HOT...can u spell O V E N!
Trip Start
Jul 08, 2011
1
11
Trip End
Jul 25, 2011
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
So sleepy am in an Indian train station is a little like being disturbed from a Swedish massage with a tub full of ice water and someone kicking you in the face...
My pick up arrived about 30 minutes later than planned so I dodged touts swarming around me like hungry Moisquitos for a bit, muttered a few choice words and happily settled into my driver, Dilit's Ambasador
Sorted the days tour details for a bit, showered, breakfasted and set off. With Dallip my guide..who is working on obtaining his phd in Indian history! First the Palace of the Winds then a local bus to Amber Fort. Lots of views, elephants, hislomic (Hindu+Islamic) style architecture...yet another palace of a former ruler and his multiple wives!
Took a wander through the old city and various markets which are surrounded by substantial pinkish-red walls. Walked up to the top of a very tall tower and got a massive 360 degree view of the city in all it's hazy glory. The view not unlike most large Indian cities but with a greater amount of formerly magnificent palaces and similar heritage style structures. Reportedly, the government takes a part in some restoration but not nearly enough from what I can see.
We walked along covered arcades in the much appreciated shade and chatted with shopkeepers, customers and locals. I even partook in some streetside vendor fried goodies...which I am happy to report, have suffered no I'll effect.
Rested this afternoon to the sounds of concrete jackhammers in the room next to me which is under construction and headed off to my first Bollywood movie at the famous Raj Mandir theater. I had a diamond section reserved box seat with all of the other tourists and the six locals who were all seated around me. The movie was called Zindaga Na Milegi Dobara...which turns out to be something like you only have one life to live or something to that affect. Full Bollywood experience which was over the top.
Took a motor rickshaw back to hotel and am waiting to meet up with my former tour guide from a 2006 tour who happens to be herenright now!
