Travel Tips
A well-planned trip is not only blissful but lingers fresh in the memory for a long time. One obviously would love a hassle-free holiday, as it is meant for rest and enjoyment and above all to escape from the daily ordeal of life. If on a holiday too, one finds oneself running from pillar to post and making last-minute arrangements, one would love to forget the holiday and the horrifying memories associated with it. India is a tough country, in terms of temperament and terrain. Before venturing on a sojourn to India, one needs to follow some simple guidelines to make the stay a pleasant one. Follow the tips in earnest and put your best foot forth and come to India with a desire, and India promises that you will leave the land with an ardent wish to come back again.
DO'S AND DON'TS
Mind Your Language: In communicating verbal instructions, it is vital that you not only insist on the recipient repeating them but also see from his face that he actually understands the meaning of the words. Indian ears are more attuned to the slurred vowels of English than to the nasal's drawl of an American.
Permission for Photography : To avoid causing neurosis when you photograph railway property it is advisable to take permission (if you have not done so at home) from Indian Railways headquarters in New Delhi. Rail Bhawan looks very formidable but the entry procedure is remarkably simple. You sign the visitor's book at the reception and ask to see the Public Relations Officer.
Beware: Two unpleasant brutalities need to be summoned up to make it clear that you are not a soft touch. Never respond to the genial 'hello' of a conman and never catch the eye of professional beggar.
Bargaining : Haggling is an exhausting exercise for the greenhorn to India, a delectable sport for the shopkeeper who stands to make a huge killing. Remember that the first sale of the day is considered religiously auspicious, so the chances of being ripped off are somewhat less. The rule for buyers is to start at less than half of the announced price and then work towards a settlement at a price neither party considers unreasonable. Short-term visitors who lack the sporting instinct will find it much easier to stick to government emporia where the prices are fixed.
MIND THE NOISE : Loudspeakers are a status symbol in India and what seems like the blare of a screeching siren may only be a devotional song sung by a national legend. Film songs are basic to Indian life and their influence is more pervasive than pop. Make a practice of asking people the words and you will discover the words and you will discover an innocent world of romance and poetry totally at variance with the level of noise.
Food Precautions in India: Certain food precautions in India have to be followed by tourists. These Indian food precautions are for your own benefit and well-being. So go through these safety measures for food in India and stay healthy!
- Always have food that is hot. Warm food is a bit risky and one may fall ill.
- Avoid cut fruits and salads since they have high levels of contamination. Go for unpeeled fruits, as they are the safest. It is recommended to wash the fruits before.
- Do not have fresh fruit juices from the roadside juice stalls. Go for packed juices that are branded or bottled sodas.
- Do not have food from roadside vendors. They are usually contaminated with dust and flies.
- If you want to have non-vegetarian food, go to a decent restaurant that locals may recommend.
- Avoid eating at dingy restaurants and the ones that are empty. Empty restaurants are a sign that the food is not that great.
- There are many fast food joints and international names in all major cities. If you cannot find a decent restaurant while touring, go to these joints.
Indian Money: The currency in India is known as Rupee. Indian money comes in the denominations of Re.1, Rs.2, Rs.5, Rs.10, Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.500 and Rs.1000. coins of Re.1, Rs.2 and Rs.5 are also easily available as loose change. Money exchange in India is a cumbersome job so it is advisable that you approach a known name and convert a substantial amount of money.
Travelers' cheques are not accepted at every bank. Approach a well-known bank. Dollar and Pounds are much easily accepted than other currencies. Always approach a certified and recognized bureau for exchanging money. Exchanging any place else is not only illegal, you also run the risk of getting fake currency. It is better if you fill a declaration form as soon as you enter the country so as to avoid any kind of confusion later. You can get money exchange services at airports and they are open round the clock. Some five stars hotels also have this facility. If not, there are lots of recognized international money exchange centers in big cities.
What to be wear in India: If you are traveling in summers, pack light cotton clothes. Do not wear synthetic as you may develop some skin allergy or heat burns.
If you are traveling in winters, pack some warm clothes, as it can get mercilessly chilly in the northern parts of India.
BEWARE OF DOGS: Give all dogs that cross your path a wide berth. Only make friends if you have to. If this sounds mean, remember the alternative may be two weeks of painful injections in a hospital that seems more frightening than the dog.
COMPLAINTS: Always register a suggestion or complaint. In India, the complaint book is available everywhere and people do respond to suggestions. Avoid the unfortunate habit of only criticizing. Sometimes take the trouble to write to the editor of a newspaper praising India. You will be surprised how many other people share your feelings. Practical hints should be penned to the publishers of guidebooks. Share travel experience and you can pick up valuable hints.
