CULTUREINDIA is an extremely diverse country. Every region or state has its
own language, cuisine, weather conditions and customs. By American standards, INDIA is still a conservative country. Women
are encouraged to dress conservatively and to not go out alone. There is a huge abundance of experiences to be enjoyed throughout INDIA. Whether it is the ancient temples, natural
wildlife, beautiful colors of the markets, phenomenal cuisine, magical music scene, affordable medical services, holistic
homeopathy, the Bollywood Film Industry, or spiritual awakenings, INDIA offers it all. The heart of INDIA is in its people: the
handicrafts, textiles, fabrics, instruments, and services are all heart-felt. You can feel positive about contributing to the livelihood
of many people who are eager to show you their homeland. WEATHER The weather and climate can vary from North India to South India. It
is the most comfortable during the fall, winter and spring season. May through July is extremely hot and rainy, depending on monsoon season. Please check www.weather.com to research Delhi or Jaipur's conditions before arriving. CUSTOMS
Like any foreign country you might visit, it is important to try your
best to follow along any customs that may be present while traveling. Most Indians speak English, but I have found that
the foreigners who attempt to speak even a little Hindi win over the hearts of the people. I have learned Hindi through the Rosetta Stone language series which is excellent. (www.
RosettaStone.com ) Women dress conservatively here and so wearing longer skirts, longer sleeved T-shirts or dresses is recommended to avoid any issues. Most Indians eat
using their right hand versus both as the left one is considered unsanitary. You should avoid using profane language in
public or displaying rude behavior in public. It is important to be patient in INDIA as this is still a country in development
in certain areas. You may be used to fast internet service in your home country and it may require patience when checking your email in INDIA.
Affordable India is looking to offer a 2 hour WELCOME workshop BEFORE your trip departure to help you go over the
details of the trip, What's Expected and Customs to help ensure all questions can be answered directly. Please be
sure to email your interest in that workshop before you depart the country. FOOD
The varied cuisine in INDIA is an experience unto itself. There is a certain adjustment period to be expected as you
adjust to the differences in spices, fruits and vegetables and types of food. Drinking bottled water throughout your entire
stay is a must. It is not recommended to ever eat something off of the street or local markets. We will always provide
top notch five star restaurants to ensure quality and variety. If you buy food or drinks to keep in your hotel room, you do
it at your own risk. Every person's body will handle these changes differently. It is recommended that you carry a small
bag of medicines with you geared towards treating upset stomach, fever or general malaise. Overall though, you will
find yourself amazed by the sheer diversity and deliciousness of the meals and drinks presented throughout your stay. DRESS ATTIRE
This is a country of bright colors! Both men and women are not afraid to dress colorfully and you will have no problem
getting custom made clothes if you should desire to pack a light bag. Women are encouraged to dress conservatively.
Wearing comfortable shoes is certainly necessary. If you need to buy additional shoes there, this is easy to do.
Please try to bring a hip bag for your important documents, ids, money or camera. Bring American batteries with you
as the batteries sold to foreigners from INDIA are not as long lasting. Keep expensive jewelry at home or use common
sense when bringing expensive items overseas. Bringing a good hat, sunscreen that contains DEET, and a backpack
are quite helpful. Sunglasses are nice to keep the bright sun out of your eyes. INDIA does not dress up in fancy cocktail dresses and so this is the time to simply be comfortable.
EXPECTATIONS INDIA is a beautiful country with rich experiences to offer, but it is still developing and there is a vast difference between
the classes, and the city life versus the village life. You may be accustomed to a faster pace of life and thus you may
need to readjust your standards to accommodate the slower pace of life. Women and men are often seen separately
throughout INDIA. Public displays of affection are rare here. You will see examples of poverty here; rather than give
money out to beggars, it is better to buy some food and hand this out instead. Some places will not have clean
sanitary toilets. It is recommended that you bring toilet paper or anti bacteria wipes with you. You may find yourself
approached from shopkeepers who desire your business. Indian people are very loving, warm, service-oriented and
helpful. Exercise caution though at all times. Do not leave with anyone separate from our tour group even if they pretend to know you or our group.
DO I NEED A PASSPORT AND TRAVEL VISAS? Yes you do need a valid passport and VISA to enter INDIA. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior
to the departure of your trip. Important: visas can take up to six weeks to obtain and a fee is normally charged. Failure
to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of your trip and will result in considerable expense and
inconvenience. Please visit the India Consulate's web site to obtain a visa at:
http://www.indiacgny.org/php/showContent.php?linkid=165DO I HAVE A BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE OR CUSTOMS RULES?
Affordable India recommends following the India Consultate's web site regarding the latest rules and regulations. The link is:
http://www.indiacgny.org/php/showContent.php?linkid=358
WHAT VACCINATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED FOR INDIA? Tetanus and Polio. Food and waterborne diseases are more common, so Typhoid and Hepatitis A are strongly
recommended. A Malarial risk exists in India, so anti-Malarial medication is strongly advised. Drink bottled waters only,
pack some anti-diarrhea medication, and mosquito repellent and sunscreen containing DEET for maximum protection. Nomad Travel Clinics
are dedicated to providing travelers with medical supplies, travel health information and
vaccines. You can call Nomad's Travel Health line on 09068 633414 (Costs call 60p per minute) or alternatively visit one of their clinics, visit their website for more information at:
www.nomadtravel.co.uk
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