches. The Almeda Chabuca Granda park is the perfect place to pick up some tasty snacks at one of the many food stalls. In Cusco you will explore the spectacular Plaza de Armas, which is the heart of the city, complete with colonial and Inca buildings and beautiful churches. On your way to the Sacred Valley you will visit the small community of Umasbamba, and the Umasbamba Textile Museum and you will spend the night in the Inca site of Ollantaytambo. You will travel the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu, passing by ancient ruins, travelling through the Dead Woman’s Pass and seeing the snow-capped peak of Cordillera Vilcabamba. Visiting the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu is of course a highlight you won’t ever forget, after all it is one of the world’s most spectacular locales.

Things To Love

Not only will you get a lot of outdoor exercise on Intrepid’s Peru: Women’s Expedition, thanks in part to a four day trek along the Inca Trail, but you will be following in the footsteps of the Incas themselves. Part of the charm of the all-women tour is that you will be led by a female leader and accompanied by female porters. You will get to eat local food, learn traditional techniques such as weaving, and meet inspiring women. Of course visiting Lima and Machu Picchu are huge highlights, but hearing the history of the country from a female perspective is unique onto itself.

Things To Keep In Mind

The Peru: Women’s Expedition visits places that are at high altitude, which means thinner air. This can cause sickness, regardless of health or age. You will also be doing a lot of walking, meaning you need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this getaway. You also need to be aware that you will be camping along the Inca Trail, so you will only have access to basic facilities at times. You also need to make sure to pack proper footwear and clothing for a hiking trip. Machu Picchu also has regulations that must be followed when visiting, including a pre-determined route that only goes in one direction, and that once the tour is over you must leave the grounds. No solo exploration is allowed.

Due to the ongoing civil unrest in Peru, Intrepid has cancelled all departures up to the end of February and posted the following on their website: At Intrepid, the safety of our travellers, leaders and operators is a major priority. Since our very first days as a tour operator, travelling responsibly and safely has been at the heart of everything we do. With this in mind, we monitor world events very closely. Intrepid makes operational decisions based on informed advice from a number of sources.

Peru is a beautiful country, and thanks to Intrepid’s: Peru Women’s Expedition, you have a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit it. Click here, or contact us today to find out more.

Intrepid has been taking people on adventures around the world for over 30 years. They are a responsible business that is committed to their customers, making sure they are there for them every step of the way. Whether it’s their first adventure, or their tenth, Intrepid will always find ways for their travellers to experience something new. From new foods, to new learned skills, Intrepid takes people away from their home to have an experience of a lifetime. Along the way they make sure to respect the local communities and the environment of the places they visit, while bringing everyone closer together.

Why You’ll Love Intrepid’s Morocco: Women’s Expedition Tour

January 22, 2023 by Roderick Thedorff

The African Kingdom of Morocco is a diverse country that has a little bit of everything. From epic mountain ranges to massive deserts and ancient cities, every traveller will be able to find something to do there. It’s even more remarkable when the beaten path is left behind, and sites are seen that aren’t normally found in guidebooks. Intrepid is offering an all-female expedition to the remote and less-travelled areas of Morocco for a week long adventure that will be remembered for a lifetime.

The Places You’ll See

Explore Marrakesh, one of the four Imperial cities of Morocco. Here you will have the opportunity to see the lively town square of Djemaa el Fna, full of singers, drummers, fortune tellers and more, discover the Koutoubia Mosque, the tropical gardens of the French painter Jacques Majorelle, the Palais Bahia, the ruins of the Palais Badi, and the Saadian tombs in the Medina. You’ll journey to Bou Tharar village to enjoy Amazigh (Berber) music and a local traditional meal, as well as visit a farm. You’ll hike to Agouti Village where you will learn how to cook their local food. In Amejgag you will attend a weaving workshop, and in Issoumar village you will be regaled with traditional folk tales and play music with the local women.

Things To Love

Throughout your time in Morocco you will get a chance to find out what it’s like to be a woman in the country. You’ll be inspired by the stories of the locals, be guided by the M’Goun Valley’s first female guide who will bring the region to life and learn some new skills along the way. Of course during your hike between the remote villages, you will not only get some amazing exercise, but also be able to see some incredible views of the countryside and small villages you pass through. Throughout the entire trip, you will also get to taste some delicious local cuisine that you will be talking about for years to come.

Things To Keep In Mind

The Morocco: Women’s Expedition isn’t for everyone. From days 3-6 you will be walking anywhere between 4 to 7 hours a day. The terrain isn’t entirely flat either, as you will be walking along rocky and hilly surfaces that may be unstable at times. You’ll need to pack appropriate footwear and clothing, including a warm jacket and raincoat. You’ll also need to bring a sleeping bag, because some of your accommodations may not be heated. You will also be sharing rooms with some of your fellow female travellers during your trip, including bathroom facilities.

Morocco is an unbelievable country you will want to see with your own eyes. Travelling together with other female explorers is an opportunity of a lifetime you won’t want to miss, and Intrepid will take you there. Morocco: Women’s Expedition has multiple departures throughout 2023 & 2024. Click here, or contact us today to find out more.

What You Need To Know About The Iditarod

October 30, 2022 by Roderick Thedorff

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, also known as the Last Great Race on Earth, is a 1,000 mile long dog sledding competition.

Every year in March there is a special event that stretches across Alaska that people have heard about around the world, yet many don’t know a whole lot about. The event is called The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, also known as the “Last Great Race on Earth” and it’s a 1,000 mile long dog sledding competition that begins on the first Saturday of March and ends when the last team crosses the finish line in Nome, Alaska. Here are a few things you need to know about the Iditarod.

The Dogs Are Well Taken Care Of
Most of the over 1,000 sled dogs are Alaskan Huskies, and in order to compete, Veterinarians need to make sure they fit the standards of good health. Vets are stationed at checkpoints throughout the race in case they are needed, and along the way mushers can leave dogs with them for any number of reasons including injury, poor performance or going into heat.

The Race Doesn’t Start In Anchorage
Most people think that the Iditarod starts in Anchorage, but that isn’t the case. Anchorage is actually a ceremonial start. The real race begins in Willow, Alaska, which is an hour and a half drive north.

It’s Not As Old As You Think
The Iditarod may share some of the same trail as the Serum Run of 1925, as well as the mushers (the men or women that leads the dog team sled), dogs and checkpoints, but that’s as far as it goes. The race was started in 1973 by Joe Redington, Sr., who wanted to bring sled dogs back to the Alaskan lifestyle. He was also determined to get the Iditarod Trail declared as a National Historic Trail. He obviously succeeded, considering the 2023 version of the race will mark its 50th anniversary.

The Race Lasts For Days
The first Iditarod took over 20 days for the winner to cross the finish line. In 2017 however the current record was set at 8 days, 3 hours, 40 minutes and 13 seconds.

The Winner Doesn’t End The Race
Most races end when the first few people cross the finish line, but it’s not the case for the Iditarod. The last place musher is given the traditional red lantern, which is called the Widow’s Lamp. Back when sled dogs were used to deliver mail, roadhouses lit lamps to welcome them, and didn’t extinguish them until all mushers have reached their destination. As a sign of respecting that tradition, the Widow’s Lamp is lit in Nome at the start of the race, and given to the last place finisher. It doesn’t matter if a team finishes first, or last, in the middle of the day or night, crowds are always gathered to fire sirens and greet all the mushers.

You can be a part of the 50th anniversary of the Iditarod race by securing your spot on The Iditarod and Alaska’s Northern Lights vacation package. Contact us today to find out more.

Winter Blues Got You Down? It’s Time To Plan A Trip To The Greek Islands!

January 31, 2022 by Roderick Thedorff

When it comes to winter everyone thinks of taking the route of the snowbirds and heading south. After all, the key ingredients for a winter vacation typically include sun, beaches and as much heat as you can handle. It’s time to get the preconceived notion of what a winter vacation is out of your head however and consider taking a trip to the Greek Islands. There you will find more than a few things you aren’t expecting, including views you won’t see during the summer, for less than a trip to Greece would normally cost.

Winter lasts from early November until late March in Greece, and like most countries that recognize the season the weather is getting colder. The temperature can vary from 5°C to 15°C, with most days sunny and a few days of rain. You won’t see a lot of snow though, meaning hiking and cycling are great activities, even though it’s too cold for swimming.

Like any summer vacation destination, most of the tourists have left by the time winter rolls around, businesses focused on attracting tourists are closed and life for the locals has started to slow down. This mean you will get to see the people of Greece living their authentic lifestyle, instead of the one they show tourists. You’ll also find more home-cooked comfort food, which can be a real treat. While the ferries between the islands may not run as often during the winter, they do still run to allow you to take daily tours to wherever you’d please.

Some of the large and popular islands you should consider include Crete, Corfu, Santorini and Rhodes. Many people permanently live there, including university students, and you will find many more things to do on them during the winter than some of the smaller islands. This includes hotels and restaurants that close down on the smaller islands once the tourists have left. Crete has four main cities, the archeological site of Knossos, and plenty of hiking and cycling opportunities. Santorini is a wonder when you have it all to yourself, without having to push your way through crowds of tourists, and you will fall in love with some of the best views in all of Greece. If you are a wine lover you will find some of the best options in the world, and the food is well beyond anything you dreamed of. There are also plenty of museums to explore if it rains, or is just a little too cold. And if you want to learn how to cook some of the food you’ve enjoyed, there are cooking tours available for that too.

Winter on the Greek islands isn’t what many people imagine when they think of a winter vacation, but they should. It’s an amazing experience that will stay with you and keep you coming back for more.

If you’re ready to travel to the Greece Island, Henry can help. Contact him today henry@talkofthetowntravel.com or (416) 818-1423 today to find out how he can help you book your flights, hotels, and plan your itinerary.

My First Time In India

November 9, 2018 by Roderick Thedorff

In just three days I got to know India better than I had expected. Here’s how my journey went.

Everyone has different reasons for going on vacation. Some like to sit back and relax and enjoy being pampered at a resort. Others find a place away from home that they go to time and time again because it’s comfortable, yet still gives them a sense of home. And yet others like to go someplace they have never been before and learn about different cultures and meet the people. My trip to India was the latter as I’d always wanted to go there and my wish finally came true.

As with most tourists who visit India for the first time, I chose to travel the country’s most popular tourist route, The Golden Triangle. As I made my way from New Delhi, to Agra and Jaipur I explored some of the most famous monuments of the country, including the Taj Mahal, and quickly found myself immersed in India’s rich culture and history. In just three days I got to know the country better than I had expected. Here’s how my journey went.

Let the journey begin …

The Air Canada Dreamliner is a perfect name for a plane I slept on for most of the long flight. — The Air Canada Dreamliner is a perfect name for a plane I slept on for most of the long flight (photo courtesy of Air Canada)

Day 1: Of course the first part of any journey is getting to your destination, so after months of careful planning I found myself at the Toronto International Airport anxiously waiting for my 10:15 pm Air Canada flight to leave. I knew I was in for a long trip, as the flight itself is over 13 hours in length. The good thing about leaving late at night though is that you are already tired and can easily fall asleep and miss at least part of the long flight. When I finally landed at the Delhi International airport it was 9:35 pm the next day, and I easily made my way through customs and immigration. That of course was partly due to having a copy of my India Tourist e-Visa with me. After that I collected my luggage and met my friendly local representative in the arrivals hall who helped me get to The Oberoi hotel.

You will find yourself staring at the Tree of Life artwork in the foyer of The Oberoi for minutes on end

Before check-in at the Oberoi you will receive a friendly welcome from the staff. — Before check-in at the Oberoi you will receive a friendly welcome from the staff

This 5 star luxury hotel in New Delhi is only 45 minutes from the airport, and it has quite the history behind it. In case you weren’t aware, before he was well known to the world, Ismail Merchant (the Oscar nominated producer of such films as Howard’s End, A Room With A View and The Remains of the Day) treated the lobby of The Oberoi as an office of sorts. Other celebrities were known to frequent it as well, from Omar Sharif to Mick Jagger, The Beatles, fashion designer Giorgio Armani, and even heads of state such as Queen Mathilde of Belgium. There is something about these grand old hotels that you can’t find elsewhere, and The Oberoi is no different. From the beautiful works of art in the foyer, to the friendly welcome you get upon entering the building, you feel special and important, which is a luxury that seems to have been forgotten in a lot of places these days.

Discovering Delhi

Time for worship at the Judah Hyam Hall Synagogue. — Time for worship at the Judah Hyam Hall Synagogue

I led prayer services under the guidance of Mr Ezekiel I Malekar, Honorary Secretary. — I led prayer services under the guidance of Mr Ezekiel I Malekar, Honorary Secretary

Day 2: I woke up the next morning anxious to begin exploring, but since I was travelling during Yom Kippur I’d arranged to visit the local synagogue first. While there are only about seven to eight Jewish families living in the area on a regular basis, there are still many travellers, including diplomats, artisans and business people who need a place to worship, and the Judah Hyam Synagogue is where they do it. In the year 2007 over 12,000 visitors walked through the synagogue during their visit to New Delhi.

These Rickshaw drivers will gladly take you wherever you are going in Old Delhi

The Spice Market is an old-world wonder brought to life

Once the service was done, I met up with my driver and local guide, who took me for a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi. First up was the Chandni Chowk, also known as the Moonlit Market, where we explored the bustling bazaars. This market very quickly will give you a taste of local culture and Indian life. While there are a lot of options for eating street food, I was very cautious. I remembered an important tip about not getting sick: “Avoid any street food made using water that hasn’t been boiled.” You might end up spending more time in your hotel room than exploring if you give it a try.

Herbs and spices are available at amazing prices at Chandni Chowk

Cows are considered sacred in India, and freely roam. This one is on the Khari Baoli Road.

Dry fruit is a customary gift, and all sorts can be found from walnuts, almonds, figs, dates, blueberries and more.

What is more interesting about the market though are the bargains to be had. Everything from electronics, to spices, clothing, furniture and perfume can be found, but whatever you do, don’t pay the first price you are quoted. Try bargaining with the vendors to get a price you’re willing to pay.

The Red Fort can be seen in the distance

You can also see the Red Fort in the distance. This historical location, also known as Lal Qila, was the main residence of the Mughal dynasty for nearly 200 years, up to 1856. It was built by Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2007.

The ablution pool in the courtyard of the mosque

Our first stop after leaving the market was the Jama Masjid. This beautiful and impressive Mosque is a reminder of Mughal architecture and was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The buildings’ full name is Masjid-i Jahan-Numa, which means the mosque commanding view of the world, and it was built from red sandstone and white marble. It’s part of the impressive skyline in central Delhi and is considered to be the largest mosque in India.

The Gurdwara is the most prominent Sikh house of worship, situated in the heart of New Delhi's famous Connaught Place — The Gurdwara is the most prominent Sikh house of worship, situated in the heart of New Delhi’s famous Connaught Place

Hello from the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Check out those amazing marble tiles!

You will also want to visit the Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, as it is one of the most prominent Sikh houses of worship in Delhi. It’s well known for the pool inside its complex that is known as the Sarovar. Originally the building was built as one of nine small shrines in 1783 by Sikh General Sardar Bhagel Singh.

The Historical Cities of Agra and Jaipur

It’s hard to say goodbye at the Oberoi, but more adventure awaits!

All Aboard! The fastest train in India is getting me to Agra post haste!

Day 3: For my third day of my visit, I was up early and boarding the Gatimaan Express at the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station to Agra. This train is known as the fastest train in India, with speeds up to 160 km/hr. It manages the 188 km journey from Delhi to Agra in approximately 100 minutes.

Electric vehicles take us between the heritage buildings in Agra

Darwaza-i-rauza, the great gate to the Taj Mahal complex

The Taj Mahal makes me thank God for another day!

Of course when you first get to Agra, you need to check off visiting the Taj Mahal on your bucket list. This impressive building is a must for anyone visiting India. One thing I noticed immediately is that the Agra Development Authority uses battery operated vehicles to transport tourists between the heritage sites, which is perfect for helping fight the air pollution in Delhi. Areas of the Taj Mahal you will want to visit include the Darwaza-i-rauza, which is the gateway inner courtyard and gardens.

Beautiful marble sculptures can be seen throughout the Taj Mahal

Throughout the property keep your eyes open for the marble artwork, impressive lighting, and the amazing pools. It’s interesting to think that 52 years earlier a young, 23 year old guitarist named George Harrison (Yes, that George Harrison of the Beatles) and his wife Pattie visited this exact spot. They visited the Taj Mahal like any other tourist would, and snapped selfies, long before selfies were a common thing. Of course unlike George, I skipped the sitar lessons.

The traffic leaving Agra is just as bad as it was in Delhi

You can get your haircut on the street for a very reasonable price

As soon as you enter the Taj Jai Mahal Palace you feel like royalty

After leaving Agra I headed to Jaipur, where I would be staying at the Taj Jai Mahal Palace for the night. This stunning hotel was built in 1745 and is an impressive part of Rajasthan’s heritage. The Indo-Saracenic architecture is set among 18 acres of landscaped gardens. Three Prime Ministers of Jaipur have lived there during their time in office. The building wasn’t always a hotel, but it is now a luxury five-star Taj heritage hotel updated with all the latest comforts. From here you will get great views of the city as well as being close to main shopping areas and historical sites.

The Hawa Mahal palace has a lot of windows. Don’t you think?

While in Jaipur, you will want to visit Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. Made out of red and pink sandstone, this palace is on the edge of City Palace. Built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pretap Singh, the Hawa Mahal is a five-story building that looks like a beehive’s honeycomb from the inside. The unique design was meant to give royal ladies the chance to observe everyday life and festivals in the city without being seen, while also allowing cool air to blow through the building.

The Amber Fort gives a beautiful view of the countryside

Beautiful colonnades in the Public Audience Hall

Another monument you won’t want to miss is the Amber Fort. This was once the capital of the Jaipur state, and the residence of its Rajput rulers. Originally built in 1592, the structure has had many additions since then. Part of the fort is the Diwan-e-Aam, of Hall of public audience is a large hall supported by two rows of pillars. The hall is open on three sides, and the King used to sit in it to listen to queries from the common men.

I would love to check the Mirror Palace out at night to see if it really does feel like I’m under the stars!

Make sure to check out the mosaic glass works the building is famous for. The Sheesh Mahal, or the Mirror Palace is another part of the Amber Fort and it has been seen in many local movies. The walls and ceilings are decorated with carved flowers and paintings. The building was created to help women experience what it is like to sleep under the stars, since they weren’t allowed to sleep in open air. Just in front of the fort is Mughal Gardens. Located on Maota Lake, this garden is formed in a star shape, and you will find many beautiful flowering plants any time of the year.

One of the top five animal-themed excursions to avoid ... I chose to walk, the better way! — One of the top five animal-themed excursions to avoid … I chose to walk, the better way!

One thing worth noting is that you can ride an elephant as part of your tour. It’s something I chose not to do, and more and more people these days are doing the same thing. While tourists may envision riding an elephant as entertaining, you really need to think about the animal you are forcing to carry you around. There really is no such thing as a cruelty-free elephant ride. And though elephants can appear to be rather docile, they are still a wild animal, and because of that their behaviour can be very unpredictable. These animals get stressed very easily, especially when in captivity, thus making what you think will be an enjoyable time, extremely dangerous. Here’s how you can help.

If I’ve learned anything on this trip, it’s that the architecture is full of beautiful colours and designs.

Our final stop in Jaipur is the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. The City Palace was built between 1729 and 1732 under the reign of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, and additions have been made to it all the way up to the 20th century. The palace is the residence of the royal family of Jaipur, as well as a centre of patronage of arts and learning, a museum, and a place for worship.

You can’t come to India and not check out the carpets. I didn’t buy any, but maybe next time!

Here’s what I did get though: a lovely bracelet “direct-from-the-factory” — it was on my wishlist.

While I had always wanted to go to India, I didn’t really know how much fun I would end up having when I went there. That’s why I knew I had to see more, and very soon after my initial tour, I ended up checking it out once again.