For the last month or so, I’ve been dedicating at least a portion of every day to researching India for my next book, Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India.
The folks over at Rough Guides were kind enough to send me some of their new releases to not only aid in my research for the book but also for my return trip to India in January.
Here’s what’s on my bookshelf right now:
Rough Guides: India
Rough Guides: Rajasthan, Delhi & Agra
Rough Guides: South India
While I can’t deny being a big fan of the Lonely Planet guides, I’m actually quite impressed with the Rough Guide series. The fact that the publication date for the two regional guides is October, 2007 is awesome – it ensures that the info I have for my January trip is as up to date as any guide.
The books provide some good tips for women travelers, including using your sex to your advantage (in a good way, ladies). Women may be given special attention and given guidance from bus drivers and railway conductors. As with many countries, you may be invited into the homes of locals and given the opportunity to share in the preparation of meals (a real treat – be sure to take notes!).
While the photos aren’t as plentiful as I might like, the ones that are included are stunning.
I’ll be traveling to South India for the first time and am looking forward to carrying this comprehensive regional guide to really give it a thorough test.
What are your favorite travel guides?
Happy Traves!
Katie says
South India eh? Where abouts? Been a few times, need any info let me know. Used a footprint travel guide in India last year. That was pretty good. Can’t say if I have a favourite though, I always take 2 or 3 guides and compare comments about the same place. Very interesting! Need any help let me know
Myscha says
India! We were going to include it on our last trip, but ran out of time before we hit the Middle East. Hopefully next time. Have a great time!
Beth says
I don’t know exactly where in South India yet. Kerala, of course. But I’m totally open to suggestions. Perhaps your 3 best places to go there?
Danielle says
Hi- I have an uncle who has been living in ashram for most of his adult life studying Transcendental Meditation. It is in Uttar Kashi, north or Rishikesh. Though he will not be able to see me nor has he been able to give any sort of guidance, I would like to visit this region of India and make a project about his path toward enlightenment. I am an artist who focuses on ancestry and my history. I have never been to India nor do I know who to turn to for guidance. I would like to stay in an ashram for a month or so. I am just beginning the planning stage. Any ideas are much appreciated. Thank you!!!
Beth says
Hi Danielle – I don’t have info on specific ashrams but I’m sure you can research online to find an appropriate one. Good luck!