India

India evokes images of the splendid Taj Mahal and sunsets on the sacred Ganges River and of course spicy food. Arriving in this diverse country results in a splendid assault on all senses: the chaotic sounds of the street, the numerous aromas of animals, people and spices and the colourful sights best manifested in the Holi Festival where only two things are required: Water and Colour! Cricket is the most popular sport and India has one of the best national teams in the world. Mahatma Gandhi lead his country to the independence of India with a non-violent attitude. Tigers are the iconic symbol of Indian wildlife and can be glimpsed in some of the spectacular national parks. From the writhing streets of Mumbai to the idyllic shores of the Andaman Islands, this remarkable country offers a diverse feast for the senses. There’s a quote from the movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel that sums it up: “India hits you like a wave. If you resist, you will be knocked down. But if you dive into it, you will be alright.” and my absolute favourite, “Everything will be alright in the end so if it is not alright it is not the end.”

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Agra

Agra is a city on the banks of the Yamuna river in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, about 230 kilometres south-east of the national capital New Delhi. Shah Jahan, in order to perpetuate the memory of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631, had the Taj Mahal funerary mosque built. Image result for taj mahal It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India's rich history. The Taj Mahal attracts more than 6 million visitors a year.

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Varanasi

Varanasi is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh dating to the 11th century B.C. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India, the city draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters and perform funeral rites. Along the city's winding streets are some 2,000 temples, including Kashi Vishwanath, the “Golden Temple,” dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

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