Tips for the first-time travelers to India - CBT Holidays

03/03/2020

Tips for the first-time travelers to India - CBT Holidays

Pollution & Traffic in India

Pollution, traffic, and overpopulation are some issues that are prevalent in India. The public environment can be dirty and polluted. This may come as a shock to those who are visiting for the first time, especially if you’re accustomed to cleaner environments. The traffic in India is also something to be wary of. Due to the large population density of the country, traffic can get really bad, especially in major cities or popular tourist areas. A large number of vehicles used for transportation also contributes to the pollution of dust and smoke in the air. The population of India has rapidly increased in the past and is still increasing every year.

 

Food in India

Indian food is delicious, and the taste can be unforgettable. India is very famous for its delicacies. Different areas offer a huge variety of food items because the different cultures varying from area to area will bring their specialties. Indian food can also be spicy. So, if you’re a spice lover, you’ll definitely enjoy a large number of spicy foods that can be found in India. If you don’t do so well with spicy food, some restaurants, and street merchants may be able to adjust the spice levels in the foods they serve, just make sure to ask politely.

 

What to wear in India

You may notice in India that locals take special care in the way that they dress and dress codes. Foreigners in India should take note of what they are wearing depending on the area they are visiting. Take note of what others are wearing around you and try to imitate them. If they are dressed conservatively, it would probably be better for you to try to dress the same. There are also some religious places in India which require proper attire. Usually, this requires women to cover up their shoulders and legs and men to not wear shorts. Make sure to do your research before visiting any sacred places.

 

Communication in India

No matter where you’re traveling in the world, it’s always a good idea to learn some local terminologies. India has many different cultures and people who belong to different areas of India. There are a number of different dialects, so one area in India may not speak the same language as another. It’s common for Indians to know a few variations of the Indian language so that they can communicate with each other. It’s best to learn basic terminologies like asking how much something is or where to find a specific place before you visit India to avoid getting lost or just to communicate with locals better. However, English is fairly spoken and understood well in major cities in India, so you don’t have to worry too much.

 

Budgeting & Money in India

Before you come to India, ensure you have some cash on hand ready for when you land to make sure that you can get to your first accommodation with no worries. It is also important to take note of dodgy taxi drivers who will try to lure you or charge you a higher price at the airport. Whilst traveling India, you should also keep your money close to you as pickpocketing can be common in some areas. ATMs are also available in some places, so perhaps you should take out a small amount each time you need to use some cash. Local foods and accommodation can be fairly cheap in India as well

 

Join a tour guide

India is a huge country with plenty to do and see. Because the country is so populated, it can be hard to get around and first-time visitors may feel overwhelmed when they first visit India. To avoid getting lost and to get the most out of your trip, we highly recommend joining a tour group or hiring a tour guide.

 

India is an attractive tourist destination for many travelers, but some precautionary measures must be taken when visiting for the first time. We hope our guide has or will help you for your first trip to India! 

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