Finding fun and friendship in the heart of India

Hello there,

Until a week ago, the only other time I’d been in India was when I spent the night alone in the Dehli airport on my way to Kathmandu. I was 29 at the time, en route to meet my boyfriend (later husband) who was photographing a story for National Geographic on the Sherpas of the Himalayas. But in my book, if you don’t leave the airport it doesn’t count as a real visit. 

I’ve been trying to get back to India for a proper look-see ever since. Three different times I was scheduled to visit with my husband, but something came up every time to scuttle our plans. I was starting to think India was my Never Never Land, as in I’d never get to experience it.

It’s our first time here, but it won’t be the last!

Then I met Kiki Keating, who has been to India 17 times. She and I came up with a super-fun itinerary through the South of India, along the Bay of Bengal, including magical, beautiful Pondicherry. And here I am today, with Kiki and 10 other women who have become friends, diving into the culture—visiting temples, women artisans, local markets, beaches and so much more.

I can’t help but wonder how a visit to India with my husband would have been different. He really knew the country and taught me how to travel well. He’s an ex now so I won’t ever truly know, but honestly, I don’t think any trip to India could be better than this.

What we’re seeing, feeling, experiencing

There’s nothing like getting to know great women while we get to know an exotic country together; we shriek with joy at the vibrant colors in a flower market in Madurai, dress each other in saris, compare notes on the loveliness of our ayurvedic massages, stretch and pose in yoga classes, egg each other on to approach cows by the side of the road, grab hands when our tuk tuks careen through traffic, help each other decide on purchases of everything from earrings to carpets.

I love the lightness of traveling with other women who are at the same stage of life as me.

What do you think is better—traveling with a romantic partner? Or with girlfriends? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Gotta run. My mango lassi awaits!

Jeannie

P.S. Feel free to window shop with us! Check out these virtual tours of some of our 2024 destinations: