India Odyssey: Country
Country
Wonderfully different, there is nothing quite like a tour of India. Travel a lot? No matter how much you’ve done or how many countries you’ve visited, when you first arrive in India it will hit you like a gale force wind; a hurricane of sounds, smells, and colour where nothing is as it seems. Travelling to India reveals a country that is both mesmerizing, exotic, exciting, and mystical but at times frustrating, confusing, and chaotic. Relax, stay calm, be patient, and smile and India will open up herself to you in all her splendid glory. ~ G Adventure India
India is an unforgettable destination. As soon you step out of the airport in New Delhi, you will feel like you have stepped into a new world. Although we will be busy with our volunteering and A Fresh Chapter activities, you will still have the opportunity to browse the wonders of a local market, discover local puppet makers, and bargain for souvenirs to take home as a reminder of your adventure.
As one of our cultural activities, you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most famous temples and mosques in New Delhi while learning from locals about how a multitude of religions co-exist peacefully in this country of more than a billion people.
Finally, one of the highlights of India for you might just be the cuisine. You will experience a multitude of flavors from the fragrant morning chai, to piping hot tandoori chicken, to an array of traditional dishes – all made with care. If you’re like many of our former India tribe members, you will crave the tastes of India long after you return home.
Free Time
Because of the nature of the program and all of the experiences we want to offer, there is limited free time. However, we have built in time for reflection and rest as well as the option during a couple of afternoons/evenings where you can head out shopping/sightseeing and stay out to have a meal on your own or with a smaller group (at your own cost).
In & Around New Delhi
The neighborhood of Hauz Khas where we are staying, is an upper middle class area. Just step outside our guest house to take in the bustle of daily life or venture a little further afield in a tuk-tuk to visit the area of Hauz Khas Village with a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Before & After Your Program
Many of our alumni of India have stayed on to experience the culture and this diverse country after the program wraps up. You could explore a packaged trip with G Adventures or find an ashram for an authentic yoga experience, head to the beach in Goa, or even take a couple of days to visit the pink city of Jaipur. Our local partners are a wealth of information and could make suggestions for your onward travel.
Culture
The culture of India refers collectively to the thousands of distinct and unique cultures of all religions and communities present in India. India’s languages, religions, dance, music, architecture, food, and customs differs from place to place within the country, often labeled as an amalgamation of several cultures, spans across the Indian subcontinent and has been influenced by a history that is several millennia old. For more, click here.
In New Delhi, you will find a range of languages, but the most common is Hindi. English is spoken by many of the employees in local restaurants and cafes as English is taught throughout the school system in India. Although you may find some of the younger population of women dressed in tank tops or shorts, we encourage our participants to dress conservatively, and you will have the opportunity to purchase a basic salwar kameez to wear to your volunteer placement.
Language
Delhi is a cosmopolitan city with many ethnic groups and cultures. Due to these various groups, several languages are spoken here. Hindi is the official language, which is spoken by the majority of the population. Urdu, Punjabi and English are other common languages in Delhi. You will often be able to find someone who understands English.
Weather
February-March is the end of winter in India. Winters there are mild and warm, with temperatures averaging in the 70’s. This pleasant weather makes it an excellent time to visit, as opposed to the hot summers. Bring a rain jacket and layers as it’s hard to know exactly what to expect at this time of year.
Currency
- Spending money of $75-$250 per week is suggested, for things like optional activities, snacks or meals out, shopping, etc. These costs vary depending upon the participant (and often, how much shopping they want to do!)
- The currency in India is the Indian Rupee. For an up-to-date exchange rate, click here. The currency code for Indian Rupees is INR, and the currency symbol is ₹.
- It is easiest to access money through ATMs. The most widely accepted cards in India are Visa and MasterCard. It’s also beneficial to bring a credit card and some cash. Remember to notify your bank institution or credit card holder in order to tell them that you will be using your card abroad.
- When dining out at a restaurant in India, it is customary for the server to bring the credit card machine to your table to swipe your card (this helps to prevent fraud). If they don’t bring the machine to you and try to take your card to the back, you should politely ask them to bring the machine to your table.
- Cash – we suggest bringing only $50-100 in US currency, in case of emergencies. Carry the majority of your money on a debit/credit card. Cards can be easily replaced, but cash cannot.
- You will need Indian Rupees for things like open air markets and cabs. Make sure you have small bills for negotiating at the markets and paying in exact change! For most other outings, like eating at restaurants or general shopping, you can pay with your debit/credit card.
- Traveler’s checks may be used as a back-up in case of emergency, but it is not recommended to use this as a primary method of accessing money.
Health & Safety
Your safety is our number one priority at A Fresh Chapter, and we want to ensure you are informed so you can make smart decisions throughout your time in India.
When you are traveling to any major city in the world, there is bound to be crime. Here are a few smart traveler tips to keep you & your belongings safe while in India.
- Do not take valuables to your volunteer placement. You will not need any money or your cell phone while you are at your placement in the morning. You will not be bringing your camera until near the end of your placement and if/when you do, be sure to carry it in a small bag and leave it on your person when you aren’t using it.
- When heading out, take only the amount of cash you will need for the day or bring along your debit/credit card. We suggest carrying your money in your front pockets or in a purse/bag. Petty theft is the most common form of crime in the city, so just be aware of your surroundings when you’re out and about and don’t flash your money, phone, or camera when walking down the street.
- When you go for a walk or a run, please do not wear your headphones, as this can make you an easy target for petty theft.
Just remember that we will do everything in our power to keep you safe, and as long as you are aware of your surroundings, you are in for a trip of a lifetime!
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP):
U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the nearest U.S. Embassy. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Medical Treatment:
As part of our program we offer comprehensive medical insurance to all participants. Treatment, if needed, is done by English-speaking doctors and accompanied by A Fresh Chapter representative. All selected participants will receive more specific information and details about coverage.