6 Things I Took Away From India: An Unforgettable Journey
Guest blog by Tammy Craig, participant on Laura's 2025 India trip.
Big thanks to Laura Ericson Group Trips for another amazing mind-blowing trip! India did not disappoint! Who wants a resort trip when you can get out, experience and truly immerse yourself in the culture, mingle and connect with the locals, and give back a bit along the way. Y'all know how I do things.
New friends at the Monkey Temple.
The sheer scale of Holi celebrations is breathtaking - thousands gathering to welcome spring in an explosion of color and joy.
Highlights From Our Adventure
We had SO much fun!!! Playing Holi was the highlight of our trip and we were lucky enough to celebrate twice. Once down and dirty in Nandgaon and another at a private party alongside the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal!
Celebrating Holi in the gardens near the Taj Mahal - the ultimate backdrop for an unforgettable color experience.
We had custom saris made for the occasion. Rode in rickshaws and took a wild impromptu motorcycle ride. Got to see how blockprinting and inlaid marble is made – my pocketbook took a hit there.
Witnessing master craftsmen at work in Jaipur.
Had a cooking lesson in a local family's home and witnessed a fire ceremony in another. Supported a local business run by acid attack survivors. Toured multiple temples and palaces with monkeys and a step wall dating back 1,200 years.
Made a visit with donations to a school and were welcomed with the most heartwarming performances – I couldn't help but tear up. The experiences were endless and unforgettable, not to mention the friendships of a lifetime.
Our group donning the custom saris we had made for this occasion.
Getting around Old Delhi the authentic way - rickshaw adventures through the bustling streets.
Here are 6 of my takeaways from our India adventure.
1. Beauty Beyond the Stereotype
India is not in fact a "shithole." Yes, trash can be an issue and at times, it's a bit smelly. But it's absolutely gorgeous. Decadent architecture at every glance, vibrant colors everywhere, and the people are so nice and welcoming, willing to give even when they have so little. And the shopping...don't get me started!
Our group exploring the stunning Monkey Temple (Galtaji) outside Jaipur - an architectural marvel nestled between natural rock formations.
2. Personal Space? What's That?
Be prepared to have your personal bubble invaded...or quite frankly eliminated. My PG County side had to be pushed deep, deep down (iykyk). Every culture you experience, really experience, is different from what we're used to.
3. Sensory Explosion
It's very busy and quite the sensory overload at times. Despite that, the vibes are all-consuming and make it irresistible to dance through the streets! The energy is infectious and impossible to resist.
Inside a temple courtyard where Holi traditions run deep - locals prepare and share vibrant powders that have been used in celebrations for centuries.
4. Bollywood Magic
Bollywood is FUN!!!! And so hard. Those dance moves look effortless when you're watching, but try them yourself and you'll quickly learn they require serious skill.
5. Culinary Adventure
The food is AMAZING!!!! Try everything!!! It can be a little one-note and a lot at times, but there are options available to give you variety. Do prep with a pre/probiotic routine before you come though. Our American tummies just aren't used to the cuisine. And not everything is spicy, but use caution.
No journey in India is complete without countless cups of chai shared with new friends.
Our group embracing the joy of Holi festival.
6. Perspective Shift
If this experience doesn't pull at your heartstrings and humble you, I don't know what will. We are truly privileged as Americans on a worldwide perspective, no matter what issues await you at home.
Tammy is a Virginia-based Navy veteran and single mother of three who works in technical support. With a bachelor's degree in interior design, she balances her career with caring for her family, including two children with intellectual delays. An outdoor enthusiast, Tammy fills her limited free time with reading, painting, and cooking. Her passion for meaningful travel has taken her to six countries across three continents, with upcoming adventures planned to Machu Picchu and Kenya.
