If there is anything I have learned from YouTube about the United States, it is that many Americans know little to nothing about countries outside the Western world (North America, Europe, and Australia).

Street interviews of U.S. residents are easy to find online. Ordinarily, the interviewers ask random people on the streets about their knowledge of countries in Africa or Asia. The interviewees often fail terribly at these tests. After learning about other countries at school, many people never look at a map of the world again, even though a knowledge of geography can enhance our lives and our world.

On the other hand, my knowledge of geography has never been lacking. I enjoy looking at maps and studying atlases. Recently, I even had the chance to visit a country outside the West: India.

If you pick India as your next stop in your expedition across the world, there are many things about the country you may find interesting and unexpected. Still, a few hints before your visit can greatly enhance your experience.

With the right knowledge, you will find the best spots to see during your visit. You will also learn what to avoid, things that may get you into trouble and ruin your stay.

Touring India has its share of dos and don’ts. Here are some tips that will make your stay in the country more enjoyable:

Expect People – Lots of People
India is an interesting place to visit in part because you will experience the reality of India’s reputation as the world’s largest democracy. Since it is one of the most populous countries in the world, you will find throngs of people in most public places. While this is what you may expect from large gathering spots, such as markets and religious centers, elsewhere in the world, some places in India are densely populated in a special way.

It is fulfilling to interact with local people in any country you visit. By making friends with local people, you will better understand and appreciate the cultures and demeanor of the people in the new country. If you are the sort of person that enjoys such interactions, remember that some Indian citizens may not speak English. You may encounter a language barrier while making your way through the streets of India, but will also find a good number of local people who can speak English.

Enjoy Sites and Attractions
India is home to some extremely famous tourist sites. The picturesque Taj Mahal in Agra is perhaps the most recognizable. Other attractions include the elegant beaches of Goa, the colossal Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, the holy city of Varanasi, and the tranquil Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Madurai. The list of amazing sites is endless. Visiting a tourist information center before starting your tour of India is highly recommended. Then you can obtain a more detailed list of places of interest.

India offers a vast array of tourist sites and attractions to meet practically everyone's taste in travel and adventure....If you are sociable and skillful, you will have the time of your life and create many worthwhile memories.

PB

Other than these widely known attractions, other areas across India offer niceties that you will enjoy just as much as the main attractions. The country has exquisite offerings, such as resorts, hotels on islands, and beaches. Fans of urban areas can stay in central locations in cities. Thrill-seekers will find countless places to fulfill their need for adventures, including the Thar Desert in Rajasthan for camping, Andaman Island in the Bay of Bengal for scuba diving, and Dudhsagar Falls for trekking.

Know the Dry States
Some states in India have laws that prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol. States where such policies apply are called the dry states and include Bihar, Lakshadweep, Nagaland, Gujarat, Kerala, Manipur, and Mizoram.

This should not deter you from visiting. The dry state label may mean that buying or consuming alcohol comes with an extra hassle, but you can purchase and use alcohol. Bars, restaurants, and hotels in these states are prohibited from advertising or displaying alcoholic drinks publicly, but as a tourist or a local resident you can apply for a permit to buy and consume alcohol.

Alcohol prohibition in dry states means addiction and abuse may be less noticeable than they are in other areas. Because of the great lengths you must go to buy alcohol, dry states are good destinations to curb unhealthy drinking habits or the effects of alcohol abuse.

Conclusion
India offers a vast array of tourist sites and attractions to meet practically everyone’s taste in travel and adventure. As a country that speaks English in addition to the local languages, you will not experience much trouble getting around. If you are sociable and skillful, you will have the time of your life and create many worthwhile memories.