1. Passport - Do you have one?
If not, Here's the link to apply http://travel.state.gov/passport/get/get_4855.html If you already have a Passport... double check the expiration date. Remember to make colored copies of your Passport. Keep 1 copy in the US and 1 copy with you.
2. VISA
US Residents need to apply for a Tourist Visa when traveling to India. Here's the link to apply https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/select-application Easy to follow. Very fast processing time. 7 business days total! You send them your Passport, Passport photos, signed application, and TraVisa sends in back with an Indian Visa glued on to one of the pages of your Passport.
3. Airline Tickets
Lots of options, so remember to shop prices a little. I used Google Flights https://www.google.com/flights/ We are flying Emirates Airlines. I have read great things about their In Flight Entertainment. Were flying through their hub in Dubai. Hoping to spend a few days their on my way back to the states. They offer a VISA on Arrival for Americans if your stay is under 96 hours. You pick it up in the airport when you land.
Tip: Research the airline. Some of the Asian airlines have great prices, but it comes at a huge cost. Comfort! Some of the planes have seats that do not recline. They slide forward forcing your knees in to the back of the seat in front of you. 15 hours is a long time to be SUPER uncomfortable, so spend a few extra bucks and fly another airline. You can find out what other travelers think about the particular plane you might fly on by visiting http://www.airlinequality.com/
Tip: Research the airline. Some of the Asian airlines have great prices, but it comes at a huge cost. Comfort! Some of the planes have seats that do not recline. They slide forward forcing your knees in to the back of the seat in front of you. 15 hours is a long time to be SUPER uncomfortable, so spend a few extra bucks and fly another airline. You can find out what other travelers think about the particular plane you might fly on by visiting http://www.airlinequality.com/
4. Vaccines
The easiest thing to do is find your local CDC vaccine office. http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/find-clinic.htm They do "New Travel Appointments" and recommend vaccines based on length of stay and places you visit. I am going to India for 4 months and plan on visiting city life, jungle, desert, village life, and beach life. I received Flu Shot, Tetanus, Hep A, and Polio. I also got an Rx for Malaria (taken every day on vacation and a month after return) and Typhoid. I'm sure shorter trips do not require so many, thats why its a good idea to meet with the professionals. Total cost $249 for office visit and vaccines. Rx cost about $30.
5. Safety
Smart Traveler http://travel.state.gov/travel/travel_5852.html- Find out safety info, maps, and consulate locations while your in another country.
Daily Rx - If you have regular medication such as birth control for women, its important you have enough supply. Double check the dates. Mail order rx will give you up to 3 months supply in about 5 days.
Daily Rx - If you have regular medication such as birth control for women, its important you have enough supply. Double check the dates. Mail order rx will give you up to 3 months supply in about 5 days.
6. Clothing
Depending on where you visit depends on what you wear. In major cities women can get away with more modern dress. In Goa, women can pretty much wear what they want. In villages and a lot of holy places, women have to be covered. Just keep in mind to have a few options. Remember you can always buy clothes when you get there.
7. Hindi Pocket Book
Easy to follow, especially if you read the pronunciation section first!
