|
|
 |
| |
 |
How you can help | Getting here | On Getting here |
Getting here
First Things First…
| What to Pack…hmmmm |Essentials
|
Essentials
What About a Mobile Phone?
You can bring your mobile phone, just make sure that it is a GSM and that you bring your unlock code as well. The mobile dealer should know or look it up on the web. SIM cards are available through the Banyan for a modest price. You will be required to put a down payment down- ~Rs. 1,000 which you will receive most of back upon handing in. It will be a prepaid set up. It’s easy to load up with shops everywhere that can do this.
Another option is that you can buy a very inexpensive mobile phone while you are here. A basic Nokia is approximately Rs. 1,500 or $38.00 USD.
“STD/PCO” booths are everywhere and offer very economical means to call anywhere in the world.
What About Bringing a Laptop?
This would be a great asset as The Banyan has a deficit of systems. You will be able to access The Banyan network with some configuring (not to worry we have a great IT guy) and have wireless. You can access all you want at the Banyan but it isn’t guaranteed at your accommodation. Some opt to get a portable wireless card for travel, as well as a flash drive.
Internet cafés are inexpensive (Rs. 20 per hour) and offer a high-speed internet connection and are readily available. For conducting research and checking email, there are computers available at The Banyan facilities with a high speed internet connection.
What About a Camera?
Of course! You’ll be on sensory overload and will want to capture all the sights India has to offer that are rich and varied. As above, please be sure that you bring some good batteries with you as Indian ones are of low quality.
How Much Money to Bring
Best to bring a credit card which has the debit capability. You can take money out at ATMs and that is more convenient than standing in line at a bank or Western Union with travelers cheques. The exchange rate is pretty much the same although you may want to check this out with your bank first.
You’ll Need to Take Into Account…
Accommodation – as per needs –see accommodation guide
Food- The Banyan provides breakfast, lunch and dinner if you like, otherwise look to spending on the modest side Rs 30 per meal, to Rs 150 and of course upwards.
Water -costs about Rs. 10 per litre.
Daily transportation- to and from the Banyan anywhere from Rs. 70 to Rs 150 depending on where you choose your digs.
Prepare Yourself Mentally
Expect the unexpected. Prepare yourself to be tolerant of uncomfortable short trips in cramped vehicles, pollution, auto rickshaw drivers trying to rip you off….food you don’t recognize and eating it with your fingers. You might encounter people with different concepts about time and personal space. Be ready to learn about and observe differences without being judgmental. The differences you observe while abroad will undoubtedly enrich you understanding of your own culture. Before you travel, try and learn as much as possible about local customs, beliefs, and language. Talk to others who have been to India and seek opportunities to see movies and read up on the country and culture. People you meet while abroad will often be very curious about life in your home country. You’ll undoubtedly get the questions “Are you married?”, “do you have children?”, “What is your age?” Don’t take it as an insult. It’s just a big part of Indian culture. Everyone will always ask if you’ve eaten! It’s a loving thing. If you ask this question to those around you at or just after meal times, it’s a great way to break the ice.
Let your friends and family know what you’ll be up to. Having a strong support system will also help you get through the challenges of living in an unfamiliar environment far from home.
Give your loved ones the Banyan address, phone number and my name and mobile number so that they feel secure that they can contact you at any moment with or without your own mobile. Set up a ‘skype’ account to keep in touch really cheaply.
Learn Some Useful Tamil Words
Although it is not necessary to speak Tamil to be here as most of The Banyan staff is fluent in English (as well as a whole slew of Indian languages!) lean some simple words and make some new friends instantly for at least making the effort:
Ama (ah- mah) - yes
Illai (eel- eh) - no
Nandri (naan- dree) - thank you
Kale wane com (kah-lee- vaan-ah-kum) - good morning
Inge (ing-gay) - here!
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
