India Survival Guide: 7 Hard-Earned Survival Tips and Life Lessons

Incredible India is a fascinating place to travel to. After experiencing it, you might feel pleased, humbled, confounded, stunned, and absolutely drained. The idea of exploring this vast subcontinent can be unsettling for visitors. However, as long as you are prepared and have a basic understanding of the local culture, there is no need for concern when visiting this dynamic nation. So, without further ado, here is our India survival guide: 7 hard-earned survival tips and life lessons on how to fully see this wonderful nation without passing out. Additionally, make sure to visit Airfarebooking to book cheap tickets from Canada to India.

1. The Key to Avoid Stomach Issues 

Whether you refer to it as “travelers’ diarrhea” or, in this case, “Delhi Belly,” one thing is for certain: as foreigners traveling abroad, especially to underdeveloped countries, you run the risk of suffering the kinds of gastrointestinal issues that could be a genuine bummer.

So, how can Delhi Belly be prevented in India? The secret is oregano oil! To cure digestive problems including bloating and heartburn, people use oil of oregano. Oregano oil possesses antiviral, antifungal, and possibly antiparasitic properties, according to one study. Take a few drops before and/or after each meal to reap the benefits. Oregano oil tastes terrible, but it will save you from a lot of pain, so beware.

2. Drink Clean Water 

Ingesting tap water is one definite method to have a terrible stomach ache in India. Travelers whose stomachs can’t handle the contaminants or parasites swimming about in the water source should avoid it.

Throughout your entire journey, only consume bottled water; reputable brands to consider are Aquafina and Bisleri. Despite the inconvenience, you might want to brush your teeth with bottled water as well. Always check the seal to make sure you aren’t purchasing a water bottle that has already been used.

3. Emergency Numbers 

Dial “100” in India to contact the neighborhood police, “102” to get an ambulance, and “101” to report a fire. In some cities, “108” is used as a universal emergency number. Visit this Wikipedia page for the complete list of emergency numbers to phone around the world. Just be aware that in some cities, the streets can be so congested that depending on an ambulance to get through the traffic can be challenging.

4. Accept the Chaotic Driving 

You may be surprised at first, but trust me, you’ll get used to it. Embrace it. Go with the flow. Additionally, keep your eyes open at all times. Take it all in as much as you can. As you are driven through Delhi’s hectic streets, you will be astounded by everything you see because there is so lot to take in. Your eyes will sparkle as you watch India’s bustling urban life, from rickshaw drivers skillfully dodging traffic to people cramming onto motorcycles. Additionally, visit Airfarebooking to book Vancouver to Amritsar direct flights. 

5. Dress Appropriately and Avoid PDA

Men, you don’t have to worry about this as much. But women should be a little more mindful of the dress rules. Given that certain locales are significantly more conservative than others, how can you know what to wear there? In general, stay away from wearing shorts, miniskirts, and anything with a lot of cleavage. Even if you enjoy the attention, that kind of attention can be offensive in India, where you don’t want it. If you’re not sure, make sure you have a scarf on you. If you realize that more people are staring than usual, wrap the scarf around yourself to block their gaze. Always wear modest clothing when visiting places of worship.

Speaking of modesty, if you’re going to India with your partner, try to avoid making out with them in public. Don’t even give hugs or hold hands. You might witness Indian guys walking hand in hand down the streets, though not in a romantic manner. This is a friendly gesture.

6. Traditional Indian Toilets

If this is your first time using a public restroom in India, you could suffer a little culture shock. Don’t let what you see scare you! It simply isn’t the same as what you might be used to, but it is entirely possible.  If all you see is a hole in the ground, what do you do? You crouch down and conduct yourself.

This is where the right-hand rule comes into play when you’re done. Water down your privates by using the hose that is provided. If there isn’t a hose, there might only be a bucket and a spigot. After filling the bucket with water from the spout, use your right hand to pour water over your body parts. Utilize the water and your left hand to wash away any last bits of dirt. Go about and let yourself dry naturally after that.

7. Carry Soap and Tissue

There are Western toilets available for you to use in some places, but it’s probable that there won’t be any toilet paper, so packing some will be helpful. Just take disposal into consideration.  If there is a garbage can nearby, put your used tissues in it to prevent blocking the pipes.

You should also bring soap and hand sanitizer. You can either put a little bar of soap or some liquid soap in a Ziploc bag for travel. If you want to enjoy your trip and stay healthy, you must do your part to keep your hands clean and sterile.

Hence, these are all the survival tips that you need to know before visiting India. Additionally, if you are seeking last minute international flights from Canada to India, you can check out Airfarebooking, the best online travel website to find the cheapest flights to India. 

Also read: Tips one Must Know Before Traveling to India from Canada