• There’s a growing trend on platforms like YouTube that’s making a lot of us in India feel frustrated and a bit disrespected. International travel vloggers are coming to our colorful, diverse country, and while we’re always ready to welcome visitors, the story they tell often takes a familiar turn. Many of these creators, coming from wealthy countries, choose to show India by only focusing on the cheapest options. They document the typical struggles that come with that and then frame it as the true Indian experience.

• Recently, a French YouTuber made a video about his 48-hour train ride from Mumbai to Varanasi. He talked about how crowded and noisy it was, and how he felt uncomfortable with the cleanliness of the train. By the end of the trip, he was really eager to get back home where things felt cleaner and more familiar. While everyone’s experience matters, the way he presented this one raises some questions. It wasn’t just a random tough situation; he chose to take that trip.

• Let’s take a closer look at traveling from Mumbai to Varanasi, two bustling cities in India. When it comes to getting from one to the other, you have a range of options to choose from. Of course, there’s the general compartment, which is the go-to for a lot of people. It’s super affordable, making it accessible for many travelers. But let’s be real—it’s often packed with people, it can get pretty loud, and if you’re on a long trip, it might wear you out a bit. But don’t worry, that’s not your only choice! The Indian Railways has stepped up its game with several types of air-conditioned coaches. You can pick from Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC, or 1AC options. Each one offers a different level of comfort, privacy, and cleanliness. Yep, as you go higher on the scale, you pay a bit more, but you also get a better experience. So no matter your budget, there’s something that can fit your needs!

• India is stepping up its railway game these days. They’ve introduced high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat Express that are comfortable and air-conditioned. These trains are making it easier to travel between big cities, and you can even compare them to some of the best train services around the world. And if you’re looking for an even quicker way to get around, flying is a great choice too. For trips that are close to 1500 kilometers, catching a flight can save you a lot of time, and you might be surprised at how affordable tickets can be. So, whether you prefer to take the train or the plane, getting from one place to another in India has never been easier.

• The vlogger from France could’ve picked a better way to get around, but instead, they went for the toughest transport option. Then, they shared how uncomfortable it was, making it seem like that’s what traveling in India is all about. It feels a bit off. They seem to be pushing a personal choice for the sake of getting more views, but that doesn’t really reflect the experiences of a whole country with 1.4 billion people.

• Here’s an important point: personal responsibility and planning matter. Nobody is forced to visit India. we welcome everyone. But if you’re taking a big trip across a large and complicated country, a bit of research and planning goes a long way. If you pick the cheapest train seat on a long route without looking into other options, and then you’re surprised by the lack of comfort, that’s not India’s fault—it’s a sign of not planning well or maybe trying to create a certain story. Traveling on a budget can mean making some sacrifices. But if you choose to make your trip tougher just for the sake of getting a shot, you’re moving away from a real experience to something that feels staged.

• This isn’t just about trains. It often happens with places to stay too. People pick the cheapest $5-a-night hostel in a big city and then complain about the lack of amenities. They ignore the many clean and comfy guesthouses, homestays, and hotels that fit different budgets. India has options for backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone else in between. Only looking at the bottom of the barrel and acting like that’s the usual experience is misleading.

• What really gets under my skin about this trend is that it goes against one of the most important values in Indian culture: Atithi Devo Bhava, which basically means that a guest is like God. In India, being hospitable is a big deal, and it’s something that’s part of who we are. There are so many stories and videos out there, most of which don’t come from the vloggers themselves, that show just how kind people can be to visitors. Just think about it: You’ll see many street food vendors refusing to take money from foreigners, auto-rickshaw drivers who go above and beyond without asking for anything in return, and families that welcome total strangers into their homes for some tea. These moments are real and not staged; they reflect true kindness and openness. So, when some people take that warm hospitality and turn around to create content that focuses mostly on negative stuff, like problems they’ve made for themselves, it really feels wrong.

• We know that India has its flaws, and we’re not shy about admitting it. As a developing country, we’re facing some tough challenges like poverty, problems with our infrastructure, and sanitation issues in some places. We’re always working hard to make things better, keep up with modern times, and help our people move forward. Yes, we have our problems, but let’s not forget that India is also a beautiful place. We’ve got amazing landscapes, a mix of cultures that’s hard to beat, a rich history that tells so many stories, mouthwatering food that brings people together, and a warmth that’s felt in every corner. Here, you can find ancient customs alongside the latest tech innovations, peaceful spots for reflection mixed with the lively buzz of our cities. It’s this blend of the old and the new that makes India unique. Each region has its own charm, from tranquil villages to busy urban life. It’s an interesting place where people from different backgrounds come together, creating a colorful picture of life.

• It’s pretty unfair to paint this diverse country with a broad brush just because of some budget travel issues. It misses out on all the progress, ignores the beauty, and overlooks the real experiences of countless travelers who visit respectfully and enjoyably every year.

• Hey travel bloggers, thinking about your next Indian adventure: definitely come and explore! Just remember to be mindful and respectful while you’re here. The choices you make impact your experience. If you decide to take the tougher route, that’s on you—don’t blame the whole country for your discomfort. Do a bit of research beforehand. Maybe spend a little extra on a comfy train seat or a nice room; your flight costs a lot more anyway.

Conclusion