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South Goa India Plus masking up, losing my credit card, getting massages


In this episode, FAQ is: When do I need a mask?

Today’s Destination is: South Goa, India

Today’s Misstep- I left my credit card behind.

Travel Advice: Get a massage

FAQ: When do I need a mask in 2024

Guidelines for wearing face masks vary depending on the current status of the COVID-19 pandemic and local regulations. It's essential to stay informed about the latest guidance from health authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other relevant local health departments.

The need to wear a face mask can depend on factors like the prevalence of COVID-19 in your community, vaccination rates, and new variants. Additionally, guidelines may change in response to emerging data and public health considerations.

It's common for health authorities to recommend wearing face masks in crowded indoor settings, in hospitals and health care offices, on public transportation, and in places where social distancing may be challenging. However, these recommendations may change, so it's crucial to check for the most recent guidelines from reliable health sources.

 

Today’s destination: South Goa, India

  • South Goa generally has a tropical climate, with the peak tourist season being from November to March when the weather is more relaxed and dry.

  • Monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, and some beach activities may be limited; I was there in early June, about two weeks too late for ocean swimming. 

  • I stayed in an Airbnb, and my host was downstairs and ran a beauty shop. Her boyfriend ran the nearby restaurant. I walked to pretty much everywhere while I was visiting. It was a slow pace, but I liked that.

  • Beaches:

    • South Goa is known for its pristine and less crowded beaches than the northern part of the state. I found the beaches dirty, and it was monsoon season, so swimming was out of the question in June.

    • Famous beaches include Palolem, Agonda, Colva, and Benaulim. I stayed near Bogmalo Beach. It was laid back, had a local feel, and was close to the main Goa airport.

    • Careful of coconuts falling on you. The winds were strong, and palms plus coconuts were falling fast. I had to cover my head at times to make sure that I did not get hit.

  • Water Sports:

    • Based on the season, many South Goa beaches offer water sports such as parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides. Make sure the water is safe before you swim.

  • Cuisine:

    • South Goa offers diverse cuisine, including delicious seafood and traditional Goan dishes. I’m not a food expert, but I ate fresh fish and fruits daily.

 

South Goa, India, is known for its serene beaches, vibrant culture, and historical attractions. Here are some recommendations for things to see and do in South Goa besides the beach. See a wildlife sanctuary, waterfalls, basilica, churches, art museums, and the Naval Aviation Museum by the airport.

What is there to do for a solo traveler? My recs are Kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, yoga, and walking on the shore for sunsets.

I had a lovely massage from Ranjini, who owns the shop with her husband. I had hoped to swim in the resort pool on the beach, but that was also closed due to monsoons.

  • An aviation museum was one of my favorite places in South Goa. You can now discover the history of aviation in India at the Naval Aviation Museum, located adjacent to the Dabolim or main airport.  I viewed vintage aircraft and learned about Indian Naval Air history, where people asked me for selfies. The electricity went out, which meant the air conditioning, too. It did not go back on for the hour more that I was there. 

https://www.goa.gov.in/places/naval-aviation-museum/

https://www.deccanherald.com/india/now-goa-has-two-international-airports-located-50-km-apart-from-each-other-1170723.html



Remember to check the current status and accessibility of these attractions, as conditions may change. South Goa offers a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and natural beauty.

 

Today’s Misstep- I left my credit card behind.

 

 

Today’s Travel Advice: Get a massage. 

 

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