New Delhi, Old Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal

January 23rd and 24th

I landed in New Delhi with a few things worked out.  So now there is a bit of a plan.  Arrived and was met at the airport by staff from the hotel.  No matter how much you know from friends and coworkers who have been to and live in India it is still so amazing.  It really is beyond description for a lifetime westerner.  First the wheel is on the wrong side of the car and they mostly drive on the wrong side of the road. They also sometimes do have lanes but the lanes are only there because someone needed a job.  Clearly not that they would ever be used.  They really are not even used as a guide.  I have tried to get a pic of each different thing I have seen thus far.  Animals: dogs, cats, goats, cows and monkeys.  I did have an amazing dinner last night in the tourist section next to Diplomat row.  I told my driver/guide no more of that.  I am interested in the “real” India not the tourist stops.  Mr. Singh took me to Laxminarayan Temple on the to dinner.  Very impressive, got a few great shots to post.  Saying that I did tour the “real” Delhi this morning on the way to Agra.  Agra is the home of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.  Years ago my daughter told me about the waiting jobs in India.  Mr Singh has one of those along with his driver duties.  He also connected me with my guide for the sites here in Agra.  They really did take care of me.  Pretty much cut through the lines and security.  Got to go “under” the ropes and get the “politician” tour.  I have checked into my room in Agra and set for Mr. Singh to pick me up at 8:30 for the next leg of our tour.  Not sure where he is waiting tonight.  I am sure though that he is not going back to Delhi until i do on Friday.