'India is addictive': Foreign couple busts outdated myths and shares the reality of Indian culture

Foreign tourists debunk 8 outdated stereotypes about India. (Image: sassytrips/Instagram)

Foreign tourists visiting India often arrive with a mix of curiosity and caution, shaped in part by what they have seen online. Recently, a foreign couple attracted attention online after challenging what they describe as outdated stereotypes about the country.

Iasmin and Tom, who have been travelling through Delhi, Aurangabad, Jaipur, Udaipur and Goa, shared a video titled “Myth vs Reality India edition,” urging viewers to question common assumptions and rely on personal experience rather than viral narratives.

One of the first claims they addressed was the idea that “India is dirty and chaotic!” They said, “India is developing rapidly. You’ll find plenty of clean, well-organised areas - even in Delhi. (Pro tip: visit the New Delhi side!)”

They also responded to concerns about safety, particularly for women travelling alone. Challenging the perception that “It’s too dangerous for solo female travellers,” they explained, “While it can be intense, India is one of the most transformative places you’ll ever visit. Many women travel here solo! Most people are simply curious and chatty rather than having ulterior motives. There’s a big difference between the laid-back South and the hectic North, but in tourist hubs, you’ll be absolutely fine if you stay informed.”

On poverty, the couple said that although hardship exists, it is not unique to India and should not define the entire nation. Poverty exists, just as it does in many parts of the world. While you will see it in certain areas, it is not exclusive to India, nor does it define the entire country.

They also dismissed viral claims about unhygienic street food. “Don’t believe everything you see on social media for ‘clout.’ No one is cooking with their feet! There is incredible, clean, and delicious street food that you’d be a fool to miss out on,” they wrote.

Transport was another issue they raised. Countering the belief that trains are always overcrowded and uncomfortable, they explained, “There are options for every budget. If you book a higher class, you’ll get AC, a comfortable bed, and hot meals—it’s often better than a hotel!”

The couple also clarified that not all Indian food is spicy. “Not at all! You can easily ask for ‘no spice,’ and Western food is widely available in most cities,” they noted.

They also addressed cultural generalisations, including the belief that all marriages in India are arranged. “Times have changed. ‘Love marriages’ are incredibly common now, and with India’s massive diversity, every state has different traditions and practices,” they said.

Highlighting linguistic diversity, they added, “India has 22 official languages and over 1,600 dialects! Someone from the North and someone from the South might not even understand each other, it’s like a Swede trying to talk to someone from Greece.”

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The video received support from several social media users. One commented, “India is addictive, that’s why people throw a story not to visit this beauty… India is conscience (chetna) it teaches you to be grounded and embrace the peace in this organised chaos. India is the heartbeat of the world. Bharat is pure bliss.”

Another wrote, “100% agree people need to stop with stereotypes and number two, they have better infrastructure with their trains than the United States, cleaner, move better, just better in general.”

A third user added, “Thanks a lot. We are tired of so many edited and AI-generated videos of hatred against India on social media. Just don't come then, we will be absolutely fine. It's too much for us.”

Their post has contributed to a wider discussion about how India is portrayed on digital platforms, with many users calling for a more balanced and informed understanding of the country beyond viral clips.