The first two days in India decide your entire experience. This guide helps you settle slowly — understand systems, avoid overwhelm, and start feeling comfortable instead of confused.
Before anything else, get a working Indian SIM or eSIM. Without data — taxis, payments, maps and communication become stressful. Hotel WiFi is unreliable.
Carry small cash (₹100–₹500 notes). Most places accept digital payments, but foreigners initially rely on cash. Avoid airport exchange counters — poor rates.
Do not negotiate with drivers outside stations or airports. Use Uber only. It removes language confusion, price bargaining and route manipulation.
Eat freshly cooked hot food. Avoid raw chutneys, cut fruit, tap water, and ice on day one. Your stomach needs time to adjust to new bacteria.
Indians may stare — it is curiosity, not hostility. Personal space norms differ. You can politely say “No thank you” and walk away confidently.
Spend one calm walk around your area during daylight. Locate: pharmacy, ATM, grocery store, and a reliable café. This reduces anxiety immediately.
Most travellers try to see monuments immediately after arrival. Delhi is not difficult — it is simply *different*. Give yourself one day to understand the system first, and the city becomes dramatically easier.
If you want someone to explain things in person and make your first days easier, you can message me directly.
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