Hygiene

Hygiene in America and hygiene in Mumbai are two completely different things.  Lets set out the outline for this to make it simple though, hygiene in America is quick, simple, easy and pretty forgiving most times while in Mumbai it is difficult, a struggle and almost never forgiving.  But why the injustice right?  Well here you are.  America has amenities which are luxuries in India and most other countries.  America has easy access, America has nice weather.  America also has alternatives for the busy and the lazy.  What do I mean by that?  I'm talking deodorant, dry shampoo, perfume, hair styling products and even the weather!  India on the other hand is filled with heat, pollution and overcrowded streets!  So when your out for lunch the heat will make you sweat, the UV rays from the hot sun will damage your hair, the pollution from the sky will take a toll on your skin, the animals and people will make you wish you didn't have a nose, and the traffic will make sure you endure all these things.  After such a struggle to get through the day though, you will make sure you get in a hot relaxing bath at the end of the day.  So what do you need to pack when your traveling to India, specifically Mumbai?  Here's my list so far, I'm completely open to suggestions by the way!

1.  Shampoo and Conditioner

why? Indians might have nice hair but it is not their shampoo, its the amount of times they get their heads massaged in oil and their organic eating habits, so still to your usual if you don't wanna freak out your scalp.  of course trying out new things isn't forbidden but make sure you have a backup just in case.

2.  Toothbrush and Toothpaste

why?  Now yes you can find your toothpaste in India, but you're going to India to enjoy, travel, meet, etc.  not go on a scavenger hunt for toiletries!  Make sure you have this, because while toothbrushes and toothpaste can be found at every corner of the road I can guarantee you won't want a "spicy" or "ginger" flavored toothpaste, you will want your 3D crest ultra whitening minty fresh toothpaste and your sonic.

3.  DEO

why?  I cannot stress enough, IT IS A MUST.   The heat, the crowded place and just the stress will make you crazy, be able to keep your pits clean and nice!  They do not have a variety there so you will need to take your own!

4.  Razors and shaving cream

why?  well for a first, I am almost sure shaving cream is unheard of in India, at least from what I know.  And the razors suck, if your used to Venus embrace and Schick hyrosilk (like moi) then don't even try to compromise, because even if you use disposable razors in the U.S.A.  these are far below that line. 

5.  brushes and combs

why?  you'll find them but they'll be dollar store.  It's a promise.

6.  Insect repellant!

why?  Mosquitos! and all other harmless yet annoying pests.  In a city of pollution and heat there's no escape!  Be sure you take some or regret.

7.  Sunscreen

why?  Don't forget this, it is probably the most important.  Save everything from the sun!   In fact in addiction to moisturizing face cream with SPF and sunscreen for your body also go ahead and get hair spray designed to save your hair from UV rays.  Trust me on this one.

there's much more but we'll get to that next time!

PACKING

Now I am definitely in no place to say this but PACK.  When traveling to India from any part of the world (unless it's like Pakistan or something), especially if it's for the first time, packing as early as possible is the best way to go.  Imagine all the necessities you have and write them down!  I promise atleast 2/3 of those things will be a struggle to find in India.  Now Mumbai is a rather modern city but it still has major setbacks.  Now I'm not criticizing it so don't freak out!  All I'm saying is the city of dreams comes with a price and you should be prepared!  Don't worry though, I'm here to help:) Good luck!

Maybe to Mumbai?

Mumbai was always an iffy for me. I've been there a total of maybe twice in my life?  And yet I miss it everyday.  Is it the food? the family? the shopping? or all of it?  When I go I cannot wait to leave but then I miss it like crazy.  This time I'd like to document my visit!  Weigh out the pros and cons of Mumbai and see what is it really about the place that holds its own in my heart. 

My inspiration to documenting it? videsigirlinmumbai.blogspot.com/