We awoke to find Delhi hit with a major thunderstorm and
very heavy rain. John had curry for
breakfast and now feels like a proper student.
After checking out, we were met by a driver and a representative of
Great Rail Journey’s agent in Delhi who accompanied us on our transfer to the
Taj Palace. The journey was undertaken
through some of the heaviest rains we have ever seen which made the weaving
traffic even more exciting. The poverty
that exists is clearly visible from the main roads, with tent encampments along
the verges. While the rain seemed to
have deterred the cyclists, it certainly didn’t deter the tuk-tuk drivers who
were still able to judge gaps in the traffic down to the last millimetre.
We had been impressed by the Sheraton Hotel but the Taj
Palace is something else altogether, John is dismayed to find that a beer will
cost him £8.00! He has the shakes
already! Thank God for Happy Hour! Our room is stunning with views across wooded parkland;
the bathroom is slightly disconcerting being a glass box, it would satisfy many
fetishes, although thankfully we discovered the electrically controlled
blinds! Security at all the hotels is
very thorough, all cars approaching are searched, bonnets lifted and all
luggage goes through airport style screening.
Many of the larger shops expect you to show your receipt for any
purchases before leaving, (just like Costco).
Our meal this evening, part of our package, was a Vietnamese
tasting menu comprising of about 6 small dishes served in compartments in a wooden
box. Unfortunately they didn’t tell us
what they were, however they were fantastic. And so to bed ready for an early start
tomorrow.
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