What To Pack For The Mother of All Journey’s, India
The climate is hot, the air is sticky and heavy with pollution and the population is dense…very dense. All this can be summed up after stepping out of any international arrivals terminal, when you are greeted by a sea of dark curious faces that are just as shocked as you are.
So what can you do to ease the blow of shock?
Well, here are a few steps that I wish I had known before arriving blind.
- No matter how tired, bothered, or hungry, stay calm and patient because however beautiful and magical India may be, it can try the patients of everyone at any given moment.
- Don’t give money to beggars; if you want to give back to those in need give your time or if possible, give to local organizations working to improve the lives of the impoverished.
- Bring a guide book (Lonely Planet is a great one) because you are your best and most honest guide and to be self-informed is key in India.
- Finally, choose your clothing wisely, especially as a woman. This doesn’t mean that you need to dress like a local, but be aware of showing skin in inappropriate ways. Negative attention is just that…negative.
Copyright 2009, Jennifer Campos, All Rights Reserved
