What should first-time visitors really know before traveling to India? According to one Polish woman who has spent a lot of time exploring the country, the answer has less to do with sights and more to do with mindset.
Dominika Patalas-Kalra, who hails from Poland, went viral on Instagram after sharing five practical tips for tourists planning a trip to India. Dominika’s advice was drawn from her personal experience and resonated well – especially with Indians who felt she captured realities often missed in guidebooks.
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Rather than hitting the iconic tourist circuit, Dominika encouraged travelers to step away from rigid itineraries and preconceived notions. “India rewards curiosity,” she suggested, adding that openness often leads to the most meaningful experiences.
Watch the viral video here:
Among her suggestions was a warning against sticking only to popular tourist attractions, which she described as overcrowded, overpriced and sometimes understaffed. Instead, she encouraged visitors to explore local neighborhoods, markets and everyday spaces that offer a more authentic view of life in the country.
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She also dealt with one of the most common concerns of foreign travelers — public transport. Contrary to popular belief, Dominika said traveling by subway or autorickshaw is much more feasible than many expect. To avoid confusion or overcharging, she recommended using ride-hailing apps like Uber, Ola or Rapido where fares are fixed in advance.
Another key fact from her list was the value of local society. Traveling with someone who is familiar with the city, she says, often opens doors to places that would never become tour guides. “Some of the best experiences are not planned,” she suggested.
Perhaps her sharpest advice, however, concerned stereotypes. Dominika urged visitors to leave behind their preconceived notions about India and approach the country with an open mind. “Forget what you think you know,” was the underlying message — one that many viewers found refreshing.
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The post sparked a wave of positive reactions, with several users praising it for offering a balanced and respectful perspective. Some jokingly remarked that she deserved an Aadhaar card for understanding India better than many tourists.
This is not the first time that Dominica’s views on India have gone viral. She has previously criticized foreign vloggers who she says deliberately seek out poverty or unhygienic food to portray the country in a negative light. Such content, she says, often favors shock value over fairness and reinforces harmful stereotypes.
But her latest post struck a more hopeful note – reminding travelers that India, like any vast and complex country, reveals itself best to those willing to look beyond the obvious.