There are many tips ranging from universal power strip, plug adapters, slip-on shoes – you might have to take off your shoes when you enter temples to ear plugs to stay calm from the noises on the street. If you have additional questions that are not answered on our website, you may contact us at info@omodyssey.com
Preparation
You can withdraw Indian Rupees from most ATMS, there are many international banks available in India. Fees may apply depending on your bank or credit card provider. It is recommended that you let your banking and credit card company/s know (in advance) that you are traveling to India. At that time, ask about their foreign transaction fees.
Exchange US dollars at India banks; there are better rates in small exchange outlets. Ask your guide for the best places. Some hotels may also exchange money.
If you are entering restaurants as a group; splitting up the bill could be tough due to the different currency. Unless otherwise arranged by your guide, it is advisable to ask for separate bills before ordering in order to pay individually.
- A roll of toilet paper or a pack of baby wipes (aka handi-wipes)
- Hand sanitizer
- Probiotic pills
Hospitality in India is warm. People would love to help you in many ways they can, be it directions, making way for you to enter religious establishments, or simply welcome you with a smile. Most of the places are quite crowded and you get things done slow; you will have to accept that in India. Common Indian Customs:
- Remove shoes when entering religious buildings or someone’s home, unless otherwise instructed
- Offer food/drink/etc. with your right hand (unless you are eating, then you can use your left)
- Eating with your right hand is common, though silverware is widely available
- Hand washing before and after dinner (sometimes there is a sink outside the restroom for this purpose)
- Generally, public displays of affection (PDA) between men and women is frowned upon
English is widely spoken in India. If you are in a city, you will have no trouble managing your way, hotels, taxis, vendors etc. Ensure you speak slow and clear. However, if you are in a village look for assistance from your driver or guide. There are regional language phrases you can learn with the help of regional language phrasebooks.
Bringing yoga pants/outfits are encouraged for your practice. For excursions in a city like Mumbai, Bangalore or Delhi, you can dress anyway you feel comfortable. When traveling outside the city areas, It is advisable to wear loose-fitting, conservative and comfortable clothing. Please avoid short skirts, short shorts and revealing clothing which may attract unwanted attention.
If you are traveling from the US, please review the immunization schedule recommended by the CDC: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/india
It is recommended to start vaccinations 4-6 weeks prior to visiting India.
Please discuss with your doctor about your individual health conditions and vaccinations required.
Search for a “travel clinic” near you via Google search.
Some vaccines that are most commonly issued before traveling to India are: Hepatitis A, Typhoid vaccines, and Hepatitis B. Optional oral medication can be prescribed for Malaria prevention. If you are planning to travel to rural areas ask your doctor about a vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies. Yellow fever vaccine is conditional. There is no risk of yellow fever in India. The government of India requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the USA.
Yes, a valid passport and visa are required to travel to India. You can have your entire visa application processed through a private visa processing company, Travisa to which the entire visa application is recently outsourced. The process might take upto 4 weeks, though Travisa claims to process the application in 7-9 business days. Find more information here – http://india.travisa.com/
Indian cities will have an assortment of food options, such as: Pizza, Italian, Shish-Kabobs, Chinese. While you may find most dishes are spicier than what you get home, you can inquire about or request dishes that are less spicy. Vegetarian option are very common at all restaurants. There will be non-vegetarian dishes; chicken, beef, mutton and fish available in almost all hotels. Alcohol is served in bars, 3-star hotels and above. You can also buy alcohol from Government-run outlets in most Indian states except for the state of Gujarat.
Yes, you should be careful with the water you drink anywhere in India. Refrain from drinking tap water. Packaged bottled water is available in all hotels, most convenience and grocery stores. Only top-rated hotels and resorts may provide you with safe drinking water.
You don’t find beggars everywhere in India. They are mainly seen around religious establishments and it’s the best to walk away from them as helping one can bring many others to you. Also some hawkers may force you to buy their wares, say a firm ‘No’, avoid eye contact and walk away. It is advised for women to travel in groups, especially at night.
It’s advisable to not bring expensive jewellery while you are travelling. However, money and documents like your passport can’t be avoided; please keep them with you at all times. It is recommended to make a photocopy of your passport and driver’s license to keep in your suitcase or purse. Keep your wallet in your front pocket and be alert. Never leave your purse or bag unattended.
We take our clients only to authentic shops run by the state for clothing, jewellery and artisan purchases. At state-run establishments, you do not have to bargain and the prices are displayed on all items. If you must buy something from small vendors on street, start at half the price of what’s quoted.
Please note, if you have no intentions of purchasing something, it’s better not to enter the street shops unless accompanied by a guide.
You may buy one of these in India. They can be cheap and are available in most shops. You may also buy an universal power strip which can handle most of your electronic gadgets; including phone, camera, laptop etc. This way you can charge many gadgets at a time.
Please note: most plug adaptors you buy in India are not voltage converters. If you have devices (electric shaver, hair dryer, etc.) that only operate on 110V, it is advised to buy a voltage converter. Some “international” hotels will have a 110V outlet in the bathroom.