Buzz
Beware of aggressive selling tactics, so when invited to buy something, don't be overly polite, as sellers will persistently follow you until the last minute.
Essential Tips for Traveling to India
Below are the essential information about dressing, food, and body language when traveling to India.
Food and Beverages
For first-time travelers to India, you should be cautious about digestive issues. However, don't miss out on tempting street foods like peeled fruits and well-cooked dishes. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice.
Shopping Etiquette
India is a shopping haven with countless handcrafted items, gemstones, and jewelry. However, foreign tourists often face inflated prices, so knowing how to bargain is essential. Start with a low price, gradually increase, and walk away if it doesn't seem reasonable. You may be invited back with a better offer.
Carrying cash is crucial as prices may be rounded up, and the advantage always goes to you. Moreover, if you're not planning to buy from street vendors, be decisive as the practice of luring customers is widespread here. Simply showing interest in their goods will result in persistent vendors following you until your car is fully closed and speeding away, no matter how long it takes.
Dressing Appropriately
The weather in India is hot and humid, but that doesn't mean you can dress too scantily. Knee-length pants, tops covering your shoulders and arms show respect for Indian culture. Long clothes and scarves also help you combat the scorching sun here.
Additionally, visitors must remove their shoes before entering temples or sacred places. However, wearing socks is advisable as the scorching ground under the blazing sun can cause blistering on your feet.
Body Language
Unlike in the West, a friendly smile, a glance, or a simple remark can be misconstrued as flirtatious in Indian culture. Women should avoid conversing with unfamiliar men. If you feel stared at or uncomfortable, find a way to move away and seek refuge in crowded areas.
It's safer to travel in large groups rather than alone or in pairs to ensure safety. Many Western female tourists who travel in pairs or small groups have fallen victim to accidents here.
Scams and Frauds
If someone approaches you and suggests taking you to the 'official government tourism office' to book tickets, hotels, or exchange currency, be wary of scams. Many travelers have reported paying for a full package tour only to find out that the agency doesn't even exist and end up losing their money.
Confidence and Assertiveness over Politeness
This is crucial as being too polite is seen as a sign of weakness in India. In case you're harassed, don't hesitate to shout for help. Also, show disinterest in greetings and avoid focusing too much on any particular target.
Additional Information
Travelers from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Indira Gandhi International Airport (New Delhi, India) can opt for Malaysia Airlines with a layover in Kuala Lumpur. The layover time is approximately 2 hours.
The visa fee for India has increased from 30 to 103 USD starting from April 1, 2017.
According to Minh An/Vnexpress
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour
MytourApril 20, 2017
