INDIA MYTHS BUSTED

I DON'T DO SMALL GROUPS!

Don't be put off about the concept of travelling in a small group - it's a great way to see India!

India is a bucket list destination, but planning a holiday to India is complicated. It’s a big country; where do you start (and finish)? There are too many choices, too much information and the process can leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated and often, ripped off.

We know that choosing a holiday in India isn’t a spare of the moment decision, and holidays aren’t cheap. This is something that you have been thinking about for a long, long time and you want to make sure that you are getting the holiday that you want.

Our goal at All India Permit Tours is to give you that holiday you’ve been dreaming of.

The benefits of travelling in a small group is that we get access to the best guides, great quality transport and authentic experiences that would be very expensive to do on your own. It also means that you have Sarah with you throughout your trip to help you with anything along the way. Plus, a group is great when eating out...you get to try everything!

Don't let this be the thing that puts you off. We have the local knowledge, expertise and connections with the people and experiences in India. We take the time, pain and confusion out of the planning because we’ve been there, we’ve done it, and we want to make sure that you have the holiday of a lifetime in India.

WILL IT BE HOT?

Spring (February/March) and Autumn (October/November) are the best times of year to be in India! Expect daily temperatures in the mid-late 20's. But it can get over 30 degrees too. Mornings are often a tad cooler, particularly in Rajasthan so do have at least one long pair of pants/leggings and a jersey. We tend to do pre-arranged activities in the morning to make the most of the cooler part of the day. It's definitely warmer in the south, but cooler up in the Western Ghats. The humidity is reasonably low, but again it can be a mixed bag. Weather tends to be quite settled with little rain. Pack a light jacket and an umbrella, but rain is rare at this time of year.

Key things to remember:

Drink a lot of water
Humidity does take some getting used to, as such we keep the pace relaxed
A hat is essential

It’s easy to become dehydrated in India. The key to success is ‘little sips all the time’, rather than downing a bottle of water every now and then (it prevents overloading your kidneys and helps your body process it).

WILL I GET SICK?

Most people will experience some kind of tummy 'gurgle' at some point! It kind of comes with territory. The most important thing is to be prepared. It's recommended that you bring a personal supply of:

Imodium/Diastop
Electrolyte Powder
Activated Charcoal
Buscopan (a good stomach settler)
Panadol/Nurofen
Cold & Flu medication
Throat Lozenges / Throat Gargle

Sarah carries plenty of supplies too. Once in India you are strongly encouraged to only drink bottled water and never have ice! Sarah has a few remedies up her sleeve if you feel unwell and we'll have you sorted in no time!

AM I FIT ENOUGH?

All India Permit Tours are best suited for people aged 40 – 75 with a good level of health and fitness. India can be challenging at times and sometimes physically demanding with the heat and assorted activities - it can be an intense environment. But, if you have a strong, clean bill of health, good energy levels and are an enthusiastic traveller, then you will love this experience regardless of your age.

DO I NEED TO GET ANY JABS BEFORE I GO?

It's recommended that you talk to your doctor about three months before your departure to ensure that the following vaccinations are up-to-date:

Tetanus
Hepatitis A + Typhoid (Vivaxim)
Rabies (optional…it’s quite expensive and require three shots over 28 days)
Malaria (optional...South India only)
Covid (no longer required, but a good preventative)

IS IT SAFE?

We will not be travelling to any areas that are considered ‘unsafe’ but like all travel, please keep your wits about you. It’s obvious you are a tourist. Please use hotel safes (all rooms have them) to store any passports and personal belongings of value. Do not carry your passports with you during the day when you are out sightseeing. They are safer in a safe!

For New Zealanders: All group members are preregistered on the https://www.SafeTravel.govt.nz website.

For Australians: Useful information is available here: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED A DOCTOR?

India's healthcare system is world class and hospitals abound. The All India Permit team on the ground can connect you with any healthcare that may be required. Please ensure you bring all personal medication and that your travel vaccinations are up-to-date. Like all destinations, please take care in India. A comprehensive first aid kit will be with the group at all times.