While at the Taj Mahal, we encountered the typical humongous crowds so synonymous with India. Everyone has these peaceful visions of visiting the Taj Mahal, but that is totally wrong. You must get by the hawkers, fake tour guides, security and then the photographers to see the Taj Mahal. With mom wearing her Salwar Kameez we passed by many of those with no problem.

After like 3 hours of wandering around the complex, we sat down on a bench overlooking the Yamuna River. A large Indian family came up to us and asked where we were from. Answering back "Amreeka" they immediately were surprised and wanted to take our picture. I've never seen such excitement towards two simple, quiet people. They huddled around us and put their arms around us, making joking faces and peace signs.

Afterwards, I said to mom "I think we just broke some stereotypes with them," and that's exactly what I intended to do on this trip.