India: This country will make you listen!

India can be an intense culture shock even for the seasoned world traveler. The best advice one can give is to do your homework before going. Be open-minded and leave your “American expectations” at home.

What do I mean by American expectations? The level of poverty and over crowded cities may be daunting, but if you can find a way look past these things, India is a country that offers so much spiritual and cultural wealth.

Also, keep in mind that you most likely will not be able to visit all of India’s iconic landmarks, but I’ve listed below a few highlights.

Do:

Taj Mahal (Agra) – Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World. If it works with your schedule catch the sunrise and then spend the afternoon at Fatehpur Sikri.
Jama Masjid (Delhi) – The largest and most well-known mosque in India.
Holi Festival – Also known as the festival of colors, Holi is a Hindu festival held in March to celebrate the victory of good over evil by throwing colorful powders on each other.
Humayun’s Tomb (Delhi) – Built in 1570, this is the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun and is the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent.
Chand Baori (Rajasthan) – A stepwell consisting of 3,500 perfectly symmetrical narrow steps descending 13 stories into the bottom of a well. This is one of the oldest and most popular attractions in Rajasthan.

Traveling Within The Country:

Whatever your plans, make sure you arrange your car and driver in advance.
Download the OLA Cabs and Uber apps
For a local experience take the train or an auto rickshaw, but make sure to request that the rickshaw driver uses the meter. If the driver refuses, find another that will use the meter.
Investigate flights within the country, as there are cheap options.

Cultural Tips:

Cover your arms and legs and take off your shoes before entering sacred spaces.
Street vendors can be very aggressive. Be firm if you are not interested, but do your best to be respectful.
Don’t settle on the price given when shopping, as everything is negotiable.
Widespread poverty is evident between Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra and a lot of people beg for money from tourists. Use your discretion and be mindful of the fact that some may only beg as a hustle (kids and adults).
Eating or passing things with your left hand is deemed disrespectful.