From Mumbai, we boarded another short flight bound for the city of Jodhpur. This was our third internal flight. One might think this was a lot, but with the efficiency inherent in the domestic airports of India, we always moved quickly through to our next destination.
The old city of Jodhpur is an artistic dream. It is alight with color and history. It was painted blue for the Brahmin class and in deference to the god Shiva. It sits upon a hill below the mighty Mehrangarh Fort.
Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
Our tour begins at the gates of the old city, below a giant clock tower. We wind our way through the narrow streets behind our guide, who like all of our guides thus far, is filled with knowledge and generously shares it. The walls of the buildings are not just blue, but adorned with artistically created paintings. The reasons and significance of the art is shared by our guide. We wend our way into the bustling market where, as we’ve been told by our guide, “If you have a hole in your pocket and there’s something in the western world that you want to buy, this is the place to be.” Well-known for its textiles, we see some of the finest, most colorful fabrics to be found—and, of course, have the opportunity to purchase.
Jodhpur
Our hotel, Raas Jodhpur, is in the heart of the old city, below the imposing fort, and next to a large stepwell—still a popular meeting place. We sit in comfortable chairs at the rooftop restaurant of the hotel as the call to prayer fills the airwaves, the sun sets, and the fort looms brightly, bathed in a sea of lights highlighting its presence. The next day, we will tour the fort before finally ending our day in a local family’s home for a traditionally made dinner, which was one of the best meals of the whole trip—and that’s saying something.
Rapa Nui was on my bucket list for a long time so I worried that it would not meet my expectations. Our tour could not have been better. Our guide was knowledgeable and professional with an understanding of the island that made it come alive. I would and have recommended this trip to everyone that will listen.
elisa wright
4 days ago
Having done a trip in the past with Adventure Life, I found picking a trip and customizing it was a breeze and fit everything I wanted
Scott Drayer
5 days ago
Careful service
older gentleman
5 days ago
We had to book within a certain time. Adventure Life came to our rescue as most of the other operators were sold out. We went with the website ad on Big Five Borneo Tour for 6 days 5 nights. Adventure Life was professional, timely and honest about the itinerary for small groups at a reasonable cost. This was our first time with Adventure Life. From the beginning to the end, they were supportive, responded to email immediately and provided emergency contacts through out our stay. As indicated, the deluxe accommodations were luxurious, there were 3 meals a day including early morning coffee was available before the 6am river cruises and evening tea. The itinerary was well laid out, to time and the guides/drivers though different after 2 days for river cruise and for the cave, were experienced, we felt safe. We were lucky to see the Big Four, except the orangutan on our tours at Sukau and the orangutan with the baby was at the poolside of the Sukau Rainforest Lodge. The meals were alright without variety. Wifi was in/near reception area. We stayed 3 nights at Sukau and 2 nights at Utan. The two lodges were different. Utan focused on animals and birds not seen at Sukau on plenty of nature walks, night safaris and river cruises. Utan is a new lodge started in July 2024, smaller, luxurious and intimate. The meals were excellent with a personal touch. Guide was very experienced and willing to take us on more nature walks to see our luck for the animals which were missed. Utan provided knee length rubber boots and binoculars can be rented (try it out before you take on tours). Initially we were disappointed not getting the accommodation at Danum Valley but after Utan experience we had it all. We will recommend Adventure Life to those looking for worry free adventures at a reasonable cost.
