Tuesday, December 4, 2007

The Typical Indian

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Indians are well known for their hospitality, especially when it comes to guests and visitors. Should you ever need help, you just have to ask. People everywhere will be more than willing to help you. Just ask the right people.

The typical Indian is actually fascinated by the western tourist. Being avid television viewers  many are aware of western countries and standards. But they don’t understand the western urge to travel and many think foreigners are crazy to leave behind the comforts of their own beautiful countries and come to India.

They don’t quite understand your need to see and experience different places and cultures. Vacations are a relatively new concept in India and most Indians seldom travel beyond their home state, unless their job or business demands it.

Tourism here, like in other countries, is an industry and does have its pitfalls. Most tourist spots may have touts approaching you, offering services from sightseeing to putting you on a flight back home. Don’t pay attention to them. If you ignore them, they get the message.

Likewise, if you need directions on the streets approach the cops or shops in the vicinity and students. They’ll surely go out of their way to help you.

Never approach the wrong people standing in a street corner. They could view you as a potential source of income. Have you ever tried asking a family in a parked car for help or directions?

A lot of tourists get conned because they seek help from the wrong people. If you do manage to get conned, don’t let that dampen your spirits. You can never get it right all the time. The trick is in being well informed and alert, thus minimizing the chances of such things happening to you.

Old Chinese proverb – if you fall into the ditch don’t worry, you’ll come out wiser…

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