Be Safe Girl

As a solo female traveler, its very important to be careful. India is very tourist friendly, and since the western tourist had discovered India a long time ago, people here are used to them.

But like we've already told you, unethical dressing does manage to attract attention, though in most cases, doesn't go beyond a curious glance.

As a single woman or a group of women, avoid hiring a private cab for inter city travel. Always use public transport - bus/ train/ air. Airfare is now cheap in India and regular offers are available. Always ask.

We cannot stress this enough - Never Try To Save Money On The Hotel. Go for the best you can afford even if you have to sacrifice something else for it.

You may however, wish to take a few mild precautions as follows:

Never approach vagabonds on the streets for help. You can easily tell them apart from their appearance.

As a woman, approach the police, decent looking people and students, families on the street, and shops and establishments around you. Walking into a nearby office is also a good idea. All of them will help you.

If you have to visit a pub or disco, try to go early and return early. You can’t expect people to be on their best behavior at such places. Also make sure you’re with a male companion or another woman companion in the least.

Most upmarket pubs and discos have adequate security arrangements. If it’s located in your hotel, it’s a lot better.

Avoid scanty and revealing outfits. Indians in general, tend to associate inappropriately dressed women with lesser morals. And though it’s wrong, it’s unfortunately part of the typical Indian psyche.

They may not harm you, but it does attract attention. Indians tend to be more  inclined towards tourists that dress well. Respect their culture, and they are likely to respect you.

Select a hotel on or as close to the main road as possible. They're better and safer. As far as possible, try to avoid smoking in public places as it’s not considered appropriate for women. In pubs, exclusive restaurants and in your hotel its perfectly okay.

Don't stay out late. Be back at your hotel by 8.00 pm.

Don’t wear a bikini on the beach, except in Goa where everyone does. Even there, don’t venture away from the beach in your bikini.

Stick to busy areas, and don’t follow people who may offer to show you something interesting. Remember, if there is something interesting enough to see, it should be on your itinerary.

Add the telephone number for the police hotline – 112 (equivalent of 911) - into your phone book. You may never need it, but just let it be there.

Never befriend strangers, however nice they may seem...you can never tell. Just keep to yourself.