Going on holiday to India can be the trip of a lifetime. It's a large country filled with a unique history, culture, and spirituality you won't be able to experience anywhere else in the world. The sites are also quite beautiful. When you go, you want to make the most of your time and experience everything there is to experience. Here are some tips to have the best trip possible.
1. Try the different foods
India cuisine is absolutely delicious. If you think you've tried Indian cuisine at one of the local Indian restaurants in town, you aren't experience the authentic food you will get while actually in the country itself. Be sure to try all of the different foods you can find to discover your favorites. You should also try local candies, snacks, and drinks.
The food may be a bit different than your body is used to, as delicious as it may be. You want to be prepared to help your body digest this food by bringing diarrhea pills to help keep your comfortable while your body adjusts.
2. Be prepared for it to be crowded
There are about 7.6 billion people in the world and about 1 billion of them live in India. That's a lot of people in a small amount of space. That means you need to be prepared to have people pressed up against you at all times in public places. There isn't much you can do to change the circumstances.
Being in such close quarters makes it particularly easy for people in this relatively poor country to pickpocket people. While maneuvering through the crowds, you need to be aware of your belongings at all times and make sure nothing is accessible.
3. Be financially prepared
Every vacation generally costs more than you probably anticipated. It's a good idea to take out extra money than you anticipate on spending just in case you go a little over your budget. It can cost more to exchange money last minute. You should also have an easy way for transferring money to India in the case of an emergency.
4. Plan your trip before you go
India is a huge country. There are a number of large countries and things to see. Unless you decide to spend an extended amount of time in the country, you need to pick and choose what landmarks you will prioritize on your trip. You should also think about sticking to only one or two cities since it's very difficult to experience a city in a short amount of time. Don't forget to venture outside the main city as well to see the life on the outskirts of town.
5. Get good at negotiating
In most countries, items have a set price tag. In certain markets price tags may not be the final price. Feel free to negotiate with the seller. You may be able to get him to throw in something else for free or lower the cost. Don't be afraid to walk away if someone is unreasonable. You will be sure to find the same item from another shop.
6. Be mindful of the local customs
India can be more conservative than many Western countries, so be prepared. Despite the heat, you should not wear clothes that are too sheer or too revealing. It will make you stand out in a bad way. You also want to remember to take your shoes off when you enter a temple and avoid any serious public displays of affection.
Your trip to India may well become your favourite holiday yet. Holi is a celebration of color and joy so set yourself free to dance and celebrate! You may be in for certain culture shock, but the best thing to do is to open your mind and enjoy yourself.
