US to Delhi Travel Guide: Safe Cabs SIM Cards Money Exchange & Hotels

Flying from the US to Delhi can be exciting, but the first few hours after landing often feel overwhelming. From booking a safe cab to getting a local SIM card, exchanging money, and finding a clean hotel, small decisions can make a big difference.

This guide will help you navigate Delhi Airport (Indira Gandhi International Airport) smoothly, so your trip starts stress-free.

1. Booking a Safe Cab from Delhi Airport

Your main options are:

• Uber & Ola – App-based rides, convenient, reliable, and you can track your ride. Prices are usually cheaper than prepaid taxis but may vary based on demand.
• Prepaid Taxi Counters – Available inside the airport. You pay upfront, so no haggling, but quality of vehicles can vary.
• Airport Taxi Services (Meru, Mega, etc.) – Official counters at T3 arrivals, slightly more expensive but comfortable and trustworthy.

✅ Best Choice for First-Time Travelers: Use Uber or Ola from the official pickup zone, or book a Meru Airport Cab if you prefer a fixed, predictable fare. Avoid random drivers offering rides.

2. Buying & Activating a SIM Card in Delhi

Staying connected is essential for maps, ride apps, and communication.

Where to Buy:

• At the Airport: Kiosks for Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) are available in arrivals. Convenient but slightly more expensive.
• Outside (Retail Shops/Stores): Cheaper rates, but you may need to wait longer for activation.

Required Documents:

• Passport (photo & visa page)
• A passport-size photo (some kiosks take it digitally)

Activation Time: Usually within a few hours, but in some cases up to 24 hours.

✅ Recommended: Get your SIM at the airport itself for convenience, even if it costs a little more. Airtel and Jio offer the best coverage in Delhi.

3. Managing Your Money: Forex Card vs. Cash

Carrying money wisely is important for safety and convenience.

Options:

• Prepaid Travel Card (Forex Card): Works like a debit card, can be loaded with USD, and used in India as INR. Safer than carrying cash, and comes with good exchange rates.
• Cash Exchange: You can exchange USD at airport counters, but rates are usually better at city money changers like Thomas Cook or authorized banks.

Tips:

• Carry some small INR notes (₹100, ₹200, ₹500) for taxis, tips, and small shops.
• Use cards (forex/credit) for hotels, restaurants, and online bookings.

✅ Best Approach: Bring a forex card for big expenses + a small amount of INR cash exchanged at the airport for immediate use. Exchange the rest in the city for better rates.

4. Where to Stay: Hotels & PGs in Delhi

If you want to stay near the airport (convenient for late-night arrivals):

• Luxury: JW Marriott Aerocity, Pullman, Andaz Delhi
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Aerocity, Ibis Aerocity
• Budget: FabHotels, OYO near Aerocity

If you prefer Central Delhi (closer to attractions):

• Connaught Place: The Park, Radisson Blu Marina, Bloom Rooms
• Karol Bagh (budget friendly): Treebo Hotels, Ginger Hotels
• For PG/hostel stays: Zostel Delhi, Moustache Hostel

✅ Recommended for First-Timers: Stay in Aerocity if your priority is safety, cleanliness, and airport convenience. Choose Connaught Place if you want central access to markets, food, and sightseeing.

5. Quick Tips for First-Time Travelers to Delhi

• Download offline maps (Google Maps offline mode).
• Book hotels in advance—avoid last-minute walk-ins.
• Use trusted apps (Uber, Ola, Zomato, Swiggy).
• Keep your passport & travel insurance handy.
• Stay alert in crowded places (like railway stations and markets).
• US travelers: Register with the STEP program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for safety alerts.

Final Thoughts

Landing in Delhi doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a safe cab, a working SIM card, the right money management, and a clean hotel booked in advance, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying your India experience.

✈️ Safe travels, and welcome to Delhi!

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