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  1. Home
  2. Return to India: Decision & Planning
  3. Things You’ll Miss When Returning from USA to India
Return to India: Decision & Planning
??
  1. 1Deciding
  2. 2Getting ready
  3. 3Making the move
  4. 4Life after landing

You're in the deciding phase — figuring out if, when and how a move back works for your family.

Start your Return Plan

Things You’ll Miss When Returning from USA to India

Mani Karthik·September 1, 2023·3 min read·Deciding

Reviewed by returnees. Cross-checked with RBI, Income Tax Department and MEA. Editorial policy.

Content Index
  • 1. Clean Public Restrooms: The Unsung Heroes
  • 2. 24/7 Convenience Stores: The Midnight Saviors
  • 3. Smooth Roads: The Unsung Ballet
  • 4. Netflix USA Library: The Binge-Loss
  • 5. The Silence: The Golden Peace
  • 6. Central Heating: The Toasty Delight
  • 7. Diverse Food Choices: The Global Platter
  • Frequently Asked Questions

You’ve made the choice! The prodigal child is set to return from the Land of the Free to the Land of Festivities.

While the prospect of being reunited with Indian flavors and family is exhilarating, you can’t help but think about what you might leave behind.

Not the big stuff, we’re talking about the little things, those everyday conveniences and quirks that you never thought you’d miss. Grab some tissues (or a samosa) and let’s take a roller-coaster ride of emotions.

1. Clean Public Restrooms: The Unsung Heroes

The Charm of the Super Clean Loos

Public restrooms in the US have spoiled you. Period.

Desi Tip:

Invest in hand sanitizers and disposable toilet seat covers for your initial days back in India. Remember the age-old Indian mantra: “Jugaad” (innovate)!

Read next in this topic

Returning from USA to India as an American Citizen

Ah, the prodigal son (or daughter) returns! You’ve tasted the American dream – now you’re longing for the Indian reality. The land of Big Macs was fun, but the soul craves some spicy samosas. But wait – you’re not just a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) anymore; you’re a full-fledged American citizen. Does that complicate things? A […]

Read next

2. 24/7 Convenience Stores: The Midnight Saviors

Midnight Ice-Cream Cravings

Missing those trips to the nearest Walmart or 7-Eleven for late-night snacks?

Desi Tip:

Indian cities are catching up with 24/7 stores, but for the authentic Indian midnight snack experience, your mom’s kitchen is unbeatable.

Free tool

On The Fence? Get Clarity

Not sure about returning? Get your readiness score.

Try it free

3. Smooth Roads: The Unsung Ballet

Oh, The Joy of Cruise Control!

Those silky highways where your car glides as if in a dream, it’s poetry.

Desi Tip:

Embrace the adventurous Indian roads as a real-life video game. Dodging potholes can be… fun?

Free tool

NRI Status Checker

Find out your current NRI status and what it means for taxes.

Try it free

4. Netflix USA Library: The Binge-Loss

That Vast Ocean of Content

Your favorite shows might not be available in the Indian Netflix library!

Desi Tip:

Welcome to the land of Bollywood and endless Indian soap operas. Trust us, the drama is worth it.

5. The Silence: The Golden Peace

The Quiet Suburban Evenings

Those moments of serenity in your backyard, sipping coffee and watching squirrels.

Desi Tip:

Replace that silence with the cacophony of Indian streets, festivals, and weddings. It’s a symphony in its own right.

Keep reading
Best Websites for Online Shopping in IndiaImagine this: You’re fresh off the plane, having just landed back in India after years, and the realization hits you that shopping in India isn’t just about sauntering into glitzy malls. No sir! Online shopping is the spice masala of the retail world here. Forget the Thanksgiving rush at Walmart. In India, it’s all about […]Stock Trading for NRIs: Rules, Eligibility & How to StartFor Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) with an inclination towards the stock market, trading in Indian stocks can be both a lucrative investment opportunity and a chance to stay connected to the domestic market dynamics. However, trading in India comes with its own set of rules and regulations for NRIs. This comprehensive guide will help unravel the […]

6. Central Heating: The Toasty Delight

Warm and Cozy Winters

Indian winters can be chilly, and central heating isn’t standard.

Desi Tip:

Reacquaint yourself with the joy of quilts, hot water bottles, and that classic Indian ‘kangri’ in colder regions.

Deciding → Getting ready

Ready for the getting ready stage?

Continue with our Banking guide.

Explore

7. Diverse Food Choices: The Global Platter

Mexican on Monday, Thai on Tuesday

The melting pot of global cuisines at every corner can be sorely missed.

Desi Tip:

India offers a rich culinary diversity. From spicy Punjabi dishes to sweet Bengali desserts, there’s a lot to explore.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I ever get used to the Indian hustle and bustle again?

Absolutely! It might feel overwhelming at first, but the rhythm of India will soon feel like home again.

2. What if I can’t find my favorite American brand in India?

Many global brands are available in India now, but it’s also a chance to explore Indian brands that might just surprise you.

3. Will I be able to find American food in India?

Major cities have a growing number of restaurants offering authentic American food. Plus, don’t forget the DIY option with online recipes.

4. How different is the tech scene in India compared to the USA?

India has a booming tech scene, especially in cities like Bangalore. While there might be differences, India is firmly on the global tech map.

5. What if I miss the American festivities?

Indians love celebrations. You’ll have Diwali, Holi, Eid, Christmas, and many more to keep you busy.

Plus, Thanksgiving dinners are becoming popular in Indian metro cities too.

So, as you pack your bags and get ready for the homecoming, cherish these American memories.

They’ll be the stories you’ll regale your Indian friends with over chai.

The blend of the American dream and the Indian spirit will be your unique symphony.

Safe travels, globetrotter!

Written by

Mani Karthik

Mani Karthik

Founder, BackToIndia · Returnee since 2016

Mani Karthik is an entrepreneur who moved back to India in 2016 after nearly a decade living and working in the US and the Middle East. He started BackToIndia to help other NRIs navigate the move — banking, taxes, schooling, careers and the everyday reality of resettling in India.

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Continue Return to India: Decision & PlanningReturning from USA to India as an American CitizenTrack it in the appStart your Return PlanSave your notes, timeline and decisions in one place.Ask other returneesJoin the Deciding communityReal Q&A with people at your stage of the move.
India or Bharat?Returning from USA to India as an American Citizen