Water – If you’re not born and raised in India, then you better stay away from the water. Unless you want nonstop diarrhea and/or vomiting for 3 days straight, I wouldn’t recommend it. The solution? Filtered, boiled, or bottled water. Even the locals drink it just to be on the safe side.
Things people say – People in India can be very frank. They say exactly what’s on their mind and don’t hesitate to do so. Sometimes it’s offensive, sometimes it’s intrusive, and sometimes it just makes things awkward, but it makes no difference to them…that’s just how they roll. Example:
I’m having a conversation with a boy my age who works for my uncle:
Boy: Are you wearing Victoria’s Secret?
Me: Excuse me?! (In my head: Did he really just ask me that?! Would it be wrong if I slapped him?)
Boy: Perfume. (I think he realized what he said.) Are you wearing Victoria’s Secret perfume?
Me: Ummmm yeah. How did you know?
Boy: My ex used to wear it. It really bothers me. (He walks out of the room)
Me: (Speechless because I’m just too stunned…)
People who come to your house – Every residence or building here has a watchman. So anyone coming to your house first has to report to the watchman, who will then phone your house through the intercom to inform you that someone is outside. You either say ‘yes, send them upstairs’ or ‘no, do not let them in.’ Either way, all visitors get screened before entering the casa. Pretty neat system.