Icons Of India: The Taj, Tigers & Beyond With Dubai

Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh was once ancient capital of the great Mughal Empire and is home of the Taj Mahal, considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. This matches the architectural gem was built as a mausoleum by the Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved queen, Empress Mumtaz Mahal who died giving birth to his 14th child. The “Dream in Marble” is remarkable for its perfect balance and proportions. It was completed in 1648 and marks the most developed state of Mughal architecture.

The juxtaposition of ancient and modern worlds is perhaps nowhere more evident than in Delhi, a city of eight million. In the old part of town, visit the dome-topped mausoleum of Emperor Humayun and the imposing Red Fort built for emperors. Though the solid gold ceiling and precious gems of its Peacock Throne were looted by Persians in the 18th century, the immense palace resonates with the glory and wealth of the Mughal Dynasty.

Dubai is the Arabian Peninsula’s most cosmopolitan city-and the second largest of the seven United Arab Emirates. Unlike other Gulf statess, Dubai’s thriving economy is fueled not by oil, but by trade, which may explain its laissez-faire attitude. And if you like to shop this is THE PLACE, especially if you’re in search of electronics, gold, antiques and carpets. The souks in Dubai and nearby Sharjah vary from tiny stalls to covered malls. Don’t forget to haggle-it’s expected. More pastimes in Dubai are a dhow excursion on the tidal creek which winds through the city, a game of golf on the only real grass links in the Emirates, a tour of Sharjah, an evening safari inot the desert for a barbeque and traditional dancing and a thrilling demonstration of theancient Arabic art of falconing.