BootsnAll Travel Community

I have been reading other forums about India and the concensus seems to be that India is a difficult place especially for a single women traveler. Any comments? I am 58 so am feeling protected by my age but is that a false illusion?

I probably will go lno matter what but I am curious about other older womens exeriences

Actually I think you may be right...your age may give u a kind of "protection"...I met a woman about ur age in Goa and she didnt have a problem-they seemed to respect her for her age...obviously she also dressed appropriately.

When I was in India...sadly too long ago 98 things were difficult for a woman travelling alone and in groups...as far as grabbing...However...when you "retaliated" they left you alone...sometimes with giggles which is of course irritating...but not physically harmful.

Also there is always the other travellers...teaming up along the way makes it sometimes easier...HAving said that I met several woman who REALLY travelled alone and away from travellers "ghettos" they said they had no problem but all were dressed in traditional indian clothes. They thought it helped.

I'd agree -age is good over there - leave the hair dye behind - buy some local bagggy trousers and tops - the Indians seem to love foreigners wearing their cloths. Even in my 20's and solo and blonde all you get is a bit too many questions on how old are you how many kids and wheres your husband - nothing actually scary or dangerous - lost my wallet once - the pickpockets are very good ! Take a photo of your kids if you have - that will break the ice - borrow some relative's kids if you dont have your own!
I wrote on India recently on hubpages - follow my link below