My new challenge...

villavic

So,
I'm planning to go to India. Delhi, Agra and some Rajasthan places.

I have read several threads, I think I know where I'm going, though actually you never know..

But I can realize India may be a shock, a mess, the touts, etc. Anyway I'm still excited.

I was in Cairo 7 years ago, it was a shock since it wasn't what I expected. Besides the temples, pyramids and museum, I didn't like the city. I hated when everybody tried to get money from me, when I took a taxi, when I tried to buy something... I got exhausted. They asked for tips even if the service was bad. They asked me to buy more and more, I'm not good in bargaining, I wanted to buy calm but I got harassed from all sellers!

The funny thing is that i've been (and I live) in several countries that are similar,. Mess, traffic jam, people fighting,. thieves, touts, etc. But being in a completely different country and continent, with different people, and alone, where you can't even read that handwriting, so walking alone by yourself maybe difficult.. I wasn't prepared for that. I didn't enjoy my stay at Cairo.

I'm still excited about going to India anyway, I love mystic places, architecture, art, landscapes, nature, and I think India has all of that.

I guess pacience will be my best weapon, something I easly loose. Well, suggestions are welcome

wonderwomanusa

India is going to be a great challenge for you. I think it's probably more like Cairo (especially Delhi and Agra) than you'll want to experience.

You might consider a couple of things to make it a little easier on you:

1) Pre-book an airport pickup and hotel, so you don't have to hassle at the airport or with taxi drivers. I used Namaste India Tours; they are members of this forum and were very helpful... and their prices are on their website.

2) After a day or two of rest in Delhi, go up to the mountains (for a few days or a week) before visiting Agra and parts of Rajasthan. The mountain people are pretty nice, and it makes for an easier way to ease some of your culture shock.

You could go to Shimla (direct by train), or to Kulu/Manali (train and then a bus) or any number of other hill stations.

SHIMLA

Be flexible and prepared to adapt yourself to the ways of India.

India will not change its ways for you !

__________________
Whoever said money can't buy happiness didn't know where to shop !