Ask the crew: Eibrab Ho’s guide to Delhi

The charms of India’s capital, according to a Cathay Pacific crew member
 Cathay Pacific Flight Purser Eibrab Ho sitting on the steps outside Isa Khan’s tomb in Delhi.
Credit: Eibrab Ho
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Delhi

We spoke with Eibrab Ho, a Flight Purser with Cathay Pacific, about how he fell in love with Delhi. He shares his favourite things to see, do and eat in India’s capital.

“My fascination with India started with food. I used to work in the Maldives, which has a similar cuisine. I remember my friends taking me to a restaurant there, and I loved everything – especially the chai tea. So, when I joined Cathay Pacific, I seized the chance to visit Delhi. It isn’t a place everyone gets the opportunity to go to, which made it seem even more special. I was keen to explore and, of course, try the local food. I fell in love with the city as soon as I arrived.”

The Qutb Minar tower extending upward against a grey sky.

Credit: Eibrab Ho

Must-do

Delhi is a city steeped in history, and the best way to appreciate it is through its architecture. I particularly like the Qutb Minar tower ; the Unesco world heritage site has a very distinct style, with interesting details. The Isa Khan tomb complex is also beautiful. And I must mention the Taj Mahal , which you can take a day trip to Agra to see. It’s worth the journey. 

Something I especially love about Delhi is how friendly and hospitable the people are. Usually, when you visit a Delhi landmark, someone will stop to inform you about it. They’re happy to chat and interested in getting to know you. It makes me feel welcome.

An Indian man working at a food stall in Delhi.

Credit: The India Today Group/Getty Images

Must-eat

When in Delhi, I stick exclusively to street food and small local eateries. They’re inexpensive, yet the food is amazing. One of my favourite spots is Natraj Dahi Bhalla in the Chandni Chowk neighbourhood. Its dishes are pure comfort. Admittedly, I can’t tolerate very spicy food, but I usually ask the staff if they can make my dish milder, and they always try to accommodate me.

Cathay Flight Purser Eibrab Ho smiles with his arm around an Indian man. They are sitting on a bench outside the Taj Mahal in Delhi.

Credit: Eibrab Ho

Must-pack

Delhi can get very hot, and you’ll sweat a lot if visiting in the summer. I recommend carrying a light, portable towel so you can dry yourself off without going through dozens of packets of tissues or wipes. With all that sweating, you also need to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated, so be sure to carry a water bottle around with you.

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Delhi travel information

Country / Region
India
Language
Hindi 
Airport code
DEL
Currency
INR
Time zone
GMT +05:30
Climate
Subtropical
Country / Region
India
Time zone
GMT +05:30
Currency
INR
Airport code
DEL
Language
Hindi 
Climate
Subtropical
Find the best fares to
Delhi