Often we don’t even think about how dangerous a trip to a certain country or city. Everyone carefully thinks about their vacation, paying attention to the hotel room and type of food. If you visit a travel agency in your city, you will hear a lot of laudatory words about how good it is in a particular country and what positive features it has. But for some reason, rarely does anyone tell us what are the possible dangers and how to avoid them?
The main a problem in this matter is that the desire to make money prevails, and the story about the shortcomings of the country that the tourist wants to visit can simply be pushed away. That is why you should independently search for information in order to be fully equipped. In this article you will learn the features of a holiday in Goa, and the possible dangers that every tourist needs to know. You yourself can find suitable solutions to a certain trouble if you are informed in advance.
1. Low quality water in Goa. This problem is relevant for many resort countries, so India is also not an exception to this rule. If you want to spend your holidays with benefit and without any trouble, then you should not drink tap water. Please note that drinking bottled water also does not protect you one hundred percent from various diseases, poisoning and infections. In India, fake water is a fairly common occurrence, so always pay attention to how the bottle is closed to protect yourself and your family. High quality water is tightly clogged, and the edges of the lid are in no way damaged. If possible, give preference to well-known mineral water companies.
2. Goa taxi drivers. In Goa, many taxi drivers tend to make money from tourists by fraud. Of course, he will take you to the right point, but not the fact that for the price that was agreed at the beginning of the journey. In any case, this is not the only opportunity to earn dishonestly. Today, many tourists go to Goa on their own: without the help of a travel agency. This method allows you to save money and get the most out of real India, but the search for housing in any case will be an important moment during your vacation. Taxi drivers are well aware of this, therefore they recommend hotels and rooms that even the most demanding tourists can like according to their stories. However, in this way tourists are deceived: they take a payment much higher or even rob their rooms. In order not to waste your time and money in vain, pre-book rooms on sites popular around the world. Be sure to keep track of what online reviews are about the hotel you want to stay at.
3. Sanitary Beaches in Goa. How sad it would not sound, but most of Goa does not meet sanitary standards. If you do not want to get an infection or injure your skin, then buy summer shoes with a thick sole especially for the beach. Such a trick will allow you to get rid of troubles and consequences. And in order to look stylish, pick up shoes for a hat or swimsuit. Holidays in Goa have always been distinguished by an exotic and incredible atmosphere, but basic hygiene rules must always be adhered to.
4. Poisonous snakes and annoying insects in Goa. In Goa, the climate is tropical, so the inhabitants here are very specific. For example, this state is rich in an incredible amount of poisonous snakes and insects that can carry the infection. In order to protect yourself from such a danger, always close your legs if you are camping or in unfamiliar areas. In no case do not go to those places that are prohibited for visiting tourists. And do not forget that in the hotel you have every right to ask for a special net for insect windows and a fumigator.
5. Local cuisine in Goa. Tourists always want to try the maximum number of new dishes during their vacation. In the case of Goa, you should pay attention to the basic rules of hygiene and pay attention to what you eat. Firstly, it is worth noting that all the ice offered for drinks is prepared from local water, so it is better to abandon its use. Also, do not forget to bring wet antibacterial wipes with you on vacation, which is worth processing dishes even in an expensive restaurant.
In fact India never been sterile and clean, therefore, they must take care of themselves and their health. Fruits that are sold in Goa everywhere must be thoroughly washed with bottled water and peeled. If you have a weak stomach or intestines, stop eating fruits that don't have a peel.
6. Local mentality in Goa. Women who go on vacation in Goa should remember that their revealing outfits will be appropriate only on the territory of the hotel. Try to visit local attractions with a group of other tourists or in the company of the people you come with. Thus, you protect yourself from unnecessary attention and rude harassment from the local population.
7. Poor medicine in Goa. On the Internet you can find a lot of reviews of those tourists who were far from in the most pleasant situation due to the fact that medical care in Goa leaves much to be desired. Learn to value yourself and your health, so do not risk the little things. Talk with your healthcare provider about which medications to throw in your bag in case of an unpleasant situation. Unfortunately, even in expensive Goa hotels, tourists quite often experience unpleasant situations due to the unprofessionalism of local doctors. Stock up on everything you need and adhere to basic safety rules.
8. Low quality facilities for children in Goa. If you want to enjoy a safe and relaxing family vacation, Goa is not for you. This state is more suitable for those who love new experiences and emotions, appreciate the exotic and tropical climate. Leave your children at home and then feel free to go to one of the most popular and interesting places in India - Goa. You should not risk the health of children, so for family holidays, choose other countries and resorts.
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I must warn you about important aspects of traveling to Goa! In other sections, I have repeatedly mentioned that Goa is not just a resort. Goa is part of India, the oldest civilization on Earth! India - Hearts of our planet! India - a great country in which everything breathes Love!
It may happen that you do not feel any of this. You see, each of us has his own way on this earth ... And his own perception of the world in which we live ...
Perhaps Goa will turn out to be just a lovely resort for you. And Goa will even disappoint someone with the poor service and lack of European polish. You must be very aware of where you are going!
Goa has a very simple, albeit decent in level of housing! There are no boutiques of world famous companies in Goa! In the northernmost part of Goa, from Siolim and above, there are no hotels with their own pool! Goa has a very simple taxi and simple taxi drivers! Big soft buses with air conditioning and foreign tourists do not drive in Goa! Thank God, none of this is there!
Goa reigns in the spirit of freedom and absolute permissiveness! In Goa, only you decide what story you get into and how successfully you get out of it! Each of your actions will have a consequence!
To smoke ganja or not to smoke? To use stupefying substances or not to use? Stay with your girlfriend or break up? Come home to sleep or hang out all night at a trance party forbidden by the Goan authorities, somewhere in the neighboring mountains? Do yoga or score on everything and sleep well? Only you are responsible for what decisions you make and what comes of them!
There are examples of the tragic consequences of a tourist stay in Goa. People unprepared for such a high degree of freedom begin to abuse it. Especially chemical poison! As you know, jokes with chemistry sometimes end very badly! ... If you like to drink, smoke or refuel with something thermonuclear, to indulge in prostitutes (which, by the way, are still absent in Goa) - then you should not play roulette with fate, accelerating it at a wild speed! Put Goa On Until Good Times!
Goa is a clean place! Let it remain clean! Do not litter here with soul and body!
Listen to the Heart!
Your every fantasy in Goa can be realized literally! Such a degree of freedom, so usual for the local latitudes, intoxicates to the sensation of universal happiness!
But it should be noted that in the real world that surrounds you now in Russia, irreversible changes may occur after visiting India. Every day in Goa, you can hear stories about how someone came here for the first time just to relax or travel. Further, everything develops in approximately the same scenario.
When the end date of the trip is approaching, a person seeks and finds an opportunity to extend his stay in Goa ... Vacationers tear tickets to Moscow, quit work, ask to send money to all relatives and friends, etc.
Few people expect this to turn out that way. Often, returning home from a trip to Goa, people can no longer live the way they lived before. Interests, social circle, work, life goals and priorities are changing. The meaning of life is changing. Consciousness is turning ...
People understand that there may be a completely different life on earth. Calm Happy! And full of love! But in reality, everything can be difficult at home. After pure and light energy, it is very difficult to exist in a dirty and heavy ...
Even if a person cannot formulate it so clearly, he feels that some kind force begins to turn his whole life in the opposite direction, and the inert past resists the process. True, not everyone is ready for this ...
Therefore, please, if something bothers you ... If you feel doubt and tension ... Then it’s better to postpone the trip to India or Goa for now. So, while this is not yours!
Welcome to Goa! Surely you heard about this piece of paradise on the coast of the Arabian Sea. But even in this tropical paradise, as elsewhere, it is necessary to remember responsibility for yourself, your loved ones, as well as your property and money. What you need to remember and how to protect yourself from unpleasant situations in Goa, what dangers can be in Goa, as well as just local peculiarities in Goa - read about this in this article below.
1. Transport in Goa and Traffic in Goa
The types of transport in Goa are as follows: taxis, tuk-tuks (auto rickshaws), mototaxis, motorcycles, scooters, buses.
Visitors to Goa often rent scooters and motorbikes, less often cars. If you decide to rent a vehicle, then carefully study the following information:
The movement in Goa, as in all of India, is left-hand. Drivers always use horn signals: when driving from behind, driving towards, overtaking and just like that. Highlights often include night light. Therefore, be prepared that during the ride you will be honored during the day and dazzle with high beam in the evening - just like that, these are the customs of the road.
When renting a transport, in no case leave a deposit (neither money, nor a passport) - all that is needed is a copy of your international passport with a copy of your current Indian visa, as well as information about which hotel or address you live in and contact Indian phone number, if any. If you take a bike at the hotel, then you may not ask for anything but money.
Be sure to agree with the owner of the bike that you are responsible for the appearance of the bike. If your engine or horn or something else broke down along the way, then this is the cost of the owner of the transport, not yours. It is better to photograph the visible external damage to the bike and point it to the owner so that when you return the motorcycle, you have no complaints about old scratches.
Be sure to check the brakes.
In Goa, you can ride without a helmet only in the local villages. When leaving the track, a helmet is required on the driver’s head, optionally on the passenger’s head.
Transport has two types of numbers - yellow and white. Yellow numbers have transport for rent, white - for personal use. Accordingly, the rental of vehicles with yellow numbers is legal, but with white ones is no longer. But police can find fault with this on the highway or in large cities.
There are many speed bumps in Goa, some of which are not marked with signs or markings. Therefore, not knowing the road, you run the risk of jumping unexpectedly.
There is a joke about Indian drivers that they drive karma. And there is some truth in this joke: there are frequent cases of overtaking on a blind bend, oncoming traffic, a sudden start of movement from the side of the road, a sharp turn without turn signals. Keep this in mind when driving on the roads of Goa. If you have little experience driving in Asian countries, then follow the simple safety rules in Goa:
Wear a helmet (in the sunshine, it still protects your head from sunlight)
Move slowly. If in a hurry, it’s sometimes wiser to use a taxi or tuk-tuk.
Keep to the left side of the road, but not too close to the curb. (Parked cars and motorbikes on the side of the road can suddenly enter the carriageway without warning signals)
Signal. Always beep when overtaking, when crossing an intersection or a blind turn.
If you are riding a scooter, use the front and rear brakes when braking. The front brake is where the throttle is. If you brake only him, then there is a high probability of skidding the rear wheel, especially on a road with gravel.
Only park your vehicle in the designated places. In large cities, as well as in some resort areas (Baga-Calangut-Candolim), vehicles parked in the wrong place can be taken away by tow truck or the front wheel can be locked with a lock.
Protect your eyes while riding. Goa has dusty roads, especially if you have a truck and a dust-raising bus in front of you. In the evening, near the ponds, small midges and midges fly out, which strive to fly into the eyes.
Slow down before intersections and blind turns. In Goa, as in India, there is a rule: who is brazen, he is more important. Not the fact that you are the most impudent.
Show the turn not only with signals in the transport, but also with your hands. Goa often rides scooters with turn signals on. Therefore, the included turn signal may not mean anything to other participants in the movement. Complement the signals of the turn signal with gestures.
Always drive sober. Remember that you are responsible for the appearance of the vehicle. Who needs extra spending on redecorating?
2. Deception, divorce, fraud in Goa
Deceits and divorces in Goa occur, as a rule, due to ignorance of the deceived themselves. Do not rush to pay 1000 rupees for the goods, maybe somewhere nearby the same can be purchased for 100 rupees.
Bargain.
On the products and on the packaging, see the inscription MRP - this means the maximum retail price. Nobody has the right to sell it above - this is the law.
Book tours from Russian companies - only from them you will receive detailed information and answers to your questions in a clear language.
3.Small thefts in Goa
Goa has a non-criminal state, but this does not mean that you can forget about the simplest safety rules:
When leaving your home or room, close windows and doors;
If you live in budget guesthouses, then carry a padlock with you. In Goa, the doors for him are usually equipped.
It is better to wear a chest wallet than a pocket one. Especially if you are going to visit crowded places.
Do not leave valuables on the balcony. They may well be abducted, if not by people, then by monkeys.
Do not leave your things unattended
4. Drugs in Goa
Indian laws, no less than Russian ones, are strict for people associated with illegal substances. There are cases when foreign tourists were forced to pay off considerable bribes from local policemen, in the tens of thousands of dollars. However, the ransom option does not always help, and in some cases the case is uploaded by a prison cell.
In addition, the local police often practice all kinds of fraud when the buyer is arrested on the tip of an informant seller. All this is a good reason to think about whether the dose of weed is worth the risk, or maybe it’s worth refraining from such an “extreme”.
5. Plants and animals in Goa
Flora and fauna in Goa - tropical, at first glance it seems exotic. She is as hospitable as the locals. There is no point in fearing or avoiding nature in Goa, but still let's say a few words about it. Forewarned is forearmed.
There are no poisonous plants in Goa. The most dangerous is coconut, which can suddenly fall on your head. And suddenly he may fall on his head somewhere in the jungle, where people do not collect nuts from coconut palms. At hotels and cafes, palm trees are, as a rule, without nuts, either a safety net is stretched between the palm trees, or there are no palm trees at all.
Often people ask: are there snakes in Goa? Are there any spiders in Goa and other animals? Yes there is. But do not be afraid. Goa snakes are found where there are few people and more jungle. There are spiders in Goa, but they are small and calmly feed on other Goan insects. They calmly weave their webs and live like this. Goa has mosquitoes that live an active life in the evenings, and especially active in the rainy season.
Goa has few animals: cows and buffalos, dogs, monkeys, geckos, cats, bats, as well as birds: crows, eagles, pigeons, kingfisher and others. So, in order:
Cows walk in abundance on the streets of Goa. They can walk on the roadway, can sleep on it. People are not touched. They like to eat almost everything, even cardboard. Animals, although peaceful, but do not aggressively behave with them or provoke them - it is impossible to predict the behavior of an animal that weighs more than a hundred kg.
Buffalos - such large gray cows with long horns bent backwards - mainly work in the fields. Something like cows in behavior.
Monkeys, like snakes, are found where there are fewer people and more jungle. In Goa, there are two species of monkeys: with a black face and with a pink one. Black-faced animals are found in the vicinity of Kerim; they can be found along the road to Mapsu. They categorically do not go to contact, they run away at the sight of a person at the first opportunity.
Pink-headed macaques can be found in abundance at Dudh Sagar Falls. They are well-fed and arrogant. People, as their breadwinners are not touched, but just do not provoke them. Always keep your things safe, otherwise macaques can grab a shirt and try to put it on themselves, and then leave it on a tree.
Dogs in Goa are especially peaceful, where there are a lot of people and on the beaches. But nevertheless, as with all dogs, you should not provoke them to aggression - this is a no brainer. Where there are fewer people, for example on roads, dogs are not so tamed, they are activated mainly in the dark - we do not recommend walking at night on deserted roads.
Geckos are such bug-eyed lizards, live everywhere, in houses, feed on insects. At the slightest danger instantly creep to the side.
Cats - in Goa, they are very frightened creatures, most often they are shabby. It is rare that one of the cats will let himself be stroked - people are usually afraid, although there are exceptions.
Bats live again where there are fewer people. You can meet them in the dark, when, driving on a bike, something incomprehensible flies in the light of the headlights turned on. Most likely, this is incomprehensible and there is a bat. They fly around people and do not engage in vampirism
All birds in Goa fly on their own. It makes no sense to somehow fear or avoid them.
6. Sea and beach in Goa
In Goa, as in any beach resort:
Protect your skin, cover your head, do not swim behind buoys, etc. etc. - in general, remain a reasonable person, resting somewhere.
7. Expired Indian visa
This cannot be allowed categorically! To stay in Goa “for longer”, as some of our compatriots like, means deliberately incurring the most varied consequences. The minimum nuisance facing the delay of a visa to India is blacklisting and the inability to come again.
Sometimes unlucky tourists are allowed to leave the country after paying a large fine and long bureaucratic ordeals. But it happens that a foreigner is sent to prison for violation of the visa regime or a false extension of the term of stay. A proposal to extend a tourist visa is a pure divorce, since it is not officially extended under any circumstances. Only a permit for temporary stay in the country for medical reasons or other force majeure reasons is possible.
Therefore, you must follow these recommendations:
Resist the urge to illegally stay in Goa for longer.
Under no circumstances should one agree to fraud with an extension of a visa, because we already know that this is impossible by law.
8. Police in Goa
Police officers, although they are civil servants, are more affable than in Russia. Goan policemen, for example, can be asked for directions - they will show. Without reason, they do not delay - so there is no point in fearing them. Only if you are caught for drug use or for aggressive behavior - then they have reason to detain you. They used to talk about police bribery, now such cases are less common.
9. Locals in Goa
Locals are welcoming and friendly. But this does not mean that they can not be respected. Goans are very religious, so respect the Hindu temples that you visit: do not take pictures, take off your shoes, women should wear clothes that cover their shoulders and knees. Do not touch anything without permission.
Once a foreigner struck a ritual bell without asking anyone, so then he was punished with fists and sticks.
Behave culturally and honestly. You are a guest in Goa.
As you can see, all the warnings are elementary, simple and understandable.
Of course, there are dangers in Goa, but if you know about them, and indeed try to be careful, then everything will be fine. In any country, as well as in India, there are always some things that tourists should not do, or at least, having studied the matter in advance, do it carefully. You do not suggest that a tourist from India take a walk through the evening Lyubertsy. And in India, an unprepared, white man can expect much more surprises. Especially if you went to rest in a "wild way", that is, on your own.
Thinking about the dangers in Goa, our imagination will first draw an Indian cobra. But the cobra, in Goa, I saw only among snake charmers.
If we continue the theme of the poisonous inhabitants of the Arabian Sea, thenno less than a sea snake, a sea slope with a poisonous spike on its tail is dangerous. It is not large and looks quite safe, but, despite this, its poison can very well kill a person.
Also, in Goa, it is not safe to take drinks and food from strangers, especially at large parties. The drugs in Goa are very cheap and you can add them, at least where. For example, in a soft drink made from yogurt, with ice and fruit, called lassi. And what to do, with your inadequate body, the “good” donor of lassi, to rob or rape, completely depends on his imagination and inclinations.
Another serious danger in Goa is road incidents involving bikes. Even if you yourself drive a bike perfectly, there are so many tourists around who not only cannot ride, but are also not always sober. And with the onset of darkness, the number of drunk and stoned only increases. Add here left-hand traffic, in which, in an extreme situation, the driver, accustomed to right-hand traffic, automatically (moving away from the collision) jumps into the oncoming lane. About helmets, and other items of protection, few people think at all. Therefore, in Goa, not only a high percentage of injuries among tourists, but deaths are also frequent.
The avenue of Goans on the avenues for travelers looks like a real paradise. At the same time, there are enough dangers and there are subtleties that need to be studied before the trip. You can not ignore the flora and fauna: for example, are sharks or snakes in Goa dangerous.
A burning question, what do you need to travel to Goa? What facts and holidays deserve special attention? And, of course, purely practical issues: tips, taxis in Goa, illnesses, medicines, sockets and the right to drive the ubiquitous scooter.
Plants in goa
The coast, on which the former Portuguese colony is located, is covered in a tropical jungle. The vegetation is lush and bright. Toward the end of the season, it dries, but does not lose its attractiveness. There are several spice plantations and national parks where you can see not only birds and animals, but also a rich flora.
Tourists are attracted by banyan trees and the impressive proximity of tropical palm trees and vines with variegated conifers in Goa.
Holidays in Goa
Going to the former Portuguese colony, you must be prepared that the holidays in Goa are held with enchanting proportions. Hindu rites intricately intertwined with medieval Catholic traditions and showed the world endless carnivals and processions.
Noisy processions accompany installations from images and sculptures of deities, saints, talismans. Fresh flowers, fire shows and paints are required. It is necessary to go on holidays in clothes which are not a pity. Take an old T-shirt - it will be completely bombarded or covered with paint.
What you need for a trip to Goa
It is impossible to give comprehensive advice to tourists in Goa. Travelers are different, everyone has their own needs and characteristics. If you have money, the problems that arise can be resolved locally, but the supply of medicines for first aid should be at hand.
What medicines to take on Goa
The difficulties of acclimatization are solved in Goan pharmacies. Usually here is an exhaustive list of Indian-made drugs, which is dispensed on the recommendation of a doctor. It is much more important to bring emergency equipment with you:
- Antihistamines. Medicines must be carried with you. In case you suddenly show a food allergy to some spices or you are exposed to jellyfish.
- Painkillers and antispasmodics. No-spa or citramone should be at hand.
- Disinfectants: iodine, peroxide, brilliant green. Better in special pencils.
If there will be children on the trip, then the list of what to take from the medicine is wider. Antipyretic and dyspeptic drugs are definitely added.
Reviews of Goa insist that during the trip you need to use high-sensitivity sunscreens. But they can be bought locally.
How much money to take with you to Goa
580 * 400 goa 13 block
Everyone calculates their budget. A full-fledged vacation in Goa for one traveler is enough $ 800-1000 per month, provided that you are not the king of the glamorous parties, and did not decide to provide all the taxis in Goa with work. Having stock, you can expand the program and see neighboring states or dispose of them in your own way.
When paying for a trip to a tour operator, ask separately how much the fuel surcharge is and whether it is included in the price of the ticket. Otherwise, there will be an unpleasant surprise before departure - additional expenses or refusal to travel with heavy losses. Fuel surcharge may be $ 50–75.
What go to Goa
Reviews of Goa are full of the word "shanti." This is an indescribable atmosphere of absolute calm and joy, which pervades everything around. Therefore, do not be surprised: tourists go here who in what. Given that the season on the coast is eternal summer, you can take with you:
- swimwear;
- spacious shirts with long sleeves;
- shorts;
- hats.
Glamorous exits are accepted only in southern Goa, and even then nightlife there is not very popular and any dress code is acceptable.
Experienced travelers do not take outerwear with them at all, but buy what they need in the markets - the price / quality ratio allows. In terms of dollars, it is not very expensive.
Attention Women, even accompanied by a strong half, it is better not to neglect the elementary rules of decency and appear dressed in public. Swimwear, sheer tunics and a mini are more appropriate to leave for the beaches.
Dangers for tourists in Goa
Unpleasant and frankly dangerous situations are possible everywhere. There are many rumors about Goa: sharks, snakes, stingrays, poisonous jellyfish, tsunamis and all kinds of tropical adversities in the form of diseases. Although more injuries are tourists who inadvertently hid under coconut palms in the wind or decided that they all knew about Indian roads.
Snakes in Goa
When traveling to India, it is necessary to mentally prepare for a meeting with animals. Snakes in Goa are an unpleasant but inevitable phenomenon. There are marine and land species. On the coast and in the nearby waters, tourists are interested in marine. However, there are not so many of them and they swim far from the coast. Indian fishermen fearlessly pick up snakes in their hands and assure that they are not poisonous. Reviews of tourists are periodically scared by fearsome photos, but they haven’t reported a single case of death from the meeting.
Sharks in Goa
Sharks are also considered a danger in Goa. However, they, like snakes, do not swim close to the shore. The obstacles are strong currents and natural instincts, forcing them to stay away from noise and tourists. Activity is shown at night. They are found mainly on fish market stalls. Judging by the reviews, there are no cases of attacks on tourists. Schools of dolphins often swim to the shore.
Diseases in Goa
The tropics and unsanitary conditions in Goa pose a threat of intestinal infections - they develop here literally with lightning speed. What do you need to know? Observe hygiene. Otherwise, you can do without vaccinations. But insurance in case of force majeure circumstances must be issued. Faced with jellyfish or injuries, you will realize that it was not superfluous.
Tsunami in Goa
The west coast of India is located in a relatively calm zone, where the threat of tsunamis and tectonic instability is low. The last tsunami was recorded in 2004. The consequences were minor.
What you need to know about the tsunami: to disperse a high wave, you need a deep water, approaching directly to the shore. The coastline in Goa is wide and gentle. The tsunami has no chance.
The smallest state of India and the former Portuguese colony is interesting due to many features:
- The wide coastline stretched for almost 100 km. The North will provide you with a lot of impressions and relative democracy in prices. The south will please you with calm and silence. To find your Goa, you must travel it completely.
- Friendly Indians, speaking in a striking mixture of Konkani, Porto and English. The set is not complete without Russian and German. Therefore, for 100% understanding, you will have to master the sign language.
- Left side traffic. Roads where they are narrow and bad. Rules are a relative concept. The movement is often chaotic. Most participants prefer scooters and bikes.
- Cows and dogs. They are not customary to drive or offend in any other way. Cows are sacred animals.
- The sunrise and sunset in Goa are mesmerizing with beauty and transience. Not more than half an hour and night replaces the day and vice versa.
- Clean Indians stands apart. And not in the best place. Garbage and landfill - on every corner, and intestinal infections await in the most unexpected places. Carry alcohol wipes with you.
- Sights. In addition to the stunning richness of the natural landscape in Goa, there are many Hindu and Catholic temples.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
What can be encountered in Goa?
The first thing an inexperienced traveler will have to face is a taxi to Goa. Acquaintance with the cunning and often boorish owners of cars and rights discourages the use of their services for a long time. Meanwhile, the secret of mutually beneficial relations is the rule of always bargaining and firmly, but favorably refuse the imposed service. Other issues are easily resolved.
What tip in Goa?
According to reviews, the standard tip is about 10-20 rupees. They are usually left for any services. Starting from the airport, you are literally attacked by locals in a sincere impulse to help with things. Next - the maid. It is not customary to leave a standard dollar on beds in hotels below 4 stars.
Even the colorful Goans, enterprisingly selling various little things on the beach, are much more willing to pose for money. The restaurants leave about 5% of the bill.
What are the sockets in Goa?
Tourists recommend taking 2-3 tees with them to India, preferably with grounding. They will allow easy use of electric networks. The voltage is the same as ours - 220, but the sockets are often loose and it is difficult to fix the plug in them. Used Standard: C, D, M. The first is for ordinary and "euro" plugs without grounding.
If the outlet does not work, it may be turned off - the toggle switch is usually located at the entrance to the room.
Where is it unsafe to exchange dollars in Goa?
Of course, it is best to change money in official institutions with the inscription Exchange. Exchange dollars upon arrival, in hotels, in special bureaus and banks. But these are classic safe options. Such an inscription can be found in shops and stores.
Less safe options are for taxi drivers, in casual shakes or with arms. Goans are willing to exchange dollars, but the safety of large sums will be doubtful. Although reviews of Goa say that the criminal situation is strictly regulated by religious dogmas - you can’t take someone else’s. Therefore, Indians confine themselves to scams of various sizes: they inflate prices and cheat.
Do you need a scooter license for Goa?
Taxi in Goa is far from the last means of transportation. Having looked closely, tourists change to scooters and bikes. Officially - you must have international rights with category “A”. Unofficially - other solutions are possible. When renting documents are not required, and if you were stopped by valiant police officers, then you should know that corruption in India is also a tourist attraction. Bargain.
Before the trip you need to know in advance that you can not bring from Goa. Tips for tourists who love expensive souvenirs: do not buy antiques. He needs help and a lot of permissions. In addition, you cannot export:
- Indian currency.
- Precious metals in ingots.
- Representatives of local flora and live specimens of fauna.
- Crafts: feathers, fur, skins.
The former Portuguese colony in India attracts with its picturesque nature and no less vivid impressions of the original culture and its carriers. Before the trip, you should carefully study all available information and reviews about Goa.