Hi I'm Sabrina…When my best friend Trihn and I told people we were planning a three-week trip to India, almost everyone reacted the same way. Some were excited, while others immediately began warning us about everything that could go wrong. They spoke about crowds, traffic, safety, and how overwhelming India could feel for first-time visitors. By the time we booked our flights, I had heard so many different opinions that I wasn't sure what to expect anymore.
Despite all the stories, there was one thing we knew for certain—we didn't want a typical holiday. We weren't looking for luxury resorts where we would barely step outside or a rushed itinerary covering only famous landmarks. We wanted to experience the real India, meet local people, understand different cultures, explore vibrant markets, and travel slowly enough to appreciate every place we visited. We wanted comfort, but we also wanted authenticity.
While planning our journey, we came across Planout, and the first conversation immediately felt different. Instead of asking which monuments we wanted to visit, they wanted to understand how we liked to travel. They helped us design a journey that balanced affordable luxury with authentic experiences, giving us beautiful places to stay while ensuring we experienced the heart of India rather than just its postcard attractions.
Our journey took us across some of the country's most incredible destinations, and what amazed me most was how every state felt like an entirely different world. The architecture, food, language, traditions, and even the pace of life changed from one destination to another. It never felt like we were travelling through a single country—it felt like we were discovering many unique cultures connected by one incredible spirit.
One of the most unforgettable experiences was spending a night on a traditional houseboat in Alleppey, Kerala. As we slowly floated through the peaceful backwaters, we watched fishermen beginning their day, children waving from the riverbanks, and endless rows of coconut trees reflecting on the still water. Time seemed to slow down completely. Sitting on the deck during sunset, sharing fresh Kerala cuisine and simply enjoying the silence, reminded me that the best luxury isn't always found in expensive hotels—sometimes it's found in moments you never want to end.
Kerala also introduced us to one of the most fascinating cultural experiences of our trip. Watching a Kathakali performance in Kochi was mesmerizing. The elaborate costumes, vibrant makeup, expressive storytelling, and live music made it unlike anything I had ever seen before. Later, in Rajasthan, we experienced traditional folk music and dance performances that filled the evenings with colour, celebration, and joy. Those performances weren't just entertainment; they felt like an invitation to understand India's rich traditions and centuries of history.
Looking back, I realise my biggest concern before visiting India wasn't the transportation or the language—it was simply not knowing how two women would feel travelling across such a vast and unfamiliar country. Those worries disappeared much faster than I expected. Everywhere we went, people welcomed us with genuine curiosity and kindness. Shopkeepers patiently helped us choose gifts, families smiled and started conversations, and whenever we looked a little lost, someone was always willing to help. Like any destination, we travelled responsibly and stayed aware of our surroundings, but what stayed with me wasn't fear—it was the warmth and hospitality we experienced throughout the journey.
By the end of our three weeks, I understood something I wish I had realised much earlier. India cannot be understood through headlines, social media, or someone else's opinion. It is a country you have to experience for yourself. Every destination surprised us, every conversation taught us something new, and every day challenged the assumptions I had carried before arriving.
When Trihn and I boarded our flight back to the Netherlands, our bags were certainly heavier with beautiful clothes, handcrafted gifts, and memories from every corner of India. More importantly, we returned home with a completely different perspective. India had given us far more than a holiday—it had given us confidence, friendships, unforgettable experiences, and stories we'll continue sharing for years to come.
If you're dreaming about visiting India but feel uncertain because of everything you've heard, my advice is simple: don't let someone else's story become your own. Come with an open mind, travel slowly, talk to local people, and allow India to surprise you. I have a feeling it will.
About Planout
Planout creates personalized journeys across India for international travellers looking to experience the country beyond the usual tourist routes. From authentic cultural experiences and unique stays to trusted local support, every itinerary is designed around your travel style, helping you discover an India that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.
