Why Not...

People have asked me WHY we decided to visit India this year. There has been a lot of fear, based on the situation that occurred last year in Mumbai. My response always is that I won't let fear control what I do and where I go. There is also concern about health issues.

So, my answer is 'Why not?" when they ask. For now, these places can be visited UP CLOSE. I've read and heard that there might be a time in the near future when people will not be able to get close to the Taj Mahal. That's one of the reasons we chose to go THIS YEAR. We were able to walk around the structure, touch it, and go inside.

There was increased security at our hotel in Delhi and at the Taj Mahal. Is this really much different from security at our national treasures? Nothing about the security scared me. it's just the way it is. Something we accept as we visit other places. In fact, the airport security was more than at most others we've visited. (I pack my carry-on, knowing that there might be times when I have take EVERYTHING out for inspection. A little inconvenience for the travel experience.)

Even my doctor has wondered why Steve and I choose to go to countries where we need to take special meds. I've printed out info for him about recommendations for meds for our trips. Since he's not a "travel specialist doctor," he contacts a doctor he knows who is.

For Eastern Europe, it was recommended to get a Hepatitis A shot. (It lasts 10 years so I figured it would be a good idea since we intended to travel more.)

In Peru, it was Diamox for high altitude and Cipro (antibiotic...just in case). The high altitude, even with the Diamox, affected me. I don't want to think what would have happened if I didn't take it. One woman in our group opted not to take it and she had to use oxygen when we were in Lake Titicaca area. We didn't need the Cipro on that trip, but others, who hadn't brought it, did. They purchased it from the local pharmacy (no script needed).

Last year (Thailand) was our first experience with Malarone, an anti-malaria med. We had no problem with it, other than a headache the first couple of days. The alternative is something no one wants. The Cipro from the previous year was still ok to use and we did need it on that trip. Thank goodness we had it.

Our trip to India was similar to Thailand with the meds needed. We took the Malarone (finishing the regimen today since we're supposed to take it for 7 days after leaving the area) and had the Cipro with us but didn't need it. We did use Alpha-CF for some cold-like symptoms. I also used an electrolyte powder when I was slightly dehydrated. No big deal. (Dehydration can occur anywhere.)

There isn't a need for special meds for every place we visit. We do, however, bring the basic over-the-counter meds to have with us just in case we need them. Most of the time, we bring them home and save them for a future trip.

Travel...a wonderful experience to see different places and meet friendly people. No fear... but proper caution both for safety and health.