I once spent a week hitchhiking and camping around Patagonia. I'd been there before, staying in plush hotels and lodges and enjoying fancy dinners, but this no-frills trip was like a joyous flashback to how I used to travel – and why I began to travel in the first place.
I went overland, slowly, independently. The accent was on authenticity and fun – basic, healthy, smile-inducing fun. When, as part of the trip, I found myself among groups of guided tourists ogling the Perito Moreno glacier, I felt two things: one, my low-key approach was so much better; two, I was seeing a world-famous "sight" in a Unesco-listed national park for the price of an entrance ticket, a matter of a few pesos.
It felt like cheating in a good way, to be bagging a bucket-list experience without busting my budget.
Core messages put out by the luxury travel market are that the more you spend the better the experience, and that luxury equates with consumables such as king-size beds in designer hotels, gourmet grub, champagne and cocktails, and bespoke service – ideally a private guide, private car, and private experiences.
But luxury comes in many guises, including holidays that are social and shared, hotels that are not starred but packed with personality, and fresh air and tranquility.
Who wants a flatscreen TV when the view is amazing? Who needs aircon when you can open a window, or a tent flap? Money only buys certain things. Sometimes, you get the most incredible experience by putting in effort – hiking up a hill, going down a road rarely taken, taking your time.
Machu PicchuCredit: getty
So here's a bucket list with a twist. Our pick of the world's biggest, boldest, knock-out trips - holidays you'll love and remember for ever - and how to do them on a shoestring and, where possible, with a reduced carbon footprint, too.
Note on prices: These are ballpark "per person" figures. Fares for transport vary hugely according to seasons. Rates on the so-called "dynamic" booking sites such as Trivago and Booking.com change all the time. Currency conversion rates will also influence the final overall price, as will, ultimately, food, drinks and additional local costs.
CuzcoCredit: getty
1. Take the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – from £1,000
The experience: Walking on Inca stone pathways and staircases is an exercise in empathy as well as a lung-busting adventure. You can but imagine the chasquis – Inca runners – doing the same to deliver an urgent message or a tribute to the supreme ruler at Cuzco.
The emerald-green hills, the crisp blue skies and camping under the Southern Cross add to the accumulation of awe. Then, you arrive at Machu Picchu via the lofty Sun Gate and peer down on the extraordinary citadel. It's for fairly fit walkers, mind you. The trip usually starts in Cuzco, with a transfer to the Sacred Valley by van or train either to KM 82/Ollantaytambo or the KM88 rail station where the hike begins.
The distance is 44km (33.7 miles) from the former or 38km (23.6 miles) from the latter and it takes between two and four days. As the route is at more than 6,000 feet, so it pays to go slowly and rest often.
The TreasuryCredit: getty
Booking in the UK: The straightforward but more expensive option – it's trustworthy, allows time for acclimatisation and if anything goes wrong you'll get back-up. The best deal on this is probably the G Adventures (gadventures.co.uk) four-day Cuzco to Cuzco group tour for £526pp, plus flights.
Going local: Booking in Cuzco could save you quite a lot of money – three-day hikes start from around £450. Talk to other walkers recently returned for their tips; you're bound to meet them in hotels, hostels or restaurants. Chat to local agencies that have Ministry of Tourism authorisation (a list can be found at tinyurl.com/PeruDT).
Check that guides speak English. For the hike, take energy bars and fruit with you as the food may be basic, as well as warm gear and a three-season sleeping bag (local firms rent them out) for the chilly nights. If you're taking your own tent, use it as it will almost certainly be better than the budget operators'.
Make sure to allow three days at altitude (Cuzco is ideal as it's higher than Machu Picchu) before starting the trek in order to acclimatise. You can't walk the Classic Inca Trail alone, only with a guide. Numbers are limited to 500 per day so book well in advance.
You could opt to hike the shorter Lares or longer Salkantay trails without a guide, both of which are less touristy and lead to Machu Picchu on alternative routes.
Expect crowdsCredit: GETTY
Flights: British Airways (britishairways.com) flies direct from London Gatwick to Lima three times a week April-October. Returns from £467. Lima-Cuzco return starts from £60 with Sky or Viva.
Where to stay: Camp on the trail; stay in one of the many hostels in Cuzco.
2. Visit the rock-hewn city of Petra – from £350
The experience: Petra is one of those places that is even more impressive in real life than in artfully composed photos. The Unesco-listed site is Jordan's number-one tourist attraction, hitting 1m visitors in 2019, but is big enough not to feel cramped.
Tombs, temples and a Roman-style theatre evoke how important and affluent Petra was during its apogee between the 1st centuries BC and AD. The eastern entrance leads you through a narrow cleft in the rock known as the siq (the "shaft"). On exiting, you're greeted by Petra's centrepiece, the Treasury, with its elegant facade carved out of red sandstone.
Most people see Petra on a hurried day trip, but it's worth a couple of days, and can be combined with Wadi Rum and Aqaba, or Amman, Jordan's underrated capital. Avoid midsummer, when it is busiest.
The Grand CanyonCredit: getty
Booking in the UK: Adding Petra onto a beach holiday is your best bet. Lastminute.com has February package deals to Aqaba from London, from £429pp, including flights with EasyJet and seven nights B&B in the Dead Sea Spa Hotel in Sweimeh.
Going local: Take a bus from Amman (148 miles) or Aqaba (80 miles). Local minibuses are cramped, inconvenient and slow, so opt for the air-conditioned JETT buses (jett.com.jo; JD11 (£11.78 one way), departing Amman at 6.30am and reaching Petra in around four hours. Catch the return bus at 4pm or, better still, stay a night or two. From Aqaba the JETT takes just under two hours (JD12 one way).
Flights: British Airways flies direct to Amman from Heathrow, from £356 return (Jan-March); EasyJet (easyjet.com) flies to Aqaba, from around £180 return in low season; indirect Ryanair flights (ryanair.com) to Amman start from £76 return; needless to say, they are long and arduous.
Where to stay: A hostel or hotel in Wadi Musa, the closest town. A twin room at the basic, fairly new Rafiki hostel (rafikihostel.net), less than a mile from the site, costs from JD51 (£54.58) B&B.
3. The Taj Mahal without the crowds – from £550
The experience: The cost of building the Taj Mahal is said to have been 41,848,426 rupees, 7 annas and 6 magpies. That's a lot in old money, but it bought a lot: the ivory-white marble mausoleum for Mumtaz Mahal, the wife of Shah Jahan, on the south bank of Agra's Yamuna river is a universal symbol of romantic love and a sublime example of Mughal architecture.
PatagoniaCredit: GETTY
Visit at sunrise to get a moment of peace, and the best light for admiring the harmonious forms and reflecting on Jahan's gesture. If you want a Princess Di-style shot of yourself – alone – in front of India's most famous building, cross the river to the historic Mehtab Bang Gardens. Admission is only around 100 rupees, and you get a less cluttered, less photographed view.
Booking in the UK: Most holidays which include the Taj Mahal are sold as Golden Triangle packages, visiting Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, prices typically upward of £1,000. Trailfinders (trailfinders.com) has a seven-day holiday for £768pp, plus flights.
Going local: Take a train from New Delhi to Agra Cantonment, Raja-ki-Mandi, or Agra Fort (returns from £12; irctc.co.in); then a taxi to the West Gate. Entry costs R1,100 (£11.78), or R1,300 (£13.93) for the mausoleum too. To book or for opening times visit tajmahal.gov.in.
Buenos AiresCredit: GETTY
Flights: Fly to Delhi direct with BA, Virgin or Air India. Manchester-Delhi with Finnair (finnair.com), via Helsinki, starts from around £440 return.
Where to stay: Hostels in Agra start from as little as £7 per night (hostelworld.com).
4. Sun-up at the Grand Canyon – from £625
The experience: To see the sun rise on the Grand Canyon is to connect what we call "America" with an older, unnamed landscape – raw, untouched by cowboy myths, impossibly beautiful. At Desert View, off Highway 64, you get smaller crowds than at the main Grand Canyon village.
The Galapagos is heaven for wildlife loversCredit: GETTY
Afterwards, as you drive the 20 miles to the latter for breakfast, be sure to pull over a few times as you skirt the South Rim, as there are several overlooks.
The canyon is deeper and more impressive than any photograph can ever convey. In summer, the North Rim is open, and gets far fewer visitors. Monument Valley, the less-visited Canyon de Chelly and Canyon del Muerto, Flagstaff and Winslow – on Route 66 – can be easily worked into a self-drive road trip.
Booking in the UK: Virgin Holidays (virginholidays.co.uk) has some competitive deals, including flights, such as £611 for a four-day trip staying at the unpretentious Yavapai Lodges, room only.
Going local: Driving yourself around Arizona is a wonderful holiday in itself. Pick up a car at Phoenix Sky Harbor airport (from $224 for a Ford Focus for six days with Avis or Hertz). Distances are pretty significant – 233 miles from Phoenix to Desert View – so consider that when planning a route. Entrance to the park costs $35 per car. Or there are bus tours ($20 entry per person).
Explore the Amazon for less than £1,000Credit: getty
Flights: British Airways flies daily from Heathrow to Phoenix, from £500 return.
Where to stay: Rooms at the Grand Canyon Lodges (grandcanyonlodges.com) on the South Rim start from around $70.
Straddling Argentina and Chile, the region was named in 1520 by Magellan and since then has built a storied history as layered as the strata that conserve the world's biggest dinosaurs. Patagonian got posh in recent decades; the opening of the Explora in 1993 Torres del Paine kicked off a trend for luxury lodgings. But the region's main draw remains its wildness, and there's great camping all along the Andes.
Where to stay: Camp whenever possible. There are lots of lovely sites (with barbecues) around the north Patagonian lake districts. Hiking around Lago Puelo in Argentina and Pucón in Chile is easy to arrange, and local firms rent out mountain bikes and kayaks. From Puerto Natales, Navimag (navimag.com) runs a fun, no-frills boat trip to Puerto Montt in the Chilean lakes, with berths from $450 in a shared compartment, $600 in a double.
6. Go wild in the Galapagos – from £900
The experience: The Galapagos Islands dazzled Charles Darwin. They dazzle anyone who loves nature, the sea, volcanoes, wildlife, and all the other Edenic wonders on show here. The archipelago of 21 islands, 560 miles west of Ecuador, deliver curious creatures galore, from Santa Cruz's sea turtles to Isabela's giant tortoises and the flamingos of Floreana.
Booking in the UK: Most UK tour operators sell expensive cruises or tailor-made stays in posh lodges; but Imaginative Traveller (imaginative-traveller.com) has a six-day "At a Glance" group tour aboard the Daphne, taking in four Galapagos islands, from £1,555. Berths fill up quickly at that price.
Going local: Fly into Santa Cruz's Baltra Airport and stay at nearby Puerto Ayora. You might feel you're missing out by not seeing other islands and not being at sea, but this will be compensated by having time to really absorb the wildlife around you – and your carbon footprint will be far smaller than a cruise passenger's.
£250 will buy you thisCredit: getty
You can do day trips inland and go on boat trips, and don a snorkel to share the cool Pacific with flightless cormorants, marine iguanas and hammerhead sharks.
Flights: Flights to Baltra typically involve two changes, in, say, Madrid or Bogotá and again at Guayaquil, Ecuador. Returns on Opodo (opodo.co.uk) start from £864 with Avianca.
Where to stay: Puerto Ayora has hostels and small hotels from as little as £12pp.
Hike when you're not looking for whalesCredit: GETTY
Booking in the UK: Few UK firms push cheap riverboat tickets, preferring the tidy margins on luxury cruises. But for advice and to assist with booking, it's worth chatting to a member of the Latin American Travel Association (lata.travel) as these firms have ground agents in Belem and Manaus. Book a flight, hotel or a trip with them and they may be able to supply a riverboat ticket as an add-on.
A large cruise ship is the cheapest way to see Antarctica, but you won't have any close encountersCredit: getty
Going local: Lots of firms ply the river. For the full 5-night Belem to Manaus transit, AR Transporte (artransporte.com.br) charges from R370 (£68) for a "rede" (hammock), and between R1,000 (£183) and R1,500 (£275) for a berth in a cabin on its large Amazon Star (753 passengers) and Rondonia (838 passengers) vessels. From Manaus, Amazon Eco Adventures (amazonecoadventures.com) has full-day tours by boat into the Rio Negro for R350pp (£64).
Flights: Fly from the UK to Belem via Lisbon with TAP Portugal (flytap.com), from £584 return. Manaus-Belem single from £41 with Azul.
The experience: Seeing Africa's Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo – is actually not about ticking off a list. It's about being in their landscape, sharing their space, feeling the heat and smelling the earth where they roam. That the term "Big Five" comes down to use from big game hunters adds a poignancy, as we aim our binocs or camera lenses and are surely far more rewarded than any lion-slayer. For most people, a safari experience is as close they'll get to being inside an Attenborough show – but that's no small thing, and people often report their first close encounter with wild animals as life-enhancing, even life-changing. Given all this, it's bizarre we feel the need to add to this potentially transfigurative experience a fancy lodge, gourmet food, boutique this and that (spending as much as £300-400 per day in the bargain).
A zodiac ride will offer the chance to spot penguinsCredit: getty
Booking in the UK: The Big Five can be seen in as many as 13 countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Uganda, Namibia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania. If you're willing to travel in a group of up to 22, go overland, and use basic hotels, Dragoman (dragoman.com) has a 10-day trip through the Rift Valley of Ethiopia into Kenya, including a safari in Samburu National Reserve – a Big Five site. It's priced at £553, plus a $350 kitty to cover camp meals and park fees. Add in flights and a visa for Ethiopia and you're looking at around £1,300-£1,400, but meals are covered. Of course, as this is a fixed itinerary you might well not see the Big Five; the same goes for all pre-planned tours.
Going local: To keep things affordable and "real", consider a self-drive – the way locals generally do safaris. Fly into Nairobi in the shoulder season (Apr-May and Nov) and explore Nairobi National Park. Despite being a few miles outside the city, it has grass plains and acacia bushes – the classic East African landscape – and is home to endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes and great birdlife. It has picnic sites, three campsites and walking trails (the entry fee is £33). If you prefer not to drive so you can enjoy the watching, there are guides and drivers available at the gate, or book a trip from Nairobi. Since its foundation in 1977, David Sheldrick's Elephant Orphanage (sheldrickwildlifetrust.org) – on the edge of the park – has raised 247 elephants orphaned usually due to poaching.
Jiankou, 48 miles from Beijing, feels wilder than many other parts of the wallCredit: getty
Where to stay: Camping and/or staying outside a safari park will always be much cheaper than luxuriating in a so-called "tented camp" (essentially a four-star hotel with canvas walls) with waiters, chefs, private guides, 4WDs and sundowners all neatly arranged to make you feel the British Empire is still very much in place.
Flights: Consider flying on non-direct routes (eg with Ethiopian, Turkish or a Gulf carrier; European countries tend to have more routes to their former colonies). Shop around and you can get to East or South Africa from around £400.
9. Wondrous whale watching in the Azores – from £250
The experience: There are whales swimming all over the planet but seeing them can be difficult and/or expensive for several reasons, including small numbers (England) or iffy weather (Scotland), unsustainable numbers of tourists (Mexican Gulf) and long-haul flights (Argentina). The island of Faial in the Azores is a sure bet, year round, for seeing sperm whales as well as bottlenose, common and Risso's dolphins. From March to May, blue, sei and fin baleen whales can also be spotted. The Azores also abound in great coastal and hill walking, innovative winemaking, with windbreaks built from volcanic stones, and lush subtropical vegetation. The beaches are beautiful, though best experienced in late summer when the ocean warms up.
Booking in the UK: Sunvil (sunvil.co.uk) offers seven-day trips to São Miguel in the Azores from £464pp. Trips to Faial are typically more expensive (£1,000-plus) as they involve domestic flights.
Sommaroy island, TromsCredit: getty
Going local: From São Miguel or Faial – the latter is the ideal base – it's easy enough to arrange a whalewatching outing to see sperm whales; the season is April-October as wintry weather makes boat trips unfeasible. Stay three days and your chances of seeing other species are much better. Whale Watch Azores (whalewatchazores.com) does day trips from €110 per person as well as more comprehensive multi-day tours.
Flights: Ryanair has weekly direct flights between February and October from London Stansted to Ponta Delgada on the island of São Miguel from £70. TAP Portugal, codesharing with Azores Airlines (azoresairlines.pt), previously Sata, operates flights from the UK via Lisbon and Porto to Ponta Delgada, with onward connections to other islands.
Where to stay: Airbnb and small hotels are readily available across the Azores. Horta is the main town in Faial.
10. Admire Antarctica – from £2,000
The experience: The world's most pristine, extreme, serene continent is a once-in-a-lifetime high point for most travellers. The crazy formations of the drifting bergs, the glass-calm waters along the snow-covered coasts, the penguin colonies, the heroic histories, and the fact that you belong to a tiny group of privileged people, make a holiday there different from any other. Antarctica is not about luxury in any normal sense, but is rather a stirring, and somehow solemn, reminder of how beautiful nature can be.
There are, basically, three ways to go there. Firstly, on a large cruise ship, which will be a "sailing by" experience in that you'll be limited to seeing the bergs and ice from the deck; the firms call it "scenic cruising". On the upside, big ships, carrying thousands of passengers, tend to be competitive on price. Secondly, you could undertake an adventure or expedition cruise (sail or motored) out of Ushuaia in Argentina (which handles about 90% of the Antarctic cruise market), which will allow you to disembark, stretch your legs, ride in zodiacs and see penguins and landscapes up close. This is expensive, costing anything from £4,000 for a short trip across the Drake Passage and 4-5 days cruising the icy channels to £11,000 for a 2-week voyage via South Georgia; for a 4-week semi-circumnavigation you should double that. Thirdly, you could fly down and see a few sights around a Chilean base – this is pricey and aimed at the time-poor rather than the cash-strapped.
Autumn in VermontCredit: GETTY
Booking in the UK: Lots of big cruise lines go to Antarctica. The lowest prices tend to be with the big firms on their larger vessels. Princess (princess.com) has berths in the Coral Princess's interior cabins on a 16-day January 2020 Buenos Aires to San Antonio, Chile voyage – with 4 days of "scenic cruising" in Antarctica, from £2,259pp (though if a family/group books, guests 3 and 4 pay £1,149pp). This is pretty good, for a holiday that also lets you see Cape Horn and visit the Falklands. For 2021, the price is £2,699. You have to factor in flights to Argentina and back from Chile.
Going local: At the time of writing, Argentine operator Antarpply (antarpply.com) has a shared room (male only) available in a triple room for a 9-night "Classic Antarctica" voyage to the peninsula and South Shetland Islands aboard its ice-strengthened ship, Ushuaia, for $5,460 – that's £4,153 and while it's a lot of money it's a good deal cheaper than most other firms. This is a March 26, 2020 departure – the very end of the season, so colder and a little darker. Similar prices are available for March 2021.
Flights: DAP Chile (dapairline.com) operates a Beechcraft King Air twin-turboprop (6 passengers, no loos) from Punta Arenas to Chile's Presidente Eduardo Frei Montalva base on King George Island (which has a 4,238ft gravel landing strip). A one-day return trip costs $5,500 (£4,184). Adding an overnight stay – in a "thermic tent" – pushes that up to $6,500 (£4,944). Flights from the UK to Ushuaia in Tierra del Fuego to catch a cruise ship or to Punta Arenas for this flight will set you back a further £1,000.
Where to stay: On the ship. There are no hotels or places to stay unless you are a scientist or worker at a base.
11. Walk the Great Wall of China – from £850
The experience: The Great Wall of China is a triumph of engineering. It's also a visible symbol of China's long history, political dominance and cultural isolation. Stretching from Shanhaiguan, on the Bohai Sea, to Lop Lake in the Gobi Desert and marking the southern edge of Inner Mongolia – formerly part of Genghis Khan's Mongol empire – it was built in stages from the eighth century BC onwards. During the Qin dynasty (221-206 BC), a connected Great Wall was begun as part of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's project to unify China. From the earliest days, the wall had beacon towers — from which flag, gunpowder and smoke signals were sent, creating the world's first telegraphy system. The wall we see today has vestiges of early and later constructions. To see the wall – made from brick, stone, tamped earth and wood – snaking away over the parched mountainsides of northern China can be an affecting experience. A day trip is usually enough for most people, though it's possible to run or cycle along sections, take a helicopter flight, spend a night beside the wall in a boutique hotel, or even sleep in a watchtower.
Booking in the UK: The Great Wall is often included as part of a Beijing holiday. The wall sites of Badaling, Jiankou, Mutianyu, Gubeikou/Jinshanling/Simatai and the lakeside HuanghuaCheng are reachable on day trips. A visit to more far-flung sections will cost significantly more and turns a trip into a Wall-focused holiday. For a dedicated wall-walking holiday, G Adventures (gadventures.co.uk) has a 10-day small group holiday (10-16 passengers) featuring three separate sections on foot. From £849pp, plus flights.
Milford SoundCredit: GETTY
Going local: Day trips in small groups, using minibuses from Beijing start at as little as £40. The trip will be brief but you should be able to squeeze a short walk in. It's easy to visit many sections of the wall independently from Beijing, using local buses and/or trains (routes and times and wall entry fees at travelchinaguide.com) or by taxi (finding English-speaking drivers is tricky). Budget around £100 for a drive who'll wait for you plus park entrances. Badaling gets the most tourists. Mutianyu is busy, but a short, strenuous walk leaves the hordes behind. Jiankou, 48 miles from Beijing, feels wilder than many other parts of the wall: pine forests, watchtowers on rocky pinnacles and steep cliffs on either side of the high ridge are visually arresting. Don't attempt a walk if the weather is stormy or the light waning. Popular with keen hikers, Gubeikou to Jinshanling and Jinshanling to Simatai West are both about 5 miles (one-day group hikes can be booked via Beijing-based with wildgreatwall.com).
Flights: UK-Beijing is served by many direct and non-direct routes, so it pays to shop around. Finnair is selling flights to Beijing via Helsinki from £447 return. A visa for China for UK citizens starts from £151 plus a service charge that varies from £30 to £66 (see i2visa.co.uk and visaforchina.org).
Where to stay: You can stay at the smart Commune by the Great Wall (commune.sohochina.com/en, rooms from £160), but hostels in Beijing are much cheaper.
12. The awesome Aurora – from £300
The experience: The otherworldy Aurora Borealis fills up the northern sky like a towering army of divine spirits from Valhalla. The Eskimos say it's the torches of the dead showing the way for new arrivals. Green, red, blue, violet, yellow sheets and waves ripple across the starry heights – magical and mysterious, no matter how many times scientists tell us its all due to solar winds and other factual phenomena. Best seen in winter, on dark nights, the Northern Lights seem to be an emanation of the polar horizon, as strange and unreachable as the icy beyond. That is, unless it's cloudy, or rainy, or you're unlucky. When planning an Aurora adventure, it pays to spend wisely and keep an eye on weather and moon phases. The so-called auroral zone includes northern Scandinavia, Iceland, the southern tip of Greenland, northern Canada, Alaska and the northern coast of Siberia. The zone expands when geomagnetic activity is high which is why Scots sometimes see them. Given that Greenland, Canada, Svalbard and Russia involve long, pricey flights, that leaves Iceland and Scandinavia – expensive, but at least served by no-frills airlines. As the Norwegian counties of Troms and Finnmark are where Aurora occurrence is greatest, that nudges out the rest of the competition. The capital of Troms, Tromsø, is our number one choice for light-seekers on a budget.
Booking in the UK: Nordic Experience (nordicexperience.co.uk) has 3-day holidays in Tromsø from £629, plus a further £115 for a Northern Lights excursion, covering flights, accommodation and breakfast.
Lake BaikalCredit: GETTY
Going local: Tromsø-based Wandering Owl (wanderingowl.com) can arrange a 7-8 hour group hunt (2-15 passengers) for £137pp, including guide, transfer, a meal of reindeer soup or lentil and carrot soup), cookies, hot chocolate, thermal suit, winter boots, mittens, tripod and head torch.
Flights: Norwegian flies Gatwick to Tromsø. One-way (direct, 3 hrs) is advertised as £65.80; I found a return in late March 2020 for £122.40.
Where to stay: Norway is expensive. Use Airbnb or find a hostel. In Tromsø, Bed and Books (bedandbooks.no) has doubles for NOK750 (£62) per night (plus one-off NOK50/£4.15 bed linen fee)
13. Leaf-peeping in New England – from £700
The experience: New England turns autumnal between late September and December, with forests of cedar, maple, ash and beech turning all those shades we get to glimpse in our UK woodlands – russet, ochre, rufous, golden – but in a vast, view-filling spectacle. In the first instance, the road is as good a place as any to do "leaf-peeping", as the asphalt creates a natural opening from which you can admire the hues. A walk is recommended, though, so you can lose yourself amid the fall foliage.
Booking in the UK: America As You Like It (americaasyoulikeit.com) has a 10-day autumn self-drive trip from £1,545pp including flights. For a fully guided or rail trip, you'll pay around £1,000 on top of that.
Going local: To plan your own route, check out some itineraries offered by tour firms for ideas. For example, from Boston, head north towards Portsmouth and Portland, veering inland along the edges of the White Mountain National Forest. Turn back around Colebrook and wend south crossing Vermont and the Green Mountain National Forest and Connecticut's Tunxis State forest, before heading for the coast at Harwinton. Pick up a handy peak leaf map (newengland.com) and a hire car (Avis offers a Ford Fusion for a week for £265 for, from Boston Logan airport).
Guided bus tours can cost £2,000pp, so instead just hop on an ordinary public bus for around $50 return. Greyhound (greyhound.com) and Peter Pan (peterpanbus.com) connect main centres. Concord Coach Lines (concordcoachlines.com) links Boston to New Hampshire and Maine; C&J Trailways (ridecj.com) links Boston and Newburyport, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth and Dover, New Hampshire. Or try Dartmouth Coach (dartmouthcoach.com) and the Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co (p-b.com).
Flights: The UK is well connected to the East Coast US. Aer Lingus (aerlingus.com) flies to Boston from Belfast, Birmingham, London or Manchester (subsidiary Stobart Air offers other cities) and you can do the tedious US passport stuff in Dublin Airport. On arrival you're treated as a domestic passenger and can breeze through the border. London Heathrow-Boston starts from £376 return.
The experience: Milford Sound is the oft-photographed icon of New Zealand's South Island. All the elements that inspire UK travellers to make the long journey are concentrated in this pristine corner of Fiordland. Scenic backroads and well-marked trails, combined with pellucid waters, soaring mountains and temperate rainforests make it a peerless place to hike and bike. At the centre of it all is the majestic 5,560ft-high Mitre Peak (Rahotu in Maori), actually five separate peaks clustered around a single arrow-headed summit. While cruises and lodges are aimed at the luxury market, you can actually "do" Milford Sound for almost nothing, once you're there.
Booking in the UK: Travelbag (travelbag.co.uk) offers 14-day trips, with two days in Christchurch and 10 in a campervan, from £999, including flights.
Going local: Fly to Queenstown and hop on an InterCity bus to Milford Sound (around six hours, £20 one way). The 33-mile Milford Track hike has become almost too popular, but it's still a great introduction for first-time visitors. A maximum of 90 walkers (book well in advance) can start the trail per day (40 independent, and 50 guided). Sutherland Falls is a 90-minute (return) walk from Quintin Public Shelter on the Milford Track. The track ends at Sandfly Point on the water's edge, where there's a 15-minute ferry ride to Milford Sound township. To book or for more information see newzealand.com.
Flights: The nearest major airport, Queenstown, is well served by flights from Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington, as well as Australian airports. Return flights from London to Queenstown (via Singapore and Melbourne) start from around £850 with Singapore Airlines.
Where to stay: Independent walkers must spend the night at one of three huts: Clinton Hut, Mintaro Hut and Dumpling Hut, $140 or £76 per person per night in dorms; bring your own food). The season runs end of October to end of April (book at booking.doc.govt.nz). Camping is not permitted along the track. Note that out of season the trail is free, but, given the harsh conditions, only for experienced hikers.
15. Ride the Trans-Siberian – from £500
The experience: Everyone's "Trans Sib" is a one-off. For some it's a boozy, hyper-social week-long binge on vodka and smoked fish, broken English and broken glasses. Alternatively, it can be a quiet, pensive ride through the taiga, with a bit of reading, bowls of borscht in the restaurant car, and trying to get the provodnitza (coach attendant) to smile even once you've accepted she'll never actually like you. It's a truly remarkable railway line, all electric from Moscow to Vladivostok, with trains taking seven days to cover the 6,152 miles – assuming you don't get off anywhere. The name of Siberia evokes ice, snow, grimness and gulags, but it's a humongous region and has historical landmarks, cities dedicated to cutting-edge science, Buddhist centres, national parks, and top-notch sightseeing opportunities at Lake Baikal and Irkutsk. There are luxury trains costing up to 20 times the price of an ordinary ticket. For a budget Big Red One that you can organise yourself, stick to Moscow-Vladivostok and if you've got the time, consider coming back by train too – as flights from the Russian Pacific are rarely cheap.
Booking in the UK: A UK agent's package deal will set you back upwards of £1,500; but Real Russia (realrussia.co.uk) offers tickets in a second-class upper berth from £260. They can arrange Russian visas for £110.57.
Going local: You can book rail tickets directly at the state railway operator's website (pass.rzd.ru/main-pass/public/en). A third-class "open sleeping" berth (more of a dorm than a compartment) cost around R6,223 (£75) in winter. Visas cost around £101 at ru.vfsglobal.co.uk. More info at visitrussia.org.uk.
Flights: Wizz Air (wizzair.com) flies from Luton to Moscow's new Vuknovo Airport from £30 each way in winter. Take the hourly non-stop Aeroexpress train from Vuknovo to Kievskaya metro station in central Moscow, then metro line M5 to Yaroslavsky train station, for most Trans Siberian services. Vladivostok-London with Aeroflot one-way starts at around £340 on Opodo.
Where to stay: En route, homestays are best and there are campsites in summer.
The operator introduced a new version of its "Transformative Trip to India" fam, which now includes an accelerated health program, enabling participants to learn how to reduce their anxiety and boost their immune systems. Rates for the seven-day fam—which will explore Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Abhaneri—range from $699 per person double/triple to $999, depending on departure date. Single supplements range from $299 to $499.
Cost includes accommodations; meditation and "transformative" sessions; daily breakfast buffets, five lunches and five dinners; transfers; and more. Departures are available through December 2020, and from January to February 2021.
The company is offering a six-day "Southern Portugal" fam, which will explore Lisbon, Fatima, Evora, Alvor and Algarve, among other destinations. Cost for the land-only trip is $1,400 per person, double, for travel advisors and $1,500 for companions. Departures for 2020 are scheduled for July 10 and 24, Aug. 8 and 21, Sept. 11 and 25, and Oct. 9 and 23. Dates for 2021 are scheduled for Oct. 9 and 23, Nov. 20, Dec.18, Jan. 22, Feb. 19 and March 19.
Cost includes accommodations, breakfast daily, multilingual sightseeing by motorcoach, and taxes and service charges.
The operator is featuring a seven-day "Affordable Egypt" fam, with departures scheduled through December 2021. Rates for the trip, which begins in Cairo and includes a Nile River cruise, start at $549 per person, double. In addition to Cairo, the itinerary will visit Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan.
Cost includes four nights on the Nile aboard M/S Carnival; two nights at the Oasis Hotel in Cairo with breakfast and excursions to the Egyptian Museum and Khan Kalili Bazaar; all meals during the cruise; roundtrip airport transfers; all local government taxes; and services of Sunny Land local representatives.
The India specialist is featuring a six-day fam to Tamil Nadu, which is known for its ancient temples, historic structures, art and architecture. The itinerary will explore Chennai, Pondicherry, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. Departures for the land-only fam are scheduled through September 2020. The itinerary will begin and end in Chennai.
Cost is $326 per person, double, and $591 single. Rates include accommodations, daily breakfast, five dinners, and transfers and tours in air-conditioned vehicles. Tamil Nadu is the 10th largest of India's 28 states in terms of size and sixth in population.
Suppliers who wish to submit fam trips for publication in AGENTatHOME should send their information to Claudette Covey at ccovey@travalliance.com at least three months prior to the departure date of the fam trip or expiration date of the fam rate.
As the City where the three branches of the Government of India are located, Delhi pulsates endlessly with overflowing beats of humanity only seen in a few other cities on the planet. Scattered across this Metropolitan city of more than 25 million people are fascinating landmarks, cultural sights, and a colorful depiction of modern and traditional life. Exploring Delhi can be overwhelming at first glance. Upon closer look though, it promises anyone with a memorable journey that is sure to make you fall in love with traveling more.
Isa Khan Tomb – Delhi Travel Guide
To help you plan your Delhi trip, here is a brief travel guide to Delhi.
But first, a bit of a correction
Most people think that New Delhi andDelhi are the same. It actually isn't.
Delhi as a city is an administrative division or union territory that includes a smaller district known as New Delhi—where the three branches of Indian government are located—serves as the capital of India (despite being considered only as an urban district inside Delhi). Thus the more accurate and general way of addressing the city is "Delhi".
When is the best time to visit Delhi?
The months from October to March are considered as the best time to visit Delhi weather-wise. During this period, the climate is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 22°c to 5°C from December to January until it becomes a little warmer starting towards the end of February until March.
The Summer months from April to July brings in a scorching weather from 25°C to 45°C with the Monsoon months happening from July until September.
How to get to New Delhi?
By Plane
Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India. It has seen a major transformation in the past several years, making it one of the best in the world. This is the main arrival point of most tourists visiting India. To date, there is no direct Manila-Delhi flights available. Travelers flying from the Philippines though can avail of connecting flights from many Southeast Asian nations like Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Delhi has three main terminals: Terminal 1C for Domestic flights and Terminal 2 and 3 for International flights. Terminal 2 is mainly used for Haj pilgrimage flights to Mecca and Medina.
By Bus
Buses going to Delhi comes from almost every city in India—including the ones coming from Kathmandu and Chitwan in Nepal. Initially confusing, but once you get a feel of the slew of bus terminals and boarding points all over Delhi, you will have an easier time getting in and out of the city via a bus. The best way to reserve a seat is via online. There are numerous bus ticketing websites available for passengers traveling in India.
By Train
Train Station in Delhi
Trains from all over India arrive at Delhi Junction Station (also called Old Delhi), at New Delhi Station, Hazrat Nizamuddin Station, and the soon-to-open Anand Vihar station. Both Delhi Junction and New Delhi Railway Station are connected by Metro Train Line 2, while Anand Vihar is served by Line 3.
New Delhi Station
If you're traveling inter-city and state in India by train, it is best to book ahead online. You can book your tickets at IRTC, Indian Rail, and Make My Trip for a hassle-free reservation and trip schedule.
Getting around Delhi
By Metro Train
New Delhi Metro
Delhi is well connected by six MRT lines crisscrossing the whole Metropolitan area, making getting around New Delhi very easy. Fare starts at 10 Rupees (for 2 stations). It is best to buy a Smart Card with at least 100 Rupees worth if you are planning to take multiple Metro rides in a day.
Map of New Delhi Metro Train System
The following lines are as follows:
Red Line: Dilshad Garden – Rithala
Yellow Line: Jahangirpuri – HUDA City Centre, Gurgaon
Blue Line: Dwarka Sector 21 – Vaishali/ – Noida City Centre
Green Line: Inderlok – Mundka
Violet Line: ITO – Badarpur Border
Airport Express: New Delhi Railway Station – Airport – Dwarka
By Public and Government Bus
Delhi is also well-connected by public and Government buses that stops only on designated stops. The bus fare ranges from 5-15 Rupees. This is the cheapest way to get around Delhi if you are traveling on a budget, but this is also the most crowded. Red buses are air-conditioned while green buses are regular ones. Figuring out which bus to take can be confusing. The best way is to ask a few locals to confirm the bus you need to take to your destination. While most Indians can understand and speak English, it is better to ask University students as they can communicate well. Prepare small bills or coins as you need to pay at the door upon hopping in.
By Taxicabs / Uber and Ola
Delhi is well-serviced by app-based cab providers such as Ola and Uber. Using it will save you from negotiating with cab drivers and your trip is recorded by your mobile phone along with a receipt sent to your email.
If for some reason, there are no available drivers around, you can easily flag one of Delhi's classic black and yellow Omni's or Ambassadors taxi cabs (although in recent years, more modern car models have been used as taxi cabs). Just insist to the driver to use the meter that should cost you 15 Rupees for the first KM and 9 Rupees per additional kilometers.
By Auto and Cycle Rickshaws
Motor Rickshaw
Cycle Rickshaws are popular Indian commuter that runs on three wheels with a passenger seat at the back of the driver. It can seat up to three people. Generally cheaper than taxis, Rickshaws are also easier to hail as they are all over the streets of Delhi. The standard rate starts from 25 Rupees for the first two kilometers and 8 Rupees for every kilometer after. Most of the auto-rickshaw drivers do not use the meter so make sure to negotiate well based on this standard fare. Cycle Rickshaws can also be booked using the mobile app OLA.
Cycle rickshaw in Delhi
The cycle rickshaws is powered by a bicycle dragging a passenger seat at the back. These are good options for short-distance commuting and the fare ranges from 20-50 Rupees for a couple of kilometers.
By Car
It is a wiser decision to hire a driver as well if you plan to rent a car in Delhi. Driving in Delhi can get too overwhelming for drivers from other countries because road users in the city have a gung-ho approach in driving. Best to hire a local driver who is used to driving around the crazy streets of Delhi.
Places to see in Delhi
Red Fort
Red Fort
The Red Fort is one of New Delhi's 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This massive fort made from red sandstone dating back to 1648 during the time of Mughal ruler Shah Jahan (who also built the Taj Mahal in Agra). Inside this vast complex, one can find several palaces, temples, bazaars, and museums. You will need at least three hours to explore the many wonderful architecturally-gifted buildings inside.
Humayun's Tomb
Humayuns Tomb Delhi
Constructed in 1570 and was the inspiration behind the creation of Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb houses the body of Humayun—the second Mughal Emperor. Many said this landmark is even more beautiful than the Taj Mahal, but that is for you to find out. This is the first structure built that uses the style of Mughal Architecture in India. Humayun's Tomb is situated inside a vast complex surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards.
Fee: 500.00 Rupees for Foreigners
Jama Masjid
Jama MasjidJama Masjid
One of the biggest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid is an architectural marvel of a landmark complete with a courtyard that can fit in 25,000 Islam devotees. Completed in 1656, one can also find their way atop of the Mosque's southern tower to enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding. Wear proper clothing when visiting this Mosque.
Qutab Minar Complex
Qutab Minar Complex
This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in New Delhi. The Qutub Complex houses structures dating back thousands of years ago. These include the Qutub Minar, a 72.5 minaret built in 1193, the Iron Pillar which was erected in 400AD, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque which was the city's first mosque. Other spectacular sights include; the Ala-i-Minar, Ala-i-Darwaza, and the Tomb of Imam Zamin. The Qutub Complex is also an ideal place to relax and have a picnic, thanks to its well-manicured garden surroundings.
Museums
One can learn more about the city of New Delhi through its many museums. Several must-visit museums ranging from the quirky to historically fascinating, are located all over the city. These are the Crafts Museum, Sulanh Museum of Toilets, Gandhi Smriti, National Rail Museum, National Gallery of Modern Art, National Museum, National Gandhi Museum, National Philatelic Museum, and many more. So, if you are a historical, cultural or a knowledge-seeker kind of traveler, then you will enjoy the museum scene of New Delhi.
India Gate
India Gate
India Gate is considered as a Central Landmark of New Delhi. Built as a memorial commemorating the heroism of Indian soldiers who fought and died in World War I, the India Gate is a few walks away from the War Memorial—another memorial honoring Indian soldiers who fought in the series of Indian-Pakistani Wars.
Raj Ghat Gandhi Memorial
Raj Ghat Memorial via Wikipedia CC
Pay homage to India's most prominent figure Mahatma Gandhi at this memorial dedicated to him. A simple marker on a black marble can be found on the spot along the west bank of Yamuna River where he was cremated after his assassination in 1948
Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace)
Rashtrapati Bhavan
This stunning architectural marvel of a palace is the official residence of the President of India. This palatial complex has 340 rooms that include reception halls, guest rooms, and other government offices. Surrounding the property are charming Mughal gardens and other open spaces. In terms of total area—130 hectares—this is considered as the largest residence of any head of state in the planet.
Jantar Mantar
This is one of the five Jantar Mantar in India. A Jantar Mantar is an equinox sundial and also features other astronomical structures used to measure astronomical observations such as to predict the movements and times of the moon, sun, and planets. New Delhi's Jantar Mantar has 13 architectural astronomy instruments built upon the orders of Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1724. If you're into architecture and astronomy, then you will surely love this place. Fee: 200 Rupees for foreigners.
Parks and Gardens
Despite the city's notoriety for its staggering busy streets, one can still find several open spaces such as parks and gardens in New Delhi. One popular spot is the Deer Park in South Delhi. Here, you can mingle with countless deer while enjoying a lovely picnic. Other open spaces in the city where you can relax and achieve a Zen state of mind are The Garden of Five Senses, Lodhi Garden, Mughal Garden, Nehru Par, Central Park, Waste to Wonder Park and Sunder Nursery which sits next to Humayun's Tomb.
Lotus Temple
Shaped like a Lotus Temple, the Bahai Temple is made up of white marble and lights up prettily at nighttime. It was constructed as a house of worship for people belonging to the Bahá?à Faith—a religion that originated in Iran from the 19th-century Bábà religion—but is also open to people from all faiths.
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
A Gurudwara is a place of worship for Sikhs. The Gurudwara Bangla Sahib in New Delhi is a perfect place for you to witness Sikhs faithful gather for devotion to their religion. This is a spiritual place where people from different beliefs can also achieve a Zen state of mind just by listening to religious music in the temple's main hall. The architecture of Gurudwara Bangla Sahib is also something to marvel at. Afterward, you can line up for a delicious free meal inside the Gurudwara—this is a traditional practice done at every Sikh temple. If you want to immerse yourself further, you can also volunteer as kitchen help.
Agrasen ki Baoli
Agrasen ki Baoli
This beautiful ruin of a 14th-century stepwell features a total of 108 stone steps and has three levels all lined-up with arched niches on both sides. A stepwell is an ancient water reservoir prevalent all over India.
Safdarjung Tomb
Safdarjung – Best Things to do in Delhi
It may look almost similar to Humayun's Tomb, but this historic tomb situated a few minutes' walk from Lodhi Garden (another must-visit place in Delhi) is where the remains of Nawab Safdarjung—the founder of India's Oudh State—is buried.
Things to Do in Delhi and Other Side Trips from Delhi
Make a Day trip to Agra and see the Taj Mahal
Instead of staying a few days in Agra, why not just make a day-trip to Agra from Delhi by booking a day tour from Klook. This will include shuttle service (or an option to take the 2-hour express train for better travel experience) and tickets to visit Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri—al are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Taj Mahal in Agra
If you plan to DIY, just reserve a train ticket to Agra and from there you can easily visit the three sites by cab or Auto-rickshaw.
If you are pressed for time and can only allocate one more day in Delhi, then you can spend it on a day-tour to Jaipur in the state of Rajasthan. Again, to save time it is best to book a Jaipur day-tour from Klook. This will take you on a tour of all the attractions in the Pink City.
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur India
Don't expect to cover all the must-see places in Jaipur though as this is best to explore for at least 3 days. (Check out our Jaipur Travel Guide).
Eat your way through Old Delhi by joining "A Chef's Tour"
Old Delhi Food Trail
For only $49 per person, you can eat your way through the rich culinary scene of Old Delhi. From street food, snack, dessert to local favorite dishes, you will get a taste of what Delhi's gastronomic scene for half a day. Guided by a local food expert, expect to make some food stops at some of the city's known food establishments and street food areas to get a bite of the best North Indian street food.
You can book a slot at Klook or at the website of A Chefs Tour.
Probably one of the most crowded markets in the world, Chandni Chowk may shock you at first but as the initial surprise subsides, you'd end up enjoying checking out the assortment of items being sold here. From silver and antique trinkets, jewelry, hanging lights, festive textiles to electronic gadgets, custom-tailored suits, and more, you can find here. This writer's favorite part is the Khari Baoili Market where you will see a vibrant fusion of colors of the spices, nuts, tea leaves, dried plums, and mulberries plus the aroma of it all combined.
Connaught Place
Connaught Place Shopping
This is a busy business and commercial hub, located near Delhi's Central Park. In here, you can find numerous shops from both local and global brands, bars and Indian restaurants in a circling succession of colonnaded Georgian-style buildings.
Hauz Khas Complex
Hauz Khas Complex
This complex is comprised of 14th-century ruins of various tombs, royal residences, and a mosque. Today, various upscale shops, restaurants, bookstores, art galleries, and cafes are built around the beautiful ruins, making it a very appealing hip and heritage spot to hang-out and shop in New Delhi.
Shopping for Books in Delhi
Shopping for Books in Delhi
The city of New Delhi is also famous for its book industry. The latest figures show the city produces 15,000 books in English every year and far more in Hindu and other local languages. Because of this, many small and independent bookstores are found all over the city thus making the books cost a lot cheaper compared to other cities and countries in the world.
Here are some popular bookstores in Delhi.
The Bookworm
If you're looking for the novels of Paul Theroux, Pico Iyer, Graham Greene, Jack Kerouac to Indian contemporary writers Arundhati Roy, Chetan Bhagat, and even the younger generation of Asian novelists, then this is the place to go. The Bookworm can be found in Connaught Place.
Khan Market
Bookstore in Khan Market
This shopping area is also wildly popular among book readers because you can find many bookstalls selling a wide selection of titles from both the Indian and World literature genres.
Jacksons Books
Located 600 meters from New Delhi Station and on the left side of Main Bazaar Street, this bookshop houses a large collection of classics and contemporary works of Indian writers.
Where to Eat in Delhi
Where to Eat in Delhi
Indian Accent
Address: The Lodhi, Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, India.
The only Indian restaurant featured in the World's 50 Best Restaurants guide books for three straight years from 2015-2017, this place serves traditional Indian cuisine with a touch of its head chef's culinary experiments. The best choice is the six-course meal, the creamy black lentil dhal, tandoori prawns, and almost everything on the menu.
TLR Cafe
Address: 31, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India
One of the many cool joints found in the Hauz Khas Village neighborhood, TLR Cafe serves a wide range of Indian wines, as well as imported wines, and locally brewed coffee and refreshing smoothies.
Karim's
Address: Shop No. 1, 2/5, Vikas Marg, Sagar Complex, New Rajdhani Enclave, Preet Vihar, New Delhi, India
Already a food icon in New Delhi, this hole-in-the-wall joint first served its signature mutton bara and brain curry way back in 1913. Today, Karim's remains as one of Old Delhi's best culinary destination for both tourists and locals alike.
Bukhara
Address: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Akhaura Block, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, India
Providing a rustic earthy ambiance and an authentic Indian meal experience, Bukhara is one of Delhi's most popular restaurants. Serving an array of signature dishes like their hot naans, dal Bukhari, and malai kebabs, Bukhara promises to make your dining experience a memorable one.
Sagar Ratna
Address: 18, Main Market, Block A, Defence Colony, New Delhi, India
The go-to place for everything Southern Indian cuisine, Sagar Ratna is known for its paper-thin dosas and mini idlis—among other food items on its menu. They have numerous branches scattered in New Delhi, but the first restaurant located in Defence Colony Market is a must for every foodie traveler.
Olive Bar & Kitchen
Address: One Style Mile, 6-8, Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi, India
This is where celebrity chef Sujan Sarkar shows his kitchen skills, Olive Bar & Kitchen serves an array of Indian and Mediterranean food in a European-styled interior with an open-air courtyard. This is perfect for one of those weekend brunch with friends and family.
Best Areas to Eat in Delhi
best areas to eat in Delhi
North and South Campus
North and South Campus maybe 20km apart from each other, but whenever you find yourself at either area, make sure to drop by each neighborhood for some lip-smacking street food India is known for. In North Campus, make sure not to miss Momo's Point, Bamboo Hut, South Indian Cafe, Bille Di Hatti, Shagun Asian Eatery, and Chache Di Hatti. In South Campus, the best food can be found at Kev's, Echoes, Chowringhee Lane, Vadapav Junction, and Big Yellow Door.
How to reach: (South Campus) a short rickshaw ride from Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus (Pink Line)
How to reach: (North Campus) a short rickshaw ride from Vishwa Vidyalaya metro station (Yellow Line)
Old Delhi
Arguably the best place to experience the very best of Delhi's street food culture, Old Delhi's streets abounds with a medley of rich flavors from Indian sweets, authentic Mughal cuisine, and an array of street food delights. After exploring the Red Fort, you must go on a food binging tour here.
How to reach: Walking distance from Chandni Chowk Staton (Yellow Line)
CR Park
More known as little Kolkata, CR Park is a haven for people craving for Bengali food. From puchkas to sweet rolls, get ready to fill yourself with sumptuous food. Popular places to go here include Mad about Momos, Kolkata Hot Kathi Roll, Annapurna Sweet House, and Raju Puchka Wala.
How to reach: A short Auto-rickshaw ride from Greater Kailash Station (Magenta Line)
Dilli Haat
This small cultural melting pot is where you can find several food stalls serving delicious food from the different states of India. If you want to experience the collective Indian cuisine, then Dilli Haat is the place to be.
How to reach: Short walking distance from INA Station (Yellow and Pink line)
Connaught Place
Aside from shopping, you can also feast on an array of Indian and International cuisine. From popular fast food Indian and Western fast food joints to fancy Indian restaurants as well as small stalls selling your favorite Indian street food, culinary options abound here. Top picks in this area include Singh Burger, Parikrama, Jain Chawal Male, Kake Da Hotel, Minar, and many more.
How to reach: Just outside the Rajiv Chowk Metro station (Blue and Yellow Line)
Jama Masjid
The opposing lanes of Bazaar Matia Mahal and Jama Masjid is where you can experience the authentic Indian street food culture. From grilled botis to keema samosas, to kebabs and jalebi, it's a foodie haven that exists in this area. Perfect also for both veggie and non-veggie eater.
How to reach: a short walking distance from Jama Masjid Station (Violet Line)
New Friends Colony
Famous for its row of restaurants serving a variety of cuisines from Lebanese, South Indian, North Indian, Kerala, Mughai, Italian, Continental, and even Chinese food, New Friends Colony is a bustling food district that any foodie would surely love to explore.
How to reach: Walking distance from Sukhdev Vihar Metro Station (Magenta Line)
Other areas where there are plenty of street food and rows of Indian restaurants can also be found in Hudson Lane, Pandara Road, NSP, Nizamuddin, Safdarjung Enclave, and Karol Bagh.
Where to stay in Delhi
Luxurious Hotels
Oberoi New Delhi
Oberoi New Delhi Rooms
Address: Dr Zakir Hussain Marg, Delhi Golf Club, Golf Links, New Delhi, India
One of the best high-end hotels in India, the Oberoi was refurbished in 2018 to become a more sophisticated hotel catering to stylish travelers in search of luxury and comfort in the bustling setting of Delhi. Comprising of 186 spacious rooms and 34 suites, a lavish property set in a 5-hectare property, the Oberoi is the perfect choice for travelers with money to splurge.
Leela Palace
The Leela Palace New Delhi Hotel
Address: Africa Ave, Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, India
One of the most luxurious hotels in New Delhi, Leela Palace offers a tranquil and secluded space for guests. It has a rooftop swimming pool, three high-rated restaurants (that include Jamawar), and exceptional hospitality. Room rates start from Rs 18,000 per night.
Haveli Dharampura
WelcomHeritage Haveli Dharampura
Address: 2293, Dharampura, Gali Gulian, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi, India
Located in the center of bustling Old Delhi area, Haveli Dharampura is housed inside a historic mansion dating back to the late 19th century. Rooms here can be booked starting from Rs 13,000 per night.
The Taj Mahal Hotel
The Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi and NCR – Room Deals
Address: 1, Man Singh Rd, South Block, Man Singh Road Area, New Delhi, India
As the name suggests, expect a high-end service and topnotch leisure and enjoyment from this brand of hotel with branches in other Indian cities. Said to be the place where the Dalai Lama stays when he visits Delhi, The Taj Mahal Hotel is also where the city's elite likes to wine and dine. The room rate starts at 10,000 INR.
Mid-range Hotels
Bloomrooms
Bloomrooms Delhi
Address: Railway Station, 8591, Arakashan Rd, opp. New Delhi, Arya Nagar, Paharganj, New Delhi, India
Situated near New Delhi train station, Bloomrooms is set in an art deco style building that dishes a laid-back ambiance. Modern rooms and interior complement its heritage architecture perfectly.
Saket Bed and Breakfast
Best Price on Saket Bed and Breakfast in New Delhi
Address: 3rd Floor, D21 Saket, Near PVR Cinema, Opposite Kotak Bank, South Delhi, New Delhi, India
Marketed as a guest house for mid-range budget travelers but operates like a boutique hotel because of its fine service and amenities, Saket Bed and Breakfast is also located in a quiet area of Delhi. Super clean room and elegant staff–Check. Short walk to restaurants and the Saket Metro Station–also a big Check. Room rates start from $60 per night.
Haveli Hauz Khas
Haveli Hauz Khas Guesthouse/bed and breakfast
Address: P5, Block P, Hauz Khas Enclave, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, India
An ancestral house turned into a guesthouse in 2015, Haveli Hauz Khas also doubles as a pseudo gallery displaying interesting artefacts and old photographs. Perfect for solo and couple travelers, this guesthouse has five beautifully designed bedrooms. The room rate starts at 4,000 INR.
Hostels | Backpacker's budget
New Delhi is a converging zone of backpackers traveling in India. It is almost impossible to travel to India without making a stop in Delhi. Therefore, the hostel culture is more popular in this city than any other cities in India. Here are some highly recommended hostels in New Delhi.
Madpackers Hostel Delhi
Address: S39 A Third Floor, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi, India
Address: T40 Hauz Khas Village, South Delhi, New Delhi, and NCR, India
Delhi Travel Budget and additional travel tips
Negotiating a Fare
Be aware of the usual overcharging in taxis and rickshaws. Learn to say some useful Hindu words like "pachaas", which means "fifty", so you can start negotiating a fair fare for a distance of a few kilometers. If you ask rickshaw drivers, they will start charging you from 200 Rupees and up regardless of distance. By stating "pachaas" you might negotiate a fare less than 100 Rupees.
Money Matters
There are many ATM machines located all over New Delhi. Be sure to use only the ones in crowded commercial places like in Connaught Place for an added peace of mind. There are also Money Changers if needed.
Meal Budget
Food is cheap in India including the capital city of Delhi. This writer was able to spend 100 Rupees per meal in Delhi for one day (before he decided to splurge on the other days). So if you mix eating at cheaper places and treating yourself to a nice meal in an expensive restaurant, you can still easily budget 500-700 INR per day.
Transport Budget
If you plan to take the Metro numerous times in a day to easily explore different parts of Delhi without encountering its infamous traffic, then allot at least 100 INR for a Smart Card. Additional commuting expenses can range from 10 INR to 100 INR a day (depending on how much you want to walk or cut walking distance by hailing a rickshaw for the in-between Metro Stations destinations). Safe to say, you can limit your transport budget in Delhi at 200 INR a day.
Accommodation Budget
This writer stayed at Moustache Hostel and Zostel during his twin-stays in Delhi. The average bunk bed per night cost him 250-300 INR. Private rooms good for two people in hostels cost around 800 INR and up.
Other Must-Haves when Traveling to Delhi
Make sure to avail of a Travel Insurance before flying to India because accidents including the freak ones can happen anywhere—much more in a country of more than a billion people. Also, make sure to stock up on basic medicines especially for colds and diarrhea. Always bring a water bottle with you because tap water can cause stomach upset.
Rent a pocket Wi-Fi or buy a local Indian SIM card and avail of an internet package—this way you can always use Google Maps and your phone to book Uber and OLA.
Delhi Sample Itinerary / How Many Days to Stay in Delhi
If you ask this writer, the ideal number of days to stay in Delhi just to cover the places mentioned on this travel guide is at least four nights / five days. This is under the context that you will have another number of days to spare in nearby cities like Jaipur. Most tourists who are visiting India for the first time are doing the Golden Triangle Tour of India. This is composed of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. Usually, they allot 4-5 days in Delhi, 3-4 days in Jaipur, and 1-2 days in Agra.
Anyway, here is a simple Itinerary of Delhi (feel free to tinker with it to insert free time to explore other places that picks your interest)
Day One
Chandni Chowk
Jama Masjid
Red Fort
India Gate and War Memorial
Rashtrapati Bhavan
Agrasen ki Baoli
Day Two
Humayun's Tomb
Qutab Minar Complex
Jantar Mantar
Lotus Temple
Gurudwara Bangla Sahib
Day Three
Visit a few museums
'A Chef's Tour' in the afternoon (or a Street Food Tour of Delhi)
Connaught Place
Day Four
Day-trip to Agra
Searching for the best Delhi hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable hotels and resorts via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Jaipur Travel Guide: Things to do, DIY Itinerary, How To Get There And More
As the capital of the Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaipur is one of India's most popular cities among tourists. Part of the so-called "Golden Triangle" with New Delhi and Agra, travelers come to Jaipur to experience a city teeming with palaces, temples, magnificent forts, colorful bazaars, and of course—lots of cows. All these plus stunning architecture, culture and a lively culinary scene all combine to make what is also known as "the Pink City" a can't miss destination in India.
Travel Guide to Jaipur, India
To help you plan your trip to Jaipur, here are some useful information on things to do, places to see and eat in Jaipur.
When is the best time to visit Jaipur?
The months of October until May are the ideal time to visit Jaipur. Scorching weather prevails from June until August. This writer arrived in Jaipur on the month of January and found the day time temperature of 20°C and the nighttime 8°C pleasant and bearable with thick clothing. The winter temperature from December to February slowly warms into the succeeding months. The Jaipur Literature Festival in January, the Holi Festival in March and the Gangaur Festival also in March attracts many visitors to the city.
Jaipur Travel Guide photo by @msaditya9 via Unsplash
How to get to Jaipur?
Although there are no direct flights from Manila, Jaipur is easily accessible when you're in India as it is well-connected to three leading networks of transportations such as via Air, Railway and Land, from all major cities in India and some parts of Asia.
By Plane
Jaipur is served by Sanganer Airport which is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. The airport has both International and Domestic Terminals. Airlines flying to Jaipur from other Indian cities are Air India, Jet Airways, IndiGo, GoAir, Alliance Air, AirAsia India and Spicejet for domestic travel. For international flights, AirAsia X (from KL), Oman Air (from Muscat), Thai AirAsia (from Bangkok), Air Arabia (from Sharjah) and Air India Express (Dubai) are also available. This writer flew to Jaipur via Kuala Lumpur on an AirAsia X flight.
By Train
Jaipur has three Railway junctions located at Durgapura, Jaipur Main and Gandhinagar, therefore, connecting it to all major cities in India like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Agra and more. For those opting to travel by train in class, a train service called "Palace on Wheels" offers a week-long luxury train travel from New Delhi-Jaipur-Chittorgarh-Udaipur-Jaisalmer-Jodphur and Agra.
By Bus
The highways of NH8, NH11, and NH12 connect Jaipur to the main roads traversing the vast Indian sub-continent. AC Volvo and Non-AC deluxe buses service the route going to and from Jaipur multiple times daily. Most bus companies pick up passengers from various points in Sindhi Camp and Narayan Singh Circle in Jaipur.
Travel time and distance from Jaipur to nearby cities are as follows.
Delhi to Jaipur – 269 Km (4h 13 min)
Agra to Jaipur – 237 Km (4h 15 min)
Jodhpur to Jaipur – 338 Km (5h 8 min)
Bikaner to Jaipur – 343 Km (5h 20 min)
Jaisalmer to Jaipur – 592 Km (8h 36 min)
By Rented Car
Travelers from New Delhi sometimes choose to rent a car going to Jaipur. Travel time is around 4-5 hours and the rate ranges from 2,000-3,000 Indian Rupees (one-way). Riding apps like Uber and OLA can also be used when traveling from New Delhi to Jaipur and vice versa.
Getting around Jaipur
Always haggle nicely with the rickshaw drivers in Jaipur. Promise, they won't get mad
Like most cities in India, the main transportation in Jaipur are the auto-rickshaws (Vikram), public buses and the Metro Train System. Although the Old City (the Pink City) is very walkable, you can easily go around and outside the city center by taking these main modes of transportations. There are designated bus stops found all over the city. Make sure what bus numbers you need to ride to your destination. You can check this link to learn about the bus routes in Jaipur. The first phase of Jaipur Metro completed in 2014 now operates a total length of 9.63 kilometers or a total of 9 stations from Chandpole Bazaar to Vivek Vihar.
Where to Eat in Jaipur
Although Jaipur may not be a hotbed of fine-dining establishments serving gourmet cuisine yet, the local culinary culture here is made more fascinating by the bountiful street food scene where one can taste a variety of street food and numerous hole-in-the-wall establishments.
An upscale restaurant worth your every Rupees, The Rajput Room is set inside Rambagh Palace and adorned with grand decoration mirroring Jaipur's city palace. Serving an appetizing selection of Indian, Asian and Continental cuisine, this is a great place to splurge on some great tasting food.
Tapri Central
A sample appetizer in Tapri House
Address: B4-E, Prithviraj Road, Opposite Central Park Gate No. 4, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan
This laid-back but cozy place has a rooftop dining place where you can get a mesmerizing view of Jaipur's Central Park. Add that to the cool interiors and the fine tasting set of Indian food in their menu, and you get an affordable and fancy place to have a memorable meal with your friends.
Jaipur Modern Kitchen
One of my favorite dish to order in Jaipur is a Thali Meal
Housed inside a mid-19th century heritage establishment in the C-Scheme neighborhood, Jaipur Modern Kitchen serves an array of Indian vegetarian and Mediterranean dishes. With a hip and trendy interior, this joint also highlights its ingredients that are sourced organically.
Have a pleasant time at this place that serves the best Middle Eastern and Mediterranean specialties in a finely designed dining room. Pair your food with their in-house blend of iced tea, brewed coffee, and Moroccan mint tea.
Hawk View Restaurant & Bar
A veggie Thali meal served in Hawk View
Address: 76 Raja Mal Ka Talab, Chandi Ki Taksal, Behind Kale Hanuman Ji Temple, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Located in the old city, this rooftop restaurant offers pleasant views of the bustling city and Nahargarh Fort. Hawk View serves Indian vegetarian cuisine including a sumptuous set of Thali dishes. In the afternoon to nighttime, you will also be entertained by live Indian music performed by two young cultural performers.
A quaint little nook adorned with colorful mural art, this bistro also doubles as an organic and home store. The bright interiors pair well with their delicious menu items like: falafel canape, sushi, crepes, beetroot hummus, pasta, and tofu burgers.
Samode Haveli
Address: Near Jorawar Singh Gate, Gangapole, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Set in a Haveli (traditional Indian mansion), Samode Haveli offers a royalty-vibe dining experience and dishes a tasty fusion of Mughai, North Indian, Continental, and Rajasthani cuisine. Always included in everywhere to eat in Jaipur listicle articles, the must-try here includes: Laal Maans, Butter Chicken, Aloo Goobi, Rajasthani Thaali, and Dal Makhni.
Lassiwala Stall
Address: 312, MI Road, Jayanti Market, New Colony, Jaipur, Rajasthan
This popular Lassiwala roadside Lassi stall has been a local favorite since 1944. They serve a refreshing Lassi at 30 Rupees for 200 ml and 60 Rupees for 400 ml. Lassi is a blend of yoghurt (or 'dahi' in India) water, spices and sometimes fruit.
Street Food in Jaipur
These are just a few standout places to eat in Jaipur. The real food adventure though can be found on the street. Take time to try out such staple Jaipur street food like Chaat (comprise of lentils, chutney, fried crackers, dried nuts), samosas, omelets, sweet treats and more.
Best places to stay in Jaipur
Accommodations in Jaipur are aplenty ranging from backpacker hostels to medium range to luxury. There's too many to list one by one, so here is a brief guide on the neighborhoods where all these best places to stay are located at.
Pink City
Zostel Jaipur
This is probably the best place to stay if you're looking to spend your days in Jaipur exploring the old city on foot. The City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, and numerous bazaars are all within walking distance with each other. Also, the best place to experience the street-food culture of Jaipur. This writer stayed in this neighborhood at Zostel Jaipur.
A peaceful neighborhood away from the bustling old city. Still part of the city center, it is also strategically located near rows of hotels, cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Located in the Southern part of Jaipur's city center, Raja Park boasts of a colorful neighborhood where you can witness lively activities and samples on the street-food culture as well.
One of the main roads in Jaipur, M I Road is dotted with some of Jaipur's landmarks like the Aimeri Gate, the Raj Mandir Cinema and a wide-ranging choice of restaurants, cafes and street-food stalls.
Located in the Western part of Jaipur, this is where some of the city's luxurious accommodations are situated. Quieter than most neighborhoods, it offers a relaxed nightlife, shopping, and food scene.
The iconic facade of Hawa Mahal is one of the must-see landmarks in Jaipur. Also known as the "Palace of the Winds", this architectural marvel standing pyramidical 50 feet high is made of red and pink sandstone and highlighted by 953 jharokha windows embellished with latticework. Hawa Mahal was built in 1799 and is a prime example of Rajput architecture prevalent in Jaipur during those days. It served as an extension of the women's chamber where the royal ladies would peek at the windows to observe the everyday life outside. The narrow design of the hallway and the direction it faces allows the wind ("Hawa" in Hindi) to circulate inside—thus giving the palace its moniker.
City Palace
the intricate gate of the City Palace
Oozing with a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the City Palace covers a palatial complex nearly the size of one-seventh of the whole of the Pink City. Inside, you can get magically lost into a series of lush gardens, royal residences, private halls, courtyards, museums, and olden buildings. The Chandra Mahal—the residence of the current Maharajah of Jaipur—is also located inside the City Palace compound.
Albert Hall Museum
The Royal Albert Hall Museum at night
Also known as the Central Museum, the Albert Hall Museum conveys a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Designed by Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob, it was first opened in 1987. Today, the museum is visited by art enthusiasts because of its impressive collections of paintings, metal sculptures, crystal works, carpets, Ivory and other historical artifacts.
Amer Fort
The massive outer walls of Amer Fort
Spread atop the rolling Aravali Hills, the 16th century Amer Fort with its massive walls and maze of passageways, once shielded the Mughal Empire from fierce enemies. Today, it has become part of "Hill Forts of Rajasthan"—along with five other forts—inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Impressive architecture abounds inside in the form of temples, gates, ramparts, royal residences, courtyards, and halls—with each of the structures telling interesting bits of history.
Jantar Mantar
Jantar Mantar The world's biggest sundial
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar is a complex that houses nineteen 18th-century architectural astronomical instruments including the world's largest sundial. It was completed in 1734 upon the order of Maratha Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II. This observatory that measures celestial positions and timings uses the methods of "Ptolemaic positional astronomy" used by earlier civilizations. The instruments at Jantar Mantar used to supply accurate readings before towering modern buildings blocked the view of the nighttime sky.
Nahargarh Fort
Nahargarh Fort
The smallest of the three forts in Jaipur but famous for its location atop a hill overlooking the Pink City and the stunning sunset. Built in 1734, the Fort houses an array of palaces and temples designed in a fusion of Indian and European architecture. You can also visit Jaipur's Wax Museum inside.
Jal Mahal
The floating palace of Jal Mahal
The Jal Mahal Palace was built in 1734 and served as a palace of the Maharaja of Amber before rising levels of the lake bed submerged the palace's four floors and leaving the fifth floor and the rooftop as the only visible structure. Today, this Rajput-architecture designed palace appears floating magically over the calm waters of Man Sagar Lake. The intricate walls and arching pillars are still visible even from afar. A visit here is in order especially if you are coming from Amber Fort—as this lake palace is located along the way going back to Jaipur's Pink City.
Jaipur Bazaars
Colorful shops dots the bazaars of Jaipur
In Jaipur, bazaars fill all corners of the 'Pink City' with at least 7 main bazaar districts. To fully explore these bazaars, it is highly recommended to walk from Hawa Mahal going to Chandpole and Bapu Bazaar. Along the way, you will pass by countless shops selling an assortment of items from jewelries, colorful fabrics, footwears (especially the "jootis" –a specialty women's shoes of Rajasthan), utensils, carpets, trinkets, blanket, elephant pants, sarees, leather bags and a whole lot more. It's safe to assume that you won't leave Jaipur without extra luggage filled with assorted fancy items.
Galtaji Temple (Monkey Temple)
Galtaji Temple in Jaipur
Located 10 kilometers outside of Jaipur, Galtaji Temple is a complex comprised of a series of temples and is known as an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site. Galtaji is highlighted by a natural spring that streams out of the hill and fills a series of pools referred to as "sacred kunds", where the pilgrims bathe. It is also known as the "Monkey Temple" because of the presence of countless Rhesus Macaques.
Raj Mandir Theater
The Raj Mandir theater
Said to be one of the most beautiful movie theaters in India, the Art Deco Raj Mandir Theater is the best place to experience Bollywood in Jaipur. Watch a Bollywood film with a crowd of locals oohing and singing along while munching on some of the favorite movie snacks of Indians.
Best Places to Shop in Jaipur
Souvenir Shops in Jaipur
Jaipur best typifies the 'bazaar-crazy scene' of Rajasthan. Inside and outside the Pink City are several bazaars that sell a wide variety of interesting items. From silverware, clothing, jewelry, spices, dried nuts, fruits, vegetables, traditional shoes, organic products and more are available at these markets. Here are Jaipur's main bazaars where you can enjoy memorable shopping experience.
Johari Bazaar –Jewelry
Tripolia Bazaar –Bangles
Bapu Bazaar –All Jaipuri Items
Chandpole Bazaar –Handicrafts
Anokhi –Colorful Garments
Gaurav Tower –Local Products
The Gem Palace –Antique Charms
Kishanpole Bazaar –Textiles
Nehru Bazaar –Traditional Jootis
Sireh Deori Bazaar –Street Shopping
Mirza Ismail Road –Pottery
Tibbati Market –Local Souvenirs
Kripal Kumbh –Blue Pottery
Aravali Bazaar –Home Decor Items
Purohit Ji Ka Katla –Wedding Items
Travel Tip: Because haggling is a birthright in India, Haggle hard. Unless you're shopping in an upscale boutique store, you should always try to haggle down—in a polite manner—to an average of 20-40 percent of the original asking price. Indian vendors appreciate a good haggling skill by smiling back at you before bobbing their head sideways and saying "Okay, no problem"
Booking ahead of time will help you in scoring cheaper airfare and reserve the best place to stay. Be on the look-out also for seat-sales and other airline promos. Take note of the best months to visit Jaipur and anticipate room rates to increase during this time, so make sure to also book ahead and reserve online. Despite the crazy street activities, Jaipur remains a fairly walkable city. Make sure to include increasing your stamina as part of your trip preparation to Jaipur because you might want to take long walks when exploring the Pink City.
Nearby side trip destinations
If you're spending a long time in Jaipur, you can make a weekend or daylong side trips to these nearby places.
Bikaner – is a 5-hour drive or bus/train ride from Jaipur where you can visit the Junagarh Fort, the Laxmi Niwas
Temple and the Shivbari Temple
Jaisalmer – is another city in Rajasthan that sizzles with dessert vibe set in an ancient city surrounded by forts, palaces, beautiful Havelis (traditional Indian mansions) and sand dunes.
Jodphur – is where you will see the famed "Blue City" and the jaw-dropping Mehrangarh Fort.
Udaipur – is another Rajasthan city known for its scenic spots and beautiful lakes and palaces.
Scam Alert
While most locals are very friendly and willing to help without asking anything in return—in cases you get lost or something—there are a few locals acting too friendly who will engage you in a conversation. After getting your trust they will ask you to visit their jewelry store and if you say "Yes", it will be almost impossible to leave their store without buying jewelry because of their power of persuasion. Best to say a firm "NO" at any invitation to visit a store, shop or factory when you don't plan on buying anything.
Money Matters
There are several ATM's and Money Changers located in Jaipur so withdrawing money and exchanging currency won't be a problem. Most restaurants and bazaar stalls accept Mastercard and Visa credit cards and debit cards.
Jaipur Travel and Tour Packages
Check out our complete list of recommended Hotels in Jaipur, India via Agoda or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Help us improve our Jaipur Travel Guide by suggesting other places to visit, places to eat and other helpful travel information that you want to add in this Jaipur travel blog post.
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