Day 32: SIM Cards, Museums, and Local Tips in Kolkata

Julie

2024-12-20

Day 32: SIM Cards, Museums, and Local Tips in Kolkata

from navigating SIM card purchases to visiting museums in Kolkata. A family’s firsthand travel story and advice for a seamless trip.

Main Journey in Kolkata with a Baby

After a restless night at Kolkata Airport, our family began our first full day in the city. Despite exhaustion from sleep deprivation and the sweltering heat, we were determined to make the most of our one-day visit to Kolkata.

Our plan was simple: get a local Airtel SIM card, exchange some currency safely, and explore a few key landmarks, including the Indian Museum and Victoria Memorial.

Events

1. Airtel SIM Card Adventure

Our first stop was the Airtel store on Park Street to purchase a SIM card for connectivity. The process was far from straightforward. As anticipated, the staff requested our passport, visa, a photo, and—unexpectedly—a local Indian address and phone number. We provided our pre-booked accommodation’s details, but they insisted on a local phone number, which we didn’t have.

Just when we felt stuck, a kind staff member quietly advised us to visit the neighboring store, which might allow us to bypass this requirement. We headed to “The Mobile Store” next door and, to our relief, the process was simpler. We provided our passport and photo, filled out some paperwork, and purchased a 30-day SIM card with 1GB of data per day for just 294 INR (approximately $5).

The SIM card would activate later that night, requiring a call to 59059 for final verification. With the store staff’s helpful guidance and contact information, we felt confident moving forward.

Key Takeaway: Airtel SIM cards are reliable but often come with bureaucratic hurdles. Official stores might strictly enforce policies, so ask around for alternative stores if needed.

2. Bank Exchange on Park Street

After our SIM card ordeal, we needed to exchange currency. The predatory rates at the airport led us to an international branch of Allahabad Bank on Park Street. The process was painfully slow, requiring over 30 minutes of waiting and multiple forms to complete. In the end, we exchanged $100 for 6,167 INR after taxes—a far better rate than the airport’s.

Tip: Always choose reputable banks for currency exchange in India to avoid counterfeit bills or poor rates.

3. Indian Museum Exploration

Next, we visited the Indian Museum, the oldest museum in India, located near Park Street. The entry fee was starkly different for locals (20 INR) and foreigners (500 INR), but Sweetie’s entry was free. After depositing our bags at the complimentary storage counter for foreign visitors, we entered the museum.

Inside, Sweetie’s excitement was infectious. From fossilized ammonites to taxidermy displays, she marveled at every exhibit, exclaiming, “What’s this, Mom?” repeatedly. Her favorite areas were the natural history section, featuring dinosaur bones and large tortoise shells, and the bird exhibits, where she delightedly pointed out “giant tweet-tweets.”

The museum’s lack of air conditioning made the visit challenging in the midday heat, but the sheer size and historical richness of the exhibits kept us engaged.

Unexpected Event: Many Indian visitors were fascinated by us, especially Sweetie. Groups frequently approached to request selfies with her, turning our museum visit into an unexpected photo session.

Tips for Traveling with a Baby

1. Stay Hydrated

Kolkata’s heat can be overwhelming, especially for babies. Carry a water bottle and ensure your little one stays hydrated.

2. Pack Essentials

Items like a portable fan, light snacks, and sunscreen are lifesavers in India’s harsh weather. Sweetie loved her small fan during the museum visit.

3. Be Ready for Attention

Traveling with a baby in India often draws a lot of attention. While most interactions are friendly, be prepared for frequent photo requests.

Local Travel Tips

1. SIM Cards in India

Airtel is a reliable provider with good nationwide coverage.
Bring your passport, visa, photo, and, if possible, a local address and phone number to simplify the process.
Activation takes several hours and requires phone verification.

2. Currency Exchange

Avoid airport exchanges; opt for banks in the city.
Be patient, as the process can be slow.

3. Transportation in Kolkata

Buses: Overcrowded and not ideal for families with small children.
Metro: Clean, air-conditioned, and affordable (just 5 INR per trip).
Taxis: Prepaid taxis are recommended for fair pricing.

Travel Reflections in Kolkata with a Baby

1. India’s Unique Charm

Despite the initial hurdles—bureaucracy, heat, and fatigue—Kolkata’s vibrant streets and historical landmarks left a lasting impression.

2. Sweetie’s Curiosity

Watching Sweetie explore the museum with wide-eyed wonder reminded us why we embarked on this journey: to create unforgettable family memories.

3. Kindness in Unexpected Places

The kindness of strangers, from the Airtel staff’s insider tip to locals helping us navigate, was a heartwarming reminder of the universal goodness in people.