How to travel through India
India is a vast and diverse country that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Here are some tips on how to travel through India:
1. Be mindful of which experiences you want to prioritize: Before you set off, make sure you have a clear plan of where you want to go and what you want to see. India is a vast country with lots to offer, so don't try to see everything in one trip.
2. Try the local food: Indian cuisine is delicious and varied, (HEAVEN FOR VEGETARIANS) so don't miss out on the opportunity to try it. Be careful with street food, though, as it can sometimes cause stomach problems- only eat from reputable vendors.
4. Be prepared for the culture shock: India can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Be prepared for cultural differences, such as the crowds, the noise- I’m not kidding, it’s LOUD-, and in a strange, beautiful way there’s space for everyone: tuk tuks (autos), cars, cows, motorcycles, ice cream vendors, pedestrians and people don’t really shout at each other.
5. Respect the local customs: Dress modestly (spaghetti straps and cleavage, for example, aren’t forbidden but frowned upon or stared at) and respect the local customs and traditions.
6. Use public transport: India has a good public transport system, which is cheap and efficient. Use buses and trains to get around, as well as taxis and auto-rickshaws (tuk tuks), and be prepared to haggle over the price.
7. Be assertive: India can be chaotic and overwhelming, but it's important to be assertive. Don't be afraid to say no to touts and scammers. Stand your ground and be confident in your decisions.
8. Non-judgemental attitude: Stay open and breezy! There will be things that are quite different, whichever part of the world you’re visiting from. If we didn’t want something different, we wouldn’t be traveling right? People might stare often but that’s just the curiosity factor.
9. Embrace the chaos: India can be overwhelming and unpredictable, but it's also full of life and energy. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the experience of traveling through this incredible country with confidence and positivity.
10. Prepare but don’t overthink: Yes, we all use this amazing search engine called Google. It’s so useful! But can also be a double sided-sword- remember that everyone talks from their own experience and while it’s good to prepare, try to swerve away from negativity. Sometimes things aren’t what they look online. They’re much better :)
Enjoy India and let me know how it goes! Would love to hear from you at dignomadbyjess@gmail.com
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