India

There is no shortage of backpackers and spiritual seekers writing India travel blogs, so you can read up on your destination for the hottest tips in these great travel articles in the India travel blog. Getting into India requires some planning, as there is visa-on-arrival only for selected Asian country citizens. If you are going to study yoga you will have to apply for a student visa. It is best to check in advance if you are unsure as they are very strict and you don’t want to ruin your trip with visa delays and complications.

Every state in India has its own unique culture, language and dress. Nowadays, big cities and universities operate mostly in English, as Indians gathering from all over the country need a common language in which to communicate! It is important to dress conservatively, covering shoulders, chest and knees. This applies to both men and women and can avoid unpleasant situations. The locals will also have more patience and respect for you if they deem to you be respecting yourself.

With the Taj Mahal, tropical beaches, multitude of Ashrams and yoga schools, Dharamsala (where the Dalai Lama lives) and exotic cities, you could spend years exploring the sub-continent. Best of all is to enjoy a cup of strong Indian chai and watch the vibrant colours and exotic scents of daily life pass you by.

India Travel Blog and Holiday Tips

  • Safety: Due to its location, India may be a target in terms of terrorist attacks.  These instances are usually isolated to certain parts and it is advised that you check with the Indian authorities before scheduling your trip.  Enquire regarding any problem areas and steer clear of those cities or towns.
  • Weather: India is affected by various natural disasters each year.  Monitor the weather closely for any problem areas and potential heavy rains or storm systems.
  • Take your time:  Consider the weather, the heat and the fact that you are surrounded by some of the most fascinating natural and man-made sights.  All of these factors make it easy for tourists to lose track of time and end up racing around.  This kind of behaviour can really take its toll on your body and burnout is common.
  • Food and drink: Take extra special care in terms of what you eat and drink in India.  Street vendors might not be your safest bet.  Especially if you have a particularly sensitive stomach.  Make sure that you wash any fresh produce thoroughly before you eat it.  Even if you are cooking your own meals, you need to wash each raw ingredient properly.  Alternatively, peel the skin off to avoid any potential problems.  Any cooked meals that you are served should be piping hot and not served at room temperature.  All meat and eggs should be thoroughly cooked and you should never consume rare or under cooked foods.  Bottled water and bottled drinks are the way to go and you should avoid ice and salads.
  • Conduct and culture:  Make sure that you mind what you wear while in India.  Provocative clothing is frowned upon in this modest nation and you should at least cover your upper arms and legs.  If you visit somebody’s home or a temple, you must remove your shoes before you enter as a sign of respect.  Also, if you notice shoes placed outside a shop that you wish to enter, you should remove your shoes too.  This is where sandals and slip on shoes are going to come in really handy!  Feet are considered unclean and you should only eat or pass items with your right hand.
  • Traffic:  India is densely populated and you will notice that the roads are chaotic – to say the least!  Even if you choose to get around on foot, you will need to keep your eyes open for all kinds of traffic, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles and fellow pedestrians.
  • Local crime:  Pick pocketing is a very common crime and the locals often target tourists in crowded areas (which are plentiful in Indian cities).  Don’t carry all your cash on you every time you leave your hotel and leave your documents along with extra cash locked away in your hotel room safe.  Don’t venture down streets that look dubious and avoid walking around in seemingly abandoned areas particularly at night.