I’ve been asked by a few colleagues how to best prep for their trips to the developing world. Thought I’d put together a “list o’must haves” for travel in India based on my experiences here so far:
Critter protection: bug spray
Sun protection: sunscreen, hat and/or umbrella
Germ protection (so exciting it gets 4 entries!):
1. Purell (handsoap is hard to come by unless you limit yourself to Western-style places)
2. Though you can buy here it’s helpful to come with a generic antibiotic such as Cipro
3. Sleep sack for when those hotel/train sheets are not so clean
4. Water purifier in case filtered water is not available… also more environmentally friendly than bottles
Tummy assistance: Immodium or other anti-diarrheal medicine (and don’t leave your abode without it!)
Foot protection: comfortable shoes are a must! All-purpose, waterproof, smellproof, lightweight brands such as Crocs are great
Noise protection: earplugs… trust me, when your neighborhood Hindu temple blares it’s music at 5am daily, you will be glad you have them!
Sanity protection: books, cards, or other diversions
Memory protection: a journal to write it all down, camera to record your experiences, or other medium of preference
Smelliness protection: deoderant… um, it’s hot here in the South!
Cultural sensitivity/stare minimization: modest, loose-fitting clothing (when in a bind, dupattas (scarves) are really helpful in covering up)
And, the most important… an open mind, extreme reserves of patience, and thick skin.
What else would you include?