Recent content by Sharon

This will be the first vacation my husband and I have gone on since our daughter was born. I'd really like to make it as romantic as possible, at least in terms of lodging. Where would be a good place to stay? Are any resorts particularly well-known or popular for newlyweds or the like?

I was doing a bit of research on adventurous things you can do in India and I did come across white water rafting, although there was no specific company listed to book with.

I'm not sure about this, Sammie. Someone who's already traveled to India might be able to tell you better. We don't have any one specific drink across the whole country here, though, so I would imagine at best there might be regional specialties.

These are all good ideas; thanks everyone! I particularly like the idea of checking the lobby for brochures, talking with a concierge or locals, or doing research about the area.

Hi all. What do you do with your downtime in the hotel while traveling? I would typically watch TV but I wonder if I'll want to watch TV while staying in India. To be honest, I'm not familiar with local channels, shows, or movies. I don't even know if Indian TV airs in English and I can't speak...

That's a good idea, Tabitha. Good exercise, too. ;) I think I'll go with your suggestion and pick the less expensive tour if I book. Then I can spend my savings elsewhere.

Bayleaf, what do you mean that it is the "logistical side" of lugging around a suitcase that you're concerned with? Do you mean initially, when you first get off the plane, or in general while vacationing? Because I would take it straight to the hotel and leave it there.

Amelie, I think you hit the nail on the head for me: "I like that it's impersonal..." I think that's exactly why I like hotels best of all the lodging options you have when you travel.

Hi all. I'm thinking of visiting the Khajuraho Temples. I see that a couple of different tours can be booked; one is a 'walking' tour and the other is simply labeled a 'private' tour (more $$$). Has anyone here done either? If so, which is best?

This is what I immediately thought of when the thread title posed the question of buses being safe. After what happened to Jyoti, I would be fearful of attack, too.

Number two brings up a good point -- good hotels are very convenient! Guest houses may not offer you all of the conveniences or amenities of a quality hotel.

The Taj Mahal ranks pretty high on my personal list of Indian sites, too... I can only imagine how breathtaking it must be to see it in real life when it's already so beautiful in pictures.

I'm a bit of a history buff and love to read about ancient sites. The rock shelters of Bhimbetka came up as an Indian historical site and I'm thinking about centering my trip around them. There are 700 of them located in the Vindhya Mountains and more than 400 of them have ancient paintings...

I have a strong preference for hotels. I wouldn't feel safe staying in a guest house because you don't know who's running it. Hotels at least have a well-known name, well-known customer relations policies, etc.

I'm planning on bringing my tablet as it's pretty much an all-in-one -- eBooks, games, music, movies, etc. I'll probably read more than anything. I have a long list of books I've been wanting to get into.