A Note on Footwear: The Croc
Probably the best pre-trip thing I bought was a pair of Crocs. I know they are ugly and not stylish and will probably still be on Earth long after the last human, but they are a must for India and Southeast Asia travel. Here's why...
They are cheap. $20-$30 for the basic ones. No one will steal them, but even if they did, you wouldn't be out much. I'm sure new $100+ dollar Keens or Merrells are great until India gets a hold of them, literally.
They are ugly. Once again, no one will steal them. You'll be taking your shoes off and leaving them outside of stores, temples, houses, schools and even some museums. They are also easy to spot in a pile of flip flops!
You'll use them everyday.
They are close toed. So you will protect your feet from all the Paan spit, excrement (human and animal), rubble, broken glass, live electrical wires, biting animals, mud, flood water, urine, dust, and beggars who like to touch the feet of westerners when asking for money. Do you want a leper touching your toes (even though it's not contagious and it is treatable)? Closed toe is the way to go.
They are cool (temperature wise I mean). They breath and are light weight.
They are made of rubber and therefor can be hosed off at night to get rid of everything you stepped in during the day. Also the electrical wire thing.
They float. Which is very useful during the monsoon.
They have a heal strap for when you are climbing or riding a bike.
They are comfortable. This is the excuse most westerners will give for wearing them and it is true.
They can, if the need is strong enough, be worn with socks.
They will help you make new friends. I can't tell you how many times I bonded with my fellow Croc wearers and discussed the great value and usefulness of Croc.
So if you are headed to the Subcontinent just go ahead and buy them: Crocs.
*My Crocs shown above still etched with the "poo-dust" of India, even after being blasted with a power sprayer car wash attachment. India is hard on shoes.
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