Site Inspection in India

In-depth travel report: India

India is a land of contrasts and depth, and our recent journey there was both a fulfilling cultural experience and a productive business expedition. The journey started on October 14, with a smooth Emirates flight from Washington Dulles. We arrived in Delhi on October 15, ready to dive into the vibrant landscape of opportunities and heritage that awaited us.

Arrival and first impressions: The Lodhi Hotel, Delhi

From the moment we stepped into The Lodhi Hotel in Delhi, we knew our stay would be exceptional. This hotel, nestled in one of Delhi's most prestigious neighborhoods, was not just a place to stay but an experience. The architecture exudes elegance, balancing modern luxury with traditional Indian artistry. Our room was an oasis of calm after a long journey, with every detail meticulously curated to ensure comfort and sophistication. The hotel's team provided an unparalleled level of service, offering helpful suggestions, seamless check-ins and personal touches that made us feel right at home in the heart of Delhi.

Business and cultural experiences

The following day took us to the offices of SynapseIndia, where we toured prospective venues for the upcoming Women of Color International Conference. This exploration aligned with our commitment to fostering international connections, expanding opportunities and enhancing representation in STEM fields. Visiting these venues highlighted the potential for collaboration between the US and India in advancing diversity and inclusion.

After a productive day, we dined at Indian Accent in the Lodhi Hotel. Known for its contemporary take on traditional Indian flavors, Indian Accent offered a tasting menu that took our tastebuds on an exploratory journey across India’s diverse culinary landscape. Dishes that redefined classic flavors and textures left us with a newfound appreciation for the innovation happening within India’s culinary scene.

A day trip to Agra: The Taj Mahal and the Oberoi Experience

Our third day featured an unforgettable visit to Agra to see the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Despite the many images and stories we’ve encountered over the years, nothing compares to standing before this architectural masterpiece, a breathtaking symbol of love and dedication. The intricacies of the marble carvings, the symmetry and the history wrapped in every inch of the monument left us truly awestruck.

Lunch at the Oberoi Amarvilas’ Bellevue restaurant with Shamit Khemka added another memorable layer to our Agra visit. With its perfect view of the Taj Mahal, the Oberoi provides an unrivaled experience, and the cuisine here is simply exquisite. Each dish was a modern reinterpretation of traditional Indian flavors, served in a setting as grand as the view it offered. Shamit’s hospitality, combined with the meal, made it an unforgettable experience, highlighting the warmth and welcoming nature of our Indian hosts.

Connecting with academia in Delhi

Back in Delhi, we attended meetings with various college deans and placement officials at the Radisson Noida, focusing on fostering pathways for international educational exchanges and internships that would benefit students globally. The discussions were productive, laying a solid foundation for potential future collaborations. A working lunch at R.E.D. in the Radisson Noida provided a perfect break, where we sampled a variety of flavorful North Indian dishes that highlighted the richness of local ingredients and spices.

Exploring Delhi’s cultural and culinary scene

A tour of Delhi’s cultural sites on October 19 brought us closer to India’s historical heart. The city’s vibrant tapestry of Mughal architecture, colonial influence and bustling bazaars was a feast for the senses. Each monument and street told a story of resilience, diversity and legacy.

For dinner, we tried Megu Japanese at the Leela Palace, which brought a distinctive international flavor to our stay. The restaurant seamlessly blends Japanese techniques with Indian hospitality, making it an incredible experience and a unique contrast to the Indian flavors we had been enjoying.

Departing India: Final reflections

After checking out of The Lodhi on October 20, we felt enriched by our time in India. From the unforgettable sight of the Taj Mahal to the productive discussions with academic leaders and the impeccable culinary experiences, every aspect of our journey was memorable.

The flight to Dubai marked the beginning of the next leg of our journey. Reflecting on our time in India, we were reminded of the profound beauty of cultural exchange, and the importance of fostering meaningful connections across borders. India, with its vast landscapes, historic richness and dynamic innovation, has left an indelible impression on us. We look forward to the next chapter in our collaborative journey with this remarkable country.

India has the locations to host the conference.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to India. In need of further inspiration? Check out Padma Hariharan’s guide, 5 Sustainable Days in Chennai, India.