India Travel Tips and Advice

1. For a vacation in India what is the best time of year to travel?

If you want to travel to India it is worth remembering that India is a very hot country, particularly southern India. The weather is coolest from November to early-March, when mornings and evenings are fresh and dry, and there is a lot of sunshine.

2. What to do with the beggars and street children?

Ignore them completely if you can, if not give them a stern look. If you really want to give them something, then 1 or 2 rupees is more than enough.

3. What sort of clothes should I wear when I travel to India?

Don't expose too much flesh, except on beaches. Despite the Kama Sutra don't be fooled, India is a convervative country. People in Bollywood films don't even kiss. Trousers, skirts, tops and shirts are fine. Women might like to try a salwar kameez which is very cool.

4. Should I tip waiters ?

In restaurants and hotels for tourists a 10% service charge will probably be added to your bill, so there is no need to tip. In smaller establishments tipping is optional, and a few rupees should suffice, not a fixed percentage of the bill. Tipping waiters, guides, porters and drivers is customary.

5. How safe is the water in India?

Drink bottled water. Avoid drinking water or juices from roadside stalls and vendors.

6. How safe is non-vegetarian food in India?

Indians are primarily Hindus so beef is rarely served. You are more likely to see a cow loitering outside the restaurant than on your plate. Pork is also not eaten much. Only eat non-vegetarian food in high quality restaurants.

7. Are there bars, pubs and discotheques in India?

Yes. Though only in metro cities and large towns. Mumbai and Bangalore has several cocktail lounges and coffee bars.

See video of tourist destinations for a vacation in India
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