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and are a better value. The Nahargarht, our hotel in
Ranthambohr, our base camp for tiger watching in
vain, was particularly stunning, resembling a sul-
tan’s palace. It also served the best food, with the
outdoor BBQ dinner being the most spectacular.

Check to see if your hotel offers an executive upgrade
for an extra $25 to $30 nightly. The program usually
includes an upgraded room, shuttle service, special
meal service and a happy hour with complementary
food and drinks. Given the high cost of wines, this
easily pays for itself after a couple drinks.
The Loo: Let’s face it, one of the top issues on ev-
ery traveler’s mind is the facilities - the men’s and
ladies’ rooms. And deservedly so. Public facilities in
this country are challenging and in many cases dis-
gusting. Most Indians lack indoor plumbing, which
explains the countless men you’ll see pissing in the

Opposite top: Shopping for stunning India textiles in Jaipur.
Opposite bottom: All kinds of fascinating treasures to be found
in Mumbai’s Thieve’s Market. Top: The amazing palatial resort
Nahargarht in Ranthambore. Right: Mary shows off our humble
room at Nahargarht.

Wine Dine & Travel Spring 2014 41