Tata Trichy~June 26

Things you should know about India 

1. If a teeny tiny gecko is in the shower with you, he's not taking the most adorable gecko shower ever, he's drowning. Shoo him out ASAP. 

2. Learn the names of all the people you come into contact with, and ask questions. Indian names tell you a lot about the person they belong to. 

3. Bring a thin scarf. It ups the modesty level, and you can wipe the sweat that will inevitably be rolling off your body with it. It sounds gross, but after climbing 350 steps of an ancient temple, barefoot, in 85 degrees, I promise you'll get over it. 

4. You will begin to smell like curry, it's okay. Just let it happen. 

5. Adopt the head bobble! You will become 10x more accepted by those around you. 

6. Wear loose pants to see the temples. Your sweaty thighs will rub together in a maxi skirt, and tight pants will be too hot and constricting. 

7. Drink as much water as you can, before and during your trip to India! The trip is pretty hard on your body and dehydration is a big issue. If you're not good about hydrating, you'll feel like death warmed over once you get to India.

8. When the flight attendants ask you if you want spicy food, they're talking about Indian airplane food. In my opinion, it's not that spicy, so say yes, unless you want to eat weird Indian versions of American foods. 

9. Advice from Sarah M. - If you're an African American get straight hair not braids. "You're already different because you're black, you don't need crazy hair too".

10. Seriously bring snacks, and not healthy snacks. You won't be craving fruit snacks, you'll be craving some artificial cheese. 

11. Bring your computer. It makes blogging so much easier. 

12. You don't need to bring a ton of clothes. You can do laundry for free, and you'll be thankful for all the space in your suitcase on the way home. 

13. Don't be afraid to eat new things, but also don't be stupid. Indians love to hand you new foods, but sometimes you know better. Go with your gut. 

14. Travel on the weekends!!! You're in a whole new country for a month, Trichy is wonderful, but a weekend away is a great way to recharge and it's fairly inexpensive. 

15. Bring a little jewelry with you. As Dr. Jones will tell you, don't bring your fancy, important jewelry, but if you don't wear anything the Indians will actually think you're an alien. 

16. Don't be afraid to dress as the Indians do! I rocked some fabulous turquoise leggings and a rainbow scarf while here, and let me tell you, I loved every minute of it. 

17. Haggle in the markets, especially if you're buying more than one thing. The vendors will sometimes come down on the price. But do it politely, in the big scheme of things, what you're buying is two dollars. 

18. Everyone will stare at you. It can be frustrating, but it is also okay. You have to remember that most people have only seen Americans on TV or not at all!

19. Get to know your group! There's a reason Dr. Jones sends us together. Not only is your group a great support system, but if you're lucky like me, they'll also become new friends. 

20. When in doubt, go to the roof. Some days will be difficult, but a trip up to sit on the roof and remind yourself of what a beautiful place you're in, will put everything into perspective.

21. Saris are not meant to be breathed in

We are actually stuck in this pose, but we sure are pretty