We continue our destination focus of Asia by featuring India - Land of the Maharajahs, where the sights and sounds will excite you and no visitor will ever return quite the same.
Part 1 - Introduction to India
From the snow-capped Himalayas in the north to the sun drenched coastal villages of the south, India unfolds like an ancient tapestry. At times threadbare and fading, the land stretches from desert dunes and scattered slums to the rich embroidery of ancient, jewelled palaces, and the majestic domes of forgotten empires.
India is a feast for the senses; where the air is heavy with the scent of jasmine and dancers trail frenetic melodies in colourful silk saris. Its cooks compose dishes from a palette of exotic spices that may leave a lingering taste of saffron or aniseed. In India’s cities, the stench of slum living competes with the cacophony of seemingly endless traffic and a myriad of other textures, colours and movements all jostling for your attention.
The country contains an astounding diversity of people, landscapes, sights and sounds. Famous sights such as the Taj Mahal, Amber Palace and old Goa seldom fail to instill a sense of wonder in visitors, while the modern face of India evident in the crowded cities and chaotic traffic are also thrilling. It is the people, however, that live longest in the memory. They are renowned for their warm welcome, engaging conversation and obsessive-compulsive love of bargaining.
The majestic Taj Mahal - Agra, India
India’s vibrant culture remains distinctive and unique despite years of colonial and western influence. One reason for this is the centrality of religion to Indian life so that wherever you go the sacred and profane exist side by side, in perfect harmony.
Visitors seem to be divided between those on organised tours, seeking to make the most of their time in relative comfort, and backpackers on 9 month visas and flexible agendas. Despite recent incidents in Mumbai, India is one of the safest countries to visit, and it remains one of the best value.
The key to enjoying India is to have an open mind and an open heart, and a good dose of imodium.
On Deck - Part 2 - Delhi - city of contrasts
Book your cheap flights to India today. Visit http://www.farestore.com.
Statistical Note: According to the latest research released by the World Travel and Tourism Council, India’s travel and tourism industry was estimated to have generated approximately US $100 billion in 2008. This figure is expected to go up to almost US $275.5 billion by 2018, growing at an average of 9.4 percent over the next 10 years. Moreover, according to research, travel and tourism is expected to contribute 6.1 percent to India’s GDP and provide almost 40 million jobs by 2018.
Recent Comments
No comments.