`India is not just slums': Aussie influencer calls out foreigners for being stingy tourists

In a video that's going viral on Instagram, Australian influencer Bree Steele is calling out a particular trend among foreign tourists visiting India — choosing to “suffer” for the sake of an “authentic” experience.

“I’ve seen so many people come to India with high-paying jobs who won’t spend a dime. They’ll barter over tiny amounts, stay in hostels instead of hotels, take 17-hour train rides instead of flying — things they’d never do in Europe or America,” Steele says in the now-trending clip.

She adds, “India is a huge country with diverse cultures and amazing luxury. You don’t have to suffer to experience it. It’s so much more than just slums, crowded trains, and the fear of getting sick from food.”

The video has struck a chord with many Indians online. Comments have poured in applauding Steele for challenging the tired stereotypes often associated with the country.  “Thank you for saying this — we fly, eat at great places, and wear good clothes too,” one user wrote. “Proud of you for saying this — you’ve got my respect,” read another comment.

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A post shared by Bree Steele | Podcast producer & host (@breesteele.mp3)

Some also questioned why visiting slums has become a "bucket-list experience" for some foreigners.

The video continues to gain traction as more users share it with the message: India is diverse and it deserves to be seen beyond clichés.