Sadly we left the ship at 7 AM and many of Ngaire's group were off for a drive through early morning Mumbai traffic to the domestic airport. I think I must be one of those people that will never get used to seeing beautiful old buildings falling into decay - but Mumbai is also growing and the skyline is full of many new skyscrapers, especially along the water. Such contrasts. Arrived at the airport and waited at least an hour outside the terminal for Regent to get our boarding passes. And yes, it was warm and sticky. It's India!
Then we began our trip to gate A1. I truly don't remember how many security checks were required but India makes the US airports seem like a stroll through a shopping mall compared to their system.. When I arrived at the actual security, scan your baggage facility, I went to the wrong line. Here there is one line for women and 4-5 others for the men. A sign would have been helpful, but eventually some one pointed out the error of my ways and I reluctantly followed the customs of the country and went through with the other women. My artificial knees didn't seem to concern the uniformed guards but I had about 4 question regarding the TAJ pin I was wearing. Should have taken it off but the guard seem truly interested. And it took her attention away from the few liquids I was hoping to get through. We weren't finished with passport and departure checks but the long wait was finally over.
Arrived in Jaipur around noon, bus ride to the Marriott, room keys distributed and we were off to visit the Pink City. I found it to be another interesting city with many older and beautiful moments and buildings and thoroughly enjoyed our time in this palace. I will let Andi or Eugene describe everything we saw, but I thought it was worth the long day it took to arrive here. And was thrilled to be able to purchase an out of print book written by the last maharani of Jaipur. And of course I couldn't get back on the bus without another puppet/marionette purchase. Someone stop me - please! I'm out of control.
Tomorrow - a 5.5 hour drive to Agra. And finally on Saturday at sunrise - at last, the beautiful Taj.