Archives for 2010

I’ve had this happen before, but never like this.

Apparently, the tourists touring India in June are predominately Indian. We were definitely in the minority at all of the tourist spots as light skinned Westerners… and in high demand. Nearly every time we paused during our trip, there was someone there with a special request, “Can I take a photo of you?”

I didn’t mind too much, but it certainly makes you feel silly.

The young men I understand. But the families… too funny. Parents were eager to have their children snuggle up next to me… or even asked me to pose with the entire family. I can’t begin to imagine how they will explain my presence in their family albums.

I wish I had a photo for every time it happened, but I think you get the idea.

xo, jill

Literally.

These are Molly’s attempts at capturing me and a sacred bull… on the street… in the dark.

xo, jill

A little father/son strife.

After lunch we headed over to Agra Fort, a massive red stone fortress overlooking the Taj. It qualifies as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is best described as a “palatial walled city”, says Wikipedia. I agree.

Agra Fort harbors an interesting father-son story… Aurangzeb, son of Shah Jahan (who built the Taj), overthrew his father and reportedly imprisoned him in a tower overlooking his beloved mausoleum until his death. Harsh.

We didn’t spend too much at the Fort due to the heat and an impatient taxi driver. He was eager to return to New Delhi before the big traffic rush.

Surprisingly, the car ride back to town was my favorite part of our trip to India. Dozing in the backseat, passing towns and countryside, all while listening to beautiful Indian music… it was a great travel moment.

xo, jill