India

January 15 to February 29, 2024

Delhi | Arambol | Hampi | Chennai | Auroville

Sleep

My recs on where to stay: from the best areas to hostels I've tested for you

Eat

All about Indian food, including restaurant recs and the best street food

More

Read about my crazy, lovely, shocking, and most romantic experiences

itinerary

Where I've been

Read about my itinerary in full detail in this blog post.

1 week
New Delhi

As the capital of India, it gets crowded, loud and overwhelming. I can tell you where to go to and how to feel safe in this bustling city.

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2 weeks
Arambol

The only place in India that made me think "I could live here". Perfect combination of spirituality, nature, and nightlife.

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1/2 week
Hampi

Want to be astonished by nature? Hampi is your spot to hike, climb, swim, and see the most beautiful sunsets on hilltops.

1/2 week
Chennai

A big business city with chaotic streets where I spent more time than intended. I can tell you all about the fanciest hotels there!

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2 weeks
Auroville

A unique community-based village founded to become an international place for human connection. Mystical, yet quite modern.

And after that I was held in Chennai by the Indian government for another 9 days. Read about my craziest travel story of being stuck in India in my blog!

quick tips

What you need to know about India

India is one of those countries that comes with instructions. I came unprepared and was just winging it, which resulted in a few uneasy situations. I truly suggest you read through the most important topics before embarking on your big trip!

Safety

General

India is like any other foreign country: you don't know the rules, you can't read the room, so better act with caution.

for women

Again, like anywhere else: don't walk the streets alone at night, especially while intoxicated and in sketchy neighborhoods.

tips

- make a local friend and stay by their side
- listen to what locals tell you
- dress equaly modest as locals

my advice

Don't be scared, India is very worth visiting. Act with care, be mindful and stay around people you know and trust.

people

locals

Many Indian people don't have the privilege to travel and are not used to "outsiders". They will stare and might make you feel uncomfortable.

traveling locals

Hostels are filled with luckier Indians: those who can travel within their country. They are the best to learn from and to guide you!

travelers

Fellow travelers in India are the best. They're on a higher level of consciousness, they're open, spiritual and wildly interesting.

expats

Foreigners who finally settle in India are a whole world apart. Their love for India and/or spirituality will impress you.

hygiene

air quality

Terrible, as seen on the image. In Delhi, take precautions and expect teary eyes and a caugh. In the south, air is better.

food

Eat what your local friend eats to avoid Delhi Belly. Locals are quite picky and know where to go.

beaches

Don't expect white beaches with crystal clear water. Even the best beaches will be trashy. But let that slide and enjoy your beach days regardless.

accomodation

Hotels in India are overall not clean. I personally found hostels to be cleaner, but I also always bring my sleeping bag liner everywhere!