Souvenirs of India: Mr Gupta makes his strongest pitch as we stroll in the grounds of Delhi's Red Fort. "Have you ever wondered," he asks, "what you would look like in a sari?" The conversation is a slippery slope and I know exactly where it's heading. Despite my best efforts at restraint, shopping in India is irresistable. Luckily, I've packed light because by the time my visit has ended I've acquired more souvenirs than I have in years....but who could pass by those wonderful antique perfume bottles in Varanasi, the (quite small, really) Kashmiri rug...and yes, tragically, a sari I will never wear.
Story by Lee Mylne

India for first timers – want to tackle India but don’t like the idea of a group tour and going alone sounds like too much hard work?  An Independent tour might be the answer – you get a car, a driver and all the arrangements made for you – and the driver is at your disposal 24/7, so you have complete flexibility to do the things you want to do, when you want to. Story focuses on the highlights of Rajasthan – Delhi, Agra and the Taj Mahal. Story by Lee Atkinson

 The Train to Varanasi: The train to Varanasi is late. We sit on the platform and settle in for several hours, as one delay becomes another. Around us, others seem settled for even longer, setting up makeshift beds or just falling asleep where they are. It's a pleasant surprise to find a second-class sleeper more clean and comfortable than we've expected. Story by Lee Mylne

Discover Delhi: We plunge into Delhi - it's the only way. Crowded and chaotic, but still cleaner and greener than I remember from my first visit 20 years ago, it is an assault on the senses. The Old and New have their own personalities and there is much to see if you can tear yourself away from the bazaars. Don't miss the wonderful Red Fort, the Jama Masjid mosque and the many reminders of colonial rule. Story by Lee Mylne

Alone at The Taj: "May I ask a personal question?" says our young guide at the end of our visit to the world's most famous tribute to love. "Are you two ladies married?" We tell him yes, we are both married, and he looks even more worried. "If you are married you should come to Taj Mahal with your husband," he says quite firmly. Perhaps...but even without a significant other in tow, the Taj is something not to be missed.
Story by Lee Mylne