Next trip: India

Indian-Explore-2014-map

I have been fascinated with India since, well, forever. From what I’ve read, and seen on TV and in the movies, it’s a country of many contrasts. Modernity is slammed right up against tradition, causing all sorts of cultural dilemmas and reinventions. The rich history, the spirituality, the vastness – not unlike Australia in that regard – and the people are all reasons for wanting to spend time in India.

But there are things that disturb me too. It is not a safe place to be travelling solo as a woman. Even the Australian Government’s smarttraveller website has issued an exercise caution/avoid warning. So what’s a girl to do? Particularly when she really, really, really wants to go?

Go back to travelling in a group, of course. Even though I have loved my new found solo/independent traveller status, one has to be sensible about these things.

So. This is the plan. After enjoying travelling by rail so much in Japan, I stumbled upon the Explore Adventure’s Indian Rail Odyssey small group tour. I’ll be away 21 days, departing mid-February 2015, with the majority of the trip – from the north to the south – made by rail.

While the tour is described as “busy”, with some very long days travelling – including a few nights on a sleeper train – I’m super excited! Yes, it’s jam-packed, but there are free afternoons and mornings where I can chill if needed. I’d like to get in a few runs in (and not the Delhi belly kind!) while I’m travelling. And no included dinners means no hotel food at night. Yippee!

I’m sure it will be a fascinating adventure.

Please share!

2 Comments

  • Helen September 17, 2014 at 10:25 PM

    I’m considering India of my next trip too and also feel it’s probably not the best place to solo travel so I’m considering going with world expeditions on their ultimate Southern India journey. I’ll be watching your blog with interest to read of your experience. Safe travels.

    Reply
    • dileeshus September 18, 2014 at 6:46 AM

      I think we are both very wise women! I’ve read that women ARE travelling alone, and are fine, but I’d rather be safe than sorry. I’ll definitely keep you posted!

      Reply

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.