Day 15

Hi Everyone!

 I survived my first train ride in India!  I went a/c first class sleeper, so in my mind I was thinking not luxury, but not totally nasty.  Well, turns out that it was definitely more on the nasty side (Dad, nothing like the overnite train we took to Sicily)!  However, I was told that I was very lucky because I didn't have to share my cabin with anyone else (always something to be grateful for)! 

  Finally, after a 6 hr ride (from 10:30pm-4:30am) I arrived at my destination and even managed to sleep for a few hrs (again, with the help of my own sheets and pillow).

Once I arrived, I found a porter who carried my luggage on his head (I did show him that it had wheels--but he had zero interest in that mode of transport) up and down many stairs!!

  And that's when my 5 star experience began!  From a distance I spotted my driver who was wearing a chauffeur's hat and white gloves (afterall, I am staying at the TAJ--tee, hee)!!

We arrived at the hotel around 5am, and again, with the amazing help from my travel magazine friends in India--I was given a VIP status and an amazing suite with a HUGE balcony overlooking the famous temples in Madurai.  My last hotel was very funky, beachy and nature driven--this is pure luxury!!!  I am sure no big bugs here!!!!

When they showed me my room I was so happy, and had the biggest grin ever (they were probably surprised to see a VIP so impressed)!  The beds have down duvet covers, high thread count sheets, big flat screen TV and huge marble bathroom..yippie....ahhhhh!!! 

So now, after sleeping until 10am, and having a great breakfast I will be going to see the famous temple and palace at 3:30pm with a car and driver.  

I have decided to splurge and stay here an extra night (until jan 18th).  It might make my transition to my stay at the volunteer accommodations a bit more difficult---but it's a risk I am willing to take:-)

Oh yeah....the rooms have wi-fi!!!!  So I will be able to finally skype and ichat the next few days!!!!

And I will also have ample time to try to figure out how to download photos to my blog.  If I can't figure it out..perhaps I will do a link to one of those photo sites.  Am open to any suggestions!

In conclusion, I might run out of money before April 18th if I keep splurging like this......but it does make traveling by myself much more manageable:-)    

Until later....

Namaste,

Dayna