FIRST TIME TIPS FOR TRAVELLING IN IN INDIA

For Western travelers, a first-time visit to India can be an overwhelming experience. The country is huge, heavily populated, and uniquely foreign. By keeping in mind a few

ew essential tips, you can have a better idea of what to expect and have a better experience.

Keep It Focused

Most first-time visitors to India exhaust themselves by trying to do everything in a short period of time. Don’t overload your itinerary.

Plan ahead, focus on a few activities each day, and give yourself space to enjoy the culture. Also, let yourself be spontaneous when a moment arises. You don’t have to see everything on the first trip to India. That’s what return trips are for!

Can You Hear Me Now?

If you’ve never experienced a loud, chaotic city, the urban hubs of India will likely take care of that for you. An excursion to one of these can be mentally exhausting, but enjoy the environment for what it offers in terms of a unique experience. The cities in India are probably unlike any you’ve been to before, so enjoy them to the fullest despite the sensory overload.

Head to the Countryside

The cities of India are huge. Make a point of getting out to the countryside to see smaller villages and towns. You’re more likely to experience the local culture instead of just observing it.

Check out the mountain regions or go South to the Kerala region where life moves a little slower.

Up Close and Personal Space

The idea of personal space varies from country to country, but in India it might as well not exist. Public transport is a contact sport, and the concept of a queue is laughable. Some questions even get too personal, but remember it all comes from a cultural and caring place, rather than nosiness or rudeness. Expect it, roll with it, and you’ll be fine.

Time Is Relative

Westerners are used to a fast-paced world. In India, time is a more fluid concept. Traffic is unpredictable, lines can be interminable, and people generally seem to move at a more nonchalant pace.

Check shop and business hours to make sure you catch them when they’re open – some do close for lunch. With time as more of a concept than a rule, the key here is to just go with the flow.

Can’t Touch This

Per cultural norms, certain things are considered unclean in India. Feet are generally taboo, so if you touch someone with your foot, apologize. Also, never use your left hand when eating and passing food. It’s unhygienic and considered offensive.

Keep Your Radar Up

A good travel tip for anywhere is to keep your eye out for dangerous situations. In India, pickpockets are an omnipresent problem, so carry only cash you need and be alert. Feel free to haggle at markets, but if things get testy, don’t let it get to you, and move on if you’re uncomfortable.

Be Card Cautious

ATM card cloning is a significant problem in India, so it’s wise to use cash when possible. Check with fellow travelers for recommended ATM machines or use only machines at major retail stores or banks.

When shipping things home, make sure the shop is reputable. Stick to the government stores for a trustworthy alternative.

Eat, Drink, But Be Wary

First time travelers often fall prey to gastrointestinal issues. Avoid raw vegetables and water that isn’t bottled, including ice in drinks.

You can still try street food, but try to pick from the most crowded, reputable stalls. When consuming fruit or vegetables, make sure you pick fresh, peelable fruits and that everything else be boiled or fried.

Stick to the Dress Code

India is a modest culture when it comes to dress for men and women. Keeping arms and legs covered is preferred. Taking your shoes off in homes or shops is also not unusual. Keep an out for shoes by the door and follow suit. And, of course, respect shrines and temple dress codes when visiting.

About the Author: Built by a team of service-focused travel fanatics with a background in design, Oasis is providing a new brand of hospitality. They’re dedicated to giving travelers an experience that’s off the beaten path, but doesn’t sacrifice service or comfort. By focusing on how to give people an authentic experience in a city or culture, Oasis is changing how people travel.