yeh that would worry me being a single, particulary being english, young female travelling alone to india or parts like that!!-i want to go easy for my first time-OMG just realised how strange that sounds-oh well i can't b.bothered to type anything else coz i'm going to sit in fron of the tv and chill!! ahh thats the life!
disillusionment with western life
Quoting Lion king
My life, Wocca. And you?
Every one is on their own trip. And so far as I'm concerned, especially when you in live in different parts of the world, you live more than one life 
Quoting Wocca
Every one is on their own trip. And so far as I'm concerned, especially when you in live in different parts of the world, you live more than one life
Wocca, does living in different states count as multiple lives? (The cultural differences have proved to be as challenging as moving out of country.)
Quoting ge_orgie
i don't want to do a well worn tourist track when i get there, I'd like to stay in traditional villages and really experience the true India.
I agree with Wocca and the rest - I think you will find "true" India to be less enlightening than you may expect and acceptence into their homes and cultural way difficult. Traditional villages will not have hostels or dorms. There may be an exchange program available. Isreal has programs where you can live and work in a kibbutz for a set period of time. India may have a similar program, though I am not aware of any off hand. Women, in general, are still second-class citizens and independent western women (especially traveling alone) will find it a hard adjustment.
Quoting isadora
[quote=ge_orgie] Women, in general, are still second-class citizens and independent western women (especially traveling alone) will find it a hard adjustment.
India is the first destination on my round the world solo trip...this does not inspire confidence....for those of you who have been to INdia would you advise travelling with someone while I'm there?