India: Half a Day in Delhi

"Don't ride the train." That advice from an Indian colleague lingered in my thoughts while I was planning for a short trip to India. With safety as my top priority, I drifted away from what could possibly be craziest train ride I'd ever experience. I made settlements with a travel agency that promised to tour us around India's Golden Triangle on board a private van.

Keeping true to their promise, an innova van waited for us outside our hotel in Delhi Aerocity right after breakfast. Mr. Bije, our driver/tour captain, discussed about our schedule as he drove through the streets of New Delhi.

Then, I found myself inside a tourist bubble.

Golden Triangle destination #1: Delhi

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India: Overnight Stay in Hotel Ibis Delhi Airport

After receiving a very warm Namaste from our travel agent at Indira Gandhi International Airport, we were instantly whisked to Hotel Ibis Delhi Airport. The hotel stay is included in our tour package, so I never really bothered to do some extensive research. All I know is that we're booked for a night in a trendy hotel chain for the budget-conscious travelers who are not willing to sacrifice comfort. That's so us! :)

Hotel Ibis Delhi Airport in Delhi Aerocity

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India: The Travel Plan and The Budget Flight

I can't remember how many times I was asked "Why?" and how many times I received a message with a "stay safe" at the end. I couldn't blame them and I am not surprised. If I was given the chance to travel to India 10 years ago, I think my naive self would tell me "don't even dare to go".     

When I was in college, during a Microbiology lecture on Delhi Belly or the Traveler's diarrhea, I said I'd never set foot in India. I perceive things differently back then. When I moved to Dubai, I discovered this strong desire to explore the world. Wanderlust! I always get the impulse to see, feel, smell and taste the unfamiliar.

After watching a series of travel shows and documentaries, my fascination for India grew. Because despite the flaws, India is beautiful! It was only this year that I felt I am ready for its incredible diversity. Call me crazy, but I was ready to experience the peace and the chaos, the revelry and the apathy, the pleasure and just in case I get hit by the dreaded Escherichia coli... the pain. 

Namaste! 

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How to Get an Indian Tourist Visa on Arrival for Filipinos

As of February 2015, Indian Visa on Arrival should be processed online! Please check the application process here: Indian Tourist Visa on Arrival.

We have just returned from Incredible India! :)

Ed and I, together with two of our friends, went on a Golden Triangle tour. I can't wait to blog about the memorable, mind-boggling and life-changing trip. But before anything else, let me first share how we applied and successfully secured our Indian Tourist Visa on Arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.

from DXB to DEL

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