How to book tickets to India

Booking air tickets to India can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of research and flexibility, you can find great deals on flights to this beautiful country. India is a popular destination for travelers from around the world, and with its diverse culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine, it's easy to see why.

When planning your trip to India, it's important to book your airfare as early as possible. Prices tend to be lower the further in advance you book, so start your search as early as you can. It's also important to be flexible with your travel dates, as prices can vary greatly depending on the day of the week and time of year you plan to travel.

One of the best ways to find cheap flights to India is to use a search engine like Kayak or Google Flights. These search engines allow you to compare prices from different airlines and travel agencies, making it easy to find the best deal. You can also use discount airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet and AirAsia India which often have cheaper fares.

Another way to save money on your flight to India is to sign up for email alerts from airlines and travel agencies. Many of these companies offer special deals and discounts to subscribers, so you'll be among the first to know about any sales or promotions that may be available.

Using a travel agent is also a great way to find deals and discounts that are not available to the general public. They have access to a wide range of travel options and can help you find the best deal for your budget.

You can also use fare comparison websites like farecompare, skyscanner, google flights to compare prices from different airlines and pick the cheapest one. If you have accumulated rewards points or credit card miles, you may be able to use them to book a flight to India at a discounted rate.

By following these tips and being flexible with your travel dates, you can find cheap flights to India and save money on your trip. So start your research and book your tickets today to experience the beauty and wonder of India.

There are several ways to book cheap tickets to India

Book in advance:

Airfare tends to be cheaper the earlier you book. This is because airlines typically release seats at lower prices to fill planes as early as possible. The more time you have before your trip, the more likely you are to find a good deal.

Be flexible with your travel dates:

Prices can vary greatly depending on the day of the week and time of year you plan to travel. For example, flights during peak tourist season or on weekends tend to be more expensive. Consider traveling during off-peak times or mid-week to find cheaper fares.

Compare prices:

Use a search engine such as Kayak or Google Flights to compare prices from different airlines and travel agencies. This way you can compare prices and choose the one that fits your budget. 

Use discount airlines:

Low-cost airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet and AirAsia India often have cheaper fares. These airlines usually have a more limited route network and fewer amenities than traditional airlines, but they can save you a significant amount of money.

Sign up for email alerts:

Many airlines and travel agencies offer email alerts for special deals and discounts. By signing up for these alerts, you'll be among the first to know about any sales or promotions that may be available.

Use a travel agent:

They can often find deals and discounts that are not available to the general public. They have access to a wide range of travel options and can help you find the best deal for your budget.

Use fare comparison website:

Websites like farecompare, skyscanner, google flights can give you a fair idea of prices from different airlines and you can pick the cheapest one. These websites search different airlines, travel agencies and online travel agents to find the best deals.

Use rewards points or credit card miles:

If you have accumulated rewards points or credit card miles, you may be able to use them to book a flight to India at a discounted rate. Many credit cards offer rewards points or miles for every dollar you spend, which you can later redeem for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.

Search for flights in incognito mode:

When searching for flights, try using incognito mode on your browser. This will prevent the website from saving your search history and will display prices that are not influenced by your previous searches.

Look for connecting flights:

Sometimes, taking a connecting flight can be cheaper than a direct flight. Compare the prices of both options and see if the savings are worth the extra travel time.

Use airline rewards program:

Many airlines offer rewards program for frequent flyers, which can help you save money on future flights. Sign up for the program and accumulate points or miles that can be used to book flights.

Book a package deal:

Booking a flight and hotel together can sometimes be cheaper than booking them separately. Look for package deals that include a flight and hotel, or flight and car rental.

Keep an eye out for flash sales:

Many airlines and travel agencies offer flash sales, which are short-term deals on flights. Keep an eye out for these sales and be ready to book quickly, as they often sell out quickly.

Be open to alternative airports:

If you are flying to a major city like Mumbai or New Delhi, consider searching for flights to nearby airports like Pune or Jaipur, you might get a better deal.

Check alternate dates:

If your travel dates are flexible, try searching for flights on different days of the week. Flights are often cheaper on weekdays than on weekends.

Be aware of the baggage policies:

Some airlines charge additional fees for checked baggage and carry-on luggage. Make sure to check the baggage policies of each airline you are considering and factor in any additional costs when comparing prices.

By following these tips and being flexible with your travel dates, you can find cheap flights to India and save money on your trip. 

I’m Learning About Vehicles. A Visual Introduction to Automobiles, Movement of People or Goods and Various Modes of Transport

How to monetize your travel blog

 

Starting a travel blog can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for many people. One of the main reasons to start a travel blog is to share your travel experiences and adventures with others. A travel blog is a great platform to document and share your travels with a wider audience, and to inspire and help others plan their own travels. A well-written and informative travel blog can be a helpful resource for people who are planning their own travels, and can also be a way to connect with others who share a love of travel and form a community of readers. In addition to these benefits, blogging can also help improve your writing and communication skills, and can be a great way to learn about new cultures and places. While it takes time and effort to monetize a blog, a successful travel blog can potentially generate passive income through sponsored content, advertising, and other revenue streams.

There are many ways to monetize a travel blog, including:

Sponsored content:

Sponsored content is a form of advertising in which a company pays you to write a blog post or create social media posts about their product or service. To create sponsored content, you will need to pitch your idea to companies and negotiate the terms of the partnership. It's important to disclose to your readers that the post is sponsored and to only work with brands that align with your values and the theme of your blog.

Sponsored social media posts:

Similar to sponsored content on your blog, you can partner with travel brands and create sponsored posts on your social media channels in exchange for payment. To create sponsored social media posts, you will need to pitch your channels to companies and negotiate the terms of the partnership. It's important to clearly disclose to your followers that the posts are sponsored and to only work with brands that align with your values and the theme of your blog.

Affiliate marketing:

Affiliate marketing is a way to earn a commission by promoting other people's products. When you include an affiliate link in a blog post and someone clicks on it and makes a purchase, you will earn a small commission. To get started with affiliate marketing, you will need to sign up for an affiliate program and use unique affiliate links in your blog posts. Some popular affiliate programs for travel bloggers include Amazon Associates and the Booking.com Affiliate Program.

Advertising:

You can sell advertising space on your blog to travel-related companies. This can be in the form of banner ads, display ads, or sponsored posts. To sell advertising space, you will need to create a media kit with information about your blog's traffic, demographics, and rates. You can then pitch your blog to companies and negotiate the terms of the advertising partnership.

Ebook or course:

If you have a lot of knowledge and experience about a particular aspect of travel, you can create an ebook or course and sell it on your blog. This can be a one-time purchase or a subscription-based service. To create an ebook or course, you will need to spend time researching, writing, and formatting the content. You can use a platform like Teachable or Udemy to sell your course.

Physical products:

You can create and sell physical products, such as travel guides or travel-themed merchandise, on your blog. This can be a good option if you have a strong brand and a loyal following. To create physical products, you will need to source materials and manufacturers, and handle fulfilment and shipping.

Services:

If you have a particular skill or expertise related to travel, you can offer services on your blog. This could include trip planning, travel photography, or travel writing. To offer services, you will need to create a services page on your blog and clearly outline what you are offering and how much you charge.

Sponsored trips:

You can partner with travel companies and visit destinations in exchange for a fee. This can be a great way to experience new places and generate content for your blog, but it's important to disclose to your readers that the trip was sponsored. To get sponsored trips, you will need to pitch your blog to travel companies and negotiate the terms of the partnership.

Sponsored reviews:

You can review travel products or services in exchange for payment or a free product or service. To create sponsored reviews, you will need to pitch your blog to companies and negotiate the terms of the partnership. It's important to be honest and transparent in your reviews and to only work with brands that align with your values and the theme of your blog.

Consulting or coaching:

If you have experience running a successful travel blog, you can offer consulting or coaching services to other travel bloggers or aspiring travel bloggers. You can offer one-on-one sessions or group coaching programs and charge a fee for your services. To offer consulting or coaching services, you will need to create a services page on your blog and clearly outline what you are offering and how much you charge.

Freelance writing:

If you have a strong writing background, you can use your travel blog as a portfolio to showcase your skills and land freelance writing gigs with other websites or publications. You can offer writing services such as blog posts, articles, or social media content. To get started with freelance writing, you will need to create a writing portfolio and pitch your services to potential clients.

Event speaking:

If you are an experienced and confident speaker, you can use your travel experiences and expertise to speak at events and conferences. This can be a great way to monetize your blog and reach a larger audience. To get speaking gigs, you will need to create a speaker's kit with information about your background and speaking topics, and pitch yourself to event organizers.

Subscription-based content:

You can offer premium, subscription-based content on your blog that is only accessible to paying members. This could include exclusive blog posts, e-books, or courses. To create subscription-based content, you will need to use a platform like Patreon or Memberful to manage payments and access to the content.

Sponsored newsletters:

If you have a large email list, you can partner with travel brands to include sponsored content in your newsletters. To create sponsored newsletters, you will need to pitch your blog to companies and negotiate the terms of the partnership. It's important to clearly disclose to your readers that the content is sponsored and to only work with brands that align with your values and the theme of your blog.

Donations:

If you have a strong connection with your readers and they value your content, you can set up a donations page on your blog and ask your readers to support your work. You can use a platform like PayPal or Patreon to manage donations.

Groping in India and how to prevent it

 

Groping is not acceptable or common in any society, including in India but it is sadly a common thing and it happens a lot. It is a form of sexual harassment and is illegal in many countries including India. No one should be subjected to unwanted physical contact and it is important for individuals to respect the boundaries and personal space of others. If you have experienced or witnessed groping or any other form of sexual harassment, it is important to report it to the police or to a trusted individual such as a friend and or family member.

Essential India Travel Guide: Travel Tips And Practical Information

Here are some tips that may help you prevent yourself from being groped in public in India:

Be aware of your surroundings: Always paying attention to what is happening around you can help you identify potential dangers and take steps to avoid them. This can include being aware of the people around you, the location of exits and escape routes, and any potential weapons or objects that could be used to defend yourself.

Trust your instincts: If you do feel uncomfortable or unsafe in any situation, it is important to listen to your instincts and remove yourself from the situation as soon as possible. This may involve leaving a party or other event, or finding a different route home if you feel unsafe while walking or using public transportation.

Dress modestly: Wearing modest clothing can help you feel more comfortable and less vulnerable in public. Avoid clothing that is revealing or that may draw unwanted attention to yourself. You can always wear the Indian salwar kameez to blend in the crowd. This will indicate that you aware of Indian culture and customs.

Travel in groups: It is always safer to travel in groups especially at night. This can not only help deter potential attackers but also provide support if you do encounter a dangerous situation.

Be assertive: If someone touches you without your consent, it is important to speak up and make it clear that the behaviour is unacceptable. This can involve using a firm voice and making eye contact, and may involve seeking help from a trusted individual or the authorities if the situation escalates.

Seek help: If you are being harassed, assaulted or you feel you have been touched, it is important to seek help from a trusted individual or the police as soon as possible. This can involve calling the police or finding a safe place to go until help arrives.

Avoid deserted areas: Staying in well-lit, populated areas, especially at night, can help reduce the risk of being attacked. Avoid walking through deserted streets or alleys, and consider taking a different route home if you feel unsafe.

Stay on the street: When walking on the street, stay far away from bushes, alleys, and other areas where someone could hide. This can help you stay visible to passers-by and reduce the risk of being attacked from behind.

Keep your phone charged: Make sure your phone is charged in case you need to call for help. Consider downloading a personal safety app that allows you to send an alert to a trusted contact in case of an emergency. Learn the local police number. 

Stay alert on public transportation: Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you while using public transportation. If you feel unsafe, consider switching to another mode of transportation or asking a trusted individual to accompany you.

Use the buddy system: If you are going to a party or other event, consider arranging for a friend to check in on you or come pick you up if you feel unsafe. This can provide added support and help ensure your safety.

Keep a personal safety device with you: Consider carrying a personal safety device, such as a whistle or pepper spray, to use in case of an emergency. These devices can help deter attackers and attract attention if you need help.

Take self-defence classes: Enrolling in a self-defence class can provide you with the skills and confidence you need to protect yourself in case of an attack. These classes often cover topics such as how to identify and avoid dangerous situations, how to escape from an attacker, and how to use basic self-defence techniques.

Learn Hindi words: Learning a few words from the local language can go a long way. Here are some Hindi travel words that you can use if you travel to India.

Raise an alarm: You can raise an alarm by shouting or talking in raised voice to the individual concerned. This way the assaulter will get afraid and the crowd will come to your aid.  

India Travel Health Guide: Health Advice and Tips for Travelers to India

12 most annoying behaviours of Indian people

Following the popularity my previous post called the “10 things you will hate about India” here are few more anecdotes of a similar note. I am listing some annoying behaviours of Indian people that you’ll not find anywhere in the world. Indians that are born and or at least raised outside of India are fine. What I find most surprising that an ancient culture such as of India’s which is unparalleled in history; refinement is not something that is found in India. Read to find out why!

Urination on the side of the road

Although defecation is somewhat restricted to early mornings, Indian men just find it easier to urinate at whenever they want at the side of the road without being stopped. Although, things are changing rapidly in the metros, it’s still widespread in smaller towns and villages.

Burping

Some Indians just don’t get it! They burp as if no one’s listening. It’s an extremely filthy habit. Many Indians don’t have any etiquette or sense of politeness. As far as I am aware, burping is considered unsexy in most parts of the world. But in India, it’s “almost” acceptable. Remember not all Indians do it. It depends on individual custom, where they are coming from and how they have been brought up. It’s more of a trait of lower middle class Indians. But don’t get surprised if you hear people burping in India after they’d had their food.

Staring at tourists and women

We Indians love to stare at one another and the funny thing is we don’t even know we are doing it. Indian women are used to being watched. If you’re fair skinned with blonde hair then expect to be stared it, you just have to ignore it. If you’re lucky you might be even groped. Here's how it happens. 

Nagging behaviour (no such thing as no)

Indians don’t take no for an answer. One classic example is street vendors selling goods. Some of them will follow you around and keep nagging you to buy their merchandise. After a while, many tourists just give in and buy whatever they’re selling. The trick here is to be thick-skinned and ignore it but can be hard if you’re visiting India for the first time. To be honest, you can’t really blame them; tourists are considered as soft targets.

Indians have no sense of time (we are always late)

Guilty as charged; been there done that. We Indians have no sense of time. Many Indians will never arrive on time. In addition, we always have classic excuses up our sleeve such that they could not sleep well, baby was asleep, was stuck in traffic etc. Why don’t they ever plan their time?

Men scratching testicles in public

Many Indian men have this filthy habit of scratching their testicles. They do not realise that there are others who might be watching. Some of them live in their own world and do not considering scratching their balls in public to be in bad taste. This is a behaviour that is utterly disgusting. I absolutely hate seeing Indian men scratch their balls in public. But mind you – not all of them do it, just a select few.

Throwing litter on the road

Guess what we do with the household rubbish – you got it right, we dump on the side of the road.  In addition, Indians do not take their litter home or throw it in a dustbin (because there aren’t any); we throw it on the road. Most Indians do not have any civic responsibility of protecting the environment. What’s wrong with Indians?

Spitting in public

Many Indians like to eat the “paan” that generates “red-spit” that has to be thrown somewhere. It generally is spat on the road. The habit is so rampant that the authorities have put images of gods and goddesses on the walls of government buildings and no Indian will spit on them. Another habit is the chewing of tobacco (called gutkha) that is often spat on the road.

Indians talk too much

They will start talking to you even if they don’t know you. They will come up to you and start chatting your brains out. On trains, expect to start a conversation or at least engage in loud conversation even if you don’t want to. If you are on the train, expect to be asked things like; where you are from, where are going, blah blah blah? In addition, you will find most Indians on their mobile phones; I wonder who they are actually talking to?

Can’t wait at queues

Another annoying thing about Indians is that, Indians cannot wait at queues. You will notice this when getting on trains. You won’t necessarily be pushed but certainly shoved a little to make way for the person at the back.

Picking nose in public

Most people at some time of their lives had the urge to pick their nose in public. So what do you do? Perhaps excuse yourself to the rest-room or somewhere private and pick your nose. Most people in the west would not pick their nose in public. However in India, some people don’t mind picking their nose in public. Don’t be alarmed to see some people picking their on public transport. 

Farting

I have kept the best for last. In most western nations, it’s a despicable act but in some parts of India, it’s considered natural and passing of wind even in public is not despised. Farting in public must be declared a criminal act. Anyone committing this heinous crime must be publicly whipped.

There you go; you’ve been warned….I just hope we don’t get on your nerves while you are here. It’s just that we are a little stubborn if you know what I mean about following the rules.

But, not all of us are cheap and some of us do have redeeming values.

Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India: (Multiculturalism for Children: Introduction to Global Diversity, Cultures and Customs)

Best places to visit in Agra with family

 

The city of Agra is situated in northern India and is the home of the Taj Mahal one of the seven wonders of the world. The city has a long and rich history and has played a major role in the development of India.

The earliest recorded history of Agra dates back to the 16th century when it was the capital of the Mughal Empire. The Mughals were a Muslim dynasty that ruled over much of India from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Agra was an important centre of power and culture during this time, and many of the city's most famous landmarks were built during the Mughal period.

One of the most famous of these landmarks is the Taj Mahal, a white marble grave built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife called Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In addition, to the Taj Mahal Agra is home to a number of other historic landmarks, including the Agra Fort, a red sandstone fortress built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. The Agra Fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is known for its beautiful gardens, palaces and many mosques.

Agra has also played a role in modern Indian history. In the early 20th century, the city was a centre of the Indian independence movement and also was the site of a number of protests and boycotts against British rule in India.

Today Agra is a bustling city with a population of over 1.6 million people. It is a major tourist destination with millions of visitors that come each year to see the Taj Mahal and other historic landmarks of the city. Despite the many challenges it has faced over the years, Agra remains an important cultural and historical centre in India.

India For Kids: Amazing Facts About India

If you are coming to India with your family, then Agra is a great place to visit. Here are some of the many attractions you can visit with your family:

Taj Mahal: 

As mentioned earlier, this majestic white marble mausoleum is the most famous and most visited tourist destination in Agra. TheTaj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture.

Agra Fort:

This red sandstone fortress was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Agra Fort is known for its beautiful gardens, palaces, and mosques.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb:

This mausoleum also known as the "Baby Taj," by the locals is a smaller version of the Taj Mahal and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. It was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in memory of her father.

Fatehpur Sikri:

This ancient city is located about 37 miles west of Agra and was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. It is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Buland Darwaza, a large gateway built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Mehtab Bagh:

This garden is located on the opposite side of the Taj Mahal and offers beautiful views of the monument. It is a popular spot for tourists to watch the sunset over the Taj Mahal.

Moti Masjid:

This mosque, also known as the "Pearl Mosque," is located inside the Agra Fort and is known for its beautiful white marble architecture.

Akbar's Tomb:

This tomb is located in the city of Sikandra, about 10 miles northwest of Agra. It is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar and is known for its unique blend of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, and Jain architectural styles.

Jama Masjid:

This mosque is located in the centre of Agra and is one of the largest in India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and is known for its beautiful marble and red sandstone architecture.

Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah:

This mausoleum, also known as the "Jewel Box," is located on the banks of the Yamuna River and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. It was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in memory of her father.

Chini ka Rauza:

This tomb is located in the city of Agra and is known for its beautiful tile work and Persian inscriptions. It was built by Shah Jahan's prime minister, Afzal Khan, in the mid-17th century.

Keetham Lake:

This man-made lake is located about 20 miles south of Agra and is a popular spot for picnics and birdwatching. It is home to a variety of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes.

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal:

This Sikh temple is located in the city of Agra and is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about the Sikh religion and culture.

Dayal Bagh Temple:

This temple is located about 5 miles north of Agra and is known for its beautiful marble and sandstone architecture. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about the Radhasoami faith, a spiritual movement that originated in India.

Agra Cantonment:

This neighbourhood is located on the eastern edge of the city and is known for its beautiful colonial-style buildings. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about the city's history and to see examples of British architecture.

Mankameshwar Temple:

This temple is located in the heart of Agra and is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about Hinduism and to participate in traditional puja rituals.

Hathipol:

This lively market is located in the heart of the city and is a popular place for tourists to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Indian clothing.

Ram Bagh:

This garden is located about 5 miles north of Agra and was the first Mughal garden in India. It is known for its beautiful flowers and fountains, and is a popular place for tourists to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary:

This bird sanctuary is located about 30 miles east of Agra and is home to a variety of migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes. It is a popular place for birdwatching and nature photography.

Agra Art Gallery:

This art gallery is located in the centre of the city and is home to a collection of modern and contemporary Indian art. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about the art and culture of India.

Mariyam's Tomb:

This tomb is located in the city of Agra and is believed to be the final resting place of Mariyam, the daughter of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is known for its beautiful white marble architecture and is a popular place for tourists to visit.

St. John's College:

This college is located in the centre of the city and is known for its beautiful colonial-style architecture. It was founded in 1850 and is a popular place for tourists to learn about the city's history and education system.

Shish Mahal:

This palace is located inside the Agra Fort and is known for its beautiful mirrors and glasswork. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century and is a popular place for tourists to learn about Mughal architecture and culture.

Mughal Heritage Walk:

This walking tour takes visitors through the historic streets of Agra and is a great way to learn about the city's history and culture. The tour includes stops at a number of important landmarks, including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Jama Masjid.

Soami Bagh Temple:

This temple is located about 5 miles north of Agra and is known for its beautiful gardens and spiritual teachings. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about the Radhasoami faith and to participate in traditional puja rituals.

India For Children: Introduction To India For Kids