The Agra Venture

We have driven on the expressway from Delhi to Agra.  This in itself was intriguing, but once we arrived in Agra, it was the Taj Majal itself that took center stage.  You could see a millon photos of it, but never understand how grand and pure it really is until you are standing at its foundation.  

And on this point, I am becoming quite taken with India.  The people are diverse, complex, hospitable and above all, passionate.  The people are what make India, but when you combine them with the smells (spices, animals, people), the sounds (calls to prayer, honking, wild birds of all sorts) and the sights (every color, always motion), it is infinitely offputting and alluring all at once.  

I'm am sitting here now with waves of tropical bird calls, drum beats, people laughing, music, and a reverberation from the numberous calls to prayer that cut through the air moments ago rolling over me.  I can smell someone's dinner, common spices at the helm, and the incense burning.  The air has a light breeze that tempers the heat and keeps the mosquitos at bay.  This isn't all of India, but it is a perfect snapshot of some of the wonderful elements.  

Enjoy the pictures below.  Maybe it will inspire you to take a trip one day!  I'm blessed with an overflowing cup that satisfies my adventure needs and pays the bills.  LIFE IS GOOD

One of many, many brick kilns we saw as we drove to Agra.  

Father and daughter performing for money at the gas station halfway point.
Video: http://youtu.be/gNJMJoYGaOo

The reality of things when the music stops.

Locals

Possibly the most amazing hotel I've ever stayed in. Oberoi Agra

More on this later. Check out the colors!

Now the Taj - it is so much more than a momument.  It took 22 years of skilled craftsmanship to build (mind you over 400 years ago).  Read up on it.  Check out the love story that goes with it.  This man loved his wife.  

The entry gate.



Best American security team in all of India.

Gemstone inlay into marble.  Gorgeous and so detailed.

Opitcal illusion of the marble that makes the column appear to have ridges.  It is actually octagonal.



This is just what you do when you are there.  Ridiculous factor --- 9 out of 10.  

Syed was showing me how to be a princess.  Who is the tough army guy now?  But seriously folks, what a handsome devil.

The money shot.  Had to lay down for it, but nice perspective and contrast with the colors of India abounding.




Sweet ride back.  (only mildly terrifying...)

For the live action version: http://youtu.be/aRXgUbotquY

Another solid adventure in the books.  

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