FAQs
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Please check out the dress code recommendations for each event in the Schedule tab. Please wear what you are comfortable in. Western, traditional Indian, and indowestern outfits are welcome for all events! Here are popular Indian clothing options for some inspiration: Men -- kurta (example: https://www.manyavar.com/en-us/men/only-kurta), Jodhpuri Style Suit (example: https://www.manyavar.com/en-in/men/bandhgala-suit?page=1) Women -- saree (example: https://www.manyavar.com/en-in/mohey/lehenga), lehenga (example: https://www.manyavar.com/en-in/mohey/saree), or Indian-style dresses
Question
Where can I buy Indian clothes?
Answer
If you wish to buy Indian clothes for the wedding, we recommend buying in Mumbai. There will be many options there. We would recommend at least 2-3 days there to allow you time to shop, and at least a day for alterations. Here are some recommendations based on places we have gone to in the past. They all have multiple locations throughout the city: https://share.google/kXauAu5S4dKUBno71 https://share.google/je8b5Tcl4TOnhg6PP https://share.google/8lzmXHJ2eYqj8LCsG You should be able to walk in and they will help you out. If you are in any other major city in India prior to the wedding, there will be plenty of options for you too. There are also shops in the US that sell Indian clothes, especially around major metropolitan areas. Buying online is also an option.
Question
Do I have to go to all events?
Answer
We would love for you to be at all of the events! However we understand if you cannot make it to all of them. If you don't plan to come to Vasai from Mumbai with our shuttle on 12/3 and return to Mumbai on 12/6 you can arrange your own transport. Ubers are available.
Question
Where should I stay before and after the wedding?
Answer
There are so many places to visit within India! Here are just a few options: Mumbai: Major city with lots of things to do, especially exploring and eating! We would recommend staying in South Mumbai to take advantage of areas such as Colaba (shopping and restaurants with historical buildings), Marine Drive (popular walking path along the sea) and the Gateway of India (monument popular with tourists). Hotel recommendations: Trident Hotel, Nariman Point: https://www.tridenthotels.com/hotels-in-mumbai-nariman-point/ The Gordon House Hotel: https://www.ghhotel.com/ Goa: coastal state with lots of beautiful resorts. Very tourist-friendly with multiple direct flights to and from Mumbai per day. We would recommend South Goa for more pristine beaches, but North Goa is nice too. Here are some recommendations in South Goa. If these are not available, you can look at other resorts in these areas. The Bay Agonda: https://share.google/u7Kc2cTG6McHTyyfZ Cabo Serai: https://share.google/oZuVLVufqg65wIBOz Kerala: South Indian coastal state. If you are interested in beaches, Varkala Beach is a popular option. Kerala also has beautiful mountainous areas including famous tea plantations and hiking options. Rajasthan: Classic North Indian destination with beautiful palaces and diverse landscapes (mountains, deserts, etc). Organized tour: If you would like to explore more of India as part of an organized tour prior to the wedding in mid November, please reach out to the bride’s parents, Andrea and Jeff. The tour is organized by Audley Travel and will visit some major cultural and historical sites in India. If you would like more information, please text Andrea and Jeff at 845-901-7102.
Question
If I am from out of the country, what should I know about traveling to India?
Answer
Visa: India requires an e-visa for US citizens. It can be done online and is quite fast to fill out. Its recommended to complete this 4-6 weeks before your arrival date. Immunizations and medicines: Its a good idea to go a travel doctor beforehand to determine if you need any shots or medicines before traveling to India. Its a good idea to do this ~2 months before your arrival since some immunizations require boosters. Clothing: India in December is quite pleasant although hot. Would recommend light clothing. For women, to be most comfortable its a good idea to wear modest clothing (cover knees and shoulders). For metropolitan areas this is less of a concern. Food: yes Indian food can be spicy but there is a huge variety! There are good options even for those who have low spice tolerance. You may be surprised. While street food is delicious, in general its usually a good idea to keep to busy restaurants and avoid fresh vegetables and fruit, unless you are in a place you trust. Avoid unbottled water and ice. Using good judgement and doing some research beforehand will ensure your trip is enjoyable and you stay healthy. If anything happens, Indian pharmacies are well-equipped, especially in metropolitan areas.
Question
What is there to do between the wedding events?
Answer
We don't anticipate too much down time during your time in Vasai, but if you want to explore in the mornings before festivities start, there are restaurants walkable to the hotel in Vasai to explore, and some sightseeing in the area such as Vasai Fort (Portuguese fort ruins along the sea, built in the 1500s and filming site of a Beyonce/Coldplay music video "Hymn for the Weekend").
