Tuesday, 31 January 2012

Carlys guide to India - The Golden Triangle


Our week in India was very interesting. Now that i am no longer there, i can say i am very glad that i included it in my travels but when i was there i could not wait to leave.
When we arrived in Delhi, we were both expecting a culture shock but could not believe just how much of one we got. From the man pissing up against a hostel, to being locked in a taxi until we gave them money, and to tuk tuk drivers ignoring you and taking you to random jewellery shops where they get commission, its safe to say we did not fall in love with Delhi. The only good thing about Delhi was that we met our driver Ravi there! I would not advise anyone to spend more than a night here.
Our trip then started to improve when we were in Ravis car driving (very quickly) away from the place and towards Agra - known most for being home to the Taj Mahal. This was an amazing experience and it was stunning to see and hear the story of the Taj. The weather was much better here too which made us even more happy! Apart from the Taj, theres not really much else to do in Agra so after one night we were off and headed towards Jaipur.
This was our favourite part of India - the people were nicer (slightly), it was cleaner and there was lots more to see. From the Amber Fort, Monkey Temple to drinking vodka in our hotel room we had a much better time here and the sights were very pretty! We spent three nights here and loved our hotel - Who knew we would love somewhere called Hotel Glitz? Haha! It was very nice, especially compared to what we were used to by now in India!
All in all im so glad i went to India as it was an amazing experience but i just couldnt handle being around such poor conditions, seeing people live in the slums and people with no arms begging for money was horrible. The poverty in India is unbelievable.
I dont think i could have managed the week without our lovely driver Ravi! He protected us and took us everywhere we wanted to, coming around with us even though he didnt have to. He made us feel much safer as for two young girls, it was quite scary. We have told him he needs to come to the UK so we can show him around everywhere and drive him around so hopefully we will see him again soon!

Finally, i will give a few handy tips for anyone thinking about going to India.
1. Expect to use over half of a bottle of anti bacterial gel in a week.
2. Stay as little as possible in Delhi.
3. Go to Jaipur and see the sights! Its much prettier.
4. Hire a driver, it is very cheap and the safest way to get around.
5. Watch where you walk, people piss anywhere and spit everywhere, even the women!

And that is my handy guide - i do apoligise if i offend anyone who loves India but im going to be honest about my stay! Some people may love it and want to stay months, but for me one week was enough!


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