If you’re a cable TV viewer, you may have noticed how much airtime there has been lately regarding ancient aliens, lost archeology, and UFOs. One doesn’t have to be a convert to be swept up in the wonder of it all. Many of the things discussed in these types of programs are quite interesting. Many of the places they visit, and the texts they quote, are from the gigantic country of India. Thousands of years of ruined civilizations, impressive stone monuments, and unique philosophies lie on this landmass. India is definitely a great country to travel to if you have any interest in world history, whether you agree with the prevailing theories or not! Like any other faraway country, we Americans would be better off visiting a certified travel clinic before beginning our trip. These facilities can offer a lot of common sense protection and, most importantly, protection through vaccination.
India is not the first place the average American will think of when planning a vacation. Many of us prefer to go to a closed beach, drink cocktails at the house and bathe in the luxury that a private resort can provide us. For others among us, that kind of vacation is bland and neutral, boring and homogenized beyond the limits! It is to these people that the mysterious country of India beckons. Armed with a shot or two, traveling around India will create amazing memories that will never be forgotten.
Traveling to India is quite simple. Most, if not all, US airlines offer direct flights to this obscure Xanadu. From white-sand beaches to dimly lit temples erected to worship a seemingly endless variety of gods and goddesses, this destination is truly one of a kind. Located in South Asia, India is the seventh largest country by geographic area in the world. India is also the most populous country behind China, home to more than 1.2 billion people of various religions, languages, beliefs, classes, and dietary preferences. India is truly one of the most amazing places on Earth, steeped in a history as moving and as rich as the richest in the world. To think that such vast and interesting land is so easily and safely accessible after a mere vaccination or two is jaw-dropping for those of us who can appreciate such things.
Rather than make this a history lesson, let’s take a look at some of the dangers the average American may face when traveling to India. As in many countries in Asia, a simple visit to a certified travel clinic is recommended before takeoff. Vaccine-preventable diseases in India include: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid fever, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and malaria.
It’s important to note that most countries outside of the United States, and especially those in the eastern United States, require one or two vaccinations to ensure your safety while visiting. Traveling to India is no different than traveling to any other foreign country, but the payoff in terms of culture, sightseeing, and a delicious new menu to try far outweighs any other countries you decide to visit.