Floating Through Kerala – Authentic India

Karala Travel Trip Tips 2025

Prepare to be thrilled as India is more than a journey – it’s an experience!

The diversity will amaze you.  From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a graceful Namaste, a gesture of welcome and respect.  I wish the whole world could visit the magic of it’s culture.  It is another world.

Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addendums will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.

• Payment dates –  SECONDARY DEPOSIT 50% due JULY 1 and FINAL PAYMENT DUE AUG 1

We partner with Wetravel for secure, fee-free electronic check payments. Simply follow their instructions. Credit card payments incur a processing fee. To minimize costs and offer the best prices, we prefer electronic checks. Alternatively, you can pay by check without mailing it: make it out to AFS, take a photo, and text it to 770-432-8225. We’ll process the payment at no extra charge.

Your Trip Leader – As your Gracious Trip Leader (GTL), I’ll be your liaison between our guides and the group, ensuring a smooth experience.

Carol Huntington is a globe-trotting powerhouse with a heart of gold. Since 2007, she’s led over 40 unforgettable AFS adventures, lighting up every group she meets with her infectious enthusiasm. With a passion for exploring new horizons that knows no bounds, Carol’s set foot in an astonishing 125+ countries across all 7 continents.

Her secret? A genuine love for people and a cool-as-a-cucumber demeanor under pressure. Carol builds relationships, solves problems with a smile, and goes above and beyond to keep her clients beaming. For her, it’s about making the world a better place, one unforgettable journey at a time.

Pre-Trip Preparation

• Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
  • Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages.  Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now except a digital copy from your email.
  • To speed through US Customs download Mobile Passport. Look in your App Store for details.
  • Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
  • All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.

VISA – Wait until we advise you with details about a month out. The new online eVisa is easy. Turn around in 24 hours. Rules and prices can change. Presently $25. When you land at the airport, go to in “visa line” for stamps before exiting. Details can be found at . Avoid going to fake scammer India visa sites.  We will send you details in October.

Follow the exact instructions and only use the official visa link we provide to avoid scams. Some visas require uploading and resizing passport photos; if you encounter issues, consider seeking technical assistance or contacting our trusted visa expert, Mark, at (704) 246-6373.

Always bring a printed visa copy to present at airline check-in.

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Fitness Level – Moderate walks and activities daily.   You should be able to walk one mile in 20 minutes.  If you have concerns, text your name at 770-432-8225 to discuss.   (Know your limits! AFS trips are generally soft adventures with moderate activity.  Our trips are large fun and can be active.  All tours involve walking, at times extensive with uneven pavement. As we age, we think we can do what we used to do but discover on the trip an activity is too strenuous and are slowing down the entire group. If you think you need something tamer, check out  Eldertreks – they specialize in trips for older folks. We cannot be responsible for booking a trip beyond your skill level and physical stamina. AFS is all about having a good time.  Please be respectful of your fellow AFS Travelers and consider choosing an itinerary that is more conducive to your needs so you can thoroughly enjoy your trip!)

 Air Travel –  We rarely offer group air due to industry changes and past challenges. Previously, participants would express initial interest, prompting us to make a group booking, but if they found better rates and canceled, we incurred significant losses. Given the small group size and lack of interest in group air, participants must now book their own flights. Be aware that airline rules vary and can change, so stay connected with your airline for updates, and remember to print your ticket or have your mobile boarding pass ready for check-in.

• Responsibility: You’re responsible for booking your flights. Understand that all airline rules differ and can change. Monitor your airline’s updates and print your ticket for check-in.
• Early Arrival: Consider flying in early to ensure you’re present at the trip’s start.
• Airline Apps: Download your airline’s app to track bookings, delays, baggage, and contact their support.
• Premium Credit Cards: If you have a premium credit card, explore the air travel perks it offers.
• Business Class: If interested in business class, contact Alen at skylux.com or Ali at business-class.com for potential discounts. Mention Suzy sent you.

Important Air Dates: [Departure date Nov 12 – Date Return Nov 22]

Internal flight –  Nov 15 we fly to Cochin (We est. cost is $125 and once we get pricing we will build us into your package.  Everyone needs to be on the same flight.). Q? Do they fly home from Cochin?

Doing Own Air–  We like Google Flights.  3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems.  Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.  If you need help air with the economy seat,  our guy Delhi can help; email [email protected] with your exact air dates, destination, passport name, and details with birthdate.  Amending tour pre-or post-trip: We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination.  If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them what do you consider the cost of tours, transport, hotels, etc.  Stopovers are great to add, but understand AFS has no responsibility for the quality of your trip.

(Please understand that as a group tour operator it’s important to note that our specialty lies in organizing group tours, and as such, our resources are tailored specifically for this purpose. Consequently, we are not equipped with the appropriate tools to assist with individual travel plans. For personalized vacation arrangements, we recommend exploring services like Viator, which is designed for individual travelers.)

About Airport Transfers- Due to the complexity of managing individual flight schedules, and with people arriving on different days and times it’s impossible to provide a group transfer. We’ll collect everyone’s flight information through a form, arrival transfers will only be available if we have a minimum of 10 people arriving at similar times. Travelers arriving outside this group transfer windows will need to arrange their own transportation to the hotel via taxi or Uber. This shift aligns with current industry standards, as most major tour companies have already moved to having travelers arrange their own arrival transfers. Like our industry peers, we’ve found this to be the most practical solution for everyone involved. Rest assured, we will still provide a return transfer to the airport on the final day of the tour. As we get closer to the departure date, we’ll send you a form to collect your exact flight details, which we’ll need for coordinating both potential arrival transfers and your guaranteed departure transfer.

Meet Up With Group- On Nov 13 a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.

Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland.  You change hotel properties 4 times. 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale and your carry-on.  Apple AirTags work great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on.   Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach your name to inside and out of carry-on and checked bag.

Packing-  Google weather in Delhi a week prior to departure – should be in the 70 high to 58 low.  This trip is so easy. Simply pack fall clothing with a jacket for night.  November in Delhi can be chilly, especially in the evenings and early mornings.  It’ds warm in Cochin.   It is advisable to pack warm clothing such as sweaters, jackets, and long-sleeved shirts. Don’t forget to pack a few pairs of comfortable pants or jeans. Additionally, pack a few lightweight clothes for the daytime when the temperature may be milder.  Layer: Since the weather in Delhi can vary throughout the day, it is a good idea to pack clothing in layers. This way, you can add or remove layers as needed to stay comfortable.

Pack swimsuit, hat, comfy walking shoes, daypack, sun glasses. Bring two nice outfits for TLP and Royal dinner. Ladies – You can buy elegant saris dirt cheap.  Day 2 I can drop you off at wonderful Khan Bazaar for a beautiful things. Bring a headscarf for temples. For personal photos at sunrise at the Taj , wear what you choose or we can rent full saris the night before.

Read Packing 101 in Heading Abroad with AFS

Cool travel hacks from our AFSers! Pack overnight outfit in your carry-on, liquid IV packets to hydrate, use packing cubes, downy wrinkle spray, Apple AirTags, extra nylon bag to check laundry home, tons of US dollars for extra tips, fully charged travel banks, less is more, get global entry.

Electric– Don’t forget a portable backup charger, cords, gadgets, etc. Cell phones and tablets do not need a converter; you only need an adapter plug.  AFSers often leave charger cords in room, so be sure to double-check your room before check out. All properties have hairdryers.  See https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com

Money Matters – Always bring some cash!  You will need some cash for personal tipping, meals, and shopping. $300 cash should suffice.    Change currency on arrival at airport, bank, or hotels or withdraw local currency from an ATM.  Note -independent ATMs are risky due to skimmer scams. Safest ATMs are at airport and banks. Always shield your pin number when entering.  Bring newer bills 2016 on as some countries won’t take old or slightly damaged bills.

Master Card and Visa widely accepted.  Amex rarely accepted.   Credit cards are far safer than using your debit card. I use my credit card for most purchases.  Many cards now offer no foreign transaction fees. (Some countries in Africa and Asia require new bills dated after 2016. Older bills not accepted when changing money.)

• Currency  Exchange Rate  $1 = 85 Indian Rupees
• Follow the link below to create a conversion cheat sheet
• https://www.oanda.com/currency-converter/en/?from=USD&to=INR&amount=1

Gratuities –  Please note that included, but added to your final invoice for ease of distribution we hired the top ground teams in each country. It’s protocol to tip our guides, assistance, drivers, porters, staff, lodges and more for each group abroad.   Discretionary tips help insure a good relationship and the only thing we travelers leave behind is our reputation. Our new web platform we travel shows all trip prices. The $95 gratuities are listed below the itinerary and here.  This has been added to your invoice for easy distribution.  All tour companies must determine gratuity amount in advance. Total group tipping is based on minimum standards within the tourism industry. It local staff goes beyond the call of duty for you, we encourage you to give more directly.

Tipping on own – If service is stellar, feel free to give more directly.  All we tourists leave behind is our reputation. I carry a stash of US ones in an envelope to draw from as needed. Porters – AFSers roll bags to their room.  If you use a porter, please tip.  For group lunches or dinners included, please leave $2 for waitstaff!

Communication–  Internet is available. With smartphones, be sure to check with your provider for rates and coverage for international phone plans before departure. Data Roaming rates can be expensive. To reach home – Texting, iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook messaging when using WIFI. Be cautious using public Wi-Fi without using VPN. Without VPN never open attachments or view financial or personal accounts on the Internet while abroad.  Phone calls, text messages, and data usage of all kinds, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll.  Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp is using cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate.  Facebook Messenger Phone is an easy free way to make calls. The most affordable way to get data on your cell phone is by using a SIM card or virtual Sim card. However, this will only work if your phone is unlocked, meaning it’s not tied to a specific carrier.

Safety: AFS, safety of our Travelers is our priority since our inception in 1989. Our local teams constantly monitor any issues with your destination. They can access real time safety updates and inform us if necessary.

Avoiding Hackers on Vacation.  Thieves not only want your money but also your data.    Change passwords often. Check device security settings before you leave for your trip. Back up, update, and encrypt your devices and data using a virtual VPN. Since 1989, your safety is our primary concern. Our local teams are experts, constantly monitoring any issues with your destinations. They can access real-time safety issues and will keep us informed if necessary.

• Bottled water is always best abroad, as our gut isn’t accustomed to local tap water.  Stay hydrated.
• Travel health – Avoid street foods. Bring Imodium or anti-diarrhea medicine.  Bring sunscreen.  Load up on antioxidants like vitamin C to zinc.

Health:  Bring Imodium just in case. All our meals are pure and water is filtered. The guide and I will advise daily on how to avoid stomach upsets. Bottled water is provided daily. Only drink only sealed bottles. Do not use ice outside of our hotels, nor eat street food and you will be fine.

Safety, beware of naughty monkeys trying to grab your day pack or sunglasses.

Photography – always ask permission before photographing anyone. Indian locals will love selfies with you!

Speak Hindi: Hello – Namaste,  Thank you – Dhanyavaad,  Need a lower price – Kam keemat chahiye

Websites of Interest:  www.incredibleindia.com This is an incredible resource for all the places we will visit.

Chewing-  India boasts a rich culinary heritage with a diverse range of flavors and dishes from various regions of India. From street food delights like chaat (savory snacks) and parathas (stuffed flatbreads) to Mughlai delicacies like kebabs and biryanis, Delhi offers a tantalizing array of options for food enthusiasts. The city is famous for its mouthwatering street food scene, with bustling markets like Chandni Chowk offering a plethora of options such as golgappas (pani puri), chole bhature, and aloo tikki. In addition to its street food, Delhi is also home to numerous upscale restaurants serving traditional Indian cuisine as well as international fare, catering to all tastes and preferences. This vibrant city is a gastronomic paradise, where culinary delights from all corners of India and beyond can be savored.

Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel.  Hotels can change, but it’s rare.

Roommates –  Single supplements have significantly increased in price– if available at all.  Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone, but save money when traveling by rooming together. Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching.  99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night.   The best option is to invite a friend.  Note, kindness begets kindness.  Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise.  We share rooms only to sleep at night.

Please understand if the AFS room list ends up with unbalanced gender, and forces a single room, we will offer it to all in group.  If all decline, we split the added forced cost single room with the last booker. If you disagree we will be forced to remove you from the trip unless you share the supplement cost.

Leisure Time –  For your free time, it’s best to arrive and ask our local expert guides for suggestions.  We notice many newer clients pre-plan many activities on the AFS trip well before they arrive, often with disappointing results.  Our daily itineraries are pretty full, but there will be some free time. Expert travelers revel in the element of surprise in a new destination and allow the wind to blow them where it will. Use Google Maps on your phone to find everything nearby.

Amending tour pre-or post-trip. We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination.  If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them what do you consider the cost of tours, transport, hotels, etc.  Stopovers are great to add, but understand AFS has no responsibility for the quality of your trip. Please understand that we are a group tour organizer and do not have the time or resources sources to arrange private vacations for individuals.

Private Facebook Group Page  –  The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour.  The link can be found in your Wetravel welcome letter after your initial deposit.  (We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody misses a thing.)

Emergency Contact – AFS phone or text 770-432-8225, or email us at https://afstravelers.com/contact-us/    More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure. Your guide can handle a call home for a true emergency. Do not expect to use your trip leader’s cell phone; you’ll need to use your own.

Cancellation Policy –  At Adventures For Solo Travelers (AFS), we understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances may require you to cancel your tour. We have established the following cancellation policy to provide clarity and fairness to all our travelers; thus keeping in line with other tour operators and global suppliers today. A deposit secures your place on an AFS tour. The deposit amount varies by tour and will be clearly stated for each trip.  Read details here.

Travel Insurance– While travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation.  Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com.   CFAR or cancel for any reason covers Covid but is expensive.  Note that no company covers for fear.

Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage.  The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (eg. like adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15 day period.  We like TravelSafe, Allianz or Seven Corners.

• Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online

AFS Group Etiquette – Prepare for your departure joyfully with no contempt before investigation upon arrival. Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude and adventuresome spirit.  If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience.  Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude.  Be spontaneous. Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness and kindness always begets kindness.  Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, get great photos, have large fun, and return home safely with memories worthy of recollection.

10 Commandments for AFS Travelers

1. Thou shall not expect to find things as thou hast at home, for thou hast left thy home to find things different.
2. Thou shall not take anything too seriously.A carefree mind is the beginning of a fun vacation.
3. Thou shall not let other group members get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.
4. Thou shall not forget that doist represent America (Canada too) at all times. Kindness begets kindness, ugliness begets ugliness.
5. Thou shall not worry. This is for thine AFS trip leader.  They who worry hath no pleasure, and few things are fatal.
6. Remember thy passport at all times. A person without a passport is a person without a country.
7. Blessed is the person who can say “thank you” in any language
8. When in Rome, do as the Romans do
9. Do not judge the people of a foreign land by one person with whom thou hast had trouble.
10. Remember, thou art a guest in each land. They who treateth their host with respect shall be treated as a guest of honor.

Please note that AFS is non-partisan – With our homogeneous groups, we all want to focus on the common denominator – our love of travel.  In today’s divisive world, we suggest members not discuss politics and if you must, please practice my rule of TOK:  Tolerance, Open-mindedness and Kindness.

Please be advised that the operation of some tours may need to be rearranged or modified to suit local conditions, but all activities stated will be included.  We are here for you to address any questions about your trip. In time, we believe travel will begin to normalize with less rules and we appreciate your cooperation until then.  Now more than ever before, travelers value the privilege of travel to explore our world. You’ve been waiting so long, it’s time for recess!

The best spirit of an Explorer requires the openness of a child – Suzy

“When traveling, remember that a foreign country isn’t designed to make you comfortable.  It’s designed to make its own people comfortable.” – Clinton Fadiman