If you’re planning a trip to India from the United States, you
should know that it’s quite different from traveling to other destinations
around the world.Before you travel to India, you should familiarize yourself with the rules and traditions that apply there, such as how to treat your shoes and consume safe food. and how to avoid being scammed. Luckily, we’ve
put together this handy guide of 10 tips for traveling to India from the USA so
you can be prepared and enjoy yourself on your trip!
Don’t Go Alone
When you're traveling in a country where you don't speak the
language, it's best not to go alone. Some areas are safer than others, but
there are still safety concerns even in well-known destinations. The less
English you know, the more important this becomes. It's also good to think
about how much time and money you want to spend on travel when deciding whether
or not it's worth going by yourself. If you plan to spend most of your time in
one area, it may be better to have someone with you who can help translate and
guide you.
Bring Money and Credit Cards
Bring enough U.S. dollars and credit cards (major ones like
Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) with you. U.S. dollars are accepted in
most places in India but it's better to have some rupees on hand just in case
(visit an ATM or exchange money at your airport). If you're traveling with a
friend or partner, take turns carrying the other's extra cash so that one
person doesn't have all of their money stolen if there is a theft or robbery.
Get Vaccinated
It is important that you get vaccinated before you travel to
India. The CDC recommends travelers be vaccinated against typhoid fever,
hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, cholera, and rabies. If your trip
will last more than one month, you should also get vaccinated against
meningococcal disease. Indians do not need a yellow fever vaccination to enter
the country but if you are coming from an area where yellow fever is endemic
(sub-Saharan Africa), or have been in contact with someone who had yellow fever
in the past three weeks, it may be required by Indian authorities.
Learn a Little About Local Customs
Indian culture is very different than that of Western countries.
It's important to be aware of these differences so you don't offend or frustrate
those around you. Here are six things you need to know when visiting India:
1) Avoid talking about caste, religion, politics, and sex in
public.
2) Always remove shoes before entering homes and temples.
3) Remove your hat while visiting temples.
4) Show respect when eating by using your right hand and not
speaking or asking questions during a meal (except between friends).
5) Avoid touching people on their heads because it's a sacred
part of their bodies.
6) Take off your shoes before entering someone's home as a sign
of respect.
Keep an Open Mind
1. Keep an open mind. You may not be able to find all of your favorite American foods when you arrive in India, but don’t let that deter you. When traveling abroad, it’s important not to get too attached or caught up on what may be different than what you are used to at home. What delightful surprises lie ahead is always a mystery!
2. Embrace the new culture and customs! Indian culture is rich and diverse, so take a minute before departing on your trip and do some research about Indian traditions and values. One great way is by reading books written by Indians that live in America like Jhumpa Lahiri or Mohsin Hamid.
Respect Privacy
India is a beautiful and diverse country, but it is not without
its dangers. The culture in India can be very different than what you may be
used to, and not everyone has good intentions. You will find that people there
are more open with their personal lives and many people talk openly about their
families. There are also more children on the streets begging or selling things
which can be heartbreaking at times. Some tourists may feel like they want to
help these children out, but if you do this, you could actually be doing more
harm than good.
India is an amazing place with many different attractions
depending on where you go. If you're planning a trip there, make sure that you
take precautions so that your trip goes smoothly and doesn't have any hiccups
or accidents happen.
Pack Lightly
Pack light. Clothes can be purchased in India, but they'll
likely be more expensive than what you might find at home. Your suitcase should
be filled with clothes that are easy to layer and comfortable in a variety of
weather conditions. If you're going during the winter, pack some warmer clothes
like sweaters and coats that are suitable for Indian winters. For example, you
may not want to pack an animal print dress if your trip will take place during
monsoon season! Focus on packing clothes that are versatile and can be worn in
multiple ways the best way to save money when traveling is by packing light and
only bringing what is necessary.
Use Common Sense
-Be prepared for a lot of noise, you'll be surrounded by people
at all times.
-You may be hounded by locals trying to sell you things or get
you in a taxi. Don't feel obligated to purchase anything.
-Eat street food with caution and try not to drink tap water if
possible.
-India is a cash economy so make sure you have enough money on
hand when traveling (you can withdraw money from ATMs).
-Keep your belongings close and don't pack anything that's
valuable or irreplaceable like an expensive camera.
-Try not to dress too flashy, showing off wealth will attract
unwanted attention and invite theft.
CONCLUSION
India is a country of rich cultural heritage The people, the food, and the customs are all unique to this beautiful land. So it's no wonder that travelers from around the world flock here in droves each year. Now that you're one of those travelers, use these 10 tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
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