planning a trip to India? read this first!

1. Dress Respectfully, but Comfortably

India is diverse in culture and traditions, and modest dressing is generally advised, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Loose trousers, midi or maxi dresses, tunics with leggings, and scarves work well. A lightweight shawl is incredibly useful for covering up when needed. There's a time and place to wear shorts and shorter dresses and skirts, but it's important to read the occasion.

2. Choose Accommodation Wisely

Opt for reputable hotels, heritage stays, or trusted homestays with good reviews. Larger hotel chains and boutique properties often offer better security and comfort for female travellers. As a midlifer, I don't want to be backpacking and staying in dodgy budget hotels.

3. Be Mindful of Personal Space

Indian culture can be warm and welcoming, but personal space may feel different from Western norms. Be confident in setting boundaries, and if needed, a polite but firm “no” goes a long way. You might be badgered for photos by families who favour fair skin or hair, and at times you can feel like a celebrity or that you are being mobbed. Again, set boundaries.

4. Use Ride-Share Apps Over Street Taxis

Uber and Ola (India’s version of Uber) are safer than hailing a cab from the street. Always check the driver's details and share your ride with a friend or family member via the app.

5. Carry Small Cash & Use Digital Payments Where Possible

India is becoming increasingly digital, but smaller shops and markets still rely on cash. Keep small denominations handy for tipping, local transport, and street vendors. Mobile wallets like Paytm or Google Pay can be useful, too.

6. Pack Smart with Essentials

A few must-haves:

• A reusable water bottle with a filter (to avoid buying plastic bottles)
• Hand sanitiser and tissues (public restrooms may lack these)
• A portable phone charger (power cuts can happen)
• Sunglasses, SPF, and a hat (the sun can be relentless!)

7. Be Selective About Street Food

India’s street food is tempting and delicious, but go where there's a high turnover of food, usually where the locals eat. Choose freshly cooked items, and avoid raw salads or ice cubes unless you're sure they're from purified water. We usually avoid buffet-style hotel lunches and dinners where the food is sitting around and constantly heated.

8. Know the Local Transport Options

Rickshaws, metros, and trains are great for getting around, but it's best to research the safest modes of transport in each city. Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore have metro systems with designated women’s compartments for extra comfort. Last time I was on one in Delhi, a group of women, quite rightly, defiantly told a male passenger to remove himself from an all-female carriage.

9. Trust Your Instincts and Be Aware

Like anywhere in the world, trust your gut. If a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. Confidence and awareness are key.

10. Learn a Few Key Phrases

While English is widely spoken, knowing basic Hindi or the local language helps. A few useful phrases and apps can help you get by:

• "Dhanyavad" (Thank you)
• "Kitne ka hai?" (How much is this?)
• "Mujhe yahan utarna hai" (I want to get down here – useful in taxis/rickshaws)

11. Be Cautious with Drinking Water

Only drink bottled, filtered, or boiled water. Avoid tap water, even in hotels, and use bottled water for brushing your teeth in less-developed areas. And make sure that you see the water seal of a bottle being broken in front of you. I remember going to a luxury hotel and the waiter made a real song and dance of opening a plastic bottle of water when actually it was already open and may just have been refilled with tap water.

12. Stay Connected with a Local SIM or eSIM

Buying a local SIM card with data (Airtel or Jio are good options) helps with navigation, ride apps, and staying in touch. International roaming can be expensive, so plan. You can usually buy a SIM card at the airport.

13. Visit During the Right Season

India’s climate varies, so the best time to visit depends on the region. Generally, October to March is ideal for most places, while hill stations like Himachal Pradesh and Kerala’s monsoon backwaters are best in the summer.

14. Respect Local Customs

Whether removing shoes before entering a home or temple, avoiding public displays of affection, and be mindful about greeting people with a "Namaste," only do so, if they do it first. Embracing local etiquette enhances your experience and shows cultural appreciation.

15. Embrace the Chaos, But Find Moments of Calm

India can be overwhelming with its vibrant energy, honking horns, and crowded streets. Take moments to pause—whether it’s sipping chai in a quiet courtyard, watching the sunset over the Ganges, meditating in a temple courtyard, or finding a quiet spot in a park. I love the Lodhi Gardens in Delhi or popping into a fancy hotel for a cheeky drink.