Living in India

When moving to a new country, life and customs may force you outside of your comfort zone. Learning about the country you will be living in will help you to better transition from life in the United States to life out of the United States. This is especially unimportant in countries with strong traditions and beliefs, like India.

If you are planning to move to India there are quite a few things you should keep in mind about your new life.

CLIMATE

Summers in India are very hot and humid. Wearing loose fitting, light colored clothing will help curb the effects of the heat. It is nearly imperative for you to carry a deodorant spray with you and possible a bottle of face wash to help stay fresh throughout the day.

With the heat and humidity come massive amounts of mosquitoes. Carrying a mosquito repellant will be a very good choice.

HOUSING

When looking for a neighborhood to live in, be sure to focus on more non-traditional upper-scale options. Choosing a lower cost option may help your wallet, but not your ease of living. Middle class neighborhoods will be full of traditional Indian cultures and families. These families live a different lifestyle than the one you are used to. The differences may have the neighbors gawking at your clothing, living arrangements and social practices and finding them offensive in some cases.

RETAIL

Aside from the MRP (Max Retail Price) on name brand product, you must never pay full price. You will inevitably stick out like a sore, foreign thumb and the price will be highly inflated for you. Bargaining prices in a tough and kind manner is not only acceptable but also expected.

STREET LIFE AND TRANSPORTATION

Do not, for any reason, give beggars money! It is believed that giving money to beggars breeds crime. Instead, if you feel you must give something, offer food. If the beggar does not accept the food, give nothing, turn and walk away.

Learning the dialect and accent of India will help you to communicate with the rickshaw and taxi drivers. The names of streets may sound very different when spoken with an Indian dialect.

GOVERNMENT

Bribery is very common in some parts of India. Many government employees demand these bribes. Do not pay these bribes. If someone has demanded a bribe from you while you are living in India, be sure to look up the local help line number available in some cities. These help lines have been put in place to report these government offenses. Keep in mind, that if you make the mistake and pay a bribe, you will always be expected to pay them.

COMMON TRADITIONS

* Always use your right hand for everything (the left hand is reserved for sanitary purpose)

* Eat only sterile food

* Drink only bottled water

* Wear modest clothing

* Take off your shoes when entering places of worship (except churches) and homes

* Make rickshaws and taxis use the meter

When moving to and living in a new country it is important to learn and follow the local customs and traditions. Being understanding and supportive of what people in your new country believe, is important. Congratulations on your move and enjoy India!