After an anxiety filled night in a cult at the Ashram, I couldn't have been happier to escape to the beautiful and relaxing Varkala. This was the first place in India with a beach we could swim in. With delicious restaurants placed on top of a cliff overlooking the sea, we ate and drank our Amma qualms away.
Before I came to India, I was warned by many people to stay safe and cautious, particularly of Indian men. I was told to dress conservatively and act modestly. Varkala was the first place we tested this - would we be able to sunbath in our bathing suits without harassment? Truthfully... yes. Though I'd be lying if I said I felt 100% safe all the time, for the most part, the men left us alone. I walked around by myself in my beach apparel (tank top and shorts) and didn't feel any more creeped out than I would back home.
Disclaimer - we stayed our entire trip in southern India, which is much more relaxed and liberal on issues such as women's rights. I am guessing a lot of the harassment western women report is experienced more in the north.
Disclaimer - we stayed our entire trip in southern India, which is much more relaxed and liberal on issues such as women's rights. I am guessing a lot of the harassment western women report is experienced more in the north.