India is one of the world's largest and most populated countries, with an ancient history stretching back thousands of years. Modern India is a nuclear power, with great influence in regional and national politics and a major player in the world economy. This globally recognised reputation makes India a popular destination for corporate accommodation and business travellers.
Located in South Asia, India is the second-most populous country in the world, with over 1.2 billion people. It is easily accessible over sea, with the country surrounded by three bodies of water; the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal. The climate is less convenient though. India encounters four different types of seasons; summer, winter, monsoon and post-monsoon. Temperatures vary drastically, so it’s worth doing research before travelling this vast country.
India was home to one of the oldest examples of human civilisation, the Indus Valley Civilisation, the beginnings of which date back to 3300 BCE. The country has a history dating back five millennia. It has had a rich and fascinating culture ever since, and this is evident based on the large number of tourists who come to enjoy the culture and historical sites. Foreign influence has been detrimental in structuring the way India is today. One of the most significant empires in world history was British India. Indian independence and Mahatma Gandhi’s unique leadership style is only a small, yet massively acknowledged, aspect of Indian history. Today, India lives up to its world superpower status and makes strides in economic growth.
Along with its growing population, India has one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. In 2017 India’s economy was the sixth largest in the world based on nominal GDP. The service sector accounts for over half the annual GDP, while both the automotive and telecommunication industries are other rapidly expanding areas of the economy. Electronic City in Bangalore, an information technology centre and one of the country’s largest electronic parks, is known as the outsourcing capital of the world, particularly within software development.
Introduction of business-friendly reforms such as ‘Make in India’ have continued to create a positive business environment in the country. Consumer businesses have vast amounts of potential to prosper too, with the increasing incomes and greater exposure to Western lifestyle enabling the huge Indian population to start purchasing what they could not previously afford. All these reasons have convinced business travellers to visit the country and create an increased demand for serviced apartments in India.
When travelling to India it is important that you do your research regarding the local law. What may seem trivial in your country, might be imperative to the lives of the Indian people. There are some strict rules about goods that can be brought in and out of the country, so check the regulations on the Indian Customs website.
Be aware of using cameras and binoculars around India as authorities have had a reputation of misinterpreting what may seem like a harmless act. Attitudes towards alcohol also differ across Indian states. Consumption or possession of alcohol have led to arrests, so be sure to check which states are safe to do so. On the whole, asking for local advice is not a bad way to prevent yourself from doing something unlawful. Residents of almost every EU country require a visa to enter India. This is also the case for residents of the US, Canada and Australia. For a list of all the countries which require a visa can be found on www.immigrationworld.com/india. Also, be aware that business visas have a maximum duration of one year, but only six months per visit.
If you decide to drive through India, you must obtain an Indian license. This is relatively stress-free since the introduction of the Road Transport Authority (RTA). Research would suggest that India is a risky place to drive. For instance, attitudes towards using seat belts are practically non-existent. Alternatives would be hiring a driver or flagging down the thousands of taxis that flocked the streets all year round. You do not need to stress about bringing too much Indian currency, the Rupee, to cover taxi fares as it is reasonably cheap.
When it comes to Indian tourist attractions, the country showcases both its proud traditional and modern aspects. An obvious first destination is the legendary Taj Mahal. We advise visiting this immense testimony to love either at dawn or dusk. The country’s most recognizable building symbolises Islamic design and architecture constructed with white marble, jade stones and diamonds. The Taj Mahal is not the only majestic structure either. For instance, you could visit the Harmandir Sahib, the holiest Sikh shrine in India, or the Mecca Masjid, one of the world’s largest mosques. Visitors to India are spoilt for choice when it comes to truly staggering architectural accomplishments.
Be sure not to detract your attention from India’s beautiful scenery though. The Beaches of Goa are perfect for a view overlooking the Arabian sea. The Periyar National Park in Madurai offers visitors to southern India the best chance of seeing the country’s amazing wildlife. Take a guided jungle walk or a lake cruise to make the most of this beautiful park. Whatever aspect of India you wish to see most, Situ’s serviced accommodation can ensure you are never far away.
Despite the staggering population and landmass figures associated with India, the country should have a reputation for being much more. Stunning representations of the country’s past, magnificent landscapes and genuine potential for business prosperity, makes India a popular destination for business lifestyle. As a result, Situ has a great range of serviced apartments available to support the tenth largest business travel market.
Named after the first female Prime Minister of India, Delhi’s international airport is the busiest in India. Handling over 34 million passengers, the airport has become a hub for air travel in South Asia.
The airport is located in Palam and is no further than ten miles away from New Delhi city centre and railway station.
This is India’s national railway system and is operated by the Ministry of Railways. The railways cover 29 India states and provide international services to Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal.
With around 7,500 train stations covering at least 70,000 miles of railway track, India’s railway service is one of the largest in the world.
The Metro operates in ten Indian cities which include Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Whilst Kolkata is home to the oldest metro station, Delhi Metro is the largest network in India.
Metro services run frequently and enable passengers to travel to both suburban and urban area in India.
Bus services are the best mode of transport for exploring around India’s many mountainous areas.
Buses take up 90% of public transport in Indian cities and their rapid travel network is ideal for short distance journeys.
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