My friend Kate called me a “favorite-place-slut” this week. 

The comment was in response to a post on my personal Facebook page, where I said India has become “my new favorite place.” She’s totally right – I definitely use those words waaaaaay too much. I’m prone to over-exaggeration and over-excitement every time I go somewhere that I immediately fall for. Which is often, because I’m pretty easily pleased. And also, traveling somewhere new is my favorite thing to do.

Shit. I said favorite again. Oh well.

But for reals y’all……India really has become my new favorite place in the world.  

This week, I hit three major spots in Rajasthan, the state in India known for the stunning architecture of it’s palaces, forts and havelis built by past kings, it’s colorful markets, desert oases, rich traditions and feisty camels. And it’s safe to say, I fell in love. 

First up was Jaisalmer, the Golden City located in the Thar Desert, where we went on a camel safari and slept under the stars amongst the sand dunes. Then my group hit Jodhpur, the Blue City, whose beautiful fort absolutely blew my mind. Finally, we headed to Udaipur, where the majestic royal palaces built on Lake Pichola inspire the city’s nickname of “Venice of the East.”

All of these places have been distinctly different, and although they all contain bits of the sometimes-overwhelming chaos of India, each one also had it’s own fascinating character. Not to mention, these cities are all effing regal. The royal families and former matarajas built some pretty incredible palaces, temples, and forts that need to be seen to be believed.

I can’t wait to share longer posts about these places and explain why India is my new favorite, but for now, enjoy the best pics from the last seven days. Have a great week everyone!

From our campsite in the Thar Desert.

My bed for the night! It was hard to sleep because the stars were unbelievable.

Jodhpur – the Blue City.

Beautiful Udaipur had a European feel to it.

Sunset on Lake Pichola in Udaipur.