ChngLeeYoong
Singapore
ChngLeeYoong
Singapore
Purple Fairy
India
Of course there are tips for a woman. For one, I really don’t think “alone” is a great idea. Do you have someone in India who could be with you? Someone who knows Delhi?
Why I am saying this is because in Delhi for example, the taxis and cab drivers know who is Indian and who is not. I hate to say this about my own country people, but they will charge you extra every time you ride. If money isn’t a big deal for you then, its fine, but still you can insist to go by the meter[which probably they may agree after a while].
Don’t ask for guides at the places you visit, roam by yourself. Google all the information you want about a place and see it for yourself. Trust me don’t take a guide!! I am a girl and I know Delhi for sure. Do carry money with you but have everything safe with you in person. If you stay in a hotel, everytime you leave or go to buy anything, for once ask the hotel management to give you a rough idea of how much the trip may cost or how much that particular thing you want to buy may cost? So that you are not swindled.
One more thing, if you are staying in a good hotel, make sure they arrange tours for tourists, these tours are safe and sometimes economical too.
Do take a cam corder for thats the best way to keep memories. I am not trying to discourage you in any way, but don’t eat off the road stalls and street hawkers. Eat in hotels/restaurants for there are uncountable diseases around.
Oh man, I feel so bad talking like this about my own place, but I don’t want you back with bad memories from a place that is sooo good, but its just few dirty fish that have made the whole pond dirty.
Ask me anything else you want, Wish you a great great and happy journey. India is really a great place…go there, bring back lovely memories…just be cautious, its not the safest place.
Sharmagirl
New York City
Hey there,
Firstly congrats on your decision to visit India alone, that is very brave of you! Delhi is absolutely beautiful, and in comparison to other parts of India, the city is very modern and traveling around is slightly easier. There will also be other tourists in the area.
One thing to be on the lookout for, one thing you can not get away from are the many many hustlers that will come across your way, again, and again. As soon as you come out of the airport you will get harassed by cabs, travel arrangements, and the like.
I hope you have made hotel arrangements somewhat that is well-known and not too local. It is okay to go to the temples and establishments by yourself.
Do not drink the water, do not eat the street food, even though some of it smells absolutely delicious. You will get harassed, especially at night. You have to remember, there aren’t really large supermarkets in India where you can go shopping, you kind of have to know where to go. You may get over charged for items such as at the marketplace if you are trying to shop for clothes or jewelry. If you do know of a guide, there is no problem, there are legitimate agencies you can contact that would hook you up with someone is fine. If you have specific questions feel free to ask.
mayankbangia
Delhi
As for taxis and autos they charge extra even to Indians. :). Best is take a prepaid or a radio taxi. Or insist that the auto charges you by the meter.
Street food- Unless you a have a sensitive tummy, the street food of Delhi is something you cant miss. There are so many unique food items that you can try like parathas, kebabs, indian sweets, samosas, tikkis etc. Just have bottled water whenever you can.
tineetee
Seattle
I stayed at the Taj Hotel while in Delhi and paid for a driver from the hotel to drive me around. The hotel was 5-star and cost about USD 150/night, the driver cost about USD 25.00 for 1 – 2 hours. The car was Air-conditioned and clean. The driver was courteous and safe and took me to the various sites and temples. He did take me to a few shops where he got a tip or kickback if I purchased anything, which is typical of many drivers. Although some tourists get upset over paying higher prices, I think it is worth it to pay the higher prices (for food, drivers, service) for safety.
I was told not to give money to beggars for various reasons, but I could not bear to see the beggars. Try to have your hotel give you small bills and change so that if you do want to give out money. Be warned that even if you think you are being discreet, the other beggars can see and you may attract a crowd. My car was surrounded by beggars and the driver told me that it was unwise to give out money as you can get “swarmed”, this happened to me a few times and it startled me.
I was in Singapore where I felt very safe alone but in Delhi I did not go out at night alone. Be “smart” and don’t go out at night alone, don’t eat “suspiscious” foods, etc. I would recommend reading a Guide Book that has lots of tips/suggestions and then if you want specific advice, let us know.
Good Luck & Safe Travels!
ChngLeeYoong
Singapore
thanks!!
I’m going to stay in backpacker hostels… hopefully I could meet some travellers to travel with.
To be honest, I seriously have no idea how India is!!
I heard a lot of people saying about the love-hate relationship with India!
Thanks a lot!
Cheers,Leeyoong
mayankbangia
Delhi
India is not a dark alley that you are venturing into. Yes, there are areas that are not safe but that is true for any city be it London, New York or even Singapore.
You can travel alone but be in the main city as much as possible. The locals try to fleece any foreigners – boy or girl – so be a smart tourist.
Delhi Police, although very corrupt, has a helpline for women and also for tourists.
So don’t worry and enjoy this great country.
ChngLeeYoong
Singapore
thanks!
I’ve put the plan to India for a year, it’s time to make the dream comes true!