Travel

India to go or not

Travel

Posted by: burnsy

29th Mar 2013 03:37pm

In October and November 2012, at the behest of my wife, we spent just over 4 weeks in many parts of India with the aim of both sightseeing and fulfilling her Buddhist quests. She had a great time visiting many religious sites and attending a Dalai Lama lecture in Dharamsala. I, for much of the journey, suffered a variety of ailments including many bouts of Delhi belly, worms, chest infection etc. She is very keen to return to India next year. Should I dare to accompany her again?


Comments 9

HayleyBailey
  • 13th May 2014 10:10am

Anyone can get sick anywhere they travel in the world. India is a developing country so you have to be careful where you go and what you eat. I travelled around India on my own for 3 months some years ago and yes I became sick for over a week and it was awful, however the incredible experiences far out weigh the bad experiences I had in India. If you enjoyed other things about India then you should go back.....I would in a heartbeat!

kanu
  • 9th May 2014 04:32am

I guess you have to ask yourself do you enjoy anything about India. If you are not really into the Dalai Lama (or whatever other part of india is on the menu .. ), then I guess it will be one relentless austerity for the sake of humoring your beloved.
If not, Dharamsala is picturesque so maybe there is some sort of mountaineering touring thing you can latch on to (or even paragliding if your adventurous ... popular spot for that )
If its simply an issue of dealing with your health, then it may pay to look at factors at play. I spent about 3 years in India (including dharamsala ... which, by the way, strikes me as one of India's more accessible parts to western sensibilities) and perhaps the big thing is the weather. At that time of the year you are getting the early onslaught of winter (due to the altitude). Going a month earlier (or alternatively in late march) might help avoid the likelihood of developing chest infections.
Dietary complications usually get more complicated from eating the wrong thing at the wrong time. Fried foods, heavy spice (particularly red chilli) etc all have predictable consequences.
Try eating your main meal in the middle of the day (better for digestion).

If she is really into buddhism in all its flavours maybe you could suggest venturing into nepal, which, while possessed of similar challenges to health that india poses, tends to be a bit more geared up and accommodating for westerners

aussiejohn
  • 5th May 2014 04:16pm

Talk to your doctor and research how to travel in India safely and in good health. I am sure there will be tons of stuff from people who have managed to have a good time in India and stay well.

I would love to go, and have worried about it. My only experience so far is 2 days in Mumbai some years ago, but I was wary. I will go again. I am sure it is possible to travel safely there, taking reasonable precautions re food, water, etc.

I did have a touch of tummy problems on the plane home, that was caused by food eaten at a 5 star hotel at the airport, that Qantas sent us (Biz Class passengers) to, while our flight was delayed. So you can get sick anywhere.

Dora
  • 18th Feb 2014 12:20pm

Not sure if you went or not. But if you would like to accompany her, perhaps find thngs that you can do and maybe have all your meals at the hotels. Also make sure you carry something to cure any tummy ailments should they occur.

There is a LOT more to India than just the temples. Try also visting outhern India which is so different from the North. Places like Kerela & Goa for instance are famous for relaxation holidays. Stay in a boat house that cruises on the river in Kerela or in a guesthouse by the beach in Goa. YOu will love it.

From there you could perhaps also try Sri lanka which is just a short flight away..

Soin
  • 22nd Sep 2013 09:40am

This should be your personal choice whether you want to accompany your wife or not.

hems1111
  • 19th Sep 2013 03:59pm

Hi,

enjoy the time with your wife.After all, India is a good place to visit and explore the traditions and cultures.You will love it.Have a peaceful time.

Cheers!

david
  • 12th Jun 2013 08:51pm

do not return,play it safe

jimmy Tshering
  • 10th Jun 2013 09:48pm

If you are interested in Buddhism then Bhutan will be the best place to visit. It is right next to india but is completely different To what india is both life style and environment. I highly recommend Bhutan. Google bhutan for more info. I assure you wont be dissapointed

mermaid
  • 1st May 2013 01:45pm

OM give yourself credit love, your such a generous and loving partner accompanying your wife on her quest so remember to treat yourself well on your next journey.
Perhaps taking like-minded friends to enjoy YOUR time as your wife does :) as there is much more to enjoy in India for the non Bhuddist Seekers :)

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