With the onset of cold weather, we increasingly dream of those lands where there is eternal summer. One of the most accessible exotic countries where you can go without any problems on your own is India, namely the state of Goa.
Goa is a very popular holiday destination for the British and Russians. Many people who can work remotely leave here for "wintering". Hot climate, warm sea, fruits and seafood, yoga classes - all this helps to distract from the hustle and bustle and look at the world in a new way. The tourist season starts in October and ends in May with the onset of the rainy season.
It should be borne in mind that Russian citizens need a visa to travel to Goa. Usually, there are no problems with obtaining a visa. You need to fill out a questionnaire, provide two color photographs, copies of the Russian passport and foreign passport, copies of air tickets and hotel reservations.
A little trick: if you plan to look for accommodation on the spot, you can book a hotel with the possibility of free cancellation on the "booking", and after receiving a visa, cancel it.
The air ticket can be viewed on aggregator sites, where offers from different airlines are collected. Sometimes you can find a ready-made tour for the price of an air ticket - this is even easier, because in this case you can leave some of your things at the hotel and travel light.
Insurance. It is imperative to arrange it, preferably in a large reliable insurance company. The insurance will cost you about 30-40 rubles per day. Read carefully what is not included in the concept of "insured event".
With the placement, everything is very simple - just walk down the street, and you will see many signs with the words "Room for rent". In northern Goa, these are mainly mini-hotels, in southern Goa - bungalows. In addition, any taxi driver will be happy to advise you where you can rent an apartment and take you there.
The currency in Goa is rupees. At the airport, change the minimum amount, since the rate there is unprofitable. It is better to change money in banks. Count the money carefully and check the bills, petty fraud is not uncommon here. Always bargain - this is the custom here. In the markets, the price is often called, which is 5-7 times higher than the real one.
Food and drinks. It is a paradise for lovers of fish, seafood and vegetables. But meat dishes are not held in high esteem by local residents, and beef is cooked only in tourist places, because cows there are sacred animals. Rice is very popular, both boiled and fried with seafood or vegetables. In shacks, small cafes on the beach, the food is very tasty and cheap. Be aware that some foods can be very spicy. A variety of exotic fruits can be bought on the market at a low price. Goa is the only state in India where alcohol is allowed, and tourists prefer the local Old Monk rum.
Language. In Goa, everyone speaks English, which can be understood by any European. The locals are very talkative, so if you drive long distances, you can tell the driver that you don't understand English.
Movement. There is left-hand traffic here. There are a lot of motorcycles in northern Goa, and few people follow the rules, so it is highly discouraged to rent a vehicle, it can be dangerous. Better to get around by taxi. Of course, you also need to bargain with taxi drivers.
Indians are a very soulful people. For them, a "white man" is like an alien from another planet. Therefore, do not be surprised that they will literally point the finger and take pictures with you, especially this fate awaits people with fair skin and hair. And, of course, every day you will be accompanied by offers of a taxi, massage, and every passer-by will not be too lazy to say hello to you. This is especially true of northern Goa.
North Goa is known for its crowded beaches and nightlife. The most famous beaches here are Baga, Calangute, Ashvem, Anjuna, Aguada.
South Goa.
Here are the most beautiful beaches and the most expensive hotels. It is calm here, and everything is conducive to contemplation and relaxation from civilization. The most beloved beach of Europeans is Palolem. The clear sea and palm forest on the shore attract tourists. There are also small bungalows here, so that, falling asleep, you can hear the sound of the sea.
It is best to visit several beaches during your trip, so you get a complete picture of this state.
