India is a beautiful country and a must see. Here’s a little introduction to some travel tips that you should know ahead of time!

Varanasi and Rishikesh. These cities show what India is all about. They are incredibly overwhelming and stimulating.

People should bring American snacks or extra money to buy them. Unless you absolutely loooove indian food, i guarantee you will get sick of it fast.

Bring lots of shirts (especially if you are going there in the summer). It is extremely hot and your clothes get soiled FAST!

Do not go near tap water. Only drink bottled water, bottled sodas and tea (the water is boiled).

Bartering can be extremely difficult (especially if you are a woman). Whatever initial price they state, it is usually worth half to less than half of that. Be very firm and don’t be afraid to tell some white lies (i.e.-i saw that at in this city for 500 rupees less than your price) because they are telling you some too.

Definitely research where you want to go and what you want to see beforehand. Saves time when you are there.

If you are staying in cities on the Ganges River, make sure you see either their daily morning and/or evening Arti ceremony, where they show thanks to the Mother Ganges and give their respect to their deceased ancestors. It is a beautiful ceremony that captures the importance of music and religion within the culture

Try to walk around in all the cities that you visit. You will experience so much more this way.

CrossCulturalJourneys.com is an excellent resource if you need any information about this country or would like to set up a trip.

Resources: Darcey Osbourn