- Buy a local SIM card so that you can make local calls and stay in touch.
- Research carefully where you want to go, ensuring it is an area frequented by other travelers, with good infrastructure and hotels.
- Plan your travel so you don’t arrive late at night; travel during daylight hours only.
- Be careful when posting to social media, so that you are not revealing your current location.
- Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep a close eye on your handbag and luggage.
- Keep the Tourist Helpline number handy and call if you need any assistance: 1-800-111363.
- Drink filtered or bottled water only.
- Watch for undistilled water in ice or sauces.
- Avoid salad and other raw food unless you can peel it (such as an orange or banana).
- Eat only food that is freshly cooked.
- Look for busy stalls and restaurants with high turnover.
- Clothing
Some parts of Tamil Nadu, particularly smaller towns and villages, have traditional styles of dressing. Dress codes for select religious places can include covering your head, being barefoot, among others. Try to find out about local customs and traditions while visiting such places.
Food
It is better to drink only bottled/boiled water. Dispose of drinking water bottles properly after their use. Don’t accept take/accept food and drinks from strangers.
Shopping
Prices are fixed and quality certified in government handicraft shops/emporia. Insist on your credit/debit card being swiped/imprinted in your presence in case payment is made by card. Try to obtain an invoice for all purchases.
Sightseeing
Ascertain visiting hours and closed days before visiting museums, monuments, palaces, etc. Smoking and drinking of alcohol is not allowed at public places. Government trained and authorized guides speaking English and other foreign languages can be hired at most places. Do ask the guide to show his photo-identity proof. Buy air, rail and bus tickets through authorized travel agents or tour operators only, with a valid invoice for the transaction.
Safe and Secure
Don’t accept lift from strangers. Avoid isolated places and going out alone late at night. Do not open your hotel room without safety latch or without verifying the identity of the person.
