Last minute India questions

Old Jan 19th, 2008, 08:00 PM
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CFW
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Last minute India questions

Can't believe we're leaving in two weeks! Now starting to think about some of the details.

Should we try to get some rupees before we leave, or will there be an easy to find (and usually functioning) ATM at the airport in Mumbai when we arrive at about 11:00 p.m?

Doing an overnight to Varanasi in the middle of our stay in Delhi. Will we be able to safely leave luggage at the Shangri-La hotel in Delhi?
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Old Jan 19th, 2008, 08:27 PM
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I am not aware of an ATM at the airport (I have not looked for them to be honest) but there are foreign exchange counters which will be open. However, I would just get some Rupees in the US, as you really will have enough to deal with between Immigration, baggage claim, Customs, jet lag, etc, without queuing up for money. Just get US$100 equivalent, enough to for an emergency, etc until you can find an ATM the next day. Try very hard to get small bills (Rs 10 and 50) so you can give tips, otherwise, get change at your hotel front desk when you check in.

I assume you have already arranged a hotel car from the airport (I highly, highly recommend this), if not, use the pre-paid taxi counter at the airport, look for it after you have come through Immigration and baggage claim and are walking out through the arrival hall towards the door. They will call out to you, don't worry. You can often pay by credit card for the taxi. But really a hotel car is easier and well worth the money, IMO. The guy will be waiting with yoru name on a board as you come out of the Customs doors and will help with luggage.

If you are coming back to the Shangri-la for the rest of a stay in Delhi you should not have any problem leaving your luggage with them. While I believe it is perfectly safe, of course you really should not leave valuables in the luggage. I wouldn't have an issue leaving a laptop (but I hope you aren't bringing one on a vacation).
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Old Jan 20th, 2008, 06:06 PM
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our driver advanced us rupees a couple of times between atm visits...

carole---have a fabulous time
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Old Jan 21st, 2008, 05:34 AM
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Hi Not a bad idea to keep some local currency at hand. Though there is currency exchange at the airport. Also note that USD is also readily accpetble to cab drivers. Currently 1USD is equal to Rs. 39/- so keep change in US dollars atleast, change of 1 dollar . Once you get to the city then there are tons of ATM's and money exchange places. If you are staying a Shang-ri-la then it is right in the downtown. Next to it is Janpath, just take a stroll on it, you will find great shopping places and a lots of money exchange. You will get better rate at Janpath then at the hotel. Yes it is recommended to ask for hotel pickup, but they can be expensive. Look for prepaid once you are out it is on the left hand side. It is very safe, as each pick up is registered with the police so no problem and it is on govt rates. You luggage at shang ri la should be safe. They will store at front office, no problem. I live in delhi only so, it is all great. Have as great time. Sangeet Seth PS. Where are you stying in Varansi, PLEASE BE VERY VERY CAREFUL THERE. TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR BELONGINGS. BE EXTRA CAREFUL.On Roads and when you go to ganges. Have a great trip. Regards Sangeet Seth
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Old Jan 21st, 2008, 01:55 PM
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If you're being met at the airport then I don't think it's necessary to get rupees before hand. In the past there were strict rules on taking rupees out of the country so getting rupees outside India was not easy. I usually change my rupees at the hotel, much more convenient and the rate is reasonable. I often carry USD$1 notes which is accepted all over the world for tipping etc when I don't have the local currency. I know some think it's offensive but I beg to differ.
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