Best of India

It was a very full on itinerary, which we thoroughly enjoyed. Unfortunately due to the heavy traffic we spent a lot of time on the bus. Our tour guide reminded us that this is India, became known as TII. My highlight was definitely the Taj Mahal, however every city we visited had a highlight. Our tour guide was very helpful, professional and diplomatic. A smile on his face at all times. Can thoroughly recommend.

It was a great itinerary. They were long days out and about, but worth it. We saw a lot of interesting places and each new city had something unique and special about it. We only had 12 people on our tour. I am not sure if you have the same experience with a larger group, as there were multiple times it was a challenge to stay together because of the crowds.

Hi. I've been on many Trafalgar tours before. As usual, hotels were NOT centrally located. Park Plaza was by far the worst. Looks good when you first walk in, then you notice the water damage, black mold, toilet seat bolt actually broke off and almost launched me onto the floor. I only weigh 128 pounds. Water then ran all night long and no one answering any phone, so I didn't sleep as it was that loud. No bar. Horrible place to walk, just dangerous and disgusting. I actually threw up from the experiential assault to my senses. And, I've travelled all over the world, all 7 continents. Staff was gracious and helpful, except not being available overnight. LONG days, up early, often not back in hotel room until 10pm. Everyone was complaining about too much stacked in the daily itinerary. Guess they complain if there isn't enough stuff. At least one less shopping visit would be good though we did learn a lot. Staff at the stores were relentless and would not stop following us, bit too much pressure. I had to leave one store early it was so bad. Our group of 12 did purchase a bunch of stuff, I'm enjoying my $400 sapphire ring. John almost bought an $8000 bracelet, but didn't, and he is still thinking about it. Best tour guide ever! Akhilesh Mishra (spell?). Funny, kind, always told us what to expect. I've been on Tauck tours, Abercrombie & Kent, Alexander & Roberts, Trafalgar, Insight, Viking cruises, Uniworld cruises, at least 50 cruises all over the world...and Akhilesh was a GREAT guide! The spiritual moments and experiences in Varanasi were our favorites, as well as the child charity visit Salaam Baalak Trust was very well represented and we made a hefty donation. Dhank (spell?) sewing shop by the tiger preserve was also a great stop and we purchased a lot there and also made a donation (former poachers and wives). We felt we got a good deal, but there were sacrifices for the price. We will upgrade next time.

Too many very long walks and extremely long talks in the very hot weather. Didn't need to go into so much detail about each temple. just kept on walking at times and did not consider some of the elderly people. Too much time spent at jewellery and carpet places which are very expensive, high pressure, sales. Not enough general shopping time for ourselves. Everyone commented that we should have name tags and at the end no properly organized group photo was taken; just a very rushed disorganized one at the Taj Mahal (don't know if everyone got in it). The hotels were all great and the train trip was a great experience. 5 Tigers was the absolute highlight for me. We were so, so very lucky. When we broke down on the freeway, they all handled the situation expertly. Already thinking where to go next year. Cheers