We are staying at a fabulous hotel. Luxurious, really. It is newly built, but looks like it is an ancient palace that has been restored. It has a large bedroom, a sitting room, an alcove with computer (you sit on cushions to use it), a fabulously clean and modern washroom, a fridge, a/c, fans everywhere, a safe, a tv (although we won't use it), WIFI (albeit sketchy) and it is gorgeously decorated. Each room is a work of art - meant to represent a different region of Rajasthan. All this for about $45/night (tax included). It's called the Pearl Palace Heritage, and is the 'sister' hotel to the Hotel Pearl Palace - which is arguably the most popular hotel in Jaipur because of the beautiful rooftop restaurant, great prices and an owner that really cares about his guests' needs.
No restaurant in this hotel yet - they are building that part and have plans for a small cafe in the next few months followed by a full restaurant in about 3 years. But, we are about a five minute walk from the Pearl restaurant (I think it's called the Peacock Restaurant).
It is so beautiful here - the Pink City is truly pink. Flowers are blooming everywhere. At night we can smell jasmine. The architecture is elaborate and, again, beautiful (I need more adjectives). You get the picture, right?
So, I think the key to this city's success is less people. It is way easier to get around, walking or by vehicle. And I may be just imagining it (wearing my pearl coloured glasses), but people seem friendlier here.
Yes, I like Jaipur. I think I could live here quite happily.
And it is hot. It hit us full force when we stepped off the plane. I love it. I might not love it so much after being in it too long. So far we've just tucked in and out of cool buildings and haven't had to deal with any long outdoor excursions.
Uma and Tara both have had some minor tummy upsets. Seems like it may have just been some food that was a bit too spicy for them. Ravi and I are fine (knock on wood). I'm finding myself grateful for every solid poo.
Tomorrow we take care of some banking and small errands, then hit the MARKETS! I'm a wee excited about that part. This will be the first real shopping we've had a chance to do - the bartering type (there was one shop in Mumbai where I had a bit of a chance to argue the price, but I'm not counting it because the prices were so high that it wasn't that much fun).
After market time we'll check out some of the Old City and maybe hit the restaurant that our guide book says is one of the best in the city.
And the next day we are doing a day trip to the Taj. Mona Lisa: check. Eiffel Tower: check. Taj Mahal: check.
Don't let anyone tell you (as some told us) that a week in Jaipur is too long. We will barely fit in a few of the sites before we have to leave. A couple weeks would go by in no time.
I'm looking forward to more discoveries, and will share them as they come.
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