Honest thoughts on India after my first visit

First time in India and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Varanasi was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best butter chicken I've ever had. Taj Mahal was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: Delhi belly is real, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: ancient living culture, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.