1. India is a Huge Country
Looking back on India's past, incidents of terrorism and unrest have usually occurred in major capital cities. India is a vast country that's just over one-third of the size of the United States. Much of it is rural, and there are some incredible sights to be seen away from the cities. This is a great opportunity to discover them.
2. Security is Heightened
Strangely enough, just after a terrorist attack can be the safest time to visit a country. Police and other security forces are on high alert in India, and additional security measures have been employed to ensure safety. Also, keep in mind that the risk of being killed by terrorist activities is almost non-existent compared to other causes of death such as road accidents.
3. The Dollar is Strong
The US Dollar recently reached a 10 year high against the Indian Rupee. One dollar is currently worth around 50 rupees, as opposed to 40 rupees at the start of 2008. This means, for example, that a 3,000 rupee hotel room will only cost you $60, instead of $75 at the start of the year. You'll also automatically save a significant amount on other expenses such as food and transport.
4. It's Less Crowded
Winter is the peak tourist season in India, with visitors usually having to fight for a place on a sun lounge at the beach, or wait in long lines to see famous monuments. There are noticeably less tourists in India, so if you visit now now, you'll be able to enjoy the sights in relative peace and quiet. You'll have a much more relaxing vacation, as well as enjoy attentive service.
5. Discounts are Possible
Less visitors to India means that hotel rooms and seats on flights are remaining empty. Therefore, substantial discounts are being offered to attract customers. Even in Goa, which normally attracts people to its beaches in droves at this time of year, guests are naming their price for a room.
6. The Weather is Perfect
The weather is warm, dry, and sunny across most of India at the moment. Alternatively, those who enjoy the cold will find snow in the mountains.
7. Festive Season Shopping!
One of the best things about India is the shopping, and it's all so cheap. With Christmas and the festive season upon us, you'll be able to find some wonderfully unique gifts for family and friends back home (and of course for yourself!).
8. You'll Be Helping the Economy
India is a poor country, and people in the tourism industry often depend on revenue generated from the peak season to sustain themselves throughout the rest of the year. The impact from the drop in tourism is being widely felt, with many business being forced to cut back on staff numbers and other expenses in order to survive. By traveling to India now, you'll be helping people keep their businesses alive and families properly fed.
9. Visit India 2009 Special Offers
India's Ministry of Tourism is running a "Visit India Year" in 2009. According to the concept, tourists who come to India in 2009 are eligible for a range of complementary offers such as domestic air tickets, city sightseeing tours, accommodations, and rural eco holidays. Many of the promotions are "buy one get one free" or "stay for two nights and get the third night free". Some of India's finest hotels are participating in the campaign. In addition, free one night homestays with breakfast are being offered in 15 rural sites across India.
10. "Terror Tourism"
Of course this isn't for everyone, but there are some people out there who find visiting the sites of terrorist attacks very fascinating. Such curious thrill seekers wish to experience the places stuck by terrorism firsthand, and see how the affected areas are coping. Visitors who come to Mumbai can have a meal or a beer in Leopold's Cafe, where the first gunshots were fired (some bullet holes still remain), as well as see the boarded up heritage wing of the Taj Palace & Tower Hotel. Both the Trident hotel and tower wing of the Taj hotel re-opened to guests on December 21, 2008, so it's also possible to stay there and dine in the restaurants.
by :goindia.about.com
