My journey to India began with a long-haul flight into Delhi, followed by an early-morning train ride to Agra. Watching the countryside roll past the window was an experience in itself—vendors hopping on and off, families chatting, chai being poured at every stop. By the time we arrived, the air felt different: warmer, busier, buzzing with anticipation. Navigating tuk-tuks through Agra’s streets was chaotic but oddly thrilling, and it made finally reaching the Taj Mahal feel even more rewarding.

Seeing the Taj Mahal in person was one of those rare moments that truly lives up to the hype. The white marble shifted colour as the sun rose, and the scale and symmetry were breathtaking in a way photos never quite capture. Despite the crowds, there was a calm, almost timeless feeling standing there, knowing the history and love story behind it. The positives of the trip went far beyond the monument itself—warm hospitality, incredible food, rich culture, and a sense of perspective that only travel like this can give. India was intense, beautiful, and unforgettable.