The following are a few of my trip experiences while traveling through India as well as some thoughts from the business perspective of the trip.
1) For personal travel planning excess time into your itinerary is critical (traveling anywhere is fairly difficult). We traveled with a very detailed schedule but still allowed for miscellaneous time. Tolls, congestion, and the willingness of the driver all had a tremendous impact on travel. Additionally, there is no shortage of fun/exciting things to do almost everywhere, so be sure to allow for random stops.
Business on the other hand is becoming very westernized. Almost every business we visited took time very seriously with a regimented schedule. The time difference from the U.S. (approx. 12 hours) is a significant reason for the importance placed on timeliness. Other firms and people have a much more fluid definition of time, so be prepared to encounter both extremes.
2) Indians have an odd perspective of what qualifies as "good" service. Every hotel has a bellboy help you with your bags, turn on your TV, and even go as far as brewing you tea, but not every hotel will have good water pressure or even an enclosed shower. At restaurants, many places practice high end services like silver-serving or finger bowls after meals, but often remove dishes before you are finished and tend to hover. Nearly every bathroom has an attendant who proved towels for a small fee.
This may seem like an odd observation, but being prepared for different levels/ideas of services will help to prevent general frustration. Also, keep in mind that India has a rather predominant tipping culture. Collecting smaller bills and coins will go a long way. Especially since not everyone will have change and large tips (more than a 50-100 rupees for a bellboy or 5-10 rupees for a bathroom attendant) are not necessary/expected.
3) Things aren't necessarily cheaper. Certain services such as taxi's are much cheaper, while many products and services like bottled water can be even more expensive than in Western countries. Also, plan for excess tax! There is a 20% tax on alcohol, a 15% general tax, and a 3% service tax on top of everything.
4) Visiting a range of business gave an excellent perspective into the IT world of India. Many firms operate the stereotypical excess work arbitrage firms, while others are global business partners for multinational companies or industry leaders in their own regards. A general theme is smart growth; the desire to shift from a project company for another firm to a key business partner for that firm. Another theme is the large focus on employee benefits/comfort. Many companies had benefits far superior to companies in the United States. A few examples are: more time off for pregnant women and free daycare, free lunch, large and comfortable break rooms, on campus stores and lodging for transfer employees, and grab-a-bike-and-go on large campus companies.
For everyday shopping there are very few general goods/all inclusive stores. Large bazaars exist but usually are near or inside shopping malls. Most shopping is done in specialty Ma/Pa style shops crammed into street sides. Street vendors are a must as they offer traditional Indian meals and excellent Chai tea (as long as you're not a germaphobe).
5) Indians are a very warm and welcoming people. The majority of Indians speak very good English and are helpful/talkative. Expect a certain degree of tourist prices for some services, but talking with hotel staff will help you establish what prices should be. There is a general disposition from Indians that Westerners cannot handle "spicy food". If you're up for it ask for traditional dishes and enjoy the diverse flavors and curries.
