HEALTH AND SAFETY

If you are worried about the heat in India, remember that in summer 2024, the temperatures hit the same highs in California, Colorado, and even parts of the East Coast. So, the mercury can climb to 110 degrees but it is dry heat, so you won't be battling humidity as well.
Outdoor excursions are in the mornings and evenings. We have an air conditioned private coach at all times. And when the sun is high, we will be indoors to avoid heat exhaustion. In addition, if you feel you wish to opt out of certain activities and rest and re-charge instead, you may.

The foreignness is exciting but can take some time to adjust to. Expect a sensory overload as you are suddenly surrounded by bright colors, various odors and fragrances, and life turned up to full volume. Yes you will see and experience extremes -- luxury alongside poverty, dust and dirt next to pristine spaces, tropical heat versus air conditioned spaces .... but as liberal arts graduates, you will appreciate how the contradictions open up new perspectives and opportunities for unlearning what we think we know.

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Activity level: Moderately active. 

Travelers must be able to cover considerable walking distances and stand unassisted for extended periods of time.

Participants can expect three or more miles of walking on some days, often over uneven terrain, in crowded markets and public spaces, and up and down stairs in historic monuments.

Removing shoes at temples, and climbing in and out of safari jeeps, with minimum assistance, is also expected. 

This trip is not recommended for individuals who

• require mobility assistance,

• have serious pre-existing physical or mental health issues (e.g. heart conditions, multiple sclerosis, ALS, chronic anxiety, severe depression, etc.),

• life-threatening dietary allergies (to gluten, chickpeas and lentils, etc.) since cross-contamination in kitchens cannot be monitored,

• require considerable assistance walking, or

• need wheelchairs.