Posts
The Sodha Travel Blog has been expanded and redesigned! Please visit us at our new home.
Thanks,
The Sodha Travel Team
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
New Blog: Launching April 1!
Attention Sodha Travelers! Our new blog will be launching on April 1. More details coming soon...
Friday, March 26, 2010
Ground Transportation: India
There are many options for Ground Transportation in India. Here is a list of common transports and sample fares:
Taxi
Depending on the city/region, traditional taxicabs can be hired from stands or hailed from the street. They are required by law to be registered as commercial vehicles and have a fare-meter, though many drivers prefer to set a pre-paid flat rate. Surcharges will apply for extra baggage, night rides and tolls. Due to safety and convenience, taxis have become more popular in recent years.
Sample Fare: INR 15 – INR 25 per km
Bus
Buses are generally government-owned and provide a convenient and cheap mode of public transportation. Until recently, buses were overcrowded, not air-conditioned, and offered limited access to the disabled. However, new features such as air-conditioning and low-floor lifts are being initiated in cities to improve the system and attract private car owners to decongest roads.
Cycle Rickshaw
Cycle rickshaws have an elevated seat in the back with a person pedaling in front. Although banned in several cities for causing traffic congestion, they are still a feature in Delhi and provide a cheap mode of local transport.
Sample Fare: INR 15 – INR 50
Auto Rickshaw
Also called a tuk-tuk, an auto-rickshaw is a three-wheeled motor vehicle for hire. Generally green, yellow or black in color, they have regulated metered fares and are a common fixture throughout the country.
Sample Fare: Meter starts at INR 10, though many drivers prefer to set a flat rate
Suburban Rail System /Metro/Rapid Transit System
Suburban Rail Systems in India are local trains (similar to the American commuter train) and currently operational in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata. The Mumbai Suburban Railway has the largest passenger density in the world, transporting over 6.4 million passengers daily.
The Delhi Metro is air-conditioned and a reliable option for traveling throughout the city. It was also the first Metro in the world to be certified for environmentally friendly construction.
Rapid Transit Systems are currently under construction in Chennai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
Sample Fare: Delhi Metro ticket is INR 9 – INR 35, dependent on distance traveled; Rail System tickets average INR 25 per ticket
Train
The train stations in India, particularly in large cities, are quite complex and can be very overwhelming. We highly recommend using a transfer representative when applicable, as they can safely navigate entering/exiting the station. Please also keep a safe watch of your valuables. When we do hear of theft, it mainly occurs in or around train stations.
Trains are available for both day and overnight journeys. There are generally three classes of seating: 1st class A/C, 2nd class (A/C or non-A/C), and 3rd class non – A/C. Most travelers opt for 1st or 2nd class, where Western restroom facilities are available and seating is reserved. Depending on your itinerary and class of service, meals are delivered by a server or you may purchase food items from a vendor.
Taking an overnight train in India is NOT similar to European rail travel. (This refers to standard train travel, not luxury rail journeys including Palace on Wheels.) Although the Indian rail system is very reliable, we only recommend it for certain travelers. If you are particularly discerning, train travel can be a sensory overload.
Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary
Private Vehicle for Hire
Private vehicles can be hired for the day or a proposed itinerary and offer more comfort and a flexible schedule. Depending on the destination and season, A/C or non-A/C vehicles are available.
Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary
A Sodha Travel representative will be happy to recommend the best transportation, based on budget and preferences.
Taxi
Depending on the city/region, traditional taxicabs can be hired from stands or hailed from the street. They are required by law to be registered as commercial vehicles and have a fare-meter, though many drivers prefer to set a pre-paid flat rate. Surcharges will apply for extra baggage, night rides and tolls. Due to safety and convenience, taxis have become more popular in recent years.
Sample Fare: INR 15 – INR 25 per km
Bus
Buses are generally government-owned and provide a convenient and cheap mode of public transportation. Until recently, buses were overcrowded, not air-conditioned, and offered limited access to the disabled. However, new features such as air-conditioning and low-floor lifts are being initiated in cities to improve the system and attract private car owners to decongest roads.Sample Fare: INR 5 – INR 15 for a local ticket; INR 25 for an A/C bus
Cycle Rickshaw
Cycle rickshaws have an elevated seat in the back with a person pedaling in front. Although banned in several cities for causing traffic congestion, they are still a feature in Delhi and provide a cheap mode of local transport.
Sample Fare: INR 15 – INR 50
Also called a tuk-tuk, an auto-rickshaw is a three-wheeled motor vehicle for hire. Generally green, yellow or black in color, they have regulated metered fares and are a common fixture throughout the country.
Sample Fare: Meter starts at INR 10, though many drivers prefer to set a flat rate
Suburban Rail System /Metro/Rapid Transit System
Suburban Rail Systems in India are local trains (similar to the American commuter train) and currently operational in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata. The Mumbai Suburban Railway has the largest passenger density in the world, transporting over 6.4 million passengers daily.
The Delhi Metro is air-conditioned and a reliable option for traveling throughout the city. It was also the first Metro in the world to be certified for environmentally friendly construction.
Rapid Transit Systems are currently under construction in Chennai, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
Sample Fare: Delhi Metro ticket is INR 9 – INR 35, dependent on distance traveled; Rail System tickets average INR 25 per ticket
Train
Trains are available for both day and overnight journeys. There are generally three classes of seating: 1st class A/C, 2nd class (A/C or non-A/C), and 3rd class non – A/C. Most travelers opt for 1st or 2nd class, where Western restroom facilities are available and seating is reserved. Depending on your itinerary and class of service, meals are delivered by a server or you may purchase food items from a vendor.
Taking an overnight train in India is NOT similar to European rail travel. (This refers to standard train travel, not luxury rail journeys including Palace on Wheels.) Although the Indian rail system is very reliable, we only recommend it for certain travelers. If you are particularly discerning, train travel can be a sensory overload.
Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary
Private Vehicle for Hire
Private vehicles can be hired for the day or a proposed itinerary and offer more comfort and a flexible schedule. Depending on the destination and season, A/C or non-A/C vehicles are available.
Sample Fare: Dependent on Itinerary
A Sodha Travel representative will be happy to recommend the best transportation, based on budget and preferences.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
What Should I Pack?
I am often asked about what to pack when traveling to India and beyond. What clothes are appropriate? Can I bring candy to the children? Do I need to pack toilet paper? Can I bring my laptop? Here are some answers to your common travel questions:
Can I wear sleveless shirts and shorts in India?
Yes. I often wear tank tops and loose shorts during my travels. However, India is a modest country and I do not suggest wearing anything that is too short, tight, or revealing. I recommend packing loose and comfortable clothing.
What should I bring for the children?
Candy is always a favorable option, though be aware of melted chocolate in your suitcase during summer months! The kids also love pens and small pads of paper.
Can I bring my laptop? Is the internet available?
Yes, internet is available in most destinations. Depending on your region of travel, the connection may be slow and/or limited. You may bring your laptop, but you may not have WiFi available. Please also note that most hotels do charge for internet and WiFi usage.
Is it necessary to pack toilet paper?
It depends on your itinerary, though many restroom facilities only have Indian style toilets and therefore no toilet paper. Also, most train stations and bus stations only have Indian style toilets, so if you will be frequently traveling by rail or bus, it is recommended. I usually carry some sort of tissue in my purse, just in case.
Sodha Travelers will also receive a comprehensive Destination Guide before departure that highlights frequently asked questions about your trip. Happy Travels!
Can I wear sleveless shirts and shorts in India?
Yes. I often wear tank tops and loose shorts during my travels. However, India is a modest country and I do not suggest wearing anything that is too short, tight, or revealing. I recommend packing loose and comfortable clothing.
Candy is always a favorable option, though be aware of melted chocolate in your suitcase during summer months! The kids also love pens and small pads of paper.
Can I bring my laptop? Is the internet available?
Yes, internet is available in most destinations. Depending on your region of travel, the connection may be slow and/or limited. You may bring your laptop, but you may not have WiFi available. Please also note that most hotels do charge for internet and WiFi usage.
Is it necessary to pack toilet paper?
It depends on your itinerary, though many restroom facilities only have Indian style toilets and therefore no toilet paper. Also, most train stations and bus stations only have Indian style toilets, so if you will be frequently traveling by rail or bus, it is recommended. I usually carry some sort of tissue in my purse, just in case.
Sodha Travelers will also receive a comprehensive Destination Guide before departure that highlights frequently asked questions about your trip. Happy Travels!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Passport Fees
As you have probably heard in the news, the U.S. Department of State is proposing an increase in passport fees. The proposed schedule is as follows:
$135 for a first-time U.S. Passport Book for adults (age 16 and over)
$110 for U.S. Passport Book renewal (age 16 and over only)
$105 for a U.S. Passport Book for minors (under age 16)
$55 for a first-time U.S. Passport Card for adults (age 16 and over)
$30 for a U.S. Passport Card for adults (age 16 and over) who currently hold a fully valid U.S. Passport
$40 for a U.S. Passport Card for minors (under age 16)
$82 for additional visa pages
*The fee for expedited passport service will remain $60.
The State Department has stated in press releases and on their website that the fees are not just used to process passports but also to assist American citizens in emergency situations overseas. The money is also allocated to invest in fraud protection and expand passport infrastructure and services.
These fees are a significant increase from the present. (A current new adult passport is $100; Renewal is $75; Additional visa pages are free.) If you have been considering obtaining or renewing your passport, it is recommended to do so as soon as possible. No formal date has been released by the State Department on when these changes will be implemented.
$135 for a first-time U.S. Passport Book for adults (age 16 and over)
$110 for U.S. Passport Book renewal (age 16 and over only)
$105 for a U.S. Passport Book for minors (under age 16)
$55 for a first-time U.S. Passport Card for adults (age 16 and over)
$30 for a U.S. Passport Card for adults (age 16 and over) who currently hold a fully valid U.S. Passport
$40 for a U.S. Passport Card for minors (under age 16)
$82 for additional visa pages
*The fee for expedited passport service will remain $60.
The State Department has stated in press releases and on their website that the fees are not just used to process passports but also to assist American citizens in emergency situations overseas. The money is also allocated to invest in fraud protection and expand passport infrastructure and services.
These fees are a significant increase from the present. (A current new adult passport is $100; Renewal is $75; Additional visa pages are free.) If you have been considering obtaining or renewing your passport, it is recommended to do so as soon as possible. No formal date has been released by the State Department on when these changes will be implemented.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Featured Tour: Western Paradise
Sophistication meets tranquility in our Western Paradise tour. Spend 8 days/8 nights in Mumbai and Goa, two popular destinations on India's shores. Mumbai, formerly Bombay, is often termed the "New York City" of India. Fast-paced and modern, the city houses India's film and television industry, affectionately termed Bollywood. Though cosmopolitan, the city boasts of spectacular and historical sites: Elephanta Cave Island, Prince of Wales Museum, Crawford Market, Dhobi Ghat, and Marine Drive. Many also elect to visit the Dharavi Slum, made famous in the movie Slumdog Millionaire.
For more information about this featured tour, please contact a Sodha Travel representative!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Selecting the Best Accommodations for Your Trip
When it comes to selecting accommodations in India and Nepal, there are many options: International Branded Hotels, Guest Houses, Havelis, Boutique Hotels, Ecotourism Lodging, Hostels, Luxury Hotels, Forts, Palaces, and Heritage Hotels - just to name a few! Travelers of all budgets and interests can find suitable lodging, and often there are too many options available. There is also the challenge of selecting accommodations that match the traveler's standards - a 3 star hotel in India, for example, may not be considered a 3 star hotel in France. Here is a brief summary and price point of common accommodations:
$ - Economy
$$ - Moderate
$$$ - Deluxe
$$$$ - Superior
$$$$$ - Luxury
Forts, Palaces, and Havelis
Many Forts, Palaces, and Havelis (private mansions) have been converted to hotels and offer a truly authentic experience. These accommodations have a star rating and can offer services similar to a larger hotel. Often, the rooms are larger and the hotel staff is enthusiastic to share the history of the property. $$ - $$$$$ Pictured Right: Samode Haveli
International Branded Hotels
This includes Hyatt, Marriott, Ramada, InterContinental, etc. These hotels have a star rating and generally offer upgraded facilities and amenities, including a fitness center, room service, air-conditioning, swimming pool, and on-call doctor. $$$ - $$$$$
Ecotourism Lodging
These facilities benefit the environment and local people. Usually the property requires a minimum stay, and there are mandatory traveler responsibilities. In India and Nepal, most eco-friendly properties provide basic amenities and limited services but provide the guests with an opportunity to directly contribute to the indigenous sustainability. $ - $$$
Luxury Hotels
Guest Houses
Guest Houses are an excellent option for travelers seeking local lodging. Similar to a Bed and Breakfast, Guest Houses generally offer rooms with attached bathrooms and meals prepared by the owner. Often, these accommodations lack a full-time staff and are located in residential areas of the destination. Guest Houses may or may not have A/C and often have a star rating, though this rating may be self-proclaimed and not granted by the MT. $ - $$$ Pictured Above: Guest House in Ladakh
Hostels
Hostels provide shared accommodations (although private rooms may be available) where guests can rent a bed in a dormitory setting. The rooms can be co-ed or single-sex and commonly share a bathroom and lounge. These accommodations generally cater to backpackers and other budget travelers. Hostels may or may not have A/C. $
Whether you select an economical guest house or luxury hotel, the hospitality in India and Nepal is unlike any other part of the world. Gracious, patient, and accommodating, the staff will go above and beyond to ensure you remember the destination - and lodging - positively.
$ - Economy
$$ - Moderate
$$$ - Deluxe
$$$$ - Superior
$$$$$ - Luxury
Many Forts, Palaces, and Havelis (private mansions) have been converted to hotels and offer a truly authentic experience. These accommodations have a star rating and can offer services similar to a larger hotel. Often, the rooms are larger and the hotel staff is enthusiastic to share the history of the property. $$ - $$$$$ Pictured Right: Samode Haveli
International Branded Hotels
This includes Hyatt, Marriott, Ramada, InterContinental, etc. These hotels have a star rating and generally offer upgraded facilities and amenities, including a fitness center, room service, air-conditioning, swimming pool, and on-call doctor. $$$ - $$$$$
Ecotourism Lodging
These facilities benefit the environment and local people. Usually the property requires a minimum stay, and there are mandatory traveler responsibilities. In India and Nepal, most eco-friendly properties provide basic amenities and limited services but provide the guests with an opportunity to directly contribute to the indigenous sustainability. $ - $$$
Luxury Hotels Luxury hotels cater to the discerning traveler who seeks the absolute best in facilities and services, including silver-plated dinners and Mercedes for transport. This category includes Oborei and Taj properties, including the Oborei Amarvilas in Agra and Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. $$$$$ Pictured Left: View from Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Local Hotels and Inns
These properties can be owned and operated by a larger hotel chain but are established within India and Nepal. Local chains cater to most budgets, from Economy - Superior, and offer services synonymous with the category. The hotels' location is what often contributes to its rating, so be sure to verify its distance to preferred attractions and public transportation. $ - $$$$
Guest Houses
Hostels
Hostels provide shared accommodations (although private rooms may be available) where guests can rent a bed in a dormitory setting. The rooms can be co-ed or single-sex and commonly share a bathroom and lounge. These accommodations generally cater to backpackers and other budget travelers. Hostels may or may not have A/C. $
Whether you select an economical guest house or luxury hotel, the hospitality in India and Nepal is unlike any other part of the world. Gracious, patient, and accommodating, the staff will go above and beyond to ensure you remember the destination - and lodging - positively.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Client Testimonial: "India transformed me"
As I have often expressed in this blog, many of our clients have unexpected and powerful experiences in India and Nepal - experiences that change the way they view their self and humanity. Last week, we received the following testimonial from Laura Kingston in Seattle, Washington (reprinted with her permission):
My trip can be summed in one word: Transformed. As you know, I was planning this trip to India for many months. With your professional experience and expertise, we coordinated the itinerary, hotels, tours, and transportation from north to south. The sites, temples, and food was an anticipated highlight, as well as engaging with the locals. However, I was not anticipating the moment I shared with a local Indian woman in Rajasthan.
I was walking down the narrow streets, after another delicious cup of chai, looking to purchase more souvenirs. And then, I see this woman, sitting on the side of the street, singing to two children. She looked less financially privileged but was still a vision of opulence in her blue and orange saree. Her melodic voice carried down the street - almost like a siren. As the woman closed her eyes and hugged the children, they swayed with her tunes. She had no cup for money, and was not holding out her hand. She was just singing to the children. My eyes filled with tears and I stood on the street with my tears dotting the dusty lane. This moment did something to me. It reminded me that at the core, we are all people who want to feel loved, secure, and safe. India transformed me. And all because of a "random" encounter on the streets of Jodhpur.
Thank you for sharing your moment, Laura. Your experience is a reminder of how travel can be more than a vacation or cultural introduction - it can truly awaken the traveler.
To share your story, please email travel@sodhatravel.com. And, please remember: Your experiences will always be kept private unless otherwise permitted.
My trip can be summed in one word: Transformed. As you know, I was planning this trip to India for many months. With your professional experience and expertise, we coordinated the itinerary, hotels, tours, and transportation from north to south. The sites, temples, and food was an anticipated highlight, as well as engaging with the locals. However, I was not anticipating the moment I shared with a local Indian woman in Rajasthan.
I was walking down the narrow streets, after another delicious cup of chai, looking to purchase more souvenirs. And then, I see this woman, sitting on the side of the street, singing to two children. She looked less financially privileged but was still a vision of opulence in her blue and orange saree. Her melodic voice carried down the street - almost like a siren. As the woman closed her eyes and hugged the children, they swayed with her tunes. She had no cup for money, and was not holding out her hand. She was just singing to the children. My eyes filled with tears and I stood on the street with my tears dotting the dusty lane. This moment did something to me. It reminded me that at the core, we are all people who want to feel loved, secure, and safe. India transformed me. And all because of a "random" encounter on the streets of Jodhpur.
Thank you for sharing your moment, Laura. Your experience is a reminder of how travel can be more than a vacation or cultural introduction - it can truly awaken the traveler.
To share your story, please email travel@sodhatravel.com. And, please remember: Your experiences will always be kept private unless otherwise permitted.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Kingfisher Airlines set to join Oneworld
Kingfisher Airlines, an India-based airline, will be joining the Oneworld global alliance. First, India must grant regulatory approval, and the entire process is expected to take eighteen months. Currently, Oneworld brings together eleven airlines, including American, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Iberia. Oneworld has been named the World's Leading Airline Alliance for seven consecutive years and serves over 700 destinations worldwide.
Kingfisher has won numerous awards in the airline and travel industry, including:
*Best Airline in India
*Kingfisher Red: Best Low Cost Airline in India
*Best Customer Service
*Best Bonus Promotion
This is a wonderful partnership for our Oneworld clients, as now they can claim mileage points and other benefits by flying Kingfisher in India and beyond.
Kingfisher has won numerous awards in the airline and travel industry, including:
*Best Airline in India
*Kingfisher Red: Best Low Cost Airline in India
*Best Customer Service
*Best Bonus Promotion
This is a wonderful partnership for our Oneworld clients, as now they can claim mileage points and other benefits by flying Kingfisher in India and beyond.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Traveling with Children
In the March edition of our newsletter, The Sodha Traveler, I discuss the benefits of traveling with children. Textbooks are important resources but can limit the personal experiences that create global citizens. Traveling encourages children to develop personal connections and nurtures their desire to explore. It can also build confidence and teach tolerance, patience, communication, adaptability, and diversity.
Traveling with children also requires planning, and here is a list of resources to assist with your kid-friendly journey:
Blogs:
www.travelswithbaby.com
www.ciaobambino.com
www.travelingmamas.com
www.deliciousbaby.com
Books:
Wanderlust and Lipstick: Traveling with Kids by Michelle Duffy
How to Fit a Car Seat on a Camel: And Other Misadventures Traveling with Kids by Sarah Franklin
The Rough Guide to Travels with Babies and Young Children by Fawzia Rasheed de Francisco
Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children by Shelly Rivoli
As my husband I prepare to return to India with our toddler, we look forward to sharing in the joy as he experiences new wonders of the world. If you would like to receive future editions of our monthly newsletter, please register on our site!
Traveling with children also requires planning, and here is a list of resources to assist with your kid-friendly journey:
Blogs:
www.travelswithbaby.com
www.ciaobambino.com
www.travelingmamas.com
www.deliciousbaby.com
Books:
Wanderlust and Lipstick: Traveling with Kids by Michelle Duffy
How to Fit a Car Seat on a Camel: And Other Misadventures Traveling with Kids by Sarah Franklin
The Rough Guide to Travels with Babies and Young Children by Fawzia Rasheed de Francisco
Travels with Baby: The Ultimate Guide for Planning Trips with Babies, Toddlers, and Preschool-Age Children by Shelly Rivoli
As my husband I prepare to return to India with our toddler, we look forward to sharing in the joy as he experiences new wonders of the world. If you would like to receive future editions of our monthly newsletter, please register on our site!
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