Things you should keep in mind while traveling to India
India is nothing else but a land of beauty, love, history and amazement. No wonder why tourists travel again and again towards India while few start living here permanently. In spite of the fact that India isn’t a rich and developed country, it still has all those things which many developed countries don’t have. Rich culture, so many festivals, various traditions, different religions, ancient buildings and temples, green valleys, golden deserts and up to 22 different languages are what makes India even more interesting place to visit.
You cannot experience India just in a couple of weeks neither it is possible to enjoy its hues in such a short time. So it is suggested to pack your luggage a bit more and make a plan with a few extra days so you can really enjoy the real colours of India. If it comes to the weight of your baggage there isn’t any need to be worried as there are so many freight companies nowadays working efficiently from across the world and sending excess luggage to India in low rates. Your luggage will be there safely before you arrive at your hotel in India. Sounds like a big worry of yours is now over.
It is not just extra luggage but there are so many other things which you should keep in mind with no matter it is your first time or you are a regular visitor. You will be familiar with many of them if you already visit India however these words would be beneficial for all those who are planning to spend their vacations in India first time. Following are some worthy words you should keep in mind to make your trip to India more memorable and safe.
Do not go with the few bucks, be safe with appropriate accommodation
India is a country with a range of everything. From clothes to food, to electronics, to rental apartments you do not just find a variety in everything but also a huge range price as well. You can find a good apartment in India at a low price but there isn’t any surety that you will be safe there or not.
Also, keep in mind that India is suffering from a low quantity of toilets in it. Cheap or low price hotel has just one common toilet for the whole floor of 15 to 20 rooms. Which is definitely not acceptable at any cost. 2ndly all low rent hotels, guest houses and hostel usually located at far away from the main city. In such a situation, there is a big chance of conning in evenings or you could face difficulty to get local transport from there.
So it is suggested that do not take a risk at yourself just for the sake of saving a few bucks. Always stay in well-known hotels and hostels especially in those who are in the main areas of the city. This not just make you safe but also you can enjoy the city life as well.
Be healthy, try not to eat too much and avoid plain water
Unfortunately, India is one of those countries who does not have healthy and clean water to drink. Always carry a bottle of mineral or filter water bottle along with yourself. It is not just polluted water but air and food are also contaminated. So, it is suggested for being safe and healthy, not just avoid drinking plain water but also say no to eat too much street food of India. You are visiting India and not eating street food? It is like you visit just 50% of India.
Taste of Indian food, Indian spices, and a variety of dishes are really second to none. Usually, 70% of foreigners get sick and suffer from diarrhoea after eating too much Indian street food and taking tap water. Indian spices are too strong to digest for everyone rather than Indians. Do not try spicy and fried food if you want to enjoy your trip to India.
Get a local Sim card and highlight in case of emergency contact number
Right after you arrive in India it is suggested to get a local mobile connection and mention emergency contact numbers like your hotel contact number, your embassy phone number, contact numbers of your friends and family.
It not just helpful for you to be in contact with your family and friends but also you can use the internet for finding your destination in case you lost your way.
Wear appropriate clothes
India is not a cold country, though few parts of India is cold like Shimla, Darjeeling and few other hill stations most of the part is hot and few areas are modest. So it is suggested to pack light and baggy clothes.
By mean appropriate, you should wear clothes which covers maximum part of your body, especially legs, chest and arms as well especially if you are a female. Though with no matter how much you cover yourself, you are a foreigner so people stare you anyways. Always ignore them and respect their traditions as India is not a modern country. Exposing clothes are not really appreciated by Indians. Jeans and t-shirts are ok but the skirts are not.
Learn to bargain
Foreigners are like easy money for Indians, cab drivers, local guide, rickshaw drivers, food point and shopkeepers always try to con you by giving you high rates. Yes, we are hospitable but we will con you with a heart melting smile and sweet words.
Learn to bargain to avoid this bad situation. Usually, shopkeepers try to sell their stuff to foreigners more than thrice of the actual price.
Avoid drugs and try to be safe
All types of drugs are prohibited in India. For the fun of few moments do not take a risk on your life. You could be through in prison and charge a heavy fine if police find any drugs with you.
Do not invite strangers to your room either accept their invitations, you could be kidnapped or robbed this way. It is recommended not to wear costly jewellery and other accessories and do not carry extra cash along with yourself. Always keep a photocopy of your travelling documents along with yourself.
About The Author:
This article is written by Elidia. She herself is a fond of Travel and loves to share her experiences. Currently she works for a company that specialises in sending cargo to India from UK. In her line of service, she has visited India several times, hence she wrote this article on the basis of her experience.
