A Journey Through India – Reflections from Elize Morkel

*Before departing for India, I was warned about the chaos, the poverty, and the possibility of getting sick. I couldn’t have anticipated the joy and richness of the experience that awaited me. From the moment we landed in Delhi, I was swept away by the beauty, hospitality, and vibrancy of India.*

Our Live the Journey tour began with a warm welcome in Delhi—colourful garlands around our necks and smiles from our Indian guide, who quickly felt like family. Driving through the wide avenues of New Delhi, lined with stunning gardens and flowers, I realised this was just the beginning of a beautiful adventure.

Typically, I’m a lazy tourist, more inclined to rest than rush off to excursions. But in India, I didn't want to miss a thing! We visited palaces, forts, temples, and mosques, each adorned with ancient works of art, marble inlays, and precious stones. It was like stepping into a photographer's dream.

One of my fondest memories was our visit to the Keoladeo Ghana Bird Sanctuary, where a renowned ornithologist guided us. The calm of nature was a perfect counterbalance to the bustling cities, and watching the sunset over the Betwa River in Orchha was magical. It was Easter weekend, and this tranquil village, filled with coral-coloured flowers, offered the perfect moment of reflection.

Though shopping isn’t usually a priority for me, India was a delightful exception. From hand-blocked printed textiles to intricate jewellery and silk scarves, I couldn’t resist the beauty and craftsmanship on display. Each piece told a story.

The people of India are just as fascinating as the sites. I marvelled at the women, with their vibrant saris and graceful presence. Our group was often asked to pose for selfies, which led to spontaneous conversations with locals. On my birthday, while sitting next to an elderly woman in a beautiful sari, I was reminded of my mother and how connected we all are, no matter the distance. Live the Journey also gave us a unique insight into Indian life by arranging a meal in a local family's home, complete with a cooking demonstration. We even got to participate in Holi, the Festival of Colours! Decked out in white, we spent a joyous morning throwing plant-based paint, dancing, and savouring good food.

I can’t forget the food! Every meal was a culinary adventure, with fragrant sauces, rich vegetable dishes, and delicious breads like roti and naan. And then there was the ice cream—an indulgence that quickly became a daily necessity, as our guide would say, "for physical and mental health."

India is a land of contrasts. The chaotic traffic, with tuk-tuks weaving through the streets, cows wandering peacefully, and vendors bustling—it’s all part of the charm. Even our train journeys were pleasant, with dedicated seats and porters piling our bags high on their heads, straight out of a colonial-era movie.

One of the most moving parts of the trip was our visit to Varanasi, where we witnessed the morning and evening prayer ceremonies along the Ganges. The reverence and devotion of the Hindu pilgrims left a lasting impression. Live the Journey handled these cultural intersections with grace, bridging differences in faith and background. Throughout the trip, every detail was handled with care. We stayed in luxurious hotels, traveled in comfort, and our small group of 10 was treated to a personalised experience. My birthday was celebrated with cake, and everyone’s needs were met with sensitivity and kindness. Live the Journey’s passion for India shone through in every moment.

Some of my personal highlights were the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort, Gandhi’s last residence, and the temple where he was assassinated. The historical and cultural depth of this country is something you can only fully appreciate when you’re standing in the midst of it. I had hesitations about traveling alone in a group, but I needn't have worried. I made wonderful new friends and left India feeling deeply connected to my fellow travellers and our local guides. We also left behind two special friends in India - Manoj, the dear tour organiser who gave each of us a carved wooden elephant and our "larger than life" tour guide - we’re already planning to reunite for the South India tour in 2025!

Elize Morkel’s experience is just one of many stories from our India tours. We invite you to join us on our next adventure and create your own unforgettable memories. Whether it's North or South India, this vibrant country is waiting to capture your heart.

If you’re feeling inspired by Elize’s reflections, reach out to us today to find out more about our upcoming India tours. Explore the colours, culture, and charm of this incredible country with a group of like-minded adventurers!