Kareem George here, thrilled to return to what I find to be one of the most fascinating, beautiful destinations in the world, incredible India! Join me these next few weeks as I travel with my esteemed colleagues from the Travel + Leisure Travel Advisory Board on a multi-sensory journey through this enchanting land…
Highlights will include the destinations of Udaipur, Jaipur, and Jodhpur, resplendent palaces and forts, engagement with artists and artisans, extraordinary culinary experiences, and more.
Many thanks to our gracious hosts and partners, Greaves Travel, Abercrombie & Kent, The Imperial, New Delhi, Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, and The Leela Palaces Hotels and Resorts.
For now, my adventures begin in the vibrant capital city of New Delhi. Stay tuned and hold on tight!!
Here are some (hopefully) helpful logistical details for those who have not visited India before…
The flight from North America is indeed long and will likely require a connection. I flew 7 hours from Detroit to London and then 9 hours from London to New Delhi. My 3 hour layover in London felt like just the right amount of time to get through customs and to make my connection without scrambling.
A business or first class flight is certainly worth the investment. There are a variety of airlines with lift to India. I flew Delta to London and then Virgin Atlantic to New Delhi. Message us for tips on packing your carry on and activity pacing during the flight.
The time zone in India is 9.5 hours ahead of eastern standard time. I landed at nearly midnight New Delhi time and was thankful for gate-side meet and greet service. The walk to customs would have been quite long and I was through immigration within 10 minutes.
Moreover, I was pleased to spend my first night at the Andaz Delhi. Following such a lengthy trip, it was a relief to be in my room within 15 minutes of leaving the airport. As you will see, it is a lovely property, perfect for a reset and transition before an eventful trip.
I am looking forward to a wonderful reorientation to India and sightseeing in New Delhi. Stay tuned…
