5 April: Agra - The Taj Mahal

"Once upon a time....."

BAHA. THIS DAY WAS TERRIBLE.

You know that romantic image you have of visiting the Taj Mahal? Get it out of your head! Because this story is nothing like the one you would imagine.



We woke up at 6 a.m. to head to the Taj bright and early. Too bad Phil was still feeling ill and I had taken a turn for the worst overnight. I was awake all night long, with achy muscles from head to toe! I had incredible stomach pains that required me to curl up into a ball and it took me every ounce of energy I had to hold my neck up. So did we go? Well, DUH! It's STILL the TAJ MAHAL! Haha.

Dumb idea.

The experience began on a sad note, as Sarge and Captain were not allowed to join us past the monument's security. Apparently they wanted to prevent "advertising" and so stuffed toys are not permitted in the official area. LAME, right?! Ah well, we hopped on the shuttle (stuffed-toy-less) and were dropped off near the entrance. From there, you must walk about 200m through a "gauntlet" of vendors, which turned out to be much more "chill" than the "gauntlets" we've experienced in Egypt (if you've survived a Nile Cruise, you'll think India is a BREEZE!).



Once through security, I sat, squatted, and assumed "ball-like" formations as our guide did his best to keep our attention and discuss the history of the famous place. I, of course, absorbed no information at all and even gave up my camera to Phil and the guide (<------ NOT LIKE ME). Luckily, my two photogs were up for the challenge and the guide adorably placed us into fun poses and made us smile in moments we both felt like vomiting. (P.S. Sunglasses are super TEAR-HIDERS!)



One thing I do remember (haha, ONE THING!) is how beautiful the Taj looked up close. It was AMAZING. No picture could do its beauty any justice, which is why you must go yourself and achieve that "romantic" experience we all hope for!

The tour inside was cut short, as I really couldn't stand up straight any longer. We were excited to walk back to the shuttle and get back to the hotel, but we were "surprised" (and not pleasantly) by our guide's choice of "horse and buggy". REALLY?!!!! Oh dear. Up we climbed into the carriage and I held my stomach with the idea that a hand on my belly could prevent any pre-mature puking. Too bad we also had to combat a farting horse who chose to relieve himself during our five minute ride. Ughhhh - I can still remember that intense fight with my gag reflex. Haha.



Back at the hotel, it was straight to a hot bath and then bed for me! We only slept for one hour though, as Agra Fort and other attractions were waiting for us!

Ladies and gentlemen, there you have it: our UNBELIEVABLE experience at the SPECTACULAR TAJ MAHAL! BAHA.