Andy

This year I was planning to travel in December to Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. The main purpose was to visit the Tai Mahal. For many years I did not want to go, just for the situation of the poor and suffering people. Now I have travelled all over the world and I think I am ready for it. Only…<BR> What I read on the internet sites (newpapers) and guides appeared not to be promising. I read about the large piles or garbage in Delhi, the smell of it in the streets, the contagious illnesses of the people, the heat, the dirtiness of the streets, people who suffer in the streets?, the smog and filthiness of the air, the unreliability and dirtiness of airlines/trains, etc . And finally the prices you have to pay for good tours and clean an comfortable hotels. <BR>I am now really doubting if I want to see this all for a lot of money. I have to say I do like some form of comfort and cleanness when I travel. I did travel in China and did like it a lot, I experienced the people as friendly and so much was good organised. <BR>Can anyone give me his or hers experiences as a western tourist so I can make up my mind.<BR>

yipsy

I have been to Taj Mahal twice and I still would like to go there again! I am amazed by the architectural beauty <BR>of Taj Mahal. <BR><BR>Take a look @ this website. It provides a panorama view of the Taj Mahal. Seeing it in person is more satisfying<BR>http://www.taj-mahal.net/<BR><BR>Being a Singaporean, seeing all the beggars on the roads.. some without any limbs, makes me cherish and appreciate the life we have. I tend to complain lesser when I go back home. Once, I gave 10 rupees to a woman who was carrying a child. In a flash, at least 3 other women appeared from nowhere and asked for money! My advice is not to give them any money in the first place.<BR><BR>That's the realities of life isn't it? The rich in many countries are very rich and the poor is really in a bad state.

Indian Nomad

Hi Andy,<BR><BR>Do go to Delhi.... As per ur mail, u have travelled wide.... u have to see / experience everything is what I beleive in... Have a nice break and experience the difference....<BR>PS: Do not encourage begging... But donate not more than Rs. 5 to the handicapped (beggars)...

daneille

I don't think this is a question other people can easily answer for you. I travelled to India quite a few years ago and although things may have changed these are my observations: -<BR><BR>Firstly - India was my very first trip overseas so I was totally bowled over by the poverty, but I have now seen it in European countries too (albiet not quite as bad) so I don't think I would be so shocked by it now. <BR><BR>I did not like Delhi much at all and could not wait to get out of there, but Jaipur and Agra and most of India is beautiful and a completely different experience (though the poverty and the beggars are still there).<BR><BR>I loved India, it is an experience that you will never forget. The culture, the colour, the whole place is amazing. The prices compared to elsewhere should not worry you - it is a very cheap country to visit.<BR><BR>There are plenty of poor people, you can ignore them, which does become easy (believe me), you can decide to nominate an amount of money you will dole out each day, or you can give to one of the charity organisations upon your return.<BR><BR>I have felt more unsafe in the streets of Rome than I have ever felt in India.<BR><BR>India is a country that will shock and amaze you. It could be some of the best memories you have on any holiday, it could be some of the worst, but you certainly would never forget it. <BR><BR>I think as a traveller it is sometimes wonderful to experience things so different to our own everyday.

American in India

This concern sounds right up my alley. I was planning a trip with my brother to go for a month (this Jan) to India and travel at will. He's backed out so now I have to decide if I can bear a month alone in a place such as India. I have traveled a great deal in Western countries (and Mexico). I am 24 and am worried that the transition from my recreational activities being what they are (hanging out with friends, bars, TV) to what India has to offer may be a little much for me to handle. Any commiseration, advice? (Are there fun activities or is it all &quot;experiencing the cultural difference&quot...BTW I know I probably sound like an idiot but I've got to be honest to make a sound personal decision.

amy

Andy,<BR><BR>We just got back yesterday from an amazing 9-day trip to Delhi, Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur and Udaipur. Yes, it is hard to see all the sad faces of small children and disabled people begging for money, but you do learn to look away as handouts are discouraged and programs do exist to help people there.<BR><BR>I'd encourage you to go and if you want any more details of our trip, email me at [email protected].<BR><BR>American in India,<BR><BR>I applaud you for being upfront about your style and whether you will be happy spending a month in India. I honestly think that this is a country where you really have to be ready on an intellectual and spiritual level. I am not suggesting that you are too young, but perhaps you would appreciate it more at another time. As far as bars go, they are mostly in the nice hotels where you'll find an older crowd. I didn't notice a big 'party' atmosphere at all. Most of it really is cultural enrichment and while you'd likely enjoy that for a week or so, I think a month would be too much, especially on your own.