When you’re making travel plans to India, don’t overlook the benefits of a homestay experience. Homestays provide the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Indian culture and learn about the way of life in various regions. You’ll get to participate in events and activities with the host family and can also end up saving a good amount of money on the cost of accommodations. You can also learn how to travel around India just like a local.
The homestay experience is designed to make you “live like a local” in your host country by understanding the local culture and traditions, attending local events, and exploring different parts of the town or city.
Here are some useful tips for traveling in India like a local:
Take a day trip to a wildlife sanctuary. India is blessed with a number of wildlife sanctuaries and nature preserves and some homestay packages include half-day or full-day trips to these destinations. Plan on taking one of these trips so you can see the native wildlife and plants in their natural habitats, take some great nature pictures, and
Join your host family on a shopping trip. When your host family is going to the market or area shopping hotspots, make sure you go along with them so you can understand how to shop at the market, how to haggle for the best price, and where some of the best local shops are. Many families go shopping only once or twice per week – even less if they live in a rural area.
Go on an eco-tour. Some homestay itineraries include backwater trips and eco-tourism activities. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to explore some of the forests and waterways, go on a fishing trip with local fishermen, or explore some of the mountains and hills on a trekking tour. This can be a great way to get out and enjoy the natural landscapes and beautiful scenery. Your host family might be able to pack up a meal for you before you leave!
Ride a rickshaw while traveling around the town or village. While a taxi or a rental car can seem like a convenient transportation option, you will most likely get stuck in traffic. Ride a rickshaw instead, a much more economical and even eco-friendly alternative to modern transportation. It can get you from one point to another fairly easily and can be a fun way to explore the town, village or city you’re staying in.
Take a guided tour by a local. Your host family might be able to offer you a guided tour of the area but if they don’t, you should contact a local guide for a day of exploring anyway. A local guide can take you to the temple, cultural attractions, plantations, parks, and other key points of interest.
Get a cooking lesson from the host family. Learn how to cook authentic Indian food by cooking with a member of your host family for an evening. Ask them to explain what the different spices and ingredients are, where they sourced them from, and what the stories are behind different recipes. You’ll be amazed by what you can learn from this hands-on learning experience!
About The Author:
Aileen Pablo is part of the team behind Open Colleges, one of Australia’s leading providers of TAFE courses equivalent and TESOL courses. When not working, Aileen blogs about travel, lifestyle, and beauty tips. She is also often invited as a speaker in Personality Development Seminars in the Philippines.
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