How to Holiday in Goa Safely During COVID-19
Goa is a popular tourist destination for many reasons; its lush greenery, sandy beaches, friendly atmosphere and rich culture. However, travelling is not as simple as it once was. Even though Goa’s border has been reopened for tourists, various travel restrictions have been imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
After a strenuous lockdown cramped within the four walls for your home for the better part of a year, the breezy beaches of Goa are a tempting retreat. So while you plan your getaway to this magnificent coastal paradise, here are a few pointers to keep in mind on how to holiday in Goa safely during COVID-19.
A Rule of Thumb
Goa is presently experiencing a respite post the second wave of the pandemic, therefore many restrictions are now easing up. However, it is vital to remember that the pandemic is far from over and there are several SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) put in place by the government. Some of the general guidelines to follow are: download the Aarogya Setu App on your phone, get a negative COVID-19 test report 72 hours before crossing Goan borders and follow social distancing norms in public places.
Get a Clean Bill of Health
Before travelling, it is strongly recommended to do a quick self-assessment to detect any possible COVID-19 symptoms. Keep a lookout for fever, cough, cold, loss of taste and smell, etc. Further, if you do detect any symptoms, we advise you to visit your nearest healthcare professional and get yourself checked and tested irrespective of the travel guidelines. It is also important to go over any health risks that you can avoid to keep yourself and your family safe.
Pack Well
Goan businesses are constantly ensuring the safety of their clients and are being diligent while following SOPs such as temperature screening and sanitizing their customers. However, it is a good idea to plan and pack for your trip well and make sure you have your pandemic essentials on your person at all times. This includes masks, sanitizers, gloves and face shields. You can never be too safe, so, have a few extra supplies handy in case you require them. This will ensure you a good and relaxing vacation.
Treat Yourself
Goa has a variety of rich and indulgent delicacies for you to select from. However, as you visit local restaurants and hotels, ensure the staff are masked, gloved, your temperature is screened, and social distancing norms are followed. It is also recommended to dine in the open rather than in air-conditioned places to maximize your safety. If you are looking for some of the best vegetarian restaurants in North Goa, read our blog for more information.
Choose Your Transportation Wisely
Goa, as a popular tourist destination, offers a range of vehicles for rent for the purpose of sightseeing. However, due to the pandemic, it is advisable to travel in your own vehicles or by foot when you can. If you choose to rent one, make sure it is thoroughly sanitized before and after you use it. Also, in the event that you park your vehicle in a crowded space, remember to carry your own surface disinfectant to sanitize your car door handles, bike seats, bike handles, and other commonly touched surfaces.
If the only option you have is public transport, follow social distancing norms, wear a double mask, sanitize your hands regularly and again, carry a surface disinfectant whenever possible.
Be Weary of Hotspots
For your safety and that of others, it is best to steer clear from crowded places, even if you are fully vaccinated. While planning your getaway, keep your itinerary flexible or contact a tour guide to know the areas marked as red zones for the virus and keep away from those areas. It is also a good idea to avoid museums, malls and other tourist attractions even though many of them are slowly rebooting at 50% capacity as per the rules and regulations laid out by the government. If you wish to visit some of Goa’s most beautiful places, here is a quick guide to the places around Sinquerim.
It is also important to note that at times, staying in luxury hotels as opposed to booking a room or a homestay through the various apps available is a better option, as these hotels do their best to follow all the government SOPs that other locations may overlook. Therefore, before booking your accommodation, it is important to look for stays such as Marquis Beach Resort where we ensure you have a safe, fun and luxurious getaway. Our staff and guests are required to follow strict COVID-19 protocols. We also thoroughly and frequently sanitize common areas and rooms. To know more about our services and protocols get in touch with us. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more information and insightful posts.
