Ankur Resort

We were upgraded to a Cottage Room when we checked in at Ankur Resort in Sawai Madhopur because we mentioned that we were friends with Nandita, the next person listed in their Arrivals book. We had two rooms side - by - side upstairs with a private front porch which was really lovely. At night the place filled up with stink bugs by the thousands, especially if one left the porch lights on. And mosquitoes would have been a problem except that the Resort provided a new mosquito-repellent system which involved plugging an aromatic thing into an electric socket.

When we weren't out on Safaris or wandering around Sawai Madhopur, we enjoyed Ankur Resort's front lawn with many mature trees. There was also a swimming pool, dining room, new gift shop and huge lobby. Sitting on the lawn made me think I was back in Allahabad: the look of the thin rough grass, the smell of the watered roses and the towering Ashok and Neem trees.

Lunch and supper consisted of Indian buffets -- rice, curries, chutnies, breads, etc. In the evening the buffet was set up on the lawn and twice a group of Rajasthani musicians/dancers entertained us. After a bone-jarring ride in the jungle -- one Gypsy driver called it a 'free hip massage' -- a warm shower, an ice-cold beer and some fresh curries (be sure to include the hot pickle!) was all one needed to feel refreshed. There were lots of guests from Europe (especially Denmark) and England, plus smaller groups of Indian families and honeymooners.

We felt well looked after by Mahavir -- a handsome young man assigned to us and who inquired after our every need.