Chennai (Madras) Warnings Or Dangers

When in Madras, autos is definitely a tempting option instead of buses to avoid the crowds. However, if you have to use an auto, make sure whether you are getting a flat price or whether you are going to go with the meter running. Most of the autos also have their meter fixed and so if you watch the needle run while you are on board, your heart would start pumping faster and faster.

Taxis are even more expensive than autos and they are actually becoming a rare breed now. Avoid taxis unless you have no other choice. And like autos unless you are getting a pre-paid taxi, get a deal before you board.

If you use the Madras metro rail system, you are highly likely to come across beggars including real small kids who go from compartment to compartment. As hearwrenching as it is, do not give them money because it only encourages them further. If you do want to be charitable, be selective and give only to physically handicapped people.

While in Madras, avoid drinking water from the taps directly in any public areas. Bottled water is the best bet for travelers and tourists alike while in Madras.

Also avoid sugarcane juice from roadside vendors. As tasty as it is, its also not very healthy since the canes are crushed in the open in the presence of flies and bugs. But if you can get sugarcane juice from a nice shop, dont miss it. It indeed is really tasty !!!

I know I must have been unlucky but I must not be the only one....

On the flight Singapore Airline Chennai-Singapore, I arrived at Chennai airport with 2 suitcase. Got them both scanned through customs, had them checked at the counter.

Arriving in Singapore, only my "clothes" suitcase came out. The one with souvenirs never appeared...

I think that those who scanned it found what's inside pretty interesting and wanted a closer look...

Update June 03: They were very very interested in the content of my suitcase again, even took note of the electronics inside...be careful !!!

ladies be warned. chennai has its share of boisterous men. try to travel in groups or with some male company. also, always try and avoid the autorickshaws. unlike the other indian cities, they are operated by thugs here. take the bus, or call a taxi (there are many call-taxi companies in chennai).

Don't use the buses unless they are the tourist air-conditioned ones. They frequently breakdown and are falling to bits. When using the auto-rickshaws agree your price before you set off. Have a map handy as they may not know where you want to go to.

1. Only drink bottled water, and when you buy water, check that it is sealed properly

2. Beware of stray dogs

3. Haggle hard with auto-rickshaw drivers