Visitors to Nepal usually make their way to the ancient city of Kathmandu. Just the name can conjure up images of exotic places of worship. Many visitors to this city will be amazed at the modern sprawl that is home to monkeys as well as beggars. Diesel fumes permeate the city as history tries to keep up with the modernization of a fabled world.

It must be addressed that there are many dangers in visiting Nepal at this time because of the protests that are going on about the Chinese government towards the Tibetan people. Though Nepal is removed from this, it should be cautioned that if you travel to this region you may encounter some problems that don’t belong on a vacation itinerary.

When you visit this city, it is best to drink water from a bottle as there are many water-borne diseases that can make your stay quite uncomfortable. Travel experts advise that bringing along a water pump  to purify your personal water supply is in your best interest.

Experts recommend visiting Nepal in the months of October and November. This is the beginning of the dry season where you can enjoy balmy breezes and clean air. The countryside boasts a lushness following the monsoon, but the roads you need to travel may not be in the best of shape.

For the history buff in your party, Kathmandu will afford you with many opportunities to delve into Nepal’s past. There is a plethora of rose brick temples that have been carved by the ancients and right alongside it are the towers of the modern age.

Trekkers are Nepal’s most frequent visitors and there are national parks that will cater to their needs. In Kathmandu you will enjoy shopping and a variety of dining options including authentic Mexican cuisine. Do beware of Durbar Square and Thamel as the people that frequent these areas are often up to no good.

Nepal has many traits that the world traveler will not want to forsake. Get out your map and plan your trip to a world that is on the cusp of modern innovation and ancient history.

If you plan to visit Rajasthan, then the only way to see it is on the train called Palace on Wheels. You will find yourself immersed in luxury in the same vein as the Indian maharajahs of the past. Extravagance and luxury are the words that are used to describe this sumptuous experience.

You will find yourself experiencing the lavish lifestyle that the affluent Indian kings enjoyed.  The service, the food and the decor all speak of opulence you may never have experienced. Taking a ride on the Palace on Wheels is a gift you can give yourself when you travel to the region of Rajasthan.

The saloons are not bars; instead they are sleeping rooms that have a toilet and bath attached. Each of the saloons has four coupes as the sleeping areas are called. There are two attendants along with a saloon captain in each saloon that insures that your every need is met. You will also enjoy the pantry that is filled with snacks, coffee and tea for when you get the urge to have a bite to eat or drink.

The dining car is where you will relax and sup on Indian and Continental cuisine that is specially prepared by a professional chef. There is also an observation or lounge car where you can watch the beautiful scenery pass you by as you sip your favorite cocktail. There is also a shop to purchase souvenirs  called “The Bazaar,” and games to keep the children occupied.

The Palace on Wheels departs every Wednesday during September until the final Wednesday of April. It is an eight day luxury tour of a region rich in history and culture and an experience you will not want to miss.  As you pull into the station on your final day, it is with real regret that you will depart, but you will have memories that will last for a lifetime.