Let’s compare India’s stock market to the United States stock market and ascertain the respective economic health. In the U.S., the stock market sits roughly where it did 11 years ago. India’s Sensex Index has multiplied itself three times over the same span of time. Who would have thunk that?

For travelers looking to find a new host country with a vibrant economy, look what the cat dragged in. To many westerners, India appears chaotic and unsettled, with eight different coalition governments over the past three decades. But pull back the curtain to look behind the pandemonium and you find that India’s GDP has been growing at a rate of 6.2% a year over that time. Opportunities for business and investing abound.

But before heading out to India for a little prospecting and travel, you should be aware cultural oddities that make no sense to a westerner. Indians like to do business with people they know, thus it greatly improves your chances to be introduced by a trusted third party.

Business decisions strictly flow from the top down in Indian companies. Communication can take awhile. You should also be aware that India is not a nation of punctuality. Meetings are canceled, re-scheduled, and postponed with short or no notice. Get used to it. Their way of life is not going to change for you.

Flights to India can be found for less than $1,000. Check out Air India and be sure to book well in advance.

The Jetsetter Team

Flickr / lylevincent

Tags: India, international travel, travel business