20 things foreigners need to know about India

Taj Mahal

1. Be polite and don't be shy to smile
2. They don't have much pedestrian lanes so be agile when crossing streets
3. Everyone (well, mostly) knows how to speak English
4. They like eating with bear hands
5. People stares at you - don't worry that's normal because you are obviously not a local
6. Most of them are vegetarian
7. Spicy food is a common thing. Be sure to ask before you eat your curry!
8. Auto rickshaw is the common mode of transportation here.
9. Murder of crows are everywhere... as in everywhere
10. Cows here are regarded as holy
11. Men here likes wearing long-sleeves, khaki pants and sandals.
12. Don't imitate their accent when talking
13. India is a cricket crazy nation
14. Honking is annoyingly normal
15. Bring your own bottled (mineral or distilled) water --> watch "Slumdog Millionaire" and you'll know why
16. Respect their culture, religion and belief
17. Weather here is hot (in most parts)
18. Men seen holding hands are not "gay"

19. Head wobble means Yes -- This is a side-to-side combination of a nod and a head shake

20. They have a unique smell -- so train your nose and shut your mouth