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"I'm relocating to Gurgaon, where's that?" is a question we've been asked several times. It's about 20 km away from Delhi, along the new N8 highway. Economic development, the pressure of an increasing population and need for more residential and commercial space, has led to the development of satellite towns Gurgaon, Noida and Faridabad to the south-west and south-east of the affluent southern suburbs of New Delhi (the region is known collectively as NCR).
Type Cast
Gurgaon in particular has witnessed a phenomenal growth in all spheres of development. Its well-developed infrastructure and proximity to the Indira Gandhi International Airport has made Gurgaon northern India's choice location for high-tech and foreign collaboration industry. Delhi is the world's eighth largest metropolis, with the population of the NCR region pegged at 22 million (15.9 million in Delhi itself). It is packed with historical treasures and architecture, but Delhi is also an exciting, cosmopolitan city due to the multi-cultural origins of the many Indians and foreigners who have made Delhi their home.
Westernization is apparent particularly amongst Delhi's younger people, but at the same time locals are very conscious of their culture. National patriotic days and religious festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm, whilst Delhi-ites equally enjoy a meal at one of the cities many international restaurants and are known for their love of partying.
Fore Cast
It's hot in summer, though Delhi doesn't have as much humidity as other parts of India, so it's a dry heat. The long summers last from April to October, with maximum temperatures of 40-43° C (104-108° F) hitting the city in May and June, and the start date of the monsoon season, from July to August, is always a subject of much speculation and anticipation. Winter starts around November time, and it can get very chilly at night, with lows of 3-4° C (37-39° F) in December. Daytime temperatures in the low 20s° C (high 60s° F) in January and February make these perfect months for exploring the ancient monuments of the city, along with the outstanding attractions of the Taj Mahal and the cities of Rajasthan.
Up Cast
There are literally thousands of expatriates living in the city. As the seat of Government, Delhi is home to India's political class which means it is also the home of embassies and diplomats from around the world. Service industries including telecommunications, finance, tourism and media are headquartered here along with construction, manufacturing, and energy MNCs. Retail is a fast-growing sector, with international brands flocking to the city's many new glitzy shopping malls. The support group Delhi Network has a high profile and is open to all nationalities, and you'll find that there are many national societies and groups, too, with full programmes of social and fund-raising events. Look out for Delhi's excellent 'Seven Cities' tour group.
Broad Cast
With such a high presence of diplomats, you won't be surprised to hear that Delhi's international schools are clustered around Chanakyapuri, the calm green oasis in the middle of the city which is home to so many of the embassies. Here you'll find the American Embassy School, and the British, Japanese and German Schools. Further south, in the suburb of Vasant Vihar where many of the smaller embassies are located, is the Vasant Valley School. Gurgaon, too, has a number of international schools, Pathways, GD Goenka, the Scottish High International, Excelsior and Lancers being those of repute.
Healthcare and hospital options abound in the capital region. Hospitals of note are the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), the Apollo Group, the Artemis Health Institute and Paras Hospitals, but there are many more to choose from. Namaste!
Welcome to Delhi!
