Inside our Itineraries: Our account manager’s experience in India
Find out what our trade account manager, Stuart, made of his recent trip to Northern India, the magnificent Rajasthan, and wildlife-rich Ranthambore.
Whether you’re interested in its UNESCO-listed landmarks, thrilling local wildlife, or the time-honoured traditions that are still part of daily life in the inner cities, India is a destination that simply never gets old. Don’t just take our word for it, though. We sat down with Stuart, our account manager for the Southwest, who was recently fortunate enough to join a once-in-a-lifetime trip to this fascinating South Asian country.
Across the tour, Stuart was able to show some of our trusted travel agent partners the highlights of Northern India and made some truly spectacular memories along the way. From his personal highlights to his thoughts on why India is particularly well-suited to an escorted tour, here’s what he had to say about it.
This was an exciting first for Newmarket Holidays – what was it like being part of the whole experience?
It was a real privilege. Taking more than 40 travel agents on such an iconic trip was something special, and I think everyone who was there would agree – the next one has a lot to live up to.
Which itinerary did you follow, and what cities did you cover?
We followed part of our India Rajasthan - Grand Palace & Historic Fort Stays - Premier Collection, taking in some of Rajasthan's most extraordinary cities and staying in some genuinely remarkable properties along the way.
What were your personal highlights?
The boat cruise on Lake Pichola at sunset in Udaipur was the moment that stopped me in my tracks. Watching the backdrop of the city glow as fruit bats crossed the darkening sky is the kind of thing that stays with you.
Where did you stay, and which hotels stood out for you?
We stayed across a range of properties that feature in the tour, including the Eros in Delhi, the beautiful Chunda Haveli in Udaipur, the Novotel in Jodhpur and the Leela Ambience in Delhi. Each one brought something different to the experience.
How did you find the food? Did you have any standout dining experiences?
The food throughout was exceptional, but lunch at The Spice Routes in Jodhpur was the highlight. It was the kind of meal you find yourself talking about long after the trip is over.
Were there any unexpected experiences that became highlights?
Our tour manager, Rishi organised henna for the group, which went down brilliantly. Two of the agents also wanted their fortunes told, and he arranged that at short notice too. It is those thoughtful, unplanned moments that make a trip feel truly special.
Did this tour change the way you see India?
I had visited India before, so it did not show me a completely different side, but it reminded me just how warm and welcoming the Indian people are. There is a contentment and generosity of spirit here that never fails to move me.
Was it rewarding to be able to show your travel agent partners this part of the world?
Enormously. One of the most satisfying parts was being able to challenge some of the misconceptions people have about the country. Once you have been, so much of what you thought you knew simply falls away.
Were there any beyond-the-guidebook moments that stood out?
The henna was a wonderful touch, but visiting a Sikh temple where hundreds of people are fed every single day was genuinely humbling. We were invited into the kitchens to see how they produce food on such a scale, and some of the agents even joined the volunteers making chapatis. That is the kind of experience no guidebook can prepare you for.
What makes this destination so special?
The culture and the history are extraordinary, but it is the people that make India truly unforgettable. Their warmth and hospitality are unlike anything else.
Did having an experienced tour manager make a difference?
Without question. You could not experience India in the same way without one. It is the small touches, the local knowledge and the moments they create that elevate the whole trip.
Would you return to India?
Absolutely. Next time, I would love to explore southern India and Goa, a completely different side of the country that I have yet to discover.
If you had to sum India up in three words, what would they be?
Chaos. Colour. Soul.
Embrace the best of Northern India with Newmarket Holidays
Have you always dreamt of watching the sun set over the Taj Mahal or perhaps venturing out in search of Bengal tigers on a wish-list safari? With our award-winning escorted tours, you’ll be thoroughly introduced to each memorable highlight and a number of lesser-known treasures.
To get the ball rolling on your own Indian escape, or for more information on our featured itineraries, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. If your heart lies elsewhere, we also have a wide range of escorted tours, spanning six continents, and you can browse our full collection on our dedicated destinations page.
