Safety Tips for Women Travelers to India
Posted on May 9, 2008 in Travel by Prarthna
Most women travelers are quiet apprehensive about visiting India. This largely is on account of the fact that India is perceived to be diverse and that which sustains a lot of extremities. For instance, India is home to one of the most pompously dressed actresses who never shy to wear the least of clothing whereas at the same time are communities and regions which are utterly conservative about skin show.
Then there are beautiful, serene countryside’s which are not yet contaminated by the ever pressing traffic, noise, pollution and crowd typical of cities. Finally, how about the wide income disparities in India? While the rich spend a great many bucks for hoarding as many cars for each member of their family, the poor barely get a morsel to feed on.
Most tourists who visit India are very comfortable about themselves, that is, what they wear, what they do, etc. This isn’t wrong but one’s way of life may affect the sentiments of people in India, which again is a way of defying the norms in India. This “lack of awareness” among women travelers can make them victims of dirty crimes.
Safety Tips for Women Travelers in India
In order to avoid cultural faux pas or misjudgments, listed below are some safety tips for women travelers to India:
- Clothes: Clothes should be worn very appropriately to the places which you visit. For instances, temples and holy shrines are of great valuable sentiment for Indians. It is advisable not to wear mini’s, shorts, transparent or sleeveless tops with deep necklines such places. In addition, certain places are conservative and not very used to seeing people with fewer clothes. There are no doubts that people will treat you like an alien and now that you’re inviting them to look at clothes which their eyes have never seen before, it’s going to get their eyes off you. Try to incorporate local styles in your wardrobe for treading the streets of India.
- Avoid theft: Theft is almost common anywhere in the world, the only difference being how effective a pair of hands may be in this business? Be careful about your belongings whether at your hotel or those on you. Report people who are trying to follow you to the local police or your hotel authorities. Avoid being in completely isolated places or completely crowded areas. Be cautious and alert about yourself and your belongings and strike back if somebody tries to snatch something from you.
- Retaliate to harassment: If somebody tries to eve tease or molest you, strike back and create such a ruckus so that people crowd around you. Avoid getting submissive or scared. Men love that and that’s where they can get the best out of you.
- Pack Light: For your safety and convenience, pack light or carry fewer belongings.
- Money: Carry your money in an organized way to avoid getting pick-pocketed, especially when you’re out to shopping destinations. Also keep a copy of your traveler’s check numbers at the hotel locked and safe. Use credit cards for larger purchases so that you have enough money at hand.
- Keep distance from men: Everyone is new to you in India and though a friendly approach is polite but your intentions can be misinterpreted and may seem inviting for men who haven’t encountered such straight forwardness by Indian women. Infact, even stroking men may not be accepted here in India though you may do it very casually.
- Avoid street parties: Stay away from festive or political processions on the roads. It is obvious you’ll encounter aggressive men. Wait till the party is over and then go ahead.
- No smoking: In India, women don’t smoke except for the absolutely affluent and rich in urban cities. Examine the place well before taking a puff in front of people who will be ogling so conveniently in public.
- Local travel: Buses and trains are safe considering that you keep a distance fro over-friendly crooks. Never take or give anyone anything. In addition, in both trains and buses there are reservations for ladies. So try getting a seat closer to women than standing amidst men. Avoid taxi’s unless you’re very sure of the place, arrangements provided by the hotel, etc.
- Avoid wearing too much of jewelry: Avoid flaunting too much of wealth and jewelry to invite crooks.
In addition, to all of the above it is advisable for you to carry a torch light, enough medicines, and a cell phone with a 900-1800 MHz frequency. Also, have the embassy numbers fed into your mobile to get assistance when you’re in trouble or doubt. Traveling to India can be fun even if you’re traveling alone; provided that you are cautious about the way you dress, behave and follow simple safety steps.
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