3 Things That Will Shock You on Your Medical Tourism Vacation
If you’re considering heading to India, Thailand, the Philippines or any of the countless other destinations that offer cosmetic, medical, and dental surgery at affordable prices, it helps to prepare yourself for some of the many bewildering things that you’ll encounter on your travels. While countries like Thailand and India have the best of cosmetic and dental surgery facilities to offer (in many cases, beyond what you’ve seen in any Western country), and the lowest prices, the rest of the country, and the culture can seem…well… interesting. No matter which country you’re headed to and the low cost procedure you’re seeking, (from hip replacement to hair replacement and beyond), most health travel destinations are an assault on the senses, to use a tired cliché.
Here are just some things that will shock you when you head to an Asian, Latin American, or African medical tourism destination.
The Chaos
It’s hard to tell which is the most chaotic of medical tourism destinations, but India is definitely a contender. No matter which city you visit, India will make you gasp, and not just from the polluted fumes. Prepare for the noise. Vehicles honking, cab drivers yelling at you to get in their vehicle… the sounds can be overwhelming. Indians assume the rest of the world is deaf, which explains the high pitch of voices, somewhat. Plus, the traffic is unlike anything you’ve ever seen in a Western country. Jaywalkers, cows, autorickshaws, and horse carts… you’ll see them all on the streets.
If you’ve come here for the low cost of hair replacement surgery, you’ll have your remaining hairs stand on end just from the sights and sounds. And it’s not just India that gets a disorganized tag. Many countries in Latin America aren’t far behind either. The good news is that as a medical tourist, you’ll be safely ensconced in your hospital or hotel, and can watch the proceedings from afar.
The Crowds
Yep, India is a winner again. Don’t expect to find quiet secluded parks or empty avenues - just about every inch is taken up by vehicles, pedestrians, and… more cows.
The Culture
A Westerner will find Thailand’s ghost loving, spirit worshipping culture positively bizarre. If you’re in New Delhi anytime during the holi season, you’ll find revelers on the street throwing colors at each other.
Get friendly with locals on your stay in India, and prepare for the most invasive questions. Men will often hear: Are you married? How much money do you make? Women can expect to be asked: And “Are you married? Do you have kids? Why don’t you have kids?”
No matter where you travel though, you’ll be better for having gone, and not just in a physical sense. Travel and exploration are good, not just for the body, but also for the soul.
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