Taj Mahal

We left Delhi yesterday morning on the first day of Diwali driving throught streets that were eerily quiet after a night of festivities. As we left the city it began to bustle in the villages we passed through. The sights were mind boggling and very entertaining: camels pulling loads on the 4 lane highway, carts laden with garlands of yellow marigolds, people riding atop buses, 3 wheelers overloaded with a dozen people, even a herd of cows being led by a red turbaned shepherd. It took 4 hours to arrive in Agra our destination. As we stopped for breaks along the we were pestered by many. The most disconcerting time was when 2 children approached our van carrying a cobra and a boa. They held their pets up to the windows hoping for a few Rs. Damon locked the doors to keep the snakes out and hoped he wouldn't have nightmares. Our hotel, the Trident Hilton, is the most beautiful, tranquil oasis admist the squalor. It is 5 star plus. We didn't linger long however as our guide was anxious to take us to the Agra Fort built in 1565 by Shah Jehan's great grandfather. The Moguhls continues to amaze us with their intelligence, creativity and skill. The fort was magnificent. One tower, in view of the Taj, is where the Shah was imprisoned by his son. We soon moved onto the Taj Mahal. As we entered the east gate we were all completely overwhelmed with emotion, even Rupee who has seen its majesty before. Words and pictures cannot explain the beauty of the Taj. We were given a wonderful guided tour and then had time to wander. Rupee and I headed to the back near the river while Damon and Nicole strolled off in the other direction. It was at this time that Damon added to the incredibly romantic story of the Taj when he proposed to Nicole. She, of course, accepted. We joined them a few minutes later and spent some peaceful moments watching the sun set on this marble masterpiece. On returning to the hotel we were treated to a fireworks show put on by the hotel staff in honour of Diwali. Dinner that evening was a fabulous repast complete with champagne. CONGRATULATIONS DAMON & NICOLE! We're off this morning for another long drive, this time to Jaipur. I can hardly wait to celebrate my birthday tomorrow riding the elephant. NAMASTE!