After seven months of being at home in pandemic and swearing to not travel post-pandemic too, here I am in Goa! I know I might get some raised eyebrows (guilty as charged) considering the rising number of cases in India.
Click here to know more about my first Road Trip in 2020!
Goa is now officially open for tourism moreover, the government has ruled out the mandatory Covid test in Unlock 4.0
The Coronavirus pandemic has brought all the economic activities to a grinding halt. We know that tourism is considered the backbone of Goa’s economy but having said that, this new move is a matter of concern and worry for the locals here (Goa went from zero COVID cases to its third wave in 3 months)
To tell you the fact, this pandemic has changed our beloved Goa up to some extent. The lively Party capital is not the same!
After spending quite some days here, I really would like to share some basic facts and information which could help you plan your Goa trip.
What you must know before traveling to Goa?
- First things first – Please understand it’s still not 100% safe outside your house be it Goa or any other place in India, wait for the next few months for things to get settled down. Nevertheless, as my work involves creating new travel content, I have shifted here temporarily.
- Appreciate the sentiments of locals(it’s their land after all), practice and maintain social distancing, avoid close contact with anyone.
- Always wear a mask and carry sanitizer.
- Although the bar and restaurants are now open in Goa, it’s better to skip them for the time being. Initially, I had bookings in a resort so was left with no option other than restaurant food, but now I have shifted in an apartment and got my groceries here. Anyway it’s always healthy to eat at home while traveling too.
5 Reasons to Plan your Goa Trip Now
- After months of lockdown, this is the best time to explore the beautiful and pristine beaches and of course the hidden places in Goa. Beaches once known as crowded (like Baga and Calangute) are now quite and look secluded as very few tourists are around post-pandemic.
- To support the local economy. Help revive the tourism industry.
- The weather is pleasant, unlike the summer months. Experiencing the drizzle and rain on the beach and seashore feels like heaven.
- The locals are extremely welcoming and generous.
- For a quick break from months of lockdown and staying at home.
5 Reasons to Postpone your Goa Trip
- Cases are rising, not the safest time to go out and wander.
- Not your safest zone definitely, higher risk with more physical contact with people.
- The lively nightlife is missing as of September 2020 and might take some time to revive.
- Need to be more cautious for everything hotel booking/eating, roaming.
- Shacks/Water sports not available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wear a mask everywhere?
Yes you should especially in public places while in secluded beaches, you can relax a bit and breathe.
Do I need to carry a Covid negative certificate?
No, it’s no longer required.
Are there any quarantine rules?
Not anymore.
Do I need to book accommodation before coming? Can I book a property on Airbnb?
Yes, it’s always advisable to contact the hotel/Airbnb owner before making the final payment.
Note: When I searched on booking sites, they suggested plenty of properties to book but when inquired personally they were actually closed.
Are Shacks available?
Not as of September 2020.
Are Bar/Clubs/Pubs open?
Yes but very limited.
Bikes and Scooter available on rent?
Yes 300 – 500INR per day.
Are Swimming Pools in resorts open?
No due to safety reasons.
Are water sports open?
Yet to open.
Are tourist attractions open?
Most of them such as Doodh sagar waterfalls and some churches are closed but you can always visit the sunkissed beaches, gorgeous forts, natural spots and hiking places (details coming in new blog).
Is Goa safe for me?
At certain levels, it depends on you! If your mask is on and you are practicing great social distancing, it’s pretty much safe.
Have a question? Are you planning Goa after lockdown? Write down in the comment section below. Hope you have got a taste of Goa after unlock 4.0. More details coming soon, Stay Tuned!
Thanks for the details Deepika. Would love to spend a few months in Goa. Hopefully in December ?
Amazing experiences and guides! Thanks for sharing.. stay safe and happy journey everyone!
Amazing blog and beautiful pictures ??
Thanks Deepika for sharing this blog ,it will definitely help me in planning my much awaited vacation, would rather like to visit when GOA will be back in full swing,full of fun, crowds,shacks,discs & pubs…I miss them alot ….
This is incredible that you are spreading positive messages by following the Covid norms (wearing masks).I think it will take few months to revive the tourism in GOA.
Nice blog Deepika.
You have provided so many information and I really liked that you are following safety measures, take care. Thanks Deepika I was waiting for these information
Amazing blog girl!! Can’t wait to be at Goa … Be safe and Enjoy !!
Wow empty beaches, I love it… Normally you won’t get such environment specially in beaches BAGA & calangute…beautiful clicks…
I am stuck in south GOA in Benaulim for the last couple of months.Well this is a positive blog.Brave of you to travel during Covid and educating people on basics of travelling now…
You left this with the audience whether or not to visit GOA at this time… But after reading your blog I would love to visit GOA now….FAQs helped.?