Visiting India is like living a completely different version of your life, in time-lapse. It has so much to offer that you will be overwhelmed, mostly in a good exciting way. It will be a great time of inspiration, realization, rejuvenation, appreciation, and healing.
Constant chaos of India will also bring out the demons. So many people. So many colors. So many sounds. So many smells. All the time. You will eventually be jet lagged, tired, impatient, frustrated, and annoyed. It’s not a matter of who, but when. Everyone gets to that point. So, if you are checked out easily, this will be a rough time and we discourage you from considering this trip. But it doesn’t end at a discouraging place. In the midst of all of the chaos, God will whisper into your heart and start doing miracles in your life. For the people that are ready for a spiritual adventure, this is the ultimate once in a lifetime opportunity.
Physically, if you are able to walk about 5 miles on some days with a few stairs here and there, you will enjoy the streets of India. Most places that you will be visiting are not handicap friendly. And your tour guide does not have experience in navigating through such scenario at this point, but if there is enough interest in the future, he will consider getting additional help to make it happen. But not just yet.
Spiritually, you don’t have to be Catholic but you should be respectful of the fact that this is a Catholic trip and there will be Catholic services along the way. While the participation is optional, it is highly encouraged to get the best out of the trip.
FOOD – It is best if you are someone who enjoys Indian food, a.k.a. the curry. There will be non-curry options but not many and not often. Even though most meals are mild, it still will be hard for some people to keep eating similar flavors for several days in a row. There will be lactose-free and gluten-free options, however people with serious food allergies must discuss with the guide before signing up for the trip.
HEALTH – You can expect to have travelers diarrhea at some point during the trip. However, we will go prepared with proper medication which will control the situation in a matter of hours. Tap water is not safe to drink but it takes a lot of discipline to remember that in times like brushing teeth. Cut fruits, salads and all cold foods are forbidden by the guide for the obvious reasons. You will not be taken to cities that have viruses and safety concerns. And the trips are usually planned during non-rainy seasons to stay away from mosquitos and malaria. Regardless, people are encouraged to take malaria shots before the trip or pills during the trip.
VISA – Application process is boring and confusing, but there will be no reasons for denials, unless of course you have had criminal history.