India: 5 Ways to survive Indian summers

Being an Indian I thought I could bear the heat of peak summer since I am used to it, but how wrong could I be. Last weekend, right in the middle of the month of May, I set out to explore the capital city, New Delhi. Thanks to the almighty, some of the all time best summer coolers came in handy or I would have turned into a dried zombie. Here are some of best and cheap ways to keep yourself hydrated and cool –

Tip 1: Whatever it takes, do not travel around on foot.

If I have a reasonable budget I would hire an air-conditioned cab to take me around Delhi. However, since I was running on pennies, I chose the Delhi Metro. This efficient rapid transit system not only saved my time but also my skin from sunburns. I bought a tourist travel card ensuring that I don’t have to stand in the long queue for tickets every time. Red color DTC air conditioned buses are also quite comfortable

Tip 2: Sip Green coconut water. Coconut vendors are in abundance.

Nothing can beat fresh Green coconut water. Couple of drinks kept me glowing and hydrated for hours, when people were moving around drenched in sweat. I could easily find numerous coconut vendors on roadside. There are two types of coconuts; some are filled with water only, while the others are filled with water and a layer of cream inside. Once I finished the water the vendor split open the shell to scoop out cream for me.

Tip 3: Magical ‘Jaljeera’ – Drink made of Mint leaves

This spicy but sour and slightly sweet drink made of Mint leaves is green in colour (You may call it Indian Absinthe, non-alcoholic of course). Again not very expensive but I made sure I tried it only at those vendors which looked clean and served in disposable glasses. Trust me; it is like experiencing heaven after one tall glass of ‘Jaljeera’

Caution: Do not drink where they serve in either plastic or glass containers. They are not cleaned properly, and if you are not immune, you may end up with some kind of stomach upset.

Tip 4: Wear loose but full clothes

You may want to go adventurous by wearing sleeveless tops or shorts, but summers in India are not the same as those on the beaches of Brighton in England. Loose fitting, light coloured T-Shirt or ‘Kurta/ Pyjama’ will keep you airy and devoid of sweat. No amount of anti perspirant or talcum powder would have saved me from rashes or burns, if I had chosen to wear tight fitting clothes. You may also want to wear sunglasses and big straw hats along with cotton gloves which are available at cheap rates.

Tip 5: Abstain from eating oily/ junk food while you are on the move

Refrain from eating oily food when you are out. Fruits like Apples, Watermelon, Cucumber, Grapes, and Papaya are the best bet.

These simple quick fire mantras will leave you saying to your friends and family, ‘Oh… I enjoyed the summers in India’.

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