I would give ten stars if I could, since I actually enjoyed an unexpected, and excellent double feature.
First, I went on the City Walk with Farhan. He put me at ease right away, and proved a great conversationalist, as well a knowledgeable guide. I got to see parts of the Paharganj area where I frankly would not venture on my own, feeling totally safe the whole time. And the walk, as well as the follow-up conversation at the trust offices really did give a good introductory feel for the organization’s work. I especially appreciated Farhan’s sharing the frankly harrowing story of his life up until he became one of the trust’s clients, and his amazing progression since then.
Having conflated the City Walk with the separate Old Delhi tour (I wanted both), I mentioned my desire to see Old Delhi to the manager-type woman at the office (forgetting her name 🤦🏽), and she immediately set me up with a sort of custom, private walking tour of Old Delhi - leaving immediately, since this was the only time slot I had available.
This tour was led by the charming and knowledgeable Jafar. Once again, all sorts of places I would never see on my own, with amazing context and insights provided by Jafar the whole way. Each of the main attractions of this tour - Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Fatehpuri Masjid, spice market, and a Jain temple whose name escapes me - were spectacular in their own right, but Jafar’s insights and amiable guidance really brought those highlights, and many place in between, to life.
A great day, with a great organization, and great guides