So is anyone of you lucky enough to be travelling to India for the Commonwealth Games this year? Maybe you have a friend or relative who is competing. Unfortunately, I will be only be watching any of the Games at home on my TV. Nevertheless, I wanted to share some useful travelling tips for those of you who are going to the Games.

For any of you who don’t know, the 2010 Commonwealth Games are being held in New Dehli, India. Opening and closing ceremonies of the Commonwealth Games will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru stadium.  17 sports will be held in 6 major grounds over a period of 11 days, starting on the 3^rd October.

At least of 2.6 million spectators are expected to come to the Games, so what do you need to make sure that you sort out before you go?

• Passport and Visa: You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your return from India. You will need a visa for travelling, which can be obtained from VFS. It may be that after the Games you want to do some exploring around India, but make sure that you don’t overstay your Visa as otherwise you could be fined or even detained.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure that you have comprehensive travel insurance. The last thing you want is to be worrying about that when you should be enjoying the games! When travelling in India, medical treatment can be very expensive, and without comprehensive cover it could be a very costly experience. You should make sure that, as far as possible, your belongings are covered in case of pickpockets, or simply losing your valuable.
• Vaccines: Speak to your GP to make sure that you have all relevant vaccines, and malaria medication, if required
• Safety: Delhi police officers wear a khaki uniform with a light brown beret and there will be a presence at all venues. As with all major sports events, expect large crowds and possible delays at venues due to security checks, and allow plenty of time to purchase tickets and travel to events. You will not be able to bring certain items into the venues including alcohol, coins, matches/lighters, bottles and cans, food, backpacks, briefcases and large handbags, perfume and video cameras. A full list of unpermitted items is on the Commonwealth Games website. 
• Transport: Poorly maintained roads and congestion cause a large number of serious traffic accidents in Delhi, although Delhi’s road and public transport systems have been upgraded for the Games. Special care should be taken at night. If you have a Games ticket, you are entitled to free transport to and from the Games venue on the Delhi Metro and on Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses on the day of the event for which your ticket is valid.

I hope that information helps. If you are going to the Games, I really hope you enjoy it. You can find further information about travelling to the Games from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Do let us know if you are going to the Games and what you are planning to see….