Okay for a woman to travel alone not knowing Indian languages?

Question

Hi, I'm taking my first trip to India to visit a friend who will be busy with wedding preparations. I want to travel around doing day trips but I don't know any Indian languages. I only speak English and although I'm not Caucasian, I'm sure I'll stick out as being a foreigner. My guy friend who is Indian says it's no problem for me to travel alone but a female friend says it would be weird. Any advice? I'll be around Pune.

Yes, I know the majority of people speak English, but I'm trying not to be a brash or rude American assuming that everyone needs to look out for me. I'm trying to get an idea of etiquette and what I should do when I travel. An Indian girl friend said she thought it was "improper" for me to be unaccompanied when traveling/going out to clubs, etc.

Answer 1

NOTHING PREVENTS YOU FROM TRAVELLING ALONE. MAJORITY OF CO TRAVELLERS WILL HELP /ASSIST YOU IN THE JOURNEY.
INDIANS GENERALLY ARE NOT TOO HARD.

Answer 2

I say no problem in big city like Pune.

It must have tourist info centre for a fee you can have female English speaking local guide. Or you can stick to guided bus tours.

Riksa and taxi driver may speak broken English or fairly good English. The friend will not have time to take you around but the friend's friend may be able to.

You can rent a car with English speaking driver or even risksa for whole day.

Tell them to find out.

Will you go at odd hours in some parts of Chicago or New York or L.A. I think not. Pune is no different, your friends should be able to guide you, and let you know.

Riksa may be more fun if it is not a rainy season or winter. It is open so you can see more.

You said,"An Indian girl friend said she thought it was "improper" for me to be unaccompanied when traveling/going out to clubs, etc".

Again you will not go to a strange club in any big city in USA without knowing, is it safe, or what is the dress code, or do they provide escort for unaccompanied person or must be accompanied.

Dress well avoid low cuts or halters ...... ware good shoes (walking or running) to run to catch the bus and strudy enough so you are not left to have them fixed. Also carry a dress shoes for the certain occasion. Skirt with top, Cotton dress, or any sturdy material dress. Avoid mini or maxi for comfort, real maxi may trip you.

Find out what is in fashion, from the friend, Pune will be six month behind. London or New York.

No need to try to blend. Lots of other people like you visiting.

Answer 3

Indians are generally friendly...and there will not be no problems about the English language. You would be surprised to learn that lots of them have fluent speaking and writing abilities. Just like in any other city, you should take necessary precautions, ( stay away from dimly lit areas, don't leave your things unattended, etc.) It is a great and wonderful place to visit. People and country makes it completely unique. You will discover why India is called Incredible India.

Answer 4

Yes it would be OK to travel alone, lucky you, this sounds like a great adventure. Of course, all ways be cautious, all ways know where you are going , dress conservatively, Look straight a head, and with confidence[ you don't want to give out victim vibes], Keep cash and I.D. on your body, not in your purse. I have this little pouch that wraps around my waist, under clothes, that I use for travel abroad. And there is always some one around that speaks English. Have fun you lucky girl!!

Answer 5

I've travelled all over the world on my own and had the best experiences of my life. You are always going to stand out as a traveller and attract attention and sometimes a certain amount of hassle but I have never had any major trouble or difficulties. Just make sure you are sensible, aware of your surroundings and the different cultural beliefs and you will be fine. I have always met heaps of people and had wonderful experiences.

Answer 6

Travelling in India without knowing Indian languages is not a problem. But someone who takes care of you must be there with you to avoid untoward incidents which do not necessaily to be carried from this country.

Answer 7

Hi, R. First you inform your friend that you are visitng India. You inform him/her the date and time of your arrival. I certainly believe that he/she will make arrangements for your stay and provide you a guide for your outings. This is the basic courtesy of Indian hospitality. Don't worry. Poona is a civilised town. In case you find any trouble, keep the local police well informed. Nothing would happen. Welcome to India and enjoy your stay here. Do not mind the bad experiences of some tourists seriously and but be alert and caoutious. Good luck!

Answer 8

If you're referencing the bus attack, from what I've heard she did have a male friend with her who was also severely beaten. According to the article the men thought they had the right to attack her because she was out at night with a man. It sounds like you may also have a similar attitude. Perhaps it is the attitudes of the men in your country that need to change, not the behavior of the women. If you severely punish the attackers, others will be less likely to think it's okay to do that in the future. If you don't punish them, many unsavory men will think it's perfectly fine to commit a similar crime in the future, because they won't get punished for it.

Answer 9

Pune is generally safe

u might want to avoid travel at night

if u use the train stick to first class

Answer 10

A lot of people in other countries understand English...but you probably will stand out.

Answer 11

Relax and enjoy yourself.

Be polite.

Pune is a lot safer than New York City.