India travel
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India Travel FAQ – Are there fake bills on circulation?
Yes, there are. This is something that concerns the locals too. The most problematic bills are the 500 and 1000 INR notes. Here a couple of guides to differentiate the fake notes from real: 9 ways to identify the fake from real Currency security features It is advisable to check the currency you receive after every transaction. Note: Damaged notes are tougher to use for transactions, do not accept torn/mended notes.
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India Travel FAQ – How do I deal with touts in India?
Read this post on dealing with touts in SE Asia. Applies just as well to touts in India.
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India Travel FAQ – Advise on bargaining?
This depends on where you are shopping. In shopping malls, fixed price shops ( these have clearly marked signage either outside or inside the shop) bargaining is a waste of breath, you could try if you want, the worst you will hear is a No or a gentle nod towards the “Fixed Price” sign. That said, bargaining is a normal way of conducting business in night markets, souvenir stalls and even when booking local transport. Mastering the skill of…
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India Travel FAQ – How do I respond to beggars?
Begging is illegal in India and yet during your travels to this culturally rich country, scenes of abject poverty and homeless people are inescapable. Watching a person/families and children beg for spare change is a heart-wrenching thing to witness, and it will always be a difficult and a confusing choice on how to deal with this situation. A good way to start, is to follow the lead of the locals – i.e. ignore the beggars completely and if they get…
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India Travel FAQ – What is an ideal India itinerary?
Asking this question, is like asking for a one fits all global itinerary. Here are 4 key aspects that would help you with planning your itinerary: 1. India is huge Cyclopean huge, Himalayan huge. Everything you plan in this country, should be based around this piece of information. This country is very, very large and hence very, very diverse. 2. Figure out what experiences you are looking forward to most Understanding what you most enjoy doing and what things are…
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India Travel FAQ – Is India safe?
India in the recent past, has gained a reputation of being an unsafe place to travel, especially if you are a lone female traveler. This reputation is not entirely undeserved. Based on the current events that have gained global exposure, the most heinous crime that you would be worried about is sexual assault. In reality though, the most disturbing thing, that you are likely to encounter is random people staring at you. Let me explain. The general population is not…
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India Travel FAQ – How can I avoid the crowds?
You cannot. To think that you can completely bypass the crowds in the worlds second most populous country in the world, would be mere wishful thinking. Based on your itinerary and plans, you could travel and live in pockets of quite, tranquil and nature in this country, but to reach those places you will have to wade through some tight spaces first. Almost everyone comes to India to be blown away with the stark contrast of things, so while you…