Just Got Back

cashen

I just returned from a long awaited India trip. My itinerary was:
Delhi, Allahabad, Varanasi, Sarnath, Bodh Gaya, Hardiwar, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Delhi. (By way of Florida, Chicago, and Hong Hong). In India, all by train and bus, travelling single. Three weeks. Great experience, (only sick for one day). India is a tough travel, even with prior travel experience in Asia, it got to me at times but in end worked out well. I gained some valuable insight for my trip on this site and would like to past on things that I learned to anyone with questions. I used Nemaste Tours for my airport pick-up and first Dehli night. (Tip from this site)
It cost $31 US, you could do for half on your own, if!! you knew the in's and out's. The hotel (City Castle) was low end and not in a good location, but the staff was nice, honest and helpful. It sure was a relief to see a driver holding a sign with my name name on it when I came out of airport customs at 3:00 A.M.
Worth the money for first timers! It was easier then I expected to get my train ticket at the New Delhi station, a tour office tout tried sell me the $23 ticket for $47. Also in Dehli the rickshaw mafia will try hundreds of ways to separate you from your funds. One wanted to take me on a city tour instead of to the Delhi museum. First he said it was closed that day, then he said it cost $10 US to get in. I got out at a stoplight and he whined and cried and finally took me there. It was open and cost $2. Lesson learned!! Anyway, please forward any questions and I'll do my best to assist.
Thanks.