Vadodara, India the Sanskari Nagari of Gujrat

Vadodara or Baroda as it was formerly known is the third largest city of Gujarat, an Indian state. With a population of over 1.6 million residents it stands just after Ahmedabad and Surat. It is popularly known as the "Sanskari Nagari" as it is considered the cultural capital of Gujarat. Some call it the "Sayaji Nagari" named after a popular monarch Maharaj Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III.

The city of Vadodara lies on the banks of the river Vishwamitri, which is named after a renowned saint Sage Vishwamitra. Ahmedabad is to its South East. Vadodara is also the District administrative headquarters.

The places of interest in this area, worth a visit, include the grandiose Lakshmi Vilas palace, and the Maharaja Sayaji Rao University of Baroda. It has a multitude of departments like the Fine Arts, Performing Arts Technology, Management, Psychology, Social Work and Medicine. Its unique combination of courses draws students from myriad backgrounds. The economy of vadodara depends on industries like petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, plastics, engineering and Forex.

Irrespective of where you intend to travel there are a few things that you need to know. The most indispensable information that you need to carry is a list of emergency numbers and vital addresses. The list should have the number for the person you would like to be informed in case of an emergency, local friends if any and the address of important local establishments including nearby clinics and hospitals.

Be sure to carry clothes that suit the climate in Gujarat during your visit. You will need light cotton garments during the hot summers and the monsoons. The summer extras include hats, sun block and sun glasses. All you need are a couple of folding umbrellas or raincoats to battle the rains. During the winter months you will need jackets and woolen garments to keep the cold at bay.

Do consult your general practitioner before you take this trip. Find out what vaccines you need in case of a long stay. You may come across diseases like cholera, hepatitis, dengue, typhoid, dysentery, meningitis and typhoid. Carry a first aid box with precautionary medicines and ointments.

Be sure to carry your warfare against mosquitoes. You will need mosquito repellents and may be a mosquito net for a longer stay. Though all these are readily available there.

It might be a tough proposition during the summer months if you can not bear the heat. Do remember to bring your medicines and other accessories if you have respiratory problems.

Avoid eating on the streets or in smaller establishments, though cheap you can never be sure about the hygiene of the food. At all times carry your own bottled water and avoid cut fruits and salads especially in the summer heat. Don't partake of eatables and drinks from strangers.

Be on your guard regarding your luggage and personal belongings. Do not leave them unattended. Though the locals are trustworthy, thieves and pickpockets abound. Use a money belt and don't leave valuables in your hotel room.

Women should avoid traveling alone and also wear conservative clothes. Avoid revealing clothes and also public cabs or autos if you see a person other than the driver in them.

All in all a few precautions can help you enjoy your trip to Vadodara. Relish the culture and local food. Take care of yourself and have a happy tour.