Tips to Ensure Your Business Trip to India Runs Without a Hitch

Anyone who has ever visited India will tell you that the first thing you notice upon exiting the airport is the smells. It’s a wild mix of spices and incense uncommon to all Westerners — and something you won’t soon forget. The second thing you’ll notice is the number of people ready to profit off your innocence.

Business travelers and high-end tourists are most prone to these pitfalls, as their appearance indicates a certain amount of wealth, and wealth equals opportunity. While the typical backpacker can roam much more freely, the business traveler has to develop a keen sense of awareness. And having eyes in the back of your head wouldn’t hurt either.

Besides the scammers, there are potential pickpockets and thieves lurking around every corner. However, this shouldn’t deter you from getting out and enjoying the country. It is, after all, unlike any other place on earth and worthy of exploration.

From historical monuments and famous markets to the unique cultures and delicious cuisine, India is always beckoning you to explore its streets. But there are some things you should keep in mind as you do.

First Stop - The Capital City

Chances are good that if you’re going to India, you’re going through Delhi. In the capital city, the contrast between old and new, rich and poor, is something to behold. The streets are always teeming. The shopping is always fantastic, though it helps if you know how to haggle a little. And the people-watching is first-rate.

As a business traveler who’s accustomed to living out of a suitcase, you likely have everything you need for your trip. But should you forget some of the essentials, Delhi is a great place to stock up on whatever you need.

Staying seated during long trips in the congested traffic of Delhi can also lead to some health concerns. One potential threat all business travelers face, whether going to India or Iowa, is deep vein thrombosis. DVT is essentially a blood clot that develops in the large veins in your legs, and it’s a potentially dangerous situation.

To prevent DVT, get up and get moving whenever possible, especially during the flight to India’s capital territory. Jog up and the down aisles. Find a bit of room and perform some low-impact yoga. What would be more appropriate than doing downward-facing dog on your way to the country that invented it? And remember to stay hydrated, as airplanes get pretty dry.

Tips for Safer Travel

If this is your first time traveling to India, what you normally would perceive as threats back home could go unnoticed. You’ll no doubt be dealing with a bit of culture shock, and this may contribute to your guard being down.

Whether you’re moving on to another city or staying put in Delhi, these tips will ensure that you’ll avoid the pitfalls common to India travel.

Petty Theft

Violent crimes against foreigners is uncommon in India, but you’ll need to be aware of thieves and pickpockets. Especially be careful in crowded areas. Always keep your valuables close by. And beware of sudden distractions that seem outside the norm, as some thieves work in teams, and creating that distraction is the first step in stealing your belongings.

Even when your valuables are on you, this still won’t deter pickpockets. Be wary of walking around with a backpack, as it’s easy enough to slice open an exterior pocket and take whatever’s inside, like your passport. If you must carry a backpack, it’s better to hang it over just one shoulder. That way your sightlines to those pockets are better.

Same goes for pockets. Some are easier to get into than others. If you have cargo pants with big side pockets, these are best. If you don’t, you’ll benefit from moving anything from your back pockets to your front pockets. And while not at all fashionable, fanny packs are very secure.

Scammers

There are a lot of scams in India, and they can be quite elaborate, which makes them difficult to spot. In general, though, be careful of people trying to “help” you. These scams usually take place in transportation centers and tourist areas, but they can occur anywhere.

In India, it’s often difficult to differentiate between friendliness and the prelude to a scam. And while it may seem sad, it pays to a be a little suspicious. At least until you get used to the country.

Typical scams involve fake train tickets, over-charging on restaurant bills and taxis, hotels suddenly burning down or moving, and anything involving the exchange of currency. But there are many more common tourist scams to watch out for.

Besides the pickpockets and scammers, exercising common sense will go a long way to keeping you safe in India. Unless you’re staying in a posh area, it’s probably a bad idea to wander around alone late at night.

For Female Travelers

India is generally safe for female travelers, but there are a few additions to the above tips that women should consider.

●     Wear conservative attire

●     Avoid physical contact with strangers

●     Be careful posing for photos

●     Sit next to other women on buses and trains

Trains often have female-only cars, so that’s an excellent choice for added safety. And it’s important to remember that you’re in a completely different culture — one where smiles can sometimes be misinterpreted.

If public transportation is intimidating, you can always rent a car and a hire a driver. This applies to both men and women. Besides being safer, you’ll also get to your destination faster. And getting travel insurance will also add some peace of mind to your trip.

General Tips for More Pleasant Travel

India isn’t just a country; it’s an experience that you’ll never forget. Here are a few tips for maximizing that experience, so your memories are pleasant ones.

●     Don’t be afraid of the food. It’s not the necessarily the food in India that will make you sick. It’s the exposure to microorganisms your body isn’t used to. And they are unavoidable.

●     Travel by train. If overland travel is in your plans, take the train instead of the bus. The sights you’ll see, away from crowded highways and car pollution, will be like stepping back in time.

●     Brad Pitt, anyone? With the attention you’ll get, you’re going to feel like a celebrity. People are going to stare. Smile back and enjoy the attention.

●     Go with the flow. This popular phrase had to have been coined by a traveler in India. India isn’t going to stop just to make you more comfortable. So dive in and enjoy it. What choice do you have?

●     Just say no. Beggars are everywhere, and they can be persistent. This is a part of life in India, and yes, it is heartbreaking. If you want to give something, do so. But if you don’t, you’ll need to be direct.

●     Practice patience. Losing your cool in India always makes situations worse. You’ll likely be tested, as the crowds are mind-numbing, and simple things can seemingly take forever. Breathe deep and take it in stride.

Business travel in India will always come with challenges, and for most people, this just adds to the experience. However, there is one part of your travel experience that doesn’t have to be stressful: the planning part.

India is a fascinating country with its own unique cultures and more historical sights than anyone can see in a lifetime. Though, it may test you at times. Business travelers who follow some of these simple tips, and those can summon some patience and learn to smile through it all, will do just fine. And any missteps along the way will make for great conversation at your next cocktail party back home.