Recent content by Ted

I love peacocks, but I don't know much about them. Also, I had no idea they were the national bird of India. That's really interesting.

I agree with Swalia. It is a very rare spice and extremely expensive because it is delicately plucked by hand and then dried. It involves a lot of manual work. I don't think you will be able to find it much cheaper in India either. Make sure you buy from a place that you can trust.

If you were to hire a tour guide or a driver in India, what would be a good idea for a small present for them apart from a tip.

Do you guys think it is a wise idea to take a mosquito net with me to Goa this summer or will it be extra useless weight?

Do you think electronics are cheaper in India than Europe or the US for example? I really want to buy a small laptop and I was thinking that I could get one while there.

I have heard that when using mustard seeds, Indians tend to roast them before using them in food. Are there any other Indian spices that need to be roasted before using?

To be on the safe side, I suggest you always carry your pills in their original packaging. Also, it would be wise to keep your prescription with you as well.

I am not sure if you are using an iPhone or an Android, but if you are looking for a good Android app, I suggest using indiarailinfo. It's really useful.

You could take anything in my opinion and it will be appreciated. Maybe a set of china, cups or plates etc? I think something that the newly weds will use in their new home would be a good idea.

Mine was carrying around a huge pair of hiking shoes that I have not needed at all. They were so heavy to take with me everywhere and I almost threw them away.

I agree with Jenny. I think if you have a tour guide with you, you should be safe enough because he or she will know local places better than anyone else. I am not sure how much it costs to hire a tour guide, but I think it is well worth it.

I do the same thing as well. I always check Trip Advisor for honest reviews before making a decision on whether I will book a certain hotel or not.

I really love both Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, but I really don't think that I could drink camel milk. I tried goat milk once and couldn't stand the taste.

I don't think I would like to venture in that direction :D I love trying new food and even weird looking things, but I don't think I would want to eat insects.

My favorite Indian beer is Kingfisher. There are a few variations from stronger ones to lighter flavors. I used to like the one with a slightly lighter color as I found the other ones too strong in taste.