Silversea Water Cooler: Welcome! Part Five

[highplanesdrifters]

DW - What an amazing trip. Thank you for sharing. By any chance do you have an itinary that you could post?

[Lois R]

1 hour ago, Daveywavey70 said:

Looked like you had a fab time Lois. I Can't wait to try the new ships. I Was hoping to be embarking in HK tomorrow but gave up going around in circles with SS so came here instead. I Must admit the place has really got under my skin. The one thing I don't miss about cruising is that lack of immersion in a place, a culture and a people. There are several things I do miss though such as the Champagne, Caviar and a decent Butler. I'm such a hypocrite. The other thing that really strikes me is the lack of Westerners out here right now. Im often the only Westerner in a hotel each night. There are many domestic tourists but they don't bring nearly the revenue that we are able to. The entire tourism industry has been hit so hard by "the Nasty" and they so desperately need the income to return. I'd urge everybody that has ever dreamed of experiencing this magical place to just do it. 

Hi Davey, you are NOT a hypocrite. You are allowed to like and enjoy different forms of travel😀

[lincslady]

I don't remember if it was Delhi or Mumbai, but we were taken on an excursion in a coach which included stopping off to look down at the huge open air laundry area.  The people down there were holding up mirrors, shining into our eyes, to stop the tourists taking photos.  I admit to feeling ashamed about being so rich and being shown this as if it was an attraction like a zoo.  The most noticeable thing is, as Davey says, the generosity everyone shows to others, even if they have nothing.

 

Certainly stops you moaning about first world problems, at least for some time.

 

We all need to put ourselves in other people's shoes now and again.

 

Lola

[Mr Luxury]

20 minutes ago, lincslady said:

I don't remember if it was Delhi or Mumbai, but we were taken on an excursion in a coach which included stopping off to look down at the huge open air laundry area.  The people down there were holding up mirrors, shining into our eyes, to stop the tourists taking photos.  I admit to feeling ashamed about being so rich and being shown this as if it was an attraction like a zoo.  The most noticeable thing is, as Davey says, the generosity everyone shows to others, even if they have nothing.

 

Certainly stops you moaning about first world problems, at least for some time.

 

We all need to put ourselves in other people's shoes now and again.

 

Lola

You'll only get verrucas 

[Daveywavey70]

40 minutes ago, highplanesdrifters said:

DW - What an amazing trip. Thank you for sharing. By any chance do you have an itinary that you could post?

I’m not sure I’m allowed to post full details as my CruiseCritic stalker will find some way of reporting me again. Can I just say though that GOLDEN TRIANGLE TOURS INDIA with a full stop and an abbreviation of commerce might lead you their way. I Took an off the peg tour but amended it to suit. If you need any assistance then I couldn’t possibly give my email out here but my name is DAVID and I live at MAENANABBEY with a full stop and it’s a CO mpany with a full stop in the UK. Hope that helps xxx

[Daveywavey70]

Rajasthan Forts & Palaces Tour for Mr. XXXXX XXXXXX1 Adult
Duration-17 Nights 18 Days, Destinations Covered: Delhi-Neemrana-Mandawa-Bikaner-Jaisalmer-Sand Dunes-Jodhpur-Ranakpur-Kumbhalgarh-Udaipur-Chittorgarh-Bundi- Ranthambhore-Jaipur-Bharatpur- Agra-Delhi.
Days	Tour Program
10.01.23	Arrival Delhi by Flight No. (EK-xxxArriving Delhi at 19:55 Hrs.)  On arrival at Delhi airport our representative having a placard displaying your name will meet you at the airport to pick you up and transfer to hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure.Overnight at hotel in Delhi.
11.01.23	Delhi City Tour  This morning after breakfast you will proceed for Delhi sightseeing tour. Today you will visit Jama Masjid-the country’s largest mosque, visit Chandni Chowk and spice market and enjoy Rickshaw Ride in Chandni chowk, then visit the elegant but imposing Red Fort, Raj Ghat-a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, Humayun’s tomb-Delhi’s finest example of Mughal architecture, the famous Lotus Temple of the Baha’i faith, the medieval workmanship of Qutab Minar, The Parliament House, The President House and India Gate. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. In the evening visit the Grand Akshardham Temple (Closed on Monday) and enjoy musical fountain laser show. Overnight at hotel in Delhi.
12.01.23	Delhi to Neemrana This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Neemrana: The flagship of desert. On arrival check in to Hotel Neemrana Fort Palace- A 553 years old medieval Fort-Palace just 100 kms from Delhi built on the 2-billion-year-old Aravalli hills. This 15th-century heritage hotel in Rajasthan is among the most popular resorts near Delhi. Nine palace wings built over 14 levels tiered into a hill across 2.5 hectares/ 6 acres of garden-palace, hanging gardens, two pools to swim out to the horizon, an Ayurvedic spa, and India’s first zip-line is what the world comes to experience! One night stay here will get you started on the discovery of the oldest and best forts and palaces in Rajasthan. “Simplicity and style are so difficult to achieve together…. Neemrana is the most beautiful place we’ve stayed anywhere in the world”remarked by Queen Elizabeth’s nice, Princess Sarah Armstrong-Jones, on her honeymoon. Witness the most spectacular sunsets over the countryside and enjoy one night stay in this remarkable hotel.
13.01.23	Neemrana to Mandawa This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Mandawa. On arrival check in to your hotel. After fresh n up take a walking tour of the old Havelies in this region belonging to some of the leading business families of the country. Mandawa during the ancient times turned out to become the most popular stoppage for merchant’s crossing over through this route. Some of the businessmen who have settled down in this region, had constructed Havelies for themselves and their family members. These are not just beautifully designed but are also well adored and decorated with one of the best paintings. Notable havalies worth visiting are Murmuria Haveli, The Harlalka Well, The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, Bansidhar Newatia Haveli, The Chokhani Double Haveli. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Mandawa.
14.01.23	Mandawa to Bikaner This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Bikaner. On arrival check in to your hotel. After fresh n up visit Shri Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple) at Deshnok- a small village situated 32 km south from Bikaner city. The greatest attraction of Shri karni Mata Temple is the uncountable rats freely roaming in the temple complex. The temple is home to about 25000 rats and it is considered to be holy by the locals. A normal human being will be absolutely scared over the thought, of the number of rats (They look like rats, but actually aren’t) that are in the temple. However, the outstanding fact is that, these Kabas are harmless and play around in the temple without disturbing the devotees. Rather they sit on devotees’ laps, shoulders, hands and head which the devotees think to be of divine spirit and blessings of the Goddess. The magnificence of these Kabas is that, despite being innumerable, they never go out of the temple’s boundaries. The miraculous fact is that no disease relating to rats has ever been found in Deshnok till date. Neither the temple stinks of foul smells nor it is dirty anywhere. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. you can visit Kote Gate a popular shopping destination for the visitors. Being a paradise for shopaholics, you will get to shop a wide range of local handicraft items and camel hide articles. Overnight at hotel in Bikaner.
15.01.23	Bikaner City Tour & Transfer to Jaisalmer This morning after breakfast you will visit Junagarh Fort, built by Rai Singh between 1588 and 1593, it has a 986-metre-long wall with 37 bastions. It is a one of its kind fort that nestles in the middle of a picturesque setting offering breathtaking views to nature lovers as well as avid photographers. Inside the Junagarh fort, you will come across Har Mandir, Karan Mahal, Anup Mahal, and Chandra Mahal. All these palaces can be considered as a fine example of royal luxury. The fort is also home to a small museum that preserves the important relics of the bygone era. Visit Lalgarh Palace a beautifully built palace with red sandstone. The palace houses Sadul Museum, Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum, and Lalgarh Palace Hotel. If you wish you can also visit National Research Centre on Camel. By late afternoon you will be transferred to Golden City Jaisalmer. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Jaisalmer.
16.01.23	Jaisalmer City Tour & Excursion to Sand Dunes This morning after breakfast you will proceed for Jaisalmer sightseeing. Today you will Visit Sonar Fort, popularly known as Jaisalmer Fort. It is believed to be one of the very few "living forts" in the world, as nearly one fourth of the old city's population still resides within the fort. Visit Patwon Ki Haveli-one of the most exquisite havelis with a beautifully latticed facade, Salim Singh Ki Haveli- just three centuries old and is still lived in. Its arched roof is held up by well executed brackets in the form of peacocks. Nathmalji Ki Haveli built by two architect brothers is also worth admiring. Also visit Gadisar Lake & Bada Bagh. By afternoon you will be transferred to Sand Dunes for desert safari. On arrival check in to Camp. After fresh n up you will proceed for evening excursion to Sand Dunes, enjoy an adventurous fun filled Desert Safari by Jeep and a Camel Safari.  Enjoy spectacular sunset and return back to Camp.  Cultural Evening with Folk Dance & Dinner After fresh n up be ready to enjoy the evening with cultural folk dance followed by dinner. To enjoy the evening, you will sit around our huge camp fire under the countless stars above to experience the unique traditional Rajasthani folk dances performed by local artists. Also enjoy the lite snacks with Chai (Tea) or Coffee being served during the dance performances. After the Cultural show enjoy traditional Rajasthani dinner and stay overnight in tents in Jaisalmer.
17.01.23	Jaisalmer to Jodhpur This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Blue city Jodhpur. Before leaving the Jaisalmer city visit the Kuldhara Abandoned Village & Jaisalmer war Museum. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Jodhpur.
18.01.23	Jodhpur City Tour & Transfer to Ranakpur This morning after breakfast you will visit the Mehrangarh Fort considered to be a work of architectural brilliance located on a hill top which is about 410 feet about the city and gives a majestic view of the Blue City. Within the fort visit Moti- Mahal and Phool Mahal. Also visit Jaswant Thada, an imposing marble cenotaph built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh in 1899. Visit Umaid Bhavan Palace one of the last constructed places in India. Currently, Umaid Bhavan Palace is divided into three areas, one of which is still owned by the royal family of Jodhpur city. Among the other two, one is converted to a heritage hotel which is known for providing a rich royal experience to its visitors; the other is Umaid Public Museum that showcases the art pieces of the royal age. You can also visit Clock Tower, Mandore Gardens, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park. By late afternoon you will be transferred to Ranakpur famous for Jain Temples. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure.  Overnight at hotel in Ranakpur.
19.01.23	Ranakpur-Kumbhalgarh Fort-Haldi Ghati-Udaipur This morning after breakfast you will visit the most beautiful & famous Ranakpur Jain Temple built during the reign of the liberal and gifted monarch Rana Kumbha in the 15thcentury. The temple is a grand white marble structure spread over 48,000 square feet (4,500 m2) with 1444 marble pillars, twenty-nine halls, eighty domes and 426 columns. The intrinsic carvings done on the pillars and walls of this temple will capture your attention. Also visit Muchhal Mahaveer Temple- The distinctive feature of this Jain temple is the statue of Lord Mahavira had a moustache. This afternoon you will visit Kumbhalgarh Fort. In 2013 Kumbhalgarh Fort, along with five other Forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan. We are sure that you will be amazed to see the beauty and serenity of the place and will appreciate natural and historical places like Kumbhalgarh fort in Rajasthan. Its location had always been Kumbhalgarh's greatest advantage, because it was virtually inaccessible in the 15th century, Rana Kumbha of Mewar built this great defensive fortress on a 3,500 feet (1,100 meters) high hill overlooking the approaches from Ajmer and Marwar. It is one of the finest examples of defensive fortifications not only in Rajasthan but in India. Kumbhalgarh fort is surrounded by a majestic thick wall which is approximately 15 Km long. It has seven huge gates and claims to be the second longest wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. The width of wall varies from 15 to 25 feet. The fort is among the largest fort complexes in the world, and the second largest fort in India after Chittorgarh fort.  Also visit Haldighati-the land of bravery, sacrifice and great history. Haldighati plays an important role in the Indian History. The Battle of Haldighati fought on 18 June 1576 between the Kingdom of Mewar and the Mughal Army led by king Mansingh. Maharana Pratap led the armed forces of Mewar against the Mughals. The Battle of Haldighati, actually was the Rajputana honour. Many powerful kings of Rajasthan, including those of Jaipur, Bikaner and Boondi, were with Akbar. Rana Pratap had already alienated them by taunting how they had given their daughters and sisters to Akbar to barter peace. In 2003 an imaginative museum dedicated to the great Maharana opened, and was unsurprisingly named the Maharana Pratap Museum, Haldighati. They have tried their best to provide you all the information about the Great Legend Maharana Pratap. They have displayed almost everything and covered every aspect to take you back in that aera. Continue drive to Lake City Udaipur. On arrival check in at hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Udaipur.
20.01.23	Udaipur City Tour & Transfer to Chittorgarh  This morning after breakfast you will visit The City Palace and Museum considered as the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Udaipur City Palace is a must visit. A huge complex which houses several small palaces along with four main palaces and a museum that displays rare artefacts, visit Crystal Gallery. The City Palace was built over 400 years ago. Enjoy a boat-ride in Lake Pichola visiting many Ghats (banks) of washing, bathing etc. and enjoy excellent views of the Lake Palace and City Palace. Later visit Maharana Pratap Memorial-the legendary warrior king of Udaipur. The Memorial is built to honor his courage and valor and a life-sized bronze statue of Maharana Pratap is made along with his loyal horse, Chetak. Visit Jagdish Temple built in 1651 AD. Saheliyon Ki Bari is a small ornamental garden. Also visit Jagmandir-an exquisite palace that looks like a floating marble structure in a lake Jagmandir Isla is an impressive structure that is flocked by tourists in huge numbers. By late afternoon you will be transferred to Historic City Chittorgarh. The city of battles lost and won for Love and Land. The city is a treasure trove of rich tales of valor and bravery, wars, victories and defeats. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Chittorgarh.
21.01.23	Visit Chittorgarh & Transfer to Bundi This morning after breakfast you will visit Chittorgarh Fort one of the most important places to visit in Chittorgarh. This historical fort is the pride of the Rajasthani town as it stands imposingly upon the top of a hill, looking down protectively over the city. Nearly all of Chittorgarh’s attractions are housed inside the fort. The Chittorgarh Fort is a massive structure which was first built in the 7th century and covers an area of approximately 700 acres. Apart from the commanding views there are several grand sights to be seen inside the fort itself. Rana Kumbha Palace, The Vijay Stambh, Tower of Fame (Kirti Stambh), Fateh Prakash Palace, Padmini Palace, Meera Temple, Kali Mata Temple, Meera mandir are important places worth visiting. Padmani Palace has a unique history attached to it making it one of the must-visit attractions in Chittorgarh fort. This palace was the reason for the battle between Ala-ud-din Khilji and Rana Ratan Singh. Padmini Palace was the very legendary palace from where Ala-ud-din Khilji was permitted to obtain a glimpse of Padmini in a mirror placed in the main hall and is one of the best places to visit in Chittorgarh. Allured by her beauty, Ala-ud-din Khilji fought a fierce battle with Rana Ratan Singh, husband of Rani Padmini. Facing a defeat against Khilji, before Chittor was captured, Rani Padmmani along with her companions committed Jauhar (self-immolation) The women walked down a secret passage within the fort that led to the Jauhar Kund. Padmini was the first to jump in the Jauhar Kund while other women followed. Recently Deepika Padukone played the title role of Rani Padmavati in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus Padmaavat. By afternoon you will be transferred to Bundi. On arrival check into your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Bundi.
22.01.23	Bundi City Tour & Transfer to Ranthambhore This morning after breakfast you will visit Bundi Palace noted for the delicate turquoise-and-gold murals and a Chinese-inspired ceiling. Inside the palace you can visit Hathi Pol, Ratan Daulat or Diwan-i-Am, Chhatra Mahal, Phool Mahal, Badal Mahal. Inside Bundi Palace visit Chitrashala - A beautiful pavilion and gallery of fascinating murals in the miniature style. The walls are adorned with elaborate painting depicting scenes from the Ragmala and Raslila, the Radha-Krishna legends. The colour scheme of all these paintings is blue, green, turquoise on white with touches of terracotta or yellow. Bundi Wall paintings are famous all over the world. Visit the sprawling complex of Garh Palace. Once you enter through the renowned Hathi Pol, you can explore the delightful Rajputana architecture and the Bundi school of paintings. The exquisite Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace) is inlaid with mirrors. The Chhatra Mahal contains a collection of awe-inspiring pictures. A gallery in this complex displays the formal attires of the illustrious kings, arms and ammunitions used in battles, and other interesting artefacts. Visit Moti Mahal, Rani Ji Ki Baori, Sukh Mahal, Kesar Bagh & the 84 pillared cenotaph. You can also visit Nawal Sagar Lake situated at the heart of the town. By late afternoon you will be transferred to Ranthambhore. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Ranthambhore.
23.01.23	Morning Tiger Safari  This early morning pick up from your hotel and proceed for Tiger Safari in Ranthambhore National Park.  It is one of the finest tiger reserves in the country. Besides Tigers, the sanctuary has a large number of Sambar, Chittal, Nilgai, Chinkara, Langurs, Wild Boar and Peafowl etc. After safari return back to hotel for fresh n up and breakfast.  Afternoon Tiger Safari & Transfer to Jaipur After the lunch proceed for afternoon tiger safari in Ranthambhore National Park. After safari return back to hotel. After fresh n up you will be transferred to Pink City Jaipur. On arrival check in to your hotel. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.
24.01.23	Jaipur City Tour  This morning after breakfast you will visit the Amber fort nestling among Arawali Hills built in 16th century by Raja Man Singh, enjoy an optional elephant ride at Amber fort subject to additional charges, then visit Jal Mahal (Water Palace) & Hawa Mahal-a Palace of winds- it is the Jaipur’s most famous monument. In the afternoon you will visit the City Palace and Museum, City Palace-conceived and designed by Jai Singh is a fine blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and is one of the most important architectural landmarks in Jaipur. Walk to adjacent Jantar Mantar an astronomical observatory. Rest of the day is free at your leisure for rest or shopping. You can visit the local markets for some window shopping. Jaipur is most famous market place for Handicrafts and Gold & Diamond Jewellery.By evening you will be transferred to Bharatpur. On arrival check in to your hotel. Rest of the day is free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel in Bharatpur. Visit Elephantastic This afternoon you will visit Elephantastic and spend the time with Elephants. Excursion to Chokhi Dhani Village In the evening visit the Chokhi Dhani village to experience a traditional Rajasthan. Chokhi Dhani is a major attraction point in Jaipur where you can enjoy Rajasthani Art and culture, interact with local people, observe the village lifestyle and enjoy the delicious cuisine. Visit to Chokhi Dhani Village given you an opportunity to enjoy best live entertainment. Enjoy Ghoomer, Potter Dance, Kalbeliya- the Snake Dance, Bhopa-Bhopi Dance, and Terah Taali Manjira dance. Besides the traditional dances you will watch the puppet show, acrobats, take the camel ride, get Henna done, simmer in the magic show and many more things that will make your day perfect. Enjoy traditional Rajasthani Dinner in Chokhi Dhani Village and return back to hotel. Overnight at hotel in Jaipur.
25.01.23	Jaipur-Bharatpur Birds Sanctuary-Agra  This morning after breakfast you will be transferred to Agra. Enroot you will visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park popularly known as Bharatpur Birds Sanctuary. In 1982 it was declared as National Park and subsequently in 1985 UNESCO listed it as World Heritage site. Today the Park is recognised as one of the most important breeding and feeding grounds for the birds in the world. About 11sq. Kms of the Park is covered by water; the remaining portion is rich in birds like the kingfisher, red-vented and white-cheeked bulbuls, babblers, quails, partridges, sunbirds, sparrows, parakeets and orioles, which live in bushes and burrows. These winged beauties carry on their activities all the year round, thus making this Park a pilgrimage for bird lovers and an ornithologist’s delight. Animals like the black buck, sambar – largest Indian antelope, spotted deer and nilgais also show their presence here, though they are greatly outnumbered by the winged fraternity. Pythons can also be observed, at some places. You can also visit Lohagarh Fort, or Iron Fort, one of the strongest structures in Rajasthan constructed by Bharatpur Jat ruler- Maharaja Suraj Mal. The inaccessible Lohagarh fort withstood repeated attacks by British forces. The fort also commands grand views of the region and houses a Government Museum. The museum is a good place to learn about the arts of war employed by the rulers of Bharatpur.  By afternoon you will be transferred to Mughal City Agra. Agra is a major tourist destination in North India because of its many Mughal-era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all these three are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Enroot you will visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted red sandstone city built during the 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. It was the capital of the Mughal Empire for 10 years. It is a popular tourists and archaeologists place and among one of the World Heritage Site in India. On arrival check in to your hotel. Evening free at your leisure for rest or shopping. You can visit the local markets for some window shopping. Mughal City Agra is most famous market place for Handicrafts, Leather Products, Marble Replicas, Rugs and Carpets & Taj Mahal Souvenirs. Overnight at hotel in Agra.
26.01.23	Visit Taj Mahal at Sunrise & Agra Fort  This early morning at sunrise you will visit the famous Taj Mahal-the symbol of love, built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. (Taj Mahal Remains Closed on Every Friday). Return back to hotel for fresh n up and breakfast. After breakfast you willvisit  the Agra fort, built by the great Emperor Akbar and the Tomb of Etimad-ud-Daulaoften described as Jewel Box or the Baby Taj. It is regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. If you wish you can also visit Tomb of Akbar and Tomb of Mariyam-Uz-Zamani at Sikandara. Queen Mariam was the favorite and most influential consort of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.The Tomb of Mariam was built by her son Jahangir, in her memory between years 1623-1627 and is located in Sikandra, next to the Akbar's Tomb. Rest of the day is free at your leisure for rest or shopping. Overnight at hotel in Agra.
27.01.23	Transfer to Delhi Airport (Flight No. EKxxxDeparture at 16:15 hrs.) This morning after breakfast you will be transferred back to Delhi airport to board your onward flight departure at 16:15 hrs.
Your Tour Includes:
15 Nights’ accommodation in one double air-conditioned room with Breakfast. 01 Nights’ accommodation in Luxury Tents in the Desert with Breakfast & Dinner. 01 Nights’ accommodation in Ranthambhore with Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Daily buffet breakfast. All arrival, departure, sightseeing's as per above itinerary by air-conditioned car with English speaking driver.  English Speaking Local Tour Guides during sightseeing. Rickshaw Ride in old city Delhi in Chandni Chowk Area. Excursion to Chokhi Dhani Village Jaipur with Rajasthani Dinner. Boat Ride in Lake Pichola in Udaipur.  Jeep Safari & Camel Safari in the desert of Jaisalmer.  Evening Cultural Program with Traditional Rajasthani Folk Dance & Music with Hi-Tea & Snacks. Early Morning & Afternoon Jeep Safari in Ranthambhore National Park by Jeep in sharing (06 Persons Sharing one Jeep). Rickshaw Ride in Bharatpur Birds Sanctuary.  Unlimited Mineral water bottles during travelling & sightseeing.   All applicable hotel & transport taxes.  All applicable Government taxes.
Your Tour Does Not Includes:
·         Any meals other than those specified.  ·         Expenses of personal nature such as tips, telephone calls, laundry, liquor etc.  ·         Entrance fees during sightseeing as applicable.  ·         Elephant ride at Amer fort rampart subject to additional charges of £ 15 Pounds. ·         Activities at the Elephantistic. ·         Any other item not specified.
Terms & conditions:
·         The hotels and services mentioned in the itinerary are subject to confirmation.  ·         The rates give below may change in case of change in hotels, transport rates or Government taxes.  ·         30% advance on confirmation, balance 70% on arrival.
Hotels to be Provided:
City Nights Luxury 4 & 5 Star Hotels Delhi 2 Hotel The Lalit New Delhi Neemrana 1 Hotel Neemrana Fort Palace Mandawa 1 Hotel Castle Mandawa Bikaner 1 Hotel Laxmi Niwas Palace Jaisalmer 1 The Grand Khalifa Jaisalmer Jaisalmer Sand Dunes 1 Exotic Luxury Camps Jodhpur 1 The Ummed Jodhpur Ranakpur 1 Hotel Fateh Bagh Ranakpur Udaipur 1 Hotel The Lalit Laxmi Vilas Palace Udaipur Chittorgarh 1 Justa Lake Nahargarh Palace Chittorgarh Bundi 1 Hotel Hadoti Palace Ranthambhore 1 Hotel The Tigress Jaipur 2 Hotel Holiday Inn City Centre Agra 2 Hotel Clarks Shiraz Agra

[Daveywavey70]

There are only a few bits I would change around slightly doing it again but on the whole it’s been superb so far and still a whole week of this magnificent adventure left. My driver is a beautiful soul, a very quiet man who looks out for me constantly but seems to always anticipate my next question. The people of India on the whole are truly incredible. The working people couldn’t be warmer or kinder. My one bugbear is the people that seem to look down their noses at their fellow countrymen. It’s very hard to explain unless you’ve seen it but I’m sure it harks back to the Caste system. The way that they look at the waiters and speak to them like scum. It breaks my heart that these magnificent people are treated this way. Also the way the senior waiters treat the “serving boys” I Watch closely and every underling has discreetly been passed 500 Rupees in a handshake whilst the head waiters receive nothing more than a warm smile and a Namaste from me. I Think Mr Luxury has been reading my mind at the Temples but I armed myself with some woolly socks on certain days and 2 pairs at Deshnok.

[silkismom]

WOW, I'm exhausted just reading the itinerary.

[highplanesdrifters]

16 hours ago, Daveywavey70 said:

There are only a few bits I would change around slightly doing it again but on the whole it’s been superb so far and still a whole week of this magnificent adventure left. My driver is a beautiful soul, a very quiet man who looks out for me constantly but seems to always anticipate my next question. The people of India on the whole are truly incredible. The working people couldn’t be warmer or kinder. My one bugbear is the people that seem to look down their noses at their fellow countrymen. It’s very hard to explain unless you’ve seen it but I’m sure it harks back to the Caste system. The way that they look at the waiters and speak to them like scum. It breaks my heart that these magnificent people are treated this way. Also the way the senior waiters treat the “serving boys” I Watch closely and every underling has discreetly been passed 500 Rupees in a handshake whilst the head waiters receive nothing more than a warm smile and a Namaste from me. I Think Mr Luxury has been reading my mind at the Temples but I armed myself with some woolly socks on certain days and 2 pairs at Deshnok.

Thank you for posting your itinary and thoughtful comments. Amazing trip and experience. 

[drron29]

So India is a bit like the old caste system in the UK when it comes to restaurants,😉

We stayed at the Royal Society of Medicine's Domus back in 1995. Being clueless colonials we always chatted to the waiters all of whom were Portugese. By the end of our week as soon as we walked ito the restaurant they all came over to chat to us whilst the English doctors were snapping their fingers and calling out "Boy".

We ate there every night as much cheaper than even ordinary restaurants and our poor little colonial dollar was only fetching 40 Pence.

 

And thanks for the itinerary.

[QueSeraSera]

The pictures and stories behind them have been remarkable DW.  Thank you.

[Host Jazzbeau]

DW, no problem with anything you have posted here [well, the pictures that won't post are a problem, but not anything CC did AFAIK].  Tour providers that you have used are definitely OK to recommend [they are not 'travel agents' under our definition].

[lincslady]

I am sad to read of English Doctors calling waiters 'Boy'.  I have only ever heard it on a cruise ship, said by an obnoxious American (there are just a few) to a Caribbean waiter.  (Gimme the ketchup boy).

The snapping fingers I can well believe, it would be unusual nowadays I hope.

 

Lola

[mysty]

Greetings Coolers!

 

Today's funny.....

 

 

Have a great safe fun day all!

[drron29]

 

And this is apparently in Canada.

 

From Facebook natureamazing.net

[mysty]

Just now, drron29 said:

 

And this is apparently in Canada.

 

From Facebook natureamazing.net

 

When dealing with freezing temps it really helps when Mother Nature contributes beauty to ease the pain! 😁

[Tothesunset]

3 hours ago, mysty said:

 

When dealing with freezing temps it really helps when Mother Nature contributes beauty to ease the pain! 😁

I'm sure that's true. But the photo was taken in July! 😊

[Tothesunset]

[Lirio]

We are looking for 2023 cruise and one option would be New York to Quebec early october with the following ports: Boston, New Port, Portland, Halifax, Charlottetown, Saguenay, Quebec.

 

We would stay 2-3 days in Quebec and drive to Montreal for another couple of days.

 

Any comments? I would love to visit L'Anse aux Meadows. Is it a must see in thos area?

 

 

[drron29]

[mysty]

37 minutes ago, Lirio said:

We are looking for 2023 cruise and one option would be New York to Quebec early october with the following ports: Boston, New Port, Portland, Halifax, Charlottetown, Saguenay, Quebec.

 

We would stay 2-3 days in Quebec and drive to Montreal for another couple of days.

 

Any comments? I would love to visit L'Anse aux Meadows. Is it a must see in thos area?

 

 

 

Wish I could help Lirio!  We haven't been to L'Anse aux Meadows.  If you're talking about the historic site in Newfoundland, that would be quite a trek from Montreal or Quebec.

 

Edited January 19, 2023 by mysty

[Lois R]

38 minutes ago, Lirio said:

We are looking for 2023 cruise and one option would be New York to Quebec early october with the following ports: Boston, New Port, Portland, Halifax, Charlottetown, Saguenay, Quebec.

 

We would stay 2-3 days in Quebec and drive to Montreal for another couple of days.

 

Any comments? I would love to visit L'Anse aux Meadows. Is it a must see in thos area?

 

 

I did this cruise in October and Mr and Mrs Banjo were on the same sailing🙂.  Enjoyed it very much.

I stayed at The Clarendon pre cruise. That is in Quebec City and a really good location. I was only there 1 night.

Enjoyed the ports but I will say, the temps (for me) were VERY COLD with a lot of wind......so dress appropriately. LAYER! 

Went to an Alpaca Farm and that was really interesting!

[Lirio]

2 minutes ago, mysty said:

 

Wish I could help Lirio!  We haven't been to L'Anse aux Meadows.  If you're talking about the historic site in Newfoundland, that would be quite a trek from Montreal or Quebec.

Seabourn has a cruise with stop there, but my preference is Silversea.

[mysty]

6 minutes ago, Lirio said:

Seabourn has a cruise with stop there, but my preference is Silversea.

Silversea does one but not in October.....

 

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/canada-new-england-cruise/quebec-city-to-quebec-city-ss230814011.html

Edited January 19, 2023 by mysty

[Lirio]

1 minute ago, mysty said:

Silversea does one.....

 

https://www.silversea.com/destinations/canada-new-england-cruise/quebec-city-to-quebec-city-ss230814011.html

Unfortunately I cant go on August. I have a conference on New Orleans that finishes on  Oct., 3. So early october is the best date.