**Q:** What is the best time to visit Bengaluru? / **A:** The weather is pleasant year-round, but October to February is ideal for outdoor exploring.
**Q:** How do I travel from the airport to the city center? / **A:** The Vayu Vajra (BMTC AC buses) are cost-effective and comfortable. App-based cabs (Uber, Ola, BluSmart) and airport taxis are also widely available.
**Q:** Is Bengaluru safe for tourists? / **A:** Yes, it is quite safe. Normal precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas are recommended.
**Q:** What are the local languages? / **A:** Kannada is the official language. However, English and Hindi are widely understood, along with Tamil and Telugu.
**Q:** What is the famous local food to try? / **A:** You must try Benne Masala Dosa, Bisi Bele Bath, Idli-Vada, and filter coffee.
**Q:** Why is it called the Silicon Valley of India? / **A:** It houses thousands of IT companies, startups, global tech giants, and R&D centers, driving India's tech economy.
**Q:** Does Bengaluru have a metro system? / **A:** Yes, Namma Metro operates on two major lines (Purple and Green) connecting key parts of the city.
**Q:** Is tap water safe to drink? / **A:** No. Always drink filtered, boiled, or bottled water.
**Q:** How bad is the traffic? / **A:** Traffic congestion is severe, especially during peak hours (9 AM - 11 AM and 6 PM - 8 PM). Plan your travel with buffer time.
**Q:** What are the best parks to visit? / **A:** Cubbon Park and Lalbagh Botanical Garden are historic, beautiful, and expansive.
**Q:** Are credit cards widely accepted? / **A:** Yes, almost everywhere. Digital payments via UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe) are ubiquitous, even at street vendors.
**Q:** Can I find international cuisine easily? / **A:** Absolutely. Bengaluru has a massive dining scene featuring authentic global cuisines ranging from Japanese to Mediterranean.
**Q:** What is the nightlife like? / **A:** The city has a vibrant nightlife with numerous pubs, microbreweries, and clubs, mostly concentrated in Indiranagar, Koramangala, and MG Road.
**Q:** Are there good weekend getaways? / **A:** Yes! Nandi Hills, Mysuru, Coorg, Ooty, and Wayanad are popular trips from the city.
**Q:** What is the tipping culture? / **A:** Tipping is customary but not strictly enforced. Many restaurants add a service charge; if not, 5-10% is appreciated.
**Q:** Where is the best street shopping? / **A:** Commercial Street, Brigade Road, and Church Street are favorites for fashion and souvenirs.
**Q:** What should I wear? / **A:** Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. Carry a light jacket or umbrella depending on the season, as evening weather can cool down or rain can be sudden.
**Q:** What is Bangalore Palace? / **A:** A beautiful 19th-century palace built in Tudor Revival style, featuring elegant wood carvings and sprawling grounds.
**Q:** What is 'Filter Coffee'? / **A:** A traditional South Indian coffee made by mixing frothed and boiled milk with the decoction obtained by brewing finely ground coffee powder in a traditional Indian filter.
**Q:** How do I handle auto-rickshaws? / **A:** Always ask them to use the meter. If they refuse, it is best to book an auto via apps like Ola, Uber, or Namma Yatri.