Early Nov. 5 we checked out of our hotel and took a short drive but long in time to the Delhi Railway station. Long in time because even at 6 am there is traffic chaos, particularly at the train station. There did not seem to be any rhyme or reason but eventually our guide got us into the station. We then lugged our luggage for what seemed blocks and blocks and down 3 long flights of stairs only to find there was a last minute change to the arrival platform. So it was back up the 3 flights and then more block walking to platform 1. However, we were at the wrong end of the train - back to block walking - Indian trains are reallllly long. We finally got on board and were ready to go. Thank heavens for a trusty guide who stayed with us until departure. The train was first class/air conditioned so the 5 hour ride was very pleasant. The sighes along the way were, as always, unique and interesting. Life in India happens right along side the tracks in full view of passers by, that includes morning abulations of every kind imaginable. This express train is precisely on schedule. When we arrived in Jalandhar we had 2 minutes to get off. We had hired a car & driver at the Delhi hotel and there he was waiting for us. There was a bit of confusion in the parking lot because the vehicles were so crammed that we couldn't get in. That gave a very annoying beggar child the opportunity to swarm D&N. He was touching their feet, scrambling all around and whining - usually they are not that aggressive. Finally, R swore at him and give him a coin. It was a short trip to our hotel - Maya Palace. It is really nice so we're looking forward to spending 5 days in very comfortable surroundings.
By the way, India is celebrating Barack Obama's win and the press media loved the story of the the Canadian phoning Sarah Palin pretending to be the French President.
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