Sandy Supposes....

Agra, India

Day 14 Agra, India

         

         

         After yesterday's pampering and quiet contemplation, a ride aboard a crowded, jostling train creates a stark contrast. The steady rhythm of the heclickety-clack served as a backdrop to a non-stop hum of voices. My fellow bloggers and I added to the nattering.

         Today is a people-y day. We become one with the pulsating throng eager to behold Taj Mahal. We shuffle along elbow to elbow scarcely blinking. Everyone cradles a camera or a cell phone and everyone jockeys for optimal positions to shoot photos. Patience is tested.

         At first sight, Taj Mahal is a glimmering, ivory marble configuration with minarets and domes. It dominates the landscape next to the Yamuna River. It's sheer size never mind its architecture would qualify it as one of the seven wonders of the world. Some refer to it as the gem of India or the "jewel of Muslim art in India."

         All of this grandeur houses two tombs; one for the Emperor Shah Jahan and one for his favourite wife, Mumtaz. Um, where are his other wives buried? This ostentatious building is simply a mausoleum, an expensive mausoleum.

         Reportedly thousands of artisans toiled for years at this site. Its architect, Lahauri referred to it as " illumined or illustrious tomb." A history of neglect and theft haunts this building. The British restored it in 1908.

          Taj Mahal is also shrouded in controversy. There are claims that it is a Hindu temple and some claim it is a Shiva temple. Some people argue it does not represent Indian culture.

         Apparently, the gangs of climbing monkeys do not revere this site. They clamber about to watch the tourists.

         No doubt this is a stunning monument and it speaks to the artistry of its creators. I would describe it as extravagant.

         For supper, we , the band of bloggers extraordinaire, descend upon a chic rooftop eatery, Tea'se Me. Hmm, provocative name, no? It boasts a bold black and white decor accented by twinkling lights. It is a bustling, humming venue.

         I soon discover the restaurant's name indicates its specialty, teas, specifically iced teas. Oh, I can attest to the delight of a mango iced tea. Nothing satisfies a squawker more than quality iced tea.

         To better sample the menu offerings we order different dishes to share. We spare no expense and we refuse to consider calories. This is a vacation and we choose to eat our way along. We discuss the proper name for this type of tourism. Is this a food foray? A treat trek? The Anti-Calorie Consortium?