Responsible travel in the Golden Triangle

Rajat has an interesting point and, indeed, the cultural divide when it comes to communication in tourism is an issue in many destinations. But on a tourist trail as busy and famous as the Golden Triangle it is of particular significance. Domestic tourism is now a hug market, but this is a relatively recent thing with the boost in its economy over recent years. There is, of course, a different understanding of what a vacation means to a Western traveler. There is more of a tendency to leave things until the last minute in India, be a bit more laissez faire about arrangements. And there is certainly less attention given to detail when it comes to hospitality in some places. In others, such as in the heritage hotels of Rajasthan, where hospitality has always played an important role in Rajput culture, it is the opposite. This is something that will change with time in India, but in the meantime it is good to remember that if things are communicated in a less disciplined or organised way, you shouldn’t make too much of a judgment. You are here, after all, to experience Indian culture.

What you can do:
Do ask questions, and do ask for the quality that you paid for or were promised. But do so with kindness and respect. Be prepared to ask more questions of a local supplier than you think you need too, or than you are used to doing in other destinations where mass tourism is the norm. If you are not clear about something, seek further clarification and don’t take anything as read.