Culture Shock in India?
Wednesday, May 24th, 2006Everybody who travels to India, especially from the West, should expect to suffer through Culture Shock. With a Capital C.
First of all, there is the big East side of the world versus the West side of the world cultural divide. Then, even within the Asian region, India is an apple among oranges. You will never be adequately prepared to deal with the diverse region. Whatever “tips” you might have read may be applicable when visiting the Taj Mahal, but not when you are in the Rajesthan desert on a caravan or boating Keral backwaters or hiking the Himalayan mountains or visiting the temples in the south. But I do recommend some “Don’ts” and some “Do’s”. Ready ? Okay, here we go :
1. Advice one – never visit India on a shoe string budget. You will be miserable through out the trip. Comfort comes relatively expensive. If you travel on a lean budget, then you will have to lead a lean life. And a lean life in India is way leaner than than most places else. You will not be able to deal with it. Very few can – Commandos can 🙂 . I most definitely can’t.
2. Advise two – [read on]
Rupa