The Hi-Low Game Rules

1. When to play: usually at the end-of-day meal or any time you are all together.
2. Rules of play: Everyone takes a turn stating one "high" or "best" or "most favorite" experience of the day and one "low" or "worst" or "least favorite" experience of the day while everyone else listens to and discusses their adventure.

Examples of the Hi-Low Game

1. As a First-Time Family Tour Planner:
   1. My Favorite Experience: Finding out new things about my family including their memories and their interests.
   2. My Least Favorite Experience: The amount of time it took to find the right "balance" among family desires/expectations and the reality of restrictions (time & money) we had.
2. As we left the USA:
   1. My High: Experiencing business-class travel on a long flight...very restful and refreshing.
   2. My Low: The amount of uncertainty & doubt I felt as a "blind" leader of 6 other family members--not all who got along with each other--on a 3 week adventure to a non-western country.
3. As my family interacted:
   1. My Best: Watching my sisters and wife become "tut-tut" buddies where they learned how to navigate and negotiate transportation by themselves in the city of Madurai or (2nd "best") watching my 68-year-old sister recall childhood memories of playing "dolls" at our parents former bungalow.
   2. My Worst: Seeing my sick wife miss some of the joys of adventuring or (2nd "worst") listening to my daughter list her regrets of "things undone" after returning home.

"Good" advice from Mr. Singh

1. Research and Plan your destination carefully. We took 12 months to plan for our first visit to India.

2. Familiarize local customs, traditions, and cultural norms. Local laws, dress codes, and etiquette (tipping or greetings). Our group missed this one and Mr. Singh guided us and provided us with appropriate attire when we visited a Sikh temple.

3. Read advisories or warnings (health & safety) from your government (travel.state.gov in USA) about your destinations in India. Try to contact someone (Mr. Singh at dharmendrasingh502 at gmail dot com) in India for local advice especially about climate at the time of year you are visiting.

4. Language Basics: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, especially greetings and polite expressions. It shows respect for the local culture and can help in everyday interactions. Smartphone apps such as translate do help in a pinch...especially if ordering medicines.

5. Health Preparations:

   1. Vaccinations: Depending on your destination, certain vaccinations may be required or recommended. Check with your healthcare provider or travel clinic well in advance. We started our vaccinations about 3 months prior to our trip.

   2. Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. [our luggage was confiscated due to an extra phone battery backup we stored in our checked-in luggage!]

   3. Medications: If you take prescription medications, make sure you carry enough for the duration of your stay, and research whether the medication is available in India. Most medicines can be obtained via public pharmacies (like local shops)...you rarely need to see a doctor to get the medications you need. That said, it took 4 hours and 7 stops to find a medication for an upper-respitory infection...just another part of the adventure.

6. Money and Finances:

   1. Currency and Exchange Rates: India's currency is Rupees (or Rupia), and try to exchange some money before you arrive. Have a combination of payment options, such as cash and cards (preferably one with no foreign transaction fees). Invariably, international transactions are "hit and miss" so always carry enough cash...especially in rural areas. Most larger cities in India have ATM machines.

   2. Notify Your Bank: Let your bank know about your travel dates so they don't freeze your accounts for suspicious activity when they see foreign transactions.

7. Pack Smart and Light:

   1. Appropriate Clothing: Research the weather for the time of year you're traveling, and pack accordingly. Always include comfortable shoes, and be mindful of cultural expectations (e.g., more conservative clothing for religious sites). Layer your clothing and don't overlook the hotel's laundry service which can be very reasonable and a headache saver.

   2. Essential Items: Make sure to carry a universal power adapter, portable charger (not placed in checked-in baggage!!), a first-aid kit, and any important documents like copies of your passport, visa, and itinerary.

8. Stay Connected and Informed:

   1. SIM Card or Roaming Plan: Consider getting a local SIM card if possible in the airport after you land...however it may be an hour or two before the local phone number becomes available. An international roaming plan is easy to purchase so you can access maps, contact others, or call for help if needed. Most international roaming plans are "hit and miss" in India so download any maps beforehand.

   2. Emergency Numbers: Know the local emergency numbers and the location of your country's embassy or consulate in case you need assistance.
      

9. Cultural Sensitivity: Show respect for local customs and communities. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural or religious areas.

"Bad" advice (i.e. what to avoid) from Mr. Singh

1. Not Understanding Local Laws and Customs:

   1. Ignoring Local Laws (that's why you want a Tour Guide): Each country has its own set of laws that may be very different from your own. Things like drug laws, alcohol consumption, or even local dress codes can be stricter than what you're used to. Breaking a local law—whether intentional or not—can result in serious consequences.

   2. Inappropriate Behavior: What's considered polite in your country may not be in another. For instance, certain hand gestures, touching, or addressing authority figures can be seen as disrespectful in some cultures.

2. Not Having Backup Plans:

   1. Failure to Plan for Emergencies: While it's impossible to predict everything, not having a backup plan in case of missed flights, health issues, or travel disruptions can lead to stress. Keep copies of important documents, a list of local emergency contacts, and backup credit cards or cash.

3. Overpacking or Underpacking:

   1. Bringing Too Much: Overpacking is a common mistake that leads to excess baggage fees and difficulty moving around. Stick to versatile clothing and items that are essential.

   2. Forgetting Essentials: On the flip side, don't forget the basics. Running out of toiletries (baby wipes are great!), medicines, or charging cables can make your trip more difficult than it needs to be.

4. Being Careless with Personal Belongings:

   1. Leaving Valuables Exposed: Pickpocketing can be common in crowded tourist areas. Avoid carrying too many valuables, and use anti-theft bags, lock your luggage, and keep your wallet in a secure spot. Even the monkeys can jump into vehicle to steal candy inside a bag...as happened with our diabetic daughter!

   2. Ignoring Safety: Traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas, can put you at risk. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid risky situations. Women and men may be treated differently. In our case, so many Indians wanted to talk and take pictures with the ladies in our group as well as our 6' 5" tall son...while everyone ignored the "old man" with the exception of the beggar girl who hung on for dear life at one tourist haven.

5. Overreliance on Technology:

   1. Relying Too Much on Google Maps: While maps and navigation apps are incredibly useful, don't depend solely on technology. It's good to have a backup paper map or the local address of where you're staying written down in both English and the local language, just in case your phone dies or you lose service.

   2. Forgetting the Human Connection: Sometimes technology can take over and make interactions with locals more transactional. Don't forget the value of asking people for directions, recommendations, or just having a conversation to get a richer experience.

6.  Ignoring Local Etiquette or Over-Tourism:

   1. Being Too Focused on Tourist Hotspots: While visiting iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Great Wall, or the Taj Mahal is a must, over-crowding at touristy locations can take away from the experience. Try exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, local markets, or lesser-known attractions.

   2. Disrespecting Sacred Sites: Many tourists make the mistake of treating religious or sacred sites like tourist attractions. Be aware of dress codes, noise levels, and appropriate behavior at these places.
      

Other locations to visit in India with Mr. Singh

1. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) The spiritual heart of India, Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, it offers an unforgettable experience of temples, ghats, and ancient rituals.

2. Kerala Backwaters A peaceful and scenic experience, the backwaters of Kerala are best explored on a houseboat. Surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters, Kerala also offers beautiful beaches, spice plantations, and hill stations. [Note: We visited this area...definitely a photographer's delight]

3. Rishikesh & Haridwar (Uttarakhand) Rishikesh is known for yoga and meditation, while Haridwar is a pilgrimage site where the Ganges River is worshipped. These destinations are perfect for spiritual seekers and those looking to explore India's holistic side.

4. Delhi The capital of India, Delhi is a blend of ancient and modern. Visit the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and the Lotus Temple, while also exploring the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk and the city's upscale shopping districts.

5. Mumbai (Maharashtra) Mumbai, the financial capital, is home to iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. It's a melting pot of cultures and offers exciting nightlife, theaters, and street food.

6. Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir) For adventure seekers, Ladakh offers breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude lakes, monasteries, and treks. Explore Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and Leh's Buddhist monasteries.

7. Himachal Pradesh (Shimla, Manali) The hill stations of Shimla and Manali are perfect for those who love the mountains. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, enjoy skiing, paragliding, and trekking, while taking in the natural beauty.. [Note: We visited another Hill Station called Kodaikanal...used during the British Raj to escape summer heat]

8. Udaipur (Rajasthan) Known as the "City of Lakes," Udaipur is famous for its beautiful palaces, like the City Palace, and tranquil lakes, such as Lake Pichola. The city offers a romantic atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

9. Jaipur (Rajasthan) Known as the "Pink City," Jaipur is famous for its grand palaces, forts, and vibrant markets. Visit the Amber Fort, City Palace, and Hawa Mahal for a glimpse of royal history.

10. Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) The "Golden City" of Jaisalmer is known for its majestic sandstone fort, Jaisalmer Fort, and its beautifully decorated havelis. The Thar Desert and camel safaris make for an unforgettable desert experience.

11. Khajuraho Temples (Madhya Pradesh) The UNESCO-listed Khajuraho temples are famous for their intricate and erotic sculptures, representing one of the finest examples of medieval Indian architecture and artistry.