YOU MUST CALL YOUR CREDIT CARD / DEBIT CARD COMPANY TO TELL THEM YOU ARE TRAVELING TO INDIA.

If you don’t, you run the risk of your card CONSTANTLY being declined at ATMs or when making purchases (this can still happen even IF you call in advance.)

When you call, this will significantly reduce the chances of having issues with your card. I always suggest using a travel credit card when traveling internationally to avoid foreign transaction fees. The two cards I use are:

The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card (there’s also the preferred that’s an entry-level card) The United Quest Card (there are multiple versions of this card & you can pick what’s best for you.)

ATMs are available in all city centers. You can make an ATM withdrawal when you arrive at the Delhi airport. Plan to look for an ATM before you run out of Rupees.

While most everywhere will accept cards, there might be instances where the machine breaks down or you’re visiting a more traditional spot – like food stalls, markets and small restaurants and they may only accept cash and you don’t want to miss out on an authentic experience just because you didn’t want to carry cash around.

Best exchange rates are typically found with ATMS vs trying to convert dollars to Rupees at a bank or currency exchange.

In India, tips, are referred to as baksheesh & the rules can sometimes be a bit fuzzy on when and how much to tip. We are making it easy & collecting your tips upfront for all included services [with the exception of airport transfers & assistants] so that you do not need to worry.

To ensure that our drivers, tour guide, hotel porters and included meals are fairly compensated, we will be collecting the equivalent of $375 in Rupees when we are in India. Please plan to have this money handed over to us no later than the morning of April 14th. TIPS FOR OPTIONAL DINNERS & ACTIVITIES ARE NOT INCLUDED.

TOUR GUIDE
While tips for our included tours are covered, if you do additional tours, tip the equivalent of $20 per person for a private tour.

HOTEL HOUSEKEEPING
It’s polite to leave a tip around $2 per night in rupees.

India has a reputation as a daunting travel destination, especially for women. However, in the 3 times I’ve visited I have never felt really unsafe or threatened. If anything I felt like I got A LOT of attention, especially at major sites like the Taj Mahal. Reported crimes against tourists are relatively rare, but staring and unwanted attention are common.

Pickpocketing can happen, especially near major tourist attractions anywhere in the world and India is no exception. Be aware of your surroundings & belongings especially if exploring without our guide.

PRO TIP: I never take all of my cards or money out with me all at the same time. I only take what I need and leave the rest in the safe in the hotel room just in case my wallet was to get stolen. Wherever you go, watch out for your personal belongings and it's best to keep your most important items in a zipped bag vs in a pocket.

At most places of tourist interest, you will find beggars and touts wanting to sell something. Some of them are children and we are sure that it will wring your heart and you’d want to help.

But rather than pulling out your wallet and showing them all the money you are carrying, we recommend that a contribution is made in a more structured manner and you avoid getting mobbed. Included in the cost of your trip is a donation that we will be making on your behalf while at Shero’s Hangout in Agra. You can learn more about this organization here.

If you would like to support other great small charities or NGOs please let us know and we would be happy to connect you to a reputable charity. Please remember the Golden Rule – don’t talk to the beggars or touts – even ‘No’, is considered an opportunity to engage. Follow our guide who will assist should you need it.

Haggling for a fair price when buying things – in street stalls and open-air markets – is a way of life in India. Although it can sometimes be a frustrating experience, losing your temper is extremely bad form – if you can’t agree on a price with the vendor that you are both happy with, politely decline and shop somewhere else.

The rules of the game are as follows. The vendor will quote you a price that is more than the item is worth, then you’ll come back with a counter-offer, working up from there until you reach a mutually agreeable figure.

The “walking away” trick may bring a few last-minute adjustments, but before long, you’ll reach a threshold that the vendor won’t go below. Throwing in extra items may bring a discount on the overall cost. Many travelers prefer not to haggle in places where the money goes directly to artisans.