I just spent a wonderful evening with members from the Incredible India organization and the Indian sector of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square. Global Traveler has written a plethora on India, offering great insight on what to do while on business or leisure. The tourist board is a tremendous wealth of information as well.

I learned more about India’s varied topography. From the beaches of Goa to the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas, I was reminded once again that India really offers something for everyone. Seeing their presentation reminded me of how valuable the tourist board is for the individual traveler. In my opinion, tourist boards are under-utilized by travelers.

Before traveling for business or leisure, I, of course, recommend checking out what GT has written about the destination. However, I also recommend checking out the website or visiting the local tourism office of the country which you are visiting. The tourist board is there to be at your service and help with any questions you may have about the country and city you are about to visit. Whatever the questions may be about — local customs, business procedures or simply the weather — the tourist board can point you in the right direction. Why not start with India? I hope you learn something new!

— Alex Young, vice president and associate publisher