NOTE RE TRAVEL IN INDIA
India is a feast for the senses and sometimes an assault on them too. The overwhelming impression everywhere is people - lots of them!! - and this can feel a little intimidating at first. But nearly everyone is very respectful and if you are firm but polite you will be left alone. This does not mean that you will not be approached by street sellers, beggars, snake charmers and others but be assured that you have nothing to fear. Throughout the tour you will have a guide with you who will ease your passage through the crowds and to advise you on how to conduct yourself but do not be afraid to venture out individually - part of the magic India is its amazing people and it is a vey safe country in general.
CURRENCY: Rupee (INR; symbol Rs) = 100 paise. Notes are in denominations of Rs1,000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of Rs5, 2 and 1, and 50, 25, 20, 10 and 5 paise.
EXCHANGE: Currency can be changed at banks, airports or authorised money changers. It is illegal to exchange money through unauthorised money changers. US Dollars and Pounds Sterling are the easiest currencies to exchange. It is much quicker to change travellers cheques in hotels rather than banks (which can be very time consuming). ATM machines are not widespread and non-existant in rural areas.
CREDIT CARDS: Credit cards are usually accepted in most hotels and larger outlets.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS: The import and export of local currency is prohibited.
PASSPORTS: Required by all. Passport must be valid for at least six months for a single or double entry within six months of the date of visa issue. You should also be in possessions of a valid visa prior to entry into India. Note: Whilst in the country, visitors should carry ID at all times. Rather than carry original documents, it is advisable to carry photocopies of passports and visas, which will facilitate replacement should either be stolen.
FOOD: Most people have experienced Indian cuisine in one form or another, but the food we find in our local Indian restaurant is quite different to the varying cuisine to be found in the country itself. Each region of India has its own style of cooking with regional dishes not found elsewhere.
Curries are created from the subtle and delicate blending of spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, ginger, coriander, nutmeg and poppy seed although these vary from region to region. Vegetable dishes are more common than in Europe, particularly in southern India. Don’t worry if you don’t like spicy foods and curry. All hotels have alternative menus and buffets give you the chance to try out a variety of different dishes. India has a wonderful variety of meats, seafood and tropical fruits. Local food is highly seasoned, but hotels make an effort not to overdo the spices. Ask your waiter for advice. Give your stomach time to adjust slowly to spicy food. Curd (yoghurt) is generally very good. In general, eating on the street, unpeeled fruit and ice cream is risky. All fruit should be washed really well to avoid stomach upsets. Meals in local restaurants and hotels in India are reasonable and good value in comparison to the UK. Imported drinks can be expensive. Do not expect quick service in restaurants.
DRINK: Never drink tap water and be wary of flasks of drinking water in bedrooms. Always drink bottled water and make sure the seal to the bottle is unbroken. Bottled water is available at all hotels.