Havelock Island Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea are the main mobile providers. Airtel and Jio generally present better connectivity on Havelock.

SIM Card Acquisition

Purchase Indian SIM cards upon arrival at Port Blair airport or from authorized dealers.
Acquisition requires your passport, a copy of your visa, and a passport-sized photograph.
Activation can take a few hours to a day; plan accordingly.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Internet connectivity on Havelock Island can be slow and unreliable, especially outside of large resorts.

Availability

Most mid-range to luxury resorts present Wi-Fi, sometimes at an additional charge or with limited free access.
Smaller guesthouses might have very basic Wi-Fi, or none at all. Consider Airalo eSIM for staying connected or Solis Wi-Fi for a portable device.
Do not count on consistently fast internet for work or heavy streaming.

Language & Translation

Hindi and Bengali are the most common local languages spoken. English is widely understood and spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and dive centers.

Translation Tools

The Google Translate app functions as a useful resource.
Download the Hindi language pack for use without internet, as internet connectivity might be intermittent.
Learning a few basic Hindi expressions can uplift your interactions. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Basic Hindi Phrases

Learning a few basic phrases in Hindi can uplift your interactions and display respect for local culture.

Phrases

Hello/Namaste: Nah-mah-stay
Thank you: Dhanyavad (Dhan-ya-vad)
Yes: Haan (Ha-ahn)
No: Nahin (Na-heen)
How much?: Kitne ka hai? (Kit-nay kah hai?)
Water: Paani (Pah-nee)
Food: Khana (Khaa-naa)

Business Operations

Typical Hours

Shops: Generally open from around 9:A.M. TO 9:00 PM.
Restaurants: Typically open for lunch 12:00 PM-3:00 PM, dinner 7:00 PM-10:30 PM.
Dive Centers: Usually 8:00 AM-6:00 PM, with early morning trips.
ATMs available in Village No. 3, though reliability can vary. Carry cash.

Seasonal & Holiday Impact

Monsoon season (June-September): Many smaller resorts, restaurants, and dive centers may close or operate with restricted services.
Low tourist footfall and adverse weather can disrupt activities.
Ferries might also have reduced schedules during this period.
Indian public and religious holidays can limit services. Check a public holiday calendar before travel.

Planning Tip

For major banking needs or complex transactions, finalize them in Port Blair or mainland India in advance of traveling to the island.

Airport Services

Services catering to travelers at Port Blair airport can enhance your journey.

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass membership delivers frequent travelers independent airport lounge access globally.

Flight Delay Compensation

Compensair assists customers in receiving compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.

Travel Support

These services attempt to make airport experiences smoother and more comfortable for travelers.

Financial Transactions

Havelock has limited banking services. For major needs, complete transactions in Port Blair or mainland India.

ATM & Cash Tips

ATMs are available in Village No. 3.
Reliability can be an issue; they may run out of cash or be offline.
Carry sufficient cash from The port Blair or mainland India.

Cultural Conduct

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your experience and fosters positive relationships.

Etiquette Points

Namaste is a common and respectful greeting.
Dress modestly, especially in common areas, dressing modestly.
Always get consent before taking pictures of individuals.

Social Etiquette

Female Travelers

Havelock Island is generally safe for solo female travelers.
Dressing conservatively and remaining aware of surroundings is advised.
Take extra care after dark.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

India has decriminalized homosexuality.
Public acceptance varies nationwide.
Subtlety is advisable in public displays of affection.

Etiquette Reminder

Observe how locals interact and behave in public spaces and sample to emulate their respectful conduct.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges or other accessibility needs should note Havelock Island's infrastructure limitations.

Mobility Infrastructure

The island's infrastructure is generally not designed for easy wheelchair accessibility.

Challenges

Roads, pavements, and access to coastlines are often uneven or non-existent.
Many establishments have steps.
Very few dedicated accessible facilities exist.

Accessible Facilities

Some newer or luxury resorts could include ramps or present accessible rooms. This is not a standard provision.

Support Needs

No specific services or infrastructure are readily accessible to tourists with visual or hearing impairments.
Travelers with these needs should plan for self-reliance.
Consider traveling with companions who can assist.

Resources for Accessible Travel

For detailed guidance on accessible travel in India, consult niche travel agencies.

Planning Tips

Specialized agencies can deliver specific recommendations and arrange necessary assistance.
Directly contact resorts or tour operators about their specific accessibility features.
Inquire before booking to confirm provisions.