How difficult IS India???
Feb 27th, 2006, 11:21 AM
#22
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In response to waynehazle's comment "Go to the Agra Fort and to Fatehpur Sikri!"
I did and they are wonderful. Also don't miss Sikandra and Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb (the baby Taj).
What I meant to say is my least favorite city (dirtiest and most aggressive touts) was Agra but the monuments definitely were worth seeing.
I did and they are wonderful. Also don't miss Sikandra and Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb (the baby Taj).
What I meant to say is my least favorite city (dirtiest and most aggressive touts) was Agra but the monuments definitely were worth seeing.
Feb 27th, 2006, 01:06 PM
#23
kmbing- To me, the hardest part was setting up my trips. You've done that.
I also got a bit freaked out before my first time- especially after reading all the scam warnings in the guide books, but I'd paid for two airfares before that hit, so I had to go.
Once we get there it was magical! Dirty, hot, and frustrating too, but aren't a lot of places??
I'll have to say that Craig and Jean's trip report gave me enough details to have the courage to do the first trip. Read that, Bosotn Harbor's, my two reports and all the others. No one got into any major trouble...at least those of us who made it back to write a report!
There's a reason so many of us love the country and can't wait to go back.
I hope you discover it as well.
I also got a bit freaked out before my first time- especially after reading all the scam warnings in the guide books, but I'd paid for two airfares before that hit, so I had to go.
Once we get there it was magical! Dirty, hot, and frustrating too, but aren't a lot of places??
I'll have to say that Craig and Jean's trip report gave me enough details to have the courage to do the first trip. Read that, Bosotn Harbor's, my two reports and all the others. No one got into any major trouble...at least those of us who made it back to write a report!
There's a reason so many of us love the country and can't wait to go back.
I hope you discover it as well.
Feb 27th, 2006, 01:42 PM
#24
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Take a look at this page -
http://www.moxon.net/india/varanasi.html
There are links to his tales at other places in India. As an Indian, I find some of his observations quaint, sometimes even what I would term typical Western misunderstanding of certain Indian practices & habits. But he seems to have made an effort to be empathetic and he displays the right attitude while traveling within India.
http://www.moxon.net/india/varanasi.html
There are links to his tales at other places in India. As an Indian, I find some of his observations quaint, sometimes even what I would term typical Western misunderstanding of certain Indian practices & habits. But he seems to have made an effort to be empathetic and he displays the right attitude while traveling within India.
Feb 27th, 2006, 02:04 PM
#25
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it was an interesting articles. It seemed to change tone quite abruptly and get very saracastic and foul. It almost like the writers switched.
Man I keep hearign about all these dead bodies floating in Ganges and I never saw anything. The air smelled great. But no I didn't go for a swim or take a drink...
Man I keep hearign about all these dead bodies floating in Ganges and I never saw anything. The air smelled great. But no I didn't go for a swim or take a drink...
Feb 27th, 2006, 02:16 PM
#26
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All travel is emotionally demanding -requiring flexibility and accomodation. But India is a destination where the hassles are out weighed by the rewards as exemplified by those who want to travel back after every trip.
The reasons people include warnings in their reports is that we live in a culture of "full disclosure" one wouldn't want to only discuss the rewards without being honest about the challenges.
In destinations such as India and other less developed areas you cannot insulate yourself entirely from poverty -even in an air conditioned car or a fabulous hotel- because poverty is in the streets and the infrastructure is in some places crumbling...hence you have the evident and inescapable contradictions between wealth and abject misery which you will not be able to escape on your holiday.
However we also have social contrasts in the West. They may not be as extreme but in addition they are not as evident because the economic development of the society narrows the differences and makes them less evident by building freeways through less "desirable neighborhoods" thus I don't have to be faced by extreme poverty in the same ways.
This is exactly why several people have said to me why would you want to travel to India or Mali? Because for them a vacation is a suspension of reality, time to lie on a beach and relax. Of course there's a place for this but whether we see poverty or not it's still there.
India isn't an entirely relaxing destination but it's so culturally rich, so fascinating and engaging.The history and art are so interesting. It's a place that's woorth reading about before and after your trip.
I understand you're concern I suppose the question is what are you looking for and what are you prepared for?
What made India slightly different for me was the sheer force of numbers...the throngs of people...the incessant noise and pollution. On one day in the center of Jaipur we didn't have the car and driver with us and we were mobbed by rickshaw drivers...it can be a a place were people just ignore no.
However, with this slight exception we had a great time. We had wonderful peaceful visits in the countryside, quiets walks, thrilling visits to temples and welcoming hospitality at many of the heritage hotels. The sense of connecting and talking to owners of the heritage hotels "situated" our experience of India and this combined with a week with friends in Delhi gave a contrasting view of the Indian middle and upper middle classes which was enlightening.
I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time.
Don't worry too much. I was terrified about arriving in Delhi by train at 4am and really got myself into a state. It was fine...we just walked up to the throng of taxi drivers outside the station and picked one randomly . Being decisive and not worrying about whether you've paid too much is probably the best advice I should have take!
The reasons people include warnings in their reports is that we live in a culture of "full disclosure" one wouldn't want to only discuss the rewards without being honest about the challenges.
In destinations such as India and other less developed areas you cannot insulate yourself entirely from poverty -even in an air conditioned car or a fabulous hotel- because poverty is in the streets and the infrastructure is in some places crumbling...hence you have the evident and inescapable contradictions between wealth and abject misery which you will not be able to escape on your holiday.
However we also have social contrasts in the West. They may not be as extreme but in addition they are not as evident because the economic development of the society narrows the differences and makes them less evident by building freeways through less "desirable neighborhoods" thus I don't have to be faced by extreme poverty in the same ways.
This is exactly why several people have said to me why would you want to travel to India or Mali? Because for them a vacation is a suspension of reality, time to lie on a beach and relax. Of course there's a place for this but whether we see poverty or not it's still there.
India isn't an entirely relaxing destination but it's so culturally rich, so fascinating and engaging.The history and art are so interesting. It's a place that's woorth reading about before and after your trip.
I understand you're concern I suppose the question is what are you looking for and what are you prepared for?
What made India slightly different for me was the sheer force of numbers...the throngs of people...the incessant noise and pollution. On one day in the center of Jaipur we didn't have the car and driver with us and we were mobbed by rickshaw drivers...it can be a a place were people just ignore no.
However, with this slight exception we had a great time. We had wonderful peaceful visits in the countryside, quiets walks, thrilling visits to temples and welcoming hospitality at many of the heritage hotels. The sense of connecting and talking to owners of the heritage hotels "situated" our experience of India and this combined with a week with friends in Delhi gave a contrasting view of the Indian middle and upper middle classes which was enlightening.
I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time.
Don't worry too much. I was terrified about arriving in Delhi by train at 4am and really got myself into a state. It was fine...we just walked up to the throng of taxi drivers outside the station and picked one randomly . Being decisive and not worrying about whether you've paid too much is probably the best advice I should have take!
Feb 27th, 2006, 06:42 PM
#27
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I don't go on vacations to foreign lands to relax & rest. I want to go places and see things and I loved India. I was 60 years old & in fairly good shape last November when we went. I always read all of these warnings about various countries to which we have traveled, and things are never as bad as I imagined they might be. Being part of a tour group is a help in dealing with new surroundings, but we always venture out on our own and have interesting experiences that way.
Mar 2nd, 2006, 10:31 AM
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While you're there, India has the ability to make you scream,cry,smile,want to tear your hair out and make you feel more at peace than you've ever been...all in one day if you're lucky! It's definitely intense but if you have an open mind I can pretty much promise you'll look back on it as one of the most amazing, eye-opening and maybe even life changing experiences of your life. I was just there last summer, all over the country, and if my best friend and I survived (2 small blonde girls fresh out of high school) then I would think anyone could!
Mar 3rd, 2006, 05:44 PM
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Hey kmbing you will not experience the India that you are "freaked out by" by staying at the Oberoi. So don't worry. India is the best place in the world to visit if you have an open mind because there is alot of beauty, diversity and something for everyone there-jungle (Kerala), beautiful palaces & desert(Rajasthan), beaches (Goa) etc. There is no place in the world where you can see as many religions,cultures, languages in one country.
I will only be 100% honest with you so here goes! Sure you will have beggars asking you for money. Some of them will be small barefoot children or limbless and it will be impossible to say no to them. The differences in economic class are sharp so be ready for a surprise. A few times I saw beggars sleeping outside of large bungalows that belonged to wealthy people. In fact, I saw a topless beggar woman sleeping with a child in front of the Maharashtra state governor's house. I also saw a disabled man take off his pants and relieve himself in broad daylight on Juhu beach, in front of many people as if nothing.
A common sight were the dozens and dozens of people sleeping on the streets of Mumbai covered with blankets from head to toe. I have seen people literally sleeping in the street (not on the sidewalk) where cars pass, and I still am confused to this day as to why.
You will come back from India a changed person, believe me. Don't spend all of your time in a car with driver. Take chances and walk the streets. You will get dirty and you may want to burst into tears at times because crossing the street is like playing Russian Roulette. Also, at times you may pass mangy nasty looking dogs in the streets. Hey don't carry food, instead carry an umbrella in case one tries to get aggressive. That's what I did. I've heard some dogs are rabid but haven't heard attack stories-but never say never.
When you go up North, it will get trickier because it is more rural and there will be animals and their feces literally everywhere (pigs, monkeys, camels, cows etc.). However, it is so interesting to see how man and beast can coexist in perfect harmony. This is the thing I love about India.
The worst that may happen to you in India is that a few people will ask you for money or may try to scam you. Just say nothing and keep walking. The best that will happen is that your experience will make you take less things for granted, as we often do here, and it may move you to be more philanthropic.
Can I tell you something? I haven't heard of anyone I know being robbed while in India but I know 4 people that have been robbed while in Italy. India is not a dangerous place and violent crime rate is very low.
I will only be 100% honest with you so here goes! Sure you will have beggars asking you for money. Some of them will be small barefoot children or limbless and it will be impossible to say no to them. The differences in economic class are sharp so be ready for a surprise. A few times I saw beggars sleeping outside of large bungalows that belonged to wealthy people. In fact, I saw a topless beggar woman sleeping with a child in front of the Maharashtra state governor's house. I also saw a disabled man take off his pants and relieve himself in broad daylight on Juhu beach, in front of many people as if nothing.
A common sight were the dozens and dozens of people sleeping on the streets of Mumbai covered with blankets from head to toe. I have seen people literally sleeping in the street (not on the sidewalk) where cars pass, and I still am confused to this day as to why.
You will come back from India a changed person, believe me. Don't spend all of your time in a car with driver. Take chances and walk the streets. You will get dirty and you may want to burst into tears at times because crossing the street is like playing Russian Roulette. Also, at times you may pass mangy nasty looking dogs in the streets. Hey don't carry food, instead carry an umbrella in case one tries to get aggressive. That's what I did. I've heard some dogs are rabid but haven't heard attack stories-but never say never.
When you go up North, it will get trickier because it is more rural and there will be animals and their feces literally everywhere (pigs, monkeys, camels, cows etc.). However, it is so interesting to see how man and beast can coexist in perfect harmony. This is the thing I love about India.
The worst that may happen to you in India is that a few people will ask you for money or may try to scam you. Just say nothing and keep walking. The best that will happen is that your experience will make you take less things for granted, as we often do here, and it may move you to be more philanthropic.
Can I tell you something? I haven't heard of anyone I know being robbed while in India but I know 4 people that have been robbed while in Italy. India is not a dangerous place and violent crime rate is very low.
Mar 8th, 2006, 03:37 PM
#30
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I'm of Indian background and I went in 2003 for the first time as an adult and though it is incredibly exhausting and annoying at times, I loved it. Most people who have been, loved it. The key is to be extremely open minded, patient and respectful of other customs and cultures. Poverty plays a huge role in India, especially when it comes to certain customs. You can't take offence to that or you will be miserable.
Just use common sense and you will be fine. Don't take jewellery or expensive gadgets with you or they will be stolen.
I'm not sure if you're planning taking a tour or going on your own, but you will be a target...locals can smell a foreigner from a mile a way. My dad was born and raised in India but hasn't lived there in 30 years, when he goes back they always know he's an 'outsider' - and they WILL take advantage but for us that extra few ruppees means nothing, to them it's food for a week.
India is definitely the most challenging place I've travelled to, but one of the most enjoyable ones, so go for it, don't let others' negative comments make you afraid, because you'll never experience things for yourself that way.
Just be prepared that it won't be easy, you will be mentally and physically taxed - do a lot of research but don't be held to a set schedule because it won't happen.
Alternatively, take a tour like Palace on Wheels...I've known a few Indians who have taken the tour and love it.
Just use common sense and you will be fine. Don't take jewellery or expensive gadgets with you or they will be stolen.
I'm not sure if you're planning taking a tour or going on your own, but you will be a target...locals can smell a foreigner from a mile a way. My dad was born and raised in India but hasn't lived there in 30 years, when he goes back they always know he's an 'outsider' - and they WILL take advantage but for us that extra few ruppees means nothing, to them it's food for a week.
India is definitely the most challenging place I've travelled to, but one of the most enjoyable ones, so go for it, don't let others' negative comments make you afraid, because you'll never experience things for yourself that way.
Just be prepared that it won't be easy, you will be mentally and physically taxed - do a lot of research but don't be held to a set schedule because it won't happen.
Alternatively, take a tour like Palace on Wheels...I've known a few Indians who have taken the tour and love it.
Mar 10th, 2006, 06:40 AM
#32
fuzzylogic - 11 weeks end of 2001. I cossed the border from Bhutan and did a big semi-circle that ended in Chennai. I started out using Lonely Planet, but around Bhopal I discovered they'd changed authors for that area & I wasn't in sync with the new one on hotels, so I bought Footprints in Mumbai. I still prefer LP for logistics, but Footprints had better info on the sites. My trip reports are at www.wilhelmswords.com.
Feb 7th, 2007, 01:45 PM
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Been to both north and south india. The moral I have come back with is if going to India, either stay in 5 star hotels or cook your own food!! You're doing the former so should be OK.
Two problems you might encounter: Respiratory infections and GI infections so drink only bottled water, eat only hot foods, shy away from desserts and salads, and wash your hands a lot. Bring an antiobiotic which will work for both and of course, lomotil, etc.
It's a great place-like going to another planet in many ways but you'll love it. I'd say where you're going is about the best place to get your first experience.
Two problems you might encounter: Respiratory infections and GI infections so drink only bottled water, eat only hot foods, shy away from desserts and salads, and wash your hands a lot. Bring an antiobiotic which will work for both and of course, lomotil, etc.
It's a great place-like going to another planet in many ways but you'll love it. I'd say where you're going is about the best place to get your first experience.
Feb 7th, 2007, 02:59 PM
#36
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I just -- as in two days ago - got back from a three and a half week trip that took me throughout the country.
Everything you have read is true -- there is poverty, and begging, absolute mind blowing traffic, pesky touts etc. And yet...everything else you have read is as true as well in terms of India being an experience you will never forget.
I'm not quite sure what to advise in terms of "what you will be getting yourself into" There will never be any "danger" to you. Just some annoyances and irritations.
Will you constantly be approached by people asking you for money? Oh yes. But you need (for your own sanity) to keep a pair of sunglasses firmly plantly on your head and ignore.
Will you be approached - especially at tourist attractions - by quite a number of hawkers? Oh yes. But no more so than when I went to other places like Siem Riep in Cambodia etc. (use your same sun glasses and ignore.
What your eyes will take in though will overwhelm you in terms of the phenomenal sights. (not to mention the sounds.)
I stayed at the Oberoi at the Taj - wonderful! Ask for a room with a balcony facing the Taj. Also check out Faitpur Sakri (as much of a highlight as the Taj)
In Jaipur stayed at wonderful place called Samode Havelli. Take a rickshaw ride during rush hour - incredible. (I would skip the elephant ride up to the fort and have your car take you instead.)
In Rajistan - also went to Jodpur, Jasilmer and Udapur. (Udapur stayed at the Oberoi's Udaivillas - great)
So don't get freaked. This will be an experience of a lifetime.
Joe
I
Everything you have read is true -- there is poverty, and begging, absolute mind blowing traffic, pesky touts etc. And yet...everything else you have read is as true as well in terms of India being an experience you will never forget.
I'm not quite sure what to advise in terms of "what you will be getting yourself into" There will never be any "danger" to you. Just some annoyances and irritations.
Will you constantly be approached by people asking you for money? Oh yes. But you need (for your own sanity) to keep a pair of sunglasses firmly plantly on your head and ignore.
Will you be approached - especially at tourist attractions - by quite a number of hawkers? Oh yes. But no more so than when I went to other places like Siem Riep in Cambodia etc. (use your same sun glasses and ignore.
What your eyes will take in though will overwhelm you in terms of the phenomenal sights. (not to mention the sounds.)
I stayed at the Oberoi at the Taj - wonderful! Ask for a room with a balcony facing the Taj. Also check out Faitpur Sakri (as much of a highlight as the Taj)
In Jaipur stayed at wonderful place called Samode Havelli. Take a rickshaw ride during rush hour - incredible. (I would skip the elephant ride up to the fort and have your car take you instead.)
In Rajistan - also went to Jodpur, Jasilmer and Udapur. (Udapur stayed at the Oberoi's Udaivillas - great)
So don't get freaked. This will be an experience of a lifetime.
Joe
I
Feb 8th, 2007, 11:07 AM
#39
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India is well india everyone should visit India at least once in their lives! Don't be afraid you will see everything from intense poverty to incredible wealth the experience is unbelievable! After travelling through India we now support and raise money for a childrens shelter in Panjim.
Feb 9th, 2007, 06:35 AM
#40
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India can only be described as an "experience" I absolutely and totally adore it (we've been 5 times). It is one of the few countries that all your senses are pushed to the max - however I strongly believe that no matter how fantastic a place is or how wonderful people tell you it will be, if you get sick it will taint your memories. I have NEVER been sick in India, we have travelled by train from one side to the other, we have sat by the side of the Ganges, watching the hypnotic calls of the Brahmin priests in prayer, seen the sunset/sunrise over the Himalayas and traipsed for miles upon miles in filthy dusty markets, walked bare footed in the rat temple and a million other experiences. India gets under your skin, it is like no where else - I REALLY HOPE you have a great time, do everything, see everything and enjoy it - but PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don't touch the tap water, that means don't brush your teeth in it, that means don't put your face in it - including under the shower, no ice in drinks and absolutely no raw salads. I have followed these rules to the letter and in all our trips - both India and very remote parts of Africa - I have never ever been ill. If at all possible, it would be useful if you could try and read up about the history and Hindu religion - there are hundreds of gods but you will get a lot more out of the place if you can understand what it is all about.
Best wishes and have a fantastic trip!
Best wishes and have a fantastic trip!
