Books > Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India

Barbara Ann Weibel April 4, 2010 at 11:06 pm

Just saying the word India conjures up images of the Taj Mahal in the soft light of dawn, camels trekking across deserts, worshipers bathing in the sacred Ganges, mountains of spices in marketplace stalls, and women wrapped in luscious silk saris. But India also means being exposed to filth, poverty, masses of humanity, beggars on the streets, incessant touts, and bouts of “Delhi Belly.” Having been to India, my best advice is for travelers to be thoroughly prepared before going so that the culture shock will be minimized.

In my opinion, Whitman nails the India experience in her book, “Wanderlust and Lipstick: For Women Traveling to India.” She thoroughly covers taboos such as: never eat with your left hand (this is the hand Indians use to clean themselves after using the bathroom), never pat someone on the head (it’s considered rude), never allow your feet to touch someone (feet are considered dirty), never curl your finger in a “come here” gesture (this is considered provocative). The book provides an excellent overview of the various modes of transportation and types of accommodations available across India, as well as a good overview of Indian food. Whitman also provides dozens of invaluable “hot tips” throughout the book.

Although this book focuses on women who travel to India, it would benefit anyone destined for the sub-continent. I wish I had read it before I went to India, and when I return you can bet this book will be in my backpack.
Rating: 5 / 5

V. M. Badertscher April 4, 2010 at 11:09 pm

Lipstick and Wanderlust for India reflects the author’s passion for India and for traveling there from the United States. I like the way that her advice does not just come from an impersonal “thou should” but from personal experience, her own and that of other women travelers. While general guidebooks are indispensable, there are some things unique to the experience of a woman traveling, particularly when she is traveling alone. It is comforting to here the direct experiences of other women, and have their helpful hints, particularly when going to a culture so different from our own.
Rating: 4 / 5

Happy traveler April 5, 2010 at 1:58 am

This is an invaluable book for any traveler to India, not just women. With all its practical advice about safe travel in a non-Western country like India, it will give you the confidence to travel independently. It’s an enjoyable book that reads more like a novel than a guidebook, with a number of personal traveler stories that illustrate various aspects of Indian culture.

As I prepare for my 1st visit, I’m getting to know India by reading the books and watching the movies recommended. This book has a wealth of information: what to pack and wear, how to obtain a visa, tips about train travel, Indian customs, and much more. Especially helpful are all the website references for further information.

Rating: 5 / 5

Leyla Giray April 5, 2010 at 2:48 am

Unlike traditional guidebooks (top 10 sights, turn left here) Beth provides essential information for the neglected half – women who travel. She deals with everything we need to know, whether dress, food, customs and just plain having fun. If you’ve never been to India or have been but were a bit shaken by the experience, Beth’s book will ensure this trip is thoroughly enjoyable. Easy, accessible, straightforward. Don’t leave home without it!
Rating: 5 / 5

Lyndsey Bristow April 5, 2010 at 4:14 am

Has some great info on traveling solo in India… no specifics regarding trip planning (i.e. about certain locations or regions in India), more general information. Some info on locations of India and how to travel those regions and what to watch out for would have been helpful.
Rating: 3 / 5