Advice

Despite all the people who were shocked upon hearing our announcement that we were moving to India, there were quite a few people who have been there, done that and had some advice.  Much like the reactions we got about moving to India, this advice varied greatly.  I have decided to share some of it here for those that are interested, curious, or moving to India themselves.

Advice (in no particular order)...

• Things to bring:
• toothpaste
• deodorant
• makeup/toiletries
• bed
• air purifier
• undergarments
• long pants
• 100% cotton clothing
• mosquito repellent (with plenty of Deet)
• travel adapters/converters
• plenty of shoes if you have large feet
• Don't drive.
• Look all directions before crossing streets or intersections.  There will be cows, bikers, rickshaws, motorbikes, street animals, trucks, and cars flying from every direction.
• Don't drink the water.  
• Drink carbonated bevarages, or tea /water that has been boiled and filtered.
• Don't haggle with market vendors.
• Do haggle with market vendors.
• Be careful taking a taxi from the airport, they will overcharge you because you are a foreigner.
• Pre-pay for a taxi from an airport taxi stand.
• From former Indian nationals: "My (insert family member here) lives in Delhi!  Here is his name, address, phone number.  Call him as SOON as you arrive and he will show you around the city."
• Don't give to beggars.
• Give your food to a monkey if it appears interested or it will attack.
• Travel by train in 1st class only.
• People in India don't value money as Americans do; they value emotional happiness over physical belongings.
• You will be invited to at least one wedding your first year.
• Be careful when interviewing maids, cooks, etc.  Petty theft at the hands of hired help is the most common crime you will come across.
• Eat crackers, trail mix, and other foods from the U.S. for the first week.
• You will get nauseous from the food and water eventually ("Delhi Belly").
• The people are very warm, generous, and kind.

The one comment we heard consistently from everyone: India is like no other place.  It will overwhelm all of your senses and emotions.  India will transform your life and sense of self.

We know India will be a difficult adjustment (but overall rewarding experience) so we are trying to keep our minds as open as possible towards the experiences we will have in the country we will soon call home.  Unfortunately, India is not yet opening the seemingly iron gates that protect it from foreigners like us who wish to come and work there.  Minds open, gates closed.

I am told there is a saying in India: "T.I.I."... "This is India."  The delay of my employment visa should be filed under this phrase for now.  T.I.I.!  Our experience with India so far is teaching us patience.  We shall continue to practice patience for now and look forward to the many lessons to come.