Hello Everyone,

Well, we saw the Taj Mahal on Sunday, and it was amazing! Then we braved the 13 hour train journey from Agra to Varanasi. It wasn't as bad as we expected, but htere were plenty of cockroaches to keep us company on the way! We are staying in the best hotel so far in Varanasi, with a beautiful view of the Ganges, and great food. Yesterday was the day of Shiva (one of the Hindu Gods) so we took a boat trip down the river and saw the celebrations at the river side. We also witnessed the burning of bodies for re-incarnation by the river side. Today we went to the Mogul Town where they make silk in the downstairs of every house (and sleep upstairs), we also saw people making beads from Murano glass.

The plan for the next couple of days so far is... we are staying in Varanasi until Friday, and then catching the 3 day train to Kerala!

Hope everyone is well, lots of love

speak soon

jnj xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

P.S If you want to give us a quick call, the guest house we are staying in has said we can receive calls from home. The number is (0542) 6452016 , or if that doesnt work, try (0542) 6536730. Our room number's 4 if they ask. We'll be in today, tomorrow and Thursday between 12-30 and 1-30 (English time). Would be great to here from you guys x

P.S Neil here... dad, can ya check your firebrigade emails, cheers dude. And mum, whats your email address? later guys x