What an Australian needs to know before visiting India
Are you from Australia and planning to visit India? Read this article to learn what Australian citizens need to know before visiting India.
India is definitely not your typical tourist hotspot, and even though there are countless adventures and unforgettable experiences to be had here, you should prepare both physically, spiritually, and emotionally for the unique journey you're about to embark on.
Serene and chaotic, bewildering, yet strangely familiar, India is a historic country that somehow manages to preserve its cultural heritage while promoting constant progress, innovation, and driving digital nomads, business leaders, as well as leisure travelers into its generous embrace. An eager Aussie traveler might find this journey to be difficult and overwhelming at first, so here are the top five things you should know before visiting India.
Familiarize yourself with the local customs
First things first, it's important to note that the Indian way of life, both traditional and modern, is unique and constitutes plenty of customs and a somewhat strict local etiquette you want to adhere to at all times. While the Aussie culture is profoundly carefree and laid-back, typically unencumbered by spoken and unspoken rules, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when traversing the Indian landscape and urban wonders.
Firstly, you might feel tempted to wear revealing clothes in the dry summer heat, but you need to make sure you cover up properly, especially when visiting sites of religious importance, and don't forget to take your shoes off before you enter. Read more what dress to wear when you visit India.
Secondly, while public displays of affection are not officially frowned upon in modern India, it's best to refrain from giving your significant other a smooch when outside.
Seniors are highly respected in India, so be sure to express your deference by bending down in front of an elder, especially upon entering a home. Before entering, though, don't forget to take off your shoes. Never pass on anything to people in India with your left hand, as the left hand is customarily used for cleaning oneself.
Prepare yourself for a hectic lifestyle
No matter if you're travelling for work, pleasure, or a bit of both, you might find it difficult to get accustomed to the never-ending hustle and bustle of the overcrowded city streets. Tuning out the noise is very difficult here, but the thing foreigners have the hardest time to get used to is actually the complete and unapologetic lack of personal space.
Don't be surprised when you find it impossible to dodge people in the street, or when the zealous merchants and shop owners literally start pulling you towards their displays, eager for a good old haggling session. In this hectic environment, you might feel a bit uncomfortable, but just keep in mind that this is completely normal, so you might as well welcome it all with a hearty smile.Pack your essential gadgets
If there is anything a traveling Aussie should prepare for, it's for the unusual electric systems, voltages, and power sockets that, without a proper adapter, will render all of your gadgets useless. To avoid this problem, you can get an earthed adapter and other handy gadgets at Go Travel so that you can use your Australian 10-amp plugs wherever you go. Remember to always bring a spare of everything, including a backup charger, adapter, and even smartphone, as you don't want to be left stranded in the middle of Mumbai, or god forbid, the countryside, without your essential tech.
Staying healthy and safe on the road
First and foremost, India is not a place you want to go without adequate travel insurance! Don't mess around, this is a serious issue, as no matter how welcoming and gorgeous the place might be, there are plenty of prevailing problems regarding public health that could put your life in jeopardy. It's also imperative that you get vaccinated for Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Typhoid, as well as Malaria before you set sail.
Municipal water is not safe for drinking if you're a tourist who is not accustomed to the unique biome that resides in local water sources. So don't risk it and either stick to bottled water or bring a portable purifier. You also want to avoid street food if you're visiting for the first time, as it's usually not worth the subsequent belly ache – simply stick to restaurants offering traditional culinary delights.Taking the concept of safety a step further
As in any thriving urban environment teeming with life and excitement at every corner, there is an imperative to take your personal safety seriously and prepare yourself for every scenario. While the majority of tourist hotspots are completely safe, you always want to stay vigilant and mind your surroundings, paying close attention to your shoulder bag and making sure you have a firm grip around it. Read some safety tips for women travelling alone to India.
If you do encounter any unpleasant scenarios, make sure to keep calm and seek out a police officer. Remember not to stray too far from your travel group if you're unfamiliar with the neighbourhood, and always keep in mind the proper codes of conduct so as not to offend locals. Follow these simple steps, consult with your travel guide, and you will have no problem having a great, stress-free time.
Learn to embrace the diversity that surrounds you.
Finally, you need to accept that things are going to get pretty hectic, pretty fast, and that the best way to enjoy your travels is to embrace it all with a smile on your face and a solid plan. There is too much to see and do in this expansive country, and between the numerous urban and natural wonders, you will find it difficult to experience everything in one go. So, make sure that you have a detailed itinerary with yourself, that will allow you to experience the most noteworthy natural and urban sights. However, be prepared for the sudden realization that this one trip will not be enough to satisfy your thirst for breathtaking India.
India is truly a magical place every mindful traveller and digital nomad should visit at least once in their lifetime. Apart from being an exciting place to live, India is deeply spiritual and cultural, which means that you are bound to come back from your travels a happier, enlightened earthling.
If you have any questions regarding travelling to India, feel free to ask in our travel forum.
NICE! Really everyone should know these kinds of the tips before starting any trip. These kinds of tips not only for Australians it's also for all kind of people who have the hobby to explore the world.