A YOGI'S WAY
India Travel, Frequently Asked Questions
Is India as beautiful as everyone says it is? Yes.
Is there a travel book that you recommend?
Lonely Planet India. Most, if not all, of the questions one may have about India can be found in this wonderful book - it has served my own time and travel in India well.
What are the Passport and Visa requirements for travel in India?
To travel in India you need both a valid passport and a visa. Tourist visas range anywhere from six months to ten years - the ten year option isn't that much more expensive, so if you suspect you may make a return trip within the decade, then why not take the plunge? INDIA VISA
Could you explain the process of purchasing Airline Tickets to India?
What I have done in the past is to search for flights via the discount ticket websites; sites like Expedia, Orbitz, CheapTickets, etc. For myself price is usually the most important factor, and as long as the airline is one I recognize, then I usually take the most affordable ticket. That said, most of my trips to India have departed from the United States' West Coast, and have been trips for more than a month in length - so two things: 1) In flying west, I've usually flown either China or Korean Air, 2) I've only flown into Delhi, Chennai, or Bombay and then traveled to more remote locations via land; although I do know that within India there are many smaller airports that are serviced by airlines like Air India and small yet reliable regional airlines.
Is it safe to travel alone, especially as a female traveler?
All foreigners in India receive a lot of attention, most is done respectfully within the context of India's cultural standards, but there will always be the exception. Fair-skinned women can especially expect a lot of attention, most of it curious, gracious, and kind; truly, this is the case for anyone, male or female, in any foreign country. Indians however are intensely curious about the west and western culture, and they will look, approach, and inquire as to your life and lifestyle. As a rule of thumb, trust your instincts, and just like in your own home town, minimize any tendency to walk totally alone, especially at night and in dark places.
What gear should I bring for travel in India?
This is such a broad question for several reasons - things like what part of India will be visited (mountains, plains, beaches), what time of year (winter, summer, monsoon), and also the endless variations of individual personal preference, and thus what ultimately feels comfortable and/or appropriate for someone. I must also reveal here that I am a dedicated minimalist, so the list I include below is 'bare bones', a much refined list from my many trips to India and elsewhere.
Here's my 'essential' travel list:
- backpack
- footwear: sandals are usually sufficient
- light pants, shorts, swimsuit
- t-shirts, sweater, light jacket
- timepiece & camera
- tickets, passport, visa
- cash & credit
- tolietries
- guidebook & journal
I know it's not much, but if you're at all concerned that you wont have what you need, keep in mind that pretty much everything is available in India - although you're going somewhere incredibly different and exotic, it's not like going to the moon (although at times it will certainly feel like that). You may not be able to find exactly what you are used to using (ie. same brand, identical product, etc), but if you are a bit flexible, it will be easy enough to make due. And the less you bring, the less you'll need to carry. Lastly, I like to start with my bag a bit empty, as then there will be some extra space for any treasures I may want to bring home.
Will I meet other travelers?
Yes, most definitely. If you've ever traveled across Europe or South America, you know that there is a 'backpack culture' of visitors that makes meeting new people seamless and easy. India is no exception - if you travel onward after the retreat, you are sure to engage a culture of seekers and roamers, some with direct and clear intention/purpose and some just plain drifting as the wind wishes.
What is the best way to get around once I am in India?
This depends upon the distance you are traveling. For the most part, taking the train longer range distances is your best option; and truly, the train in India is the source of some of my most fond memories - there is something about being on the rails in such an exquisite land. Buses are also sometimes a good option: for comfort choose an 'air-con', for shorter trips any old bus will do. One of the nice things in India is that public transportation is so very affordable, and everyone uses it. Take taxis, rickshaws, camels, elephants, take them all, they all will be a wonderful experience in engaging the culture's people and means.
I do not speak any Indian languages, will I be able to communicate?
Hindi is India's national language, and I believe there are fourteen regional languages spoken along with countless variations and dialects. That said, because of the long-term British occupation of India, English is widely spoken and can be used just about everywhere. The only common exception to this is in very rural areas; in these areas a nice big smile will serve to communicate all that you need to share, and from there you'll be able to work out any specifics that may need attention.
How does money work?
The world of travel has been revolutionized by the Credit Card and ATM machine. I can remember traveling with my parents in the '70's and '80's, and perhaps the biggest concern was travelers cheques, their amount, their security, etc. Now money is seldom an issue, as ATM's are nearly everywhere. Two things to consider: 1) Bring more than one credit/debit card in case you lose one, 2) If you know you're going to a region that is somewhat remote, be sure to 'stock up' on some cash just in case there is not an ATM waiting. Lastly, pay with credit when you can; save your cash for local vendors and businesses.
I have a special diet, how am I to address this?
Most of India is vegetarian, or as least pescatarian (fish being the only animal class eaten). Vegetarian in Hindi is pronounced 'shakahari'. For other more specific dietary needs, please consult Lonely Planet India.
What if I get sick, how are India's Health Services?
India's health services are quite good, considering that India in many sectors is considered a third-world country. Doctors are plenty, and any needed medication is readily available. In fact, it has been my experience that without the sheer mass of bureaucratic red tape that we have grown accustomed to in western society, that the speed and affordability with which the Indian medical system functions is sometimes remarkable.
Do I need to get vaccinations to travel in India?
Vaccinations are not required. That said, you may want to investigate your own unique comfort zone and what your options may be. I recommend using Lonely Planet India as your starting point in this area.
What do I need to know about India's Climate?
Depending on when you go and where you go, India's climate can range greatly; I personally have shivered at night in Delhi (which isn't that far north) in January, and I have also been in nearly 120 degrees Fahrenheit in June in the deserts of Rajasthan. The coolest months tend to be November through February. Again, Lonely Planet India does a nice job of breaking down climate by season and region.
Why is this retreat only one week long, seems like a long way to travel?
I have kept the retreat to a week in length exactly because it is along way to travel. I had hoped by keeping the retreat modest in length that it might make possible the chance for people to explore a bit on their own should they desire to do so. With a retreat length of one week, someone might take two weeks total and spend the second week traveling about visiting India's many fascinating possibilities.
Student Testimonial:
"I read and was told that India is a place of contradictions, yet you can never understand the enormity of that statement until you experience India. You don't visit India, you experience it. Being on the retreat was in this same spirit, an experience that you have to have on your own, and I recommend it." Read Entire Testimonial
For further discussion of travel in India, visit Jonathan's Blog:
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