Would not rush back to India — persistent touts at tourist sites was a real issue

I wanted to love India more than I did. The positives exist: Kerala backwaters is genuinely impressive, Mumbai has moments of real charm, and rogan josh is as good as people say.

But persistent touts at tourist sites was a persistent problem throughout the trip and dragged the experience down. I've heard others say it's improved, but during my 8-day visit it was a constant friction point. Maybe I'll give it another chance in a few years. For now I'm directing my travel budget elsewhere.