🇮🇳 India

India is a subcontinent of extraordinary diversity - 28 states, hundreds of languages, and countless traditions. Indian culture centers on family, spirituality, and 'Atithi Devo Bhava' (guest is God). The concepts of 'jugaad' (resourceful improvisation) and 'chalta hai' (it works/that's okay) reflect the Indian approach to life's challenges. Ancient philosophies coexist with rapid modernization, creating a unique contemporary Indian identity.

Namaste Culture: Join palms and bow slightly when greeting - shows respect. Shoe Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants. Street Food Caution: Start with bottled water and cooked food, build tolerance gradually. Bargaining Expected: Especially in markets - start at 30% of asking price. Conservative Dress: Cover shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites.

Indian society is deeply hierarchical yet warmly hospitable. Extended family is central to life - decisions often involve multiple generations. 'Respect for elders' is paramount - touch feet of elders for blessings. Regional differences are enormous - a Punjabi, Tamil, and Bengali have distinct languages, foods, and customs. Spirituality permeates daily life through festivals, rituals, and philosophy, regardless of specific religious beliefs.

Winter (October-March): Best season for most regions, pleasant weather, peak tourist season, temperatures 10-25°C. Summer (April-June): Hot and dry, hill stations popular, temperatures 25-45°C+. Monsoon (June-September): Heavy rains, lush landscapes, fewer tourists, cultural festivals, temperatures 20-35°C. Southern India and mountains have different patterns - research specific regions.

Trains: Extensive network, book online through IRCTC, different classes available. Buses: State buses economical, private operators more comfortable. Auto-rickshaws: Negotiate price beforehand, use Ola/Uber in cities. Metro: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore have modern systems. Domestic Flights: Budget airlines connect major cities. Walking: Cities can be chaotic - stay alert to traffic.

Budget Travel (€15-30/day): Hostels/guesthouses €3-10, street food/dhabas €1-3, local transport €0.20-1, free temples and markets. Mid-Range (€30-60/day): Hotels €10-25, restaurant meals €3-8, attractions €1-5, some AC transport. Luxury (€60+/day): Heritage hotels €25-200+, fine dining €8-30+, private guides, luxury trains. Incredible value for money across all budgets.

Hindi and English are official languages, but India has 22 official languages and hundreds of dialects. Essential Hindi phrases: 'Namaste' (hello/goodbye), 'Dhanyawad' (thank you), 'Maaf kijiye' (excuse me), 'Kitna paisa?' (how much money?). English widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. Regional languages vary dramatically - Tamil in South, Bengali in East, Punjabi in North.

India is generally safe but requires awareness. Drink bottled water, avoid raw foods initially. Women should dress conservatively and be aware of cultural norms. Watch for tourist scams in popular destinations. Don't accept food/drinks from strangers on trains. Emergency numbers: 100 (police), 102 (ambulance). Carry copies of passport/visa. Pharmacies widely available for basic health needs.

Indian Rupee (INR) is the currency. Cash still preferred in most places, cards accepted in cities. ATMs abundant but may have withdrawal limits. Typical costs: Chai tea 10-20 INR, Street meal 30-100 INR, Train ticket 50-500+ INR, Budget hotel 300-800 INR/night. Tipping expected - 10% in restaurants, 50-100 INR for guides, round up for drivers.