There's something about planning a big overseas holiday that evokes equal parts excitement and intimidation. For my family and me, India had always been at the top of our travel wishlist—a place full of colors, culture, food, and those breathtaking landscapes I'd only seen in travel magazines. But, honestly, the logistics seemed overwhelming, especially trying to organize everything from Australia. That all changed when we found MWT, a travel agency in Delhi, which turned out to be an absolute godsend.

From the moment we landed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, it was clear we were in good hands. After all those hours in the air, we were met right at arrivals by an MWT rep holding up our names with a huge, welcoming grin. I can’t even begin to describe the relief. Jet lag and travel panic vanished, replaced by genuine excitement. In no time, we were whisked away to our hotel in a smooth, comfortable transfer that really set the tone for what was to come. That first impression of professionalism and warmth was just the beginning.

On our first morning in India, still a bit bleary-eyed but eager, we went down to the hotel lobby, where we met our driver and our ride for the next five days—a Maharaja Seater Tempo Traveller on Rent in Delhi. If you’ve never seen one of these, just imagine a van built for comfort. Spacious, soft seats, plenty of room to stretch out (a must on windy mountain roads!), and enormous windows so you never miss a view. I’ve been on enough road trips to know that the vehicle makes a difference. This one was so much more than just transport—it made the long drives feel luxurious, and we looked forward to being on the road each day.

MWT had helped us plan a 5-day trip through Shimla and Manali, two gems in Himachal Pradesh that I’d read about but never really thought I’d get to see. The drive itself is half the fun: as we climbed higher, the bustle of Delhi faded and trees closed in, giving way to thick pine forests and jaw-dropping mountain valleys. Our driver wasn’t just “the driver”—he felt more like a knowledgeable local friend. He navigated those curling mountain roads with such calm expertise that I was never worried (and I’m often a bit of a nervous passenger!). He was quick with a smile, genuinely friendly, always on time, and frequently paused our journey to point out hidden picnic spots or places with views you’d miss if you weren’t looking. I really appreciated how he shared little stories about each place—I think his enthusiasm rubbed off on all of us.

Our first real stop was Shimla. What a place! The old British architecture looks surreal against the Himalayan backdrop. We wandered Mall Road, which buzzes with life but is blissfully free of cars, and visited the Viceregal Lodge (felt like walking through a slice of history). The highlight had to be standing on The Ridge—just soaking up the sweeping mountain views. I never felt hurried, which has been a complaint on other group tours. MWT ensured our schedule was balanced, giving us time to explore without overpacking the days.

From Shimla, we headed to Manali, and in my opinion, the journey was just as memorable as the destination. The road winds alongside the Beas River, past deep green valleys, tumbling waterfalls, and little roadside cafes where we stopped for steaming chai. Manali has a more laid-back, artsy vibe—think cozy riverside cafes, friendly faces, and a sense of adventure in the air. We visited the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple (such peaceful surroundings) and explored Old Manali’s quirky shops and cafes. MWT ensured a mix of sightseeing and free time, so we never felt like we were on a checklist vacation. I loved just roaming by the river, the kids skipping stones while we breathed in that crisp mountain air.

Honestly, what made the experience stand out was the peace of mind it provided. We didn’t have to fret about routes, finding good food, or keeping to a tight schedule. The MWT team, and especially our driver, took care of the details. That gave us the chance to be fully present—to soak in the scenery, the food, the laughter, and the newness of everything. Some of my favorite memories are the simple moments: sipping hot tea at a roadside stall, watching the sun set over the mountains, or trading jokes with our driver as the kids dozed off in the back seat.

All too soon, our five days were up. We found ourselves back in Delhi, bags repacked, hearts more than a little heavy at the thought of leaving. What we got from MWT was so much more than a trip; it was a true experience, crafted with care and warmth. They got what mattered to us as foreigners—comfort, safety, flexibility—and delivered at every step. The Maharaja Seater made road-tripping a joy, every hotel was well-chosen, and the itinerary hit that sweet spot between structured and spontaneous.

If you’re from Australia (or anywhere else!) and are considering exploring India, I couldn’t recommend MWT enough. They truly took the stress out of what could have been a logistical nightmare, leaving us with pure joy, wonder, and a suitcase full of memories. Our Shimla-Manali adventure was everything we hoped for—and I already find myself thinking about where we might go next with their help. Thank you, MWT and Maharaja seater Tempo Traveller in Delhi, for making our first trip to India the kind you remember for a lifetime.