Originally Posted by
PhlyingRPh
I liked your observations. It sounds like you had a good time. Regarding the differences in prices, one needs to think about the affordability scale. I believe the indian system is largely fair given the difference in salaries for the average american vs. the average Indian. Also, don't forget. an Indian wishing to visit his children living in the u.s. will be forced to pay approx. one month's alary just to apply for a u.s. visa. If he is rejected (quite likely), that's alot of money to lose just for trying to go somewhere you should have every right to visit.
Putting it in perspective, the entry fees at most places were 250 INR for foreigners and 20 INR for locals. Now, at the exchange rate of 44 INR=$1, this came out to around $5.50 to get into the major sites. That certainly did not break the bank. You are spot on about Americans being generally more wealthy than their Indian counterparts. In truth, I didn't mind paying extra for the sites because I saw major renovation work being done at several of them, Amber Fort and Agra Fort being the two that come to mind. It is reassuring to know that the tourist fees were being used to renovate and maintain these wonderful places, and I certainly don't mind subsidizing it.
Regarding the VISA fees, I agree totally. I paid $65 for a 6 month tourist VISA. Apart from the sticker in my passport and the 2-3 minutes it took someone to process my paperwork at the Indian embassy, I don't see what justified $65. With regards to anyone who applies for a VISA and has it denied for whatever reason, I feel that the money should be refunded. I actually question the logic behind VISAs anyway. I wholeheartedly agree with the assertion that America needs to get back into the business of welcoming visitors instead of scaring them off. The best weapon (in my opinion) against support for terrorism and ignorance is informed people who do have the opportunity to travel and actually see places instead of just relying on news reports and biased opinions.