|

Aptouring.co.nz

Be captivated by the history of Jaipur's Amber Fort Welcome to IndiaDear Traveller,Welcome to your APT tour through India. This Tour Hints booklet has been specially prepared to answer many of the questions you may have regarding your holiday, and to assist you with your travel preparations before you leave home.
On tour, your APT Tour Director will share their vast array of knowledge as they guide you through the treasures of their country, revealing its secrets and rich history. With a small group of like-minded and adventurous travellers, you'll soak up the sights and sounds for an experience like no other. We wish you an unforgettable holiday in India and know that you will return home with wonderful memories of this unique and exciting destination.
Geoff McGeary OAM APT Company Owner CONTENTSPREPARING FOR YOUR TOURPassports & Visas Travel Insurance Onboard Currency – Ganges River Cruise Travel Within India Toiletries & Other Items General Physical Fitness Electrical Appliances

SHIP INFORMATION Beverages On Board Water & Food Safety Avoiding Malaria Money Exchange/ATMs Suite Information Onboard Facilities AT THE AIRPORT Reconfirmation of Flights GENERAL INFORMATION Culture & Customs Delayed or Missed Flights Luggage Restrictions Luggage Restrictions Your Destination Lost or Delayed Luggage Airport & Airline Security Cultural Differences ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE USEFUL INFORMATION Airport Transfers Foreign Embassies in India 31 Hotel Information Contact Information Onboard Currency – Emergency Contact Ganges River Cruise Travel Within India General Physical Fitness Vaccinations 9 Allergies 9

Stand before the Taj Mahal Preparing For Your TourPassports & VisasYou are required to possess a passport with at least six months validity from your return date. We recommend you always carry your passport and other travel documents in your hand luggage. Keep photocopies in a separate bag and leave a copy at home with family or friends in the case of an emergency.
You are now able to obtain a visa for India on arrival, and for this you will have to apply for a visa approval letter online prior to your departure for India. Please visit https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa /tvoa.html and follow the prompts on this website.
Please note, if the nationality listed in your passport differs from the country in which you reside, please take the time to check carefully with your local consulates concerning visa and passport requirements for your travels. Holidays can be disrupted or may have to be altered if the correct documents cannot be supplied at airports or borders, so check very carefully that you have the required papers.
Travel InsuranceWe highly recommend that you obtain comprehensive medical and travel insurance to cover your time away from home, including: medical costs and personal accident; loss or damage to baggage; loss of traveller's cheques and credit cards (as well as fraudulent misuse of stolen traveller's cheques or credit cards); and cancellation and curtailment fees. Be sure to take a copy of your policy in case you need to make a claim while on tour. Please add your insurance policy details to your tour personaliser.
Luggage LimitsYou will be flying on domestic Indian airlines in economy class during your tour, which allows for one piece of carry-on luggage per passenger. For checked baggage, airlines restrict the total weight of the luggage to 15 kilograms per person.

Visit the Shiva Temple in Kalna during your Lower Ganges River cruise However, APT has pre-purchased an extra 5 kilograms for each passenger, making 20 kilograms strictly the maximum amount you can bring.
We suggest that you try not to pack more than you can personally handle yourself. As a general guide, do not bring more than you can comfortably roll or carry through a crowded airport at a fast pace, such as in the event you are running late for a departure.
While we use a private coach for the group on tour, it is important to be conscientious of the amount of luggage you bring and the space it will require in the cargo area of the tour vehicle. We encourage you to limit your luggage to no more than one 60-centimetre tall suitcase, plus one daypack/backpack per person.
What to WearIn India, people generally dress conservatively, and you should therefore do the same. Shorts, short skirts (knee-length or above) and sleeveless shirts are not appropriate off the beach. Cover your skin as much as possible and both men and women should keep their shoulders covered. Women should wear loose-fitting clothes. There is, however, more liberalism in metropolitan cities.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for daily sightseeing, which includes climbing through ruins and crossing rough ground. Closed shoes are better than sandals as they keep out the dust and sand. In mosques, churches and temples it is obligatory to take off your shoes and it may also be customary to remove your footwear while entering homes – follow your Tour Director's lead. Due to this, we recommend you take shoes that easily slip off and on. It is also a good idea to have appropriate socks if you are not comfortable being barefoot.

See the colourful Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata Preparing For Your TourWhat to PackWe strongly suggest packing clothes that can be worn in layers. Think in terms of casual, comfortable, hand-washable clothing. Breathable natural fibre fabrics are best. For gentlemen, it is not necessary to pack a jacket and tie as dinners are casual dress. Please see below for a list of what we've found to be most useful in the areas that you'll be visiting.
Daytime Clothes:• Sun hat, to protect your head and neck• Walking shorts• Lightweight walking trousers• Long and short-sleeve lightweight shirts• Light jacket, preferably waterproof and breathable Evening Clothes For Women:• Trousers or slacks• Blouse, casual dresses and/or skirt Evening Clothes For Men:• Long and short-sleeve shirts• Jumper or light jacket• Casual shoes Friendly locals always welcome you with a smile Toiletries & Other ItemsBasic toiletry items are included in the accommodation throughout your tour, though you may want to bring your own brands or additional items to cater to your personal needs.
You might consider packing:• Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, comb or hair brush, razor, feminine products and cosmetics • Sunscreen and mosquito repellent• Tissues and washcloths• Travel alarm clock and a money pouch• Prescription glasses, sunglasses and/or contact lenses• Electrical converter and adapter• Camera and binocularsDon't take anything with you that will create financial or emotional hardship if lost or stolen.
Electrical AppliancesIndia uses 230 volts, 50 Hz alternating current as the power source. Plugs and sockets have either grounded/earthed three-pin connections (type D) or ungrounded two-pin connections (type C).
The iconic ghats of Varanasi, where people bathe and pray Preparing For Your TourCurrencyThe unit of currency in India is the rupee (INR), and can be found in the denominations below.
• Notes: (INR) 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 • Coins: (INR) 5, 2, 1 and (paise) 50, 25, 20, 10, 5 Banking & MoneyIn major cities there are ATMs at which you can get rupees against your international debit or credit card (maximum amount is normally 25,000 – 50,000 rupees). The State Bank of India (SBI) is the biggest bank in India and has the most ATMs. International banks like Citibank, HSBC, Barclays, Deutsche Bank, ABN Amro and Standard Chartered also have a significant presence in major Indian cities. It is always useful to have two credit cards, in case one is misplaced. In many cities and towns, credit cards are accepted at retail chain stores and other restaurants and stores. Small businesses and family-run stores rarely accept credit cards, so it is useful to keep a moderate amount of cash on hand.
While on board your Ganges River cruise, there will be limited access to ATM facilities.
Onboard Currency – Ganges River CruiseThe official currency on board is the Indian rupee. All charges for services and products on board will be placed on your shipboard account to be settled at the end of the voyage.
GratuitiesAll gratuities are included for your Tour and Cruise directors, all cruise staff and local guides.
Travel Within IndiaWhile travelling through India, your safety is always our first priority. Safety and security, however, is also a matter of applying your Marvel at a snake charmer's talents Henna is a much loved Indian tradition common sense: do not carry large sums of cash with you or display expensive jewellery; keep a close watch on handbags, purses and wallets when walking in crowded areas; avoid walking alone at night; lock up valuables in hotel safe deposit boxes; and never leave valuables visible in an unattended coach.
We also advise you to take copies of passports, credit cards, tour contacts and other pertinent identification and documents. Keep one copy with you, and leave one copy with your emergency contact at home.
General Physical Fitness APT's cruises and tours are not physically demanding, however, because of the nature of many of the sites you will be visiting, some tours will require a good level of fitness and health to participate. Some trips may not be appropriate for guests with certain medical conditions and physical restrictions. Walking tours are often on uneven ground and may include stairs as well as steep inclines. You should be able to stand on your feet for an extended period of time to visit museums, attractions and other sites, as well as when checking in for flights and cruises and at Customs and Immigration. Throughout your river cruise, the ship will often dock mid-river and you'll be required to disembark/embark your ship onto/from smaller vessels to travel ashore. VaccinationsVaccinations may be required, we suggest seeking medical advice prior to your travels. Consult your GP or travel clinic for the latest vaccination and medical advice.
AllergiesIf you have a food allergy or other condition that needs to be managed on tour, please advise your booking agent as soon as possible, as well as your Tour Director upon arrival, as most suppliers require advance notice to cater for your condition.
Explore the grounds of majestic temples Staying Healthy On HolidayIt's important for you to be as healthy as possible before you travel, and to maintain your health by applying good hygiene practices whilst on tour. Respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses, whilst usually minor in nature, can spread rapidly within a tour group, and have a major impact on everyone's enjoyment.
APT is committed to reducing the spread of infections on tours, and asks that you read and follow our recommendations, to ensure a healthy, safe and enjoyable holiday for yourself and your fellow travellers.
Before You GoGet WalkingAs your tour or cruise will involve some sightseeing by foot, and you will be required to embark/disembark ships and/or other forms of transport, you will enjoy it more if you start exercising ahead of time.
In the lead up to your trip, we recommend you start walking three times a week (including some steps), building up to an hour at a time. This will ensure you have the stamina and energy to see and appreciate all the sights your tour/cruise has to offer. You should ensure your walking shoes fit properly and have been broken in prior to departure.
www.aptouring.com.au 11 Be amazed by Jaipur's forts and palaces See Your GP Your GP or travel clinic is the best source of information about preventative measures including vaccinations. We recommend you consult your GP or local travel clinic for detailed advice to ensure maximum pre-travel preparation. Please take a copy of your travel itinerary with you to assist with the recommendations of appropriate medication and vaccinations.
If you have health problems, ask your doctor to prepare your medical history for a foreign doctor. It should include your name, address, emergency contact, blood type, medical history, current medications and dosages, drug allergies, reasons for prior hospitalisation and a list of vaccinations and datesA copy of your prescriptions is vital in case of any health problems. Prepare a list of your medications, including the name, dosage, prescribing doctor and their phone number. Pack sufficient medication for the duration of your tour. Your medication should be kept close at hand in your purse or carry-on bag. It is always good to carry a list of your medications in case they are lost and remember to leave everything in its original container so it can be easily identified. It is also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription for glasses or contacts.
www.aptouring.com.au 11 Learn of local life in Varanasi Staying Healthy On Holiday Pack a Medical Kit A small medical kit is recommended for all travellers. Pharmacies in large cities will likely stock most basic medicines and supplies but they may be difficult to access and a script may be required for some medications.
Your medical kit should include:• A general purpose antibiotic to cover respiratory, skin and gastrointestinal infections (e.g. azithromycin).
• Your favourite cold and flu medication e.g. cold and flu tablets, throat lozenges, nasal decongestant.
• Your preferred painkiller e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen.
• Medicine for gastrointestinal upsets e.g. antacids, ‘stoppers' for diarrhoea and a laxative for constipation.
• Other supplies including bandaids, blister pads, thermometer, scissors, tweezers, eye drops for dry eyes.
In The Air• Wear loose clothing and comfortable shoes during your flight.
• Eat light meals, drink plenty of water and minimise caffeine and alcohol consumption.
• Alleviate pressure in your ears by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing, or gently blowing your nose.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight because aircraft cabin air tends to dry them out. www.aptouring.com.au 13 Please take note of APT's health advice to ensure an enjoyable holiday • To avoid swollen legs and to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, wear knee length flight socks for all long haul flights and walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You could also do a few isometric exercises while seated (refer to your inflight magazine for recommended exercise).
• If you arrive in the morning, try to sleep during your flight so you can stay awake until the evening. This will help you adapt to the new time zone and to avoid jetlag.
On TourDon't Go Viral!Practicing good hygiene is vitally important in stopping the spread of common viral infections such as colds, flu or gastro, which can spread quickly in an enclosed area such as coach, train, aircraft or cruise ship.
Practice Good Hygiene:• Washing your hands is the most effective way to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading infections.
• Health experts recommend you wash your hands often with hot water and soap for 20 seconds or longer, before eating, after sneezing or coughing and after touching high contact surfaces (such as door knobs, elevator buttons and railings).
• Please be mindful of your fellow travellers with respect to coughing, sneezing and the disposal of used tissues.
• Hand sanitiser dispensers are located in various public areas on board all our ships. Please make sure you make use of these when reboarding and before all meals.
www.aptouring.com.au 13 Taste the exotic flavours for which Indian cuisine is renowned Staying Healthy On HolidayColds & FluViral respiratory infections are the most common infectious illnesses affecting travellers. Colds and flu are primarily spread by people coughing, so please practice hygiene and respiratory courtesy – wash your hands often, cover your coughs and sneezes, and use anti-bacterial wipes/hand sanitiser frequently i.e. after shore excursions, prior to meals and throughout the day.
Influenza is commonly contracted while travelling overseas. The ‘Flu Vaccine' protects against flu viruses expected to be prevalent during the current flu season. You should discuss this with your GP.
Gastro & Traveller's DiarrhoeaTraveller's Diarrhoea is the second most common infectious illness affecting travellers. The illness can be due to a number of different bugs including viruses and bacteria. Viral gastroenteritis is generally spread by person-to-person contact whereas bacterial gastroenteritis is generally spread from consuming contaminated food or water.
Symptoms can include fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. The incubation for the illness is variable depending on the cause. Symptoms are generally self-limiting and treatment includes rest, rehydration, simple diet, anti-nausea and anti-diarrhoeal medications. Antibiotics are generally reserved for use when symptoms are more severe or protracted, e.g fever, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhoea or duration of symptoms for more than two days.
Strict personal hygiene measures, particularly hand washing, helps protect you from getting sick and of course spreading the infection to others.
www.aptouring.com.au 15 Admire local traditions and customs APT Health & Safety ProtocolAPT has created a Health and Safety Protocol that all our Tour Directors and Cruise Directors are required to adhere to. You may be requested to assist in reducing the spread of viruses if you are showing symptoms while on tour.
If you are showing symptoms of a cold or a virus whilst on tour, you may be asked to wear a face-mask, have meals in your room or cabin instead of the dining room, or remain in your cabin until the symptoms improve.
Water & Food Safety • It is best to drink bottled water when travelling. Always ensure the seal is intact.
• Bottled water should always be used for cleaning your teeth, unless you are specifically advised the tap water is safe for cleaning your teeth. If you are unsure, please ask your Tour Director.
• When visiting countries where you are unsure about general hygiene practices, please take care if you are buying food from street vendors or in small restaurants away from your hotel, cruise ship or recommended venues. At these places, avoid raw fruit and vegetables, dairy products (including ice cream), as well as meat and fish not properly cooked. It is generally safe to eat cooked meats and vegetables prepared in tourist hotels and tourist area restaurants. Fruit that you peel yourself is considered safe.
• You can feel safe eating anything served to you at the tour hotels and while on board your cruise.
• Don't buy alcohol from street vendors.
www.aptouring.com.au 15 Colourful spices are arranged at market stalls Staying Healthy On HolidayAvoiding MalariaSee your GP or visit a travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel for your recommended vaccines and/or malaria medication.
Whether or not you are taking anti-malarial medication, it is important to protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Precautionary measures include:• Using a DEET-based insect repellent.
• Wear light coloured clothing. Research has shown that mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours. Light coloured clothing also has the advantage of keeping you cooler in the summer heat.
• Cover as much of your skin as possible. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, socks and shoes.
• Wear clothes made of tightly-woven fabric which mosquitoes are unable to penetrate. • Wear loose-fitting clothing so that mosquitoes cannot bite through to your skin. However, not too loose or they could fly up sleeves and or down collars. • Also avoid wearing perfume or cologne as these are known to attract mosquitoes.
• Please be aware that Doxycyline, a commonly prescribed antimalarial, can cause gastritis and sun sensitivity.
www.aptouring.com.au 17 Visit Jaigarh Fort and enjoy views of Jaipur Sun Exposure & DehydrationThe weather will be variable on your tour. Drinking plenty of water is important to prevent dehydration. A hat and a high quality sunscreen are important for preventing sunburn, even on overcast days.
New Zealand• www.holidayhealth.co.nz• www.traveldoctor.co.nz www.aptouring.com.au 17 Be sure to take note of airline policies At the AirportReconfirmation of FlightsWe suggest that you contact your airline(s) or travel agent at least 72 hours before your initial flight to confirm your departure details.
Check-InIt is important that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. This will allow you time to check your baggage in, present your passport and ticket, get seat assignments and boarding passes, and make your way through security procedures to the boarding area. Please ensure you arrive at the airport at the correct time. Early morning flights may require you to check-in the day before. Airlines have little leniency if flights are missed.
Delayed or Missed FlightsIn the unfortunate event that you miss a flight completely or that you are delayed substantially, please advise the airline representative that you are a cruise passenger bound for a specific start location, date and time. Be sure to advise APT of your new travel arrangements immediately.
Luggage RestrictionsChecked LuggageInternational airlines may impose fees or require you to remove articles if weight or size limits are exceeded. We advise you to contact your airline or travel agent for specific information prior to departure, as size and weight limitations may vary. See our ‘Luggage Limits' section (on page 4) for further recommendations on baggage limits.
Luggage SecurityYou should make sure that you do not include anything of high value (personal or financial) within your checked luggage. This includes, but is not limited to jewellery, cameras, video www.aptouring.com.au 19 Familiarise yourself with airline luggage restrictions before you travel equipment, reading/sunglasses, laptops and other computer/electronic equipment and medication. You must also ensure that all checked luggage has a suitable lock attached. For security reasons keep all unchecked luggage in your immediate possession. Luggage left unattended can be confiscated by airport personnel.
Luggage TagsAPT supply luggage tags for you to fill out and attach to your suitcase. It is also a very good idea to put a label with your name, address and telephone number on the inside of your suitcase and hand luggage. We recommend using your APT luggage tag to avoid any confusion in the case there are other tour groups staying at your hotel.
Hand/Carry-On Luggage RestrictionsFor your comfort, limit hand luggage to one bag that fits under your aircraft seat or in the overhead compartment. You will receive an APT travel bag with your documentation. Make sure you have your passport, airline tickets, medication and all your travel documents with you in your hand luggage.
Lost or Delayed LuggageSometimes luggage is delayed during transit. It is recommended to take a change of clothing and any essential medication in your hand luggage, or pack some clothing in your travel companion's bag. Should your luggage be delayed, it is the responsibility of the airline to deliver it to you. Claims for reimbursement should be submitted directly to the airline – a claim form should be filled out at the appropriate airline desk upon arrival. If you need assistance in contacting the airlines for information regarding your delayed luggage, please ask your Tour Director or Local Guide.
www.aptouring.com.au 19 Colourful festivals showcase India in all its glory Airport & Airline SecurityMost countries follow the following guidelines regarding liquid, aerosol and gel restrictions on flights. However, we advise you to check with your airline for clarification of regulations before you leave. Each container of liquids, aerosols or gels in your carry on luggage must be 100ml or less. All must be sealed in a transparent, 1 litre (or less) resealable plastic bag. You may still carry through the screening point prescription medicines and non-prescription medicines that you need for the flight. Proof of need may be required. At the screening point, you will have to surrender any liquids, aerosols or gels greater than 100ml. This includes duty free items (at many airports, you are able to purchase duty free items after you have passed through the screening point for your international flight). Items allowed include empty containers such as mugs or flasks, cosmetics and toiletries such as sanitary items, talcum powder, contact lenses and lens solution, solid foods, medicines including prescribed medication (e.g. insulin) and essential non-prescribed medication. Items over 100 ml not allowed include: drinks in cans or bottles; liquid cosmetics and toiletries that are in liquid or gel form, such as perfumes, creams and products in pressurised containers such as hairspray, shaving foam or gel; and aerosol deodorants and liquid-based food products.
CustomsTo prevent the introduction of exotic pests and diseases on your return home, arriving travellers are screened and luggage is often inspected or X-rayed by Customs or Quarantine officers. All food and other such items of plant and/or animal origin need to be declared, as do items on which duty or tax might be payable (check with Customs about duty free concessions). For more information, visit www.border.gov.au (Australia), www.customs.govt.nz (New Zealand) or www.hmrc.gov.uk (United Kingdom).
www.aptouring.com.au 21 Wise babas travel around India Arrival & Departure Information Airport TransfersAirport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour package, and when pre and/or post tour accommodation is booked with APT. No refund will be given for unused transfers. Transfers cannot be re-routed to other pick-up points or destinations. Should you miss the pre-booked transfers, you must make you own way to/from the ship/hotel at your own expense. Transfers must be booked and details advised to APT at least 60 days prior to travel, otherwise transfers may not be guaranteed.
Hotel InformationArrivalGenerally, the official check-in time is 2pm however, where possible, the hotel will try and have your room available earlier. If your flight arrives in the morning, luggage can be stored at the hotel before check-in and will often be delivered to your room later.
DepartureNormal check-out times vary, however are usually at 10am. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels have a room where you can store luggage until your departure.
www.aptouring.com.au 21 Cruise the Lower Ganges River aboard the luxurious RV Ganges Voyager The RV Ganges Voyager is the most luxurious vessel to cruise the Lower Ganges River. A staff of 30, as well as three resident guides, are always available on board. Each suite has its own floor-to-ceiling glass doors with French balconies, a seated area, writing desk, flat-screen television with on-demand films, spa-style bathroom with shower, and is furnished with either a king, queen or two single beds.
DiningAll meals (a buffet breakfast and lunch, and a seated dinner) are included on board. Breakfast and lunch are buffets offering are a Range of Western and local cuisines. Dinner service is an à la carte menu.
Beverages On BoardComplimentary house wine, local beer, soft drink, tea coffee and water are complimentary at all times throughout your cruise. Spirits and premium wines are available for purchase.
SmokingSmoking is not permitted in the suites or enclosed public areas on board. There is a designated smoking area on the Sun Deck.
Dress CodeOn board the Ganges Voyager, the dress code is relaxed and casual during the day and of an evening, smart casual is recommended for dinner. It is requested that shoes or slippers be worn at all times. Guests are not permitted to enter the restaurant barefoot or wearing bathing attire. While on shore, you may be required to cover your shoulders and remove your shoes. Socks may be worn in Hindu temples, and for this reason, we recommend you bring a few pairs of ‘temple socks' which can be discarded at the end of your holiday.
All dress requirements for the following day will be listed on the Daily Cruise Program provided in your suite. www.aptouring.com.au 23 Relax with a cool drink atop your ship's Sun Deck Tipping/GratuitiesGratuities to your Cruise Director, Hotel Director, Local Guides as well as all the ship staff and crew are included in your tour price.
MedicalYour onboard crew are trained in basic first aid, however there is no doctor or nurse on board the RV Ganges Voyager. If you should require medical assistance while on your cruise, the crew will help arrange transportation for you to the nearest medical centre.
Settling Your Onboard AccountThere is a no cash policy during the sailing. All settlements will be calculated at the time of check-out. Please check the invoice to ensure all items are accounted for before payment/closing the account. You may choose to settle your onboard account in cash with Indian rupees or by credit card with Visa or MasterCard.
Money Exchange/ATMsThe Ganges Voyager does not provide a currency exchange service, nor is there an ATM on board. During your cruise there will be limited access to banks and ATMs, and credit cards are rarely accepted in the towns visited. Therefore, it is recommended to withdraw enough money for the duration of your cruise for any souvenirs you may choose to purchase during your shore excursions.
Suite InformationIn-Room EntertainmentAll suites are equipped with satellite TV.
TelephoneThere are telephones in every suite, however, they are only available for calls within the ship. www.aptouring.com.au 23 Experience friendly, personalised service Ship InformationThe Hotel Director will be able to assist you should you need to make an emergency call home, however, this phone is not available to make personal phone calls home.
Should you wish to call home while on tour, we recommend you speak with your current service provider to confirm that your phone will be able to be used while overseas and that there is an agreement between your service provider and a local Indian telephone service provider.
Climate ControlEach suite has its own individually controlled air conditioning system.
ElectricityThe voltage in your suites is 220 volts.
Personal SafeEach suite is equipped with an electronic safe for your use.
Hair DryerEach suite is equipped with a hair dryer.
Other AmenitiesEach suite offers a generous closet, extra storage space under the bed, spa quality robe, slippers and spa bath amenities Onboard Facilities Fitness Centre & SpaThere is a fitness centre (open 6am to 8pm) located on the Sun Deck offering modern fitness equipment in an air-conditioned environment with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the river. The Voyager Spa offers regional as well as western spa treatments for which bookings can be made once on board.
www.aptouring.com.au 25 Take a few quiet moments to yourself in the onboard spa InternetComplimentary Wi-Fi internet access is available in all public areas, however, due to the remoteness of the region you are cruising, it may not always be possible to access.
LaundryA laundry (24 hour turn around) and pressing service is available at an additional fee. For safety regulation reasons, ironing is not allowed in your ship suite.
Ship Schedule & Shore ExcursionsShip Schedule The ship will sail promptly from each port in accordance with its cruising schedule. The ship is unable to delay departures for passengers who may not be on board. Unless you are on a ship's excursion accompanied by an appointed guide, it is your responsibility to make your own way to rejoin the ship at a subsequent stop. Without limitation, APT is not liable for any costs incurred if you miss the ship's departure for any reason.
Daily Program The ship's daily program features information about daily activities, shore excursions, tour departure times and more. It is available at the reception desk.
Sightseeing A sightseeing tour is included at each location. Tours can involve walking, travel by motorcoach, local boat or a combination thereof. Each tour is led by a qualified English-speaking Local Guide. In the rare event of water level problems, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program whenever conditions render it necessary, by determination of the Captain.
www.aptouring.com.au 25 In Delhi, explore Humayun's Tomb Explore Jaipur's City Palace General Information Culture & CustomsKnown as one of the oldest living nations in the world, the Indian population continue to uphold a deep respect for their cultural heritage and traditions in their everyday life. This includes strong ties to the family unit as well as a powerful focus on their religious beliefs especially Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, all of which originated in India.
Throughout the region, people are receptive to foreigners and will welcome you warmly. They love to share a joke and their story with you. National pride is evident throughout the whole country as well as a robust economy (especially in the major cities), and you may find yourself frequently engaged in conversation with the locals on topics showcasing national pride, including the cricket.
Whist travelling through India, you will notice a constant chaos of car horns, delicious curries, colourful saris, beautiful architecture and the occasional cow on the street. All of these things combined create a wonderful and unique country to travel through and sets it apart from the reminder of the world.
www.aptouring.com.au 27 Udaipur is bathed in soft golden light after dark WeatherAs a large country, the weather can change depending on the region you visit. In general, it can be defined by three seasons: hot, wet (monsoon) and cool. APT's tours to India have been arranged to take place during the best weather periods, characterised by the less extreme cooler season. Generally, the days tend to be warm and sometimes humid, however the evenings can be much cooler.
Climate & TemperaturesAverage daily temperatures in degrees celsius: Min./Max. Min./Max. Min./Max. Min./Max. Min./Max. Min./Max. Min./Max.
www.aptouring.com.au 27 Vibrant Rajasthani puppets are a great souvenir General Information Time ZonesThe time differences between India and home are: • AEST +4.5 hours • NZST +6.5 hours • ACST +4 hours • GMT – 5.5 hours • AWST +2.5 hours Learn About Your DestinationIt may be helpful to do a little research on locations that you will be visiting. Refer to your itinerary when researching and familiarise yourself with the areas and cities, languages spoken and relevant transport information. The more you know about your destination, the more you'll appreciate all that you see when you arrive.
During your travels, you will encounter new customs and different lifestyles. The destinations on your holiday are remote, and the rustic landscapes and intoxicating smells may be confronting. Appreciate and enjoy the differences as this process of discovery and understanding is one of the many benefits of travelling. Despite language barriers, a smile is universal. Friendliness and tolerance towards others, including your fellow travellers, Tour Director and Local Guides, is essential to everyone's enjoyment of the tour.
www.aptouring.com.au 29 Learn about local traditions Cruise the Lower Ganges from Kolkata LanguageIndia's official languages are Hindi and English, but there are hundreds of other major languages and local dialects spoken throughout the country.
Useful Hindi PhrasesHello/Goodbye: Namaste (Na-mas-te)Thank you: Dhanyavad (Dhun-ya-vaad)Please: Kripaya (Krup-ya)Yes: Haan (Ha)No: Nahin (N-he)How are you?: Aap kaise hain? (Aap k-say hey)I'm fine, thank you: Main theek hoon, dhanyavad(Mai teek hu Dhun-ya-vaad)I'm not well: Main theek nahin hoon (Mai teek n-he hu)Do you speak English?: Aapko angrezi aati hai?(Aap-ko un-grazy aati hey) www.aptouring.com.au 29 Indian cuisine is an exciting explosion of spices and colour General Information Adjusting to Cultural DifferencesCommunicationLocal people you meet may ask you questions that might seem extremely personal from a Western perspective (such as your age and how much particular items cost), but they mean no rudeness in doing so.
Good non-verbal communication is essential in India. It is important to understand that nods for yes, ok and no may be different to how you recognise them − follow your Tour Director's lead.
Food & DrinkYour meals are mainly Indian-style dishes whilst on tour however, western options are available.
India has a long history of catering to clients from all over the world, so chefs are accustomed to preparing meals to suit every palette and spices can be toned down. If you see something that you might not normally eat at home, give it a try − it might become a new favourite.
Imported wines and liquors are also available throughout the country. The quality of Indian wines are improving steadily and are almost of international standards. Indian beer and rum are considered excellent, gins and vodkas are good, while the Indian whisky can be an acquired taste.
www.aptouring.com.au 31 Sunsets in Kolkata make for enchanting holiday memories Useful InformationUseful WebsitesCurrency Conversion: www.xe.comSmart Traveller: www.smartraveller.gov.auSafe Travel: www.safetravel.govt.nzForeign and Commonwealth Office: www.gov.uk/browse/abroad Foreign Embassies in IndiaAustralia 1/50 G Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021 Phone (international): +91 11 4139 9900New Zealand Sir Edmund Hillary Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 11002 Phone (international): +91 11 4688 3170United Kingdom Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021 Phone (international): +91 11 2419 2100 Emergency Contact InformationIn case of an emergency please call +91 98 7153 3773 to speak to an APT Ground Operator in Delhi.
Emergency Contact Numbers in IndiaPolice: 100 Fire: 101Ambulance: 102 www.aptouring.com.au 31 APT Travel Centres APT Head OfficeLevel 4, 1230 Nepean Highway Cheltenham, VIC 3192.
Enquiries and Reservations Phone: 1300 278 278Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd (ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825) International Offices (when phoning from within the country)APT International Tours Limited NZ Phone: 0800 278 687 Suite 5 Level 1, 20 Augustus Terrace, Parnell, Auckland 1151United Kingdom & Europe Phone: 0208 812 3400North America Phone: 1800 290 8687 Visit our website: www.aptouring.com This booklet is designed as a guideline to assist you when preparing for your tour. Much of the information within is subject to change and while all care has been taken to ensure all information is correct at time of printing, we cannot take responsibility for any subsequent changes. Publication No. H4763. Printed in Australia. Effective December 2015.
www.aptouring.com.au PB

Source: http://www.aptouring.co.nz/-/media/PDFs/Asia/Tour-Hints/APT-India-Tour-Hints-2016.pdf?la=en-NZ