• Besides the originals, a copy of your passport,
travel visas, airline tickets and travel documents. A list of any charge or credit cards you are carrying. Remember to keep the copies separate from the originals.
• An International Driving License, which can be obtained through the Automobile Association. Even if you are not planning to drive, bring your driver's license with photo for identification.
• Consider purchasing special international health insurance and medical evaluation plan programmes.
• Avoid drinking water from an unknown source. When in doubt ask for "Bisleri, Kinley, Aqua Fina, Himalaya, etc" mineral water (check the seal). As a further precaution bring water purifying tablets.
• As in any location, there are those who steal from others, so follow the same rules of safety that you follow traveling anywhere else with respect to using hotel lock boxes, and keeping travel documents safe. When in public places, keep them in your hotel or with you all the time when moving about.
o Men: Don't carry a traditional wallet with you, the kind you put in your pocket
(front or back)
o Women: Avoid keeping valuables in a purse, which can be easily snatched off your shoulder.
o Consider using an "interior wallet", the kind that is fastened around your neck, draped from a belt loop or worn, with a Velcro fastener, around the calf or ankle. All three kinds are concealed underneath clothing.
• Taxis (cabs)/Auto Rickshaw (3 wheeler) are available from all hotels, and you negotiate the rate before commencing your journey. Use only authorised, properly identified taxis and buses. Avoid taxis that pick up additional passengers. Don't accept an offer to share a taxi to your hotel unless you know the individual.
• Be wary of imposter porters or guides. Assure they are properly uniformed or identified. Never leave your luggage, briefcase or other items unattended.
• Train Journey: The image of the Indian Railways is rated poor with common complaints being making reservations is difficult or that the signage is only in Hindi. But the screaming need is for cleaning up the place or that it is just too dirty for comfort. Avoid traveling in the Second Class.
