Jaipur

After 11 hours in the car, we spent most of yesterday (Thursday) resting, but dong some shopping. Today, we went to the Amber Fort and the Tiger Fort ... no tigers. Lots of shopping. Thank goodness Gopal is with us to do the bartering ... we have saved a lot. Gopal hired a man at the hotel to help navigate the streets, but he wanted to take us to buy gems today .. we didn't want any gems. So, he left We did, however, find some excellent buys on clothing and table runners, etc.

This trip has made us really appreciate what we have!! The beautiful forts and palaces are basically in ruin. The government doesn't want to pay to refurbish them and all the treasures have been taken out of the country. The officials don't do anything without being bribed ... including the cops on the corner !! The rich don't treat their "servants" very well. Our driver was offended when I thanked him, until Gopal explained that Americans thank people. He said he was just doing his job. It is so sad. At the Tiger Fort, an Indian man was there with his children. He wanted them to shake my hand .. they are fascinated with caucasians. Then he took their picture with us. It is quite an experience, being in the minority.
At the Amber Fort, Gopal stepped in to stop the vendors from harassing us. They told him it was none of his business, they were talking to us. Of course, that didn't go over very well. He told them that we were his parents (talk about confusing them!) and to back off !!!
Did I say that we are glad to have Gopal?
We are going for a massage now and then out for a fancy dinner with entertainment. Will post ore tomorrow.

Notes from Michael: Gopal and I had an Ayurvedic massage yesterday - massage with oils, facial and a couple of upgrades for $25 US. We're going back today! Other side notes: lots of mothballs in drains (hate to think what they smell like without them. Beautiful views and ancient architecture. Air is cleaner here in Jaipur (the Pink City). Good shopping. Getting tired of the food so ordered Spaghetti Bolognese - didn't stop to wonder what the meat might be considering they don't kill cows. Oh well.