Featured Tour: Western Paradise

Sophistication meets tranquility in our Western Paradise tour. Spend 8 days/8 nights in Mumbai and Goa, two popular destinations on India's shores.

Goa has notably been called The Pearl of the Orient and India's Paradise. Settled by the Portuguese in the 15th century, Goa intricately blends European history and Indian traditions. (Many of our clients comment on the scattering of churches and statues of Mary next to Hindu temples.) Once a haven for backpackers and newlyweds, it has become a preferred destination for many, including families and luxury travelers. Pictured left: Beaches of Goa

Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is often termed the "New York City" of India. Fast-paced and modern, the city houses India's film and television industry, affectionately termed Bollywood. Though cosmopolitan, the city boasts of spectacular and historical sites: Elephanta Cave Island, Prince of Wales Museum, Crawford Market, Dhobi Ghat, and Marine Drive. Many also elect to visit the Dharavi Slum, made famous in the movie Slumdog Millionaire.

For more information about this featured tour, please contact a Sodha Travel representative!

Selecting the Best Accommodations for Your Trip

When it comes to selecting accommodations in India and Nepal, there are many options: International Branded Hotels, Guest Houses, Havelis, Boutique Hotels, Ecotourism Lodging, Hostels, Luxury Hotels, Forts, Palaces, and Heritage Hotels - just to name a few! Travelers of all budgets and interests can find suitable lodging, and often there are too many options available. There is also the challenge of selecting accommodations that match the traveler's standards - a 3 star hotel in India, for example, may not be considered a 3 star hotel in France. Here is a brief summary and price point of common accommodations:

$ - Economy
$$ - Moderate
$$$ - Deluxe
$$$$ - Superior
$$$$$ - Luxury

Forts, Palaces, and Havelis
Many Forts, Palaces, and Havelis (private mansions) have been converted to hotels and offer a truly authentic experience. These accommodations have a star rating and can offer services similar to a larger hotel. Often, the rooms are larger and the hotel staff is enthusiastic to share the history of the property. $$ - $$$$$ Pictured Right: Samode Haveli

International Branded Hotels
This includes Hyatt, Marriott, Ramada, InterContinental, etc. These hotels have a star rating and generally offer upgraded facilities and amenities, including a fitness center, room service, air-conditioning, swimming pool, and on-call doctor. $$$ - $$$$$

Ecotourism Lodging
These facilities benefit the environment and local people. Usually the property requires a minimum stay, and there are mandatory traveler responsibilities. In India and Nepal, most eco-friendly properties provide basic amenities and limited services but provide the guests with an opportunity to directly contribute to the indigenous sustainability. $ - $$$

Luxury Hotels

Luxury hotels cater to the discerning traveler who seeks the absolute best in facilities and services, including silver-plated dinners and Mercedes for transport. This category includes Oborei and Taj properties, including the Oborei Amarvilas in Agra and Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. $$$$$ Pictured Left: View from Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Local Hotels and Inns

These properties can be owned and operated by a larger hotel chain but are established within India and Nepal. Local chains cater to most budgets, from Economy - Superior, and offer services synonymous with the category. The hotels' location is what often contributes to its rating, so be sure to verify its distance to preferred attractions and public transportation. $ - $$$$

Guest Houses

Guest Houses are an excellent option for travelers seeking local lodging. Similar to a Bed and Breakfast, Guest Houses generally offer rooms with attached bathrooms and meals prepared by the owner. Often, these accommodations lack a full-time staff and are located in residential areas of the destination. Guest Houses may or may not have A/C and often have a star rating, though this rating may be self-proclaimed and not granted by the MT. $ - $$$ Pictured Above: Guest House in Ladakh

Hostels
Hostels provide shared accommodations (although private rooms may be available) where guests can rent a bed in a dormitory setting. The rooms can be co-ed or single-sex and commonly share a bathroom and lounge. These accommodations generally cater to backpackers and other budget travelers. Hostels may or may not have A/C. $

Whether you select an economical guest house or luxury hotel, the hospitality in India and Nepal is unlike any other part of the world. Gracious, patient, and accommodating, the staff will go above and beyond to ensure you remember the destination - and lodging - positively.

Client Testimonial: "India transformed me"

As I have often expressed in this blog, many of our clients have unexpected and powerful experiences in India and Nepal - experiences that change the way they view their self and humanity. Last week, we received the following testimonial from Laura Kingston in Seattle, Washington (reprinted with her permission):

My trip can be summed in one word: Transformed. As you know, I was planning this trip to India for many months. With your professional experience and expertise, we coordinated the itinerary, hotels, tours, and transportation from north to south. The sites, temples, and food was an anticipated highlight, as well as engaging with the locals. However, I was not anticipating the moment I shared with a local Indian woman in Rajasthan.

I was walking down the narrow streets, after another delicious cup of chai, looking to purchase more souvenirs. And then, I see this woman, sitting on the side of the street, singing to two children. She looked less financially privileged but was still a vision of opulence in her blue and orange saree. Her melodic voice carried down the street - almost like a siren. As the woman closed her eyes and hugged the children, they swayed with her tunes. She had no cup for money, and was not holding out her hand. She was just singing to the children. My eyes filled with tears and I stood on the street with my tears dotting the dusty lane. This moment did something to me. It reminded me that at the core, we are all people who want to feel loved, secure, and safe. India transformed me. And all because of a "random" encounter on the streets of Jodhpur.

Thank you for sharing your moment, Laura. Your experience is a reminder of how travel can be more than a vacation or cultural introduction - it can truly awaken the traveler.

To share your story, please email travel@sodhatravel.com. And, please remember: Your experiences will always be kept private unless otherwise permitted.

Kingfisher Airlines set to join Oneworld

Kingfisher Airlines, an India-based airline, will be joining the Oneworld global alliance. First, India must grant regulatory approval, and the entire process is expected to take eighteen months. Currently, Oneworld brings together eleven airlines, including American, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Iberia. Oneworld has been named the World's Leading Airline Alliance for seven consecutive years and serves over 700 destinations worldwide.

Kingfisher has won numerous awards in the airline and travel industry, including:

*Best Airline in India
*Kingfisher Red: Best Low Cost Airline in India
*Best Customer Service
*Best Bonus Promotion

This is a wonderful partnership for our Oneworld clients, as now they can claim mileage points and other benefits by flying Kingfisher in India and beyond.

Traveling with Children

In the March edition of our newsletter, The Sodha Traveler, I discuss the benefits of traveling with children. Textbooks are important resources but can limit the personal experiences that create global citizens. Traveling encourages children to develop personal connections and nurtures their desire to explore. It can also build confidence and teach tolerance, patience, communication, adaptability, and diversity.

Traveling with children also requires planning, and here is a list of resources to assist with your kid-friendly journey:

Blogs:

www.travelswithbaby.com
www.ciaobambino.com
www.travelingmamas.com
www.deliciousbaby.com

Books:

Wanderlust and Lipstick: Traveling with Kids by Michelle Duffy
How to Fit a Car Seat on a Camel: And Other Misadventures Traveling with Kids by Sarah Franklin
The Rough Guide to Travels with Babies and Young Children by Fawzia Rasheed de Francisco
Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children by Shelly Rivoli

As my husband I prepare to return to India with our toddler, we look forward to sharing in the joy as he experiences new wonders of the world. If you would like to receive future editions of our monthly newsletter, please register on our site!

Holi: The Festival of Colors

It is almost time for Holi, the Festival of Colors! Holi is a Hindu celebration that occurs at the end of the winter season on the last full day of the lunar month Phalguna. As bonfires are lit to signify a devotion to Lord Vishnu, the God of Preservation, people gather and throw colored powder and water at each other. Depending on the region, the festival can last up to sixteen days. This year, the main day of Holi is on March 1.

Holi received its title as the 'Festival of Colors' from the Hindu God Krishna, who is a reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. Krishna enjoyed playing pranks, including using colored powder and water on the villagers. Here is a local bin of powder in Delhi:



Many travelers are not sure what to expect during Holi, and for good reason. Many kids make a game out of throwing powder on the foreigners - even hiding in the trees to sprinkle handfuls of red, green, blue, and gold powder on the heads of unsuspecting tourists. Some people also mix bhang in the food and drinks. The celebration is truly a spectacle in the streets, as people come together to remove sorrow and make life more colorful.

Happy Holi!

Independent Itinerary vs Customized Package

For those travelers who prefer a flexible schedule, I recommend an Independent Itinerary, or II. An II allows you to confirm certain elements of your trip, including hotel or flight reservations, but keep the daily activities optional. If you prefer to add a tour, cooking class, home visit, cultural event, or other feature, you are given a list of contacts in each city who can assist in coordinating the details as requested.

A customized package is an ideal selection for those who prefer to have the tours, accommodations, and transportation reserved prior to departure.

Here is a sample of both a Customized Package and Independent Itinerary:

Customized Package

Arrival: March 5 Arrive at Delhi International airport. You will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Delhi is a bustling metropolis that incorporates the ancient with the modern. Amidst the skyscrapers, the monuments stand as a silent reminder to India’s legacy. Driving from the airport, you will be impressed with Delhi’s spacious, tree-lined streets and garden parks. Overnight at the hotel. Hotel: Claridges

March 6: Delhi - Agra In the morning, visit the sites of Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Later, drive to Agra (3 hours). In the afternoon, visit the Agra Fort and then enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20,000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world. Return to your hotel and overnight in Agra. Hotel: Oborei Amarvilas

March 7: Agra – Jaipur After breakfast, drive to Jaipur (5 hours). En-route, visit Fatehpur Sikri, the deserted but perfectly preserved sandstone city. Later, arrive in Jaipur and check-into your hotel.

Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the “Pink City” due to the pink colored buildings and avenues. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur. Hotel: Golden Tulip

March 8: Jaipur After breakfast, proceed on a full day tour of Jaipur. Start with a visit to Amber Fort. The final descent to this ancient city is made by elephant back—a truly memorable experience! In the fort, you will see magnificent palaces and halls covered with mirrored mosaics. En-route to Amber, view the `Palace of Winds’, otherwise known as Hawa Mahal. The honeycomb structure of red and pink sandstone was an elaborate facade behind which the ladies of the court used to watch the daily life in the street below.

In the afternoon, visit the city of Jaipur: City Palace, a blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture that is still occupied by the Royal family; and Jantar Mantar, the astronomical observatory. You will also have an opportunity to wander about the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner. Overnight in Jaipur.

March 9: Jaipur – Delhi Morning at leisure to explore Jaipur. Later, drive to Delhi (5.5 hours) and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

***

Independent Itinerary

Arrival: March 5 Independent Airport Transfer and Hotel Accommodations

March 6: Delhi - Agra In the morning, visit the sites of Old Delhi: Red Fort, a marvel of red sandstone; Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India; and Raj Ghat, a memorial to Mahatma Gandhi. Later, drive to Agra (3 hours). Independent Afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal. Built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj took over 22 years and 20,000 men to build. The monument is truly a wonder of the world. Return to your hotel and overnight in Agra. Independent Hotel Accommodations

March 7: Agra – Jaipur Confirmed Car/Driver: Agra - Jaipur 10:00am Departure

Jaipur, the vibrant capital of Rajasthan, owes its name, foundation and planning to the great astronomer and warrior Maharaja Jai Singh II. The city is fondly called the “Pink City” due to the pink colored buildings and avenues. Evening at leisure and overnight in Jaipur. Hotel: Alsisar Haveli

March 8: Jaipur Independent Day.

March 9: Jaipur – Delhi Independent Day.
Confirmed Train Ticketing: Jaipur - Delhi Departs 17:10/ Arrives 22:50 Chair Class
Independent Airport Transfer

Destination Contacts
Delhi: Ms. Aakriti Sharma Phone: xxxxxxxxx
Agra: Mr. Prakash Kumar Phone: xxxxxxxx
Jaipur: Mr Raj Singh Phone: xxxxxxxxx

A Sample of Optional Touring and Activities
Delhi: Mughal Cooking Class, Bazaar Tour
Agra: Agra Fort Tour, Sikandara Tour, Artisan Demo, Fatehpur Sikri Tour
Jaipur: Rajasthani Cooking Class, Home Visit, Amber Fort Tour

***

Based on your preferences, a Sodha Travel representative is happy to coordinate the best Customized Package or Independent Itinerary. Enjoy your Indian experience!

Travel Tip: Food and Water

Often, travelers in India experience gastrointestinal discomfort, commonly termed Delhi Belly. Some fault the food preparation while others blame the water source. The symptoms usually lessen after 24-48 hours without any medication. Here are a few suggestions for staying healthy during your trip:

Food
1. To be safe, we recommend not eating at roadside stands. The food may not be cooked or cleaned properly. We have seen too many travelers become ill from a desire to eat "authentic" at these locations.
2. Pack a digestive relief: Tums, Pepto Bismol, etc.
3. Grapefruit seed extract is a natural defense to unfamiliar bacteria. The extract is available at most natural food stores and nutrition/vitamin shops.
4. As a precaution, some clients request an antibiotic from their doctor before travel. Please consult your physician.
5. Only eat fruits and vegetables that have a thick peel. Examples: bananas, mangoes, oranges, squash, eggplant, and peppers. Also, be cautious about salads. The lettuce is often washed in tap water.

Water
1. Only drink bottled water during your trip. Be sure to check for sealed and untampered caps.
2. Many hotels have a water purification system. (Exception: Most hostels and guest houses do not have an independent system.) Therefore, it is generally safe to use tap water to brush your teeth. If you have concerns, please ask the property or use bottled water for all activities.
3. Iodine tables are usually not necessary, unless your itinerary includes trekking and/or remote destinations. We will let you know if iodine tablets are recommended for your particular package.

For specific suggestions pertaining to your itinerary, please ask a Sodha Travel representative.

Featured Destination: Pondicherry

Pondicherry (or Puducherry) is located in Southern India on the Bay of Bengal. The city was developed by the French and often termed the "French Riviera of the East." Because Pondicherry provides a unique integration of Indian and European heritage, it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination.

In addition to offering stunning ocean views, delicious seafood restaurants and quality shopping, there are two other notable attractions: Sri Aurobindo Ashram, one of the most famous and wealthiest ashrams in India, and Auroville, a universal township whose residents from all over the world live in peace and progressive harmony.

January - March is considered the temperate (and therefore most popular) season. Summer lasts from April - June, followed by the humid season until September. The Northeast Monsoon usually sets in by October and lasts until December. With beaches, botanical gardens, historical sites, museums, restaurants and shopping, Pondicherry is a wonderfully diverse destination for families, honeymooners, single travelers and groups. Our clients often return with a particular fondness for this city and its distinctive culture. Share your thoughts and pictures on Pondicherry: travel@sodhatravel.com

Ayurveda: The Science of Life

Many of our tours include a visit to Kerala, a lush state in Southwest India that is often considered the birthplace of Ayurveda. Ayurveda, or "Science/Knowledge of Life," is a form of holistic medicine. The earliest documentation of this healing system appeared in India over 5,000 years ago. Ayurveda focuses on balancing the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual elements of life to create ultimate wellness.

If you are in Portland, Oregon, I encourage you to visit Ayurveda Plus. The owner, Richard Haynes, has created a nurturing space that offers Ayurvedic spa services, health consultations, workshops, products and classes. One of their most popular services is the Shirodhara: Warm herbalized oil is gently poured over the forehead, thus synchronizing brain waves and regulating the nervous system. On Wednesday's, you can experience this invigorating treatment for only $60! Ayurveda Plus also offers Panchakarma programs and private consultations.

If you are visiting India, many hotels and spas offer Ayurvedic treatments and I highly recommend experiencing the bliss!