31/03/2024
Throughout the three-week journey across India, I assumed the role of our family’s “logistics manager.” I meticulously handled every aspect of finding everything from hotels and excursions to arranging dinners and flights for our group of seven. After time in Delhi and Jaipur we finally arrived in Kolkata after a short (but tiring) flight, literally carrying the burden of 11 carry-ons and the task of rallying everyone together, and we eagerly anticipated our stay at the Grand Oberoi Kolkata. However, at check in, I was stunned to find out that our reservation was actually for the following day, and the hotel was fully booked for the night. Despite the initial panic, with a little more patience and negotiating with the staff in Bangla, we were graciously given the only available room (for a premium price) - the opulent Presidential suite. The hotel’s architecture - blending British colonial influences with Indian culture, was simply breathtaking, and I couldn’t resist capturing it in these photos. This experience serves as a reminder that travel isn’t always smooth sailing and there are bound to be unexpected challenges along the way; such is life. Reflecting on this impromptu photo shoot, I’m also reminded of the countless other unforgettable moments that shaped our experience.
