There are always two sides to a coin, two sides to anything, for that matter! Goa was assumed to be a union territory with no limits, no rules, no judgments, right? Well, that ain’t the case. Well, whenever you go to Goa, irrespective of the purpose, remember the following 17 things you must not do in Goa:
1. Taking one of those taxis
Instead of burning a hole in your pockets, rent a bike for yourself or, just keep walking!
2. Littering all the way
Again, this is common all across India- however, terrible on our part! Respect the land you’re staying in even for a night, else, a place like Goa can rip you apart just the way Singapore does in cases like these.
While going beach-ing, remember to carry a bag of trash in order to prevent littering this lovely land.
3. Carrying too much liquid money
This goes for other destinations but, more for Goa for a very simple reason- most of the people traveling there go to get high and you do not want to end up gambling all your cash or pay for some random human or get robbed!
Keep your wallet to yourself- paying for your friends is okay. However, keep track of how much you have and how much you spend because Goa can turn out to be one expensive affair.
4. Photography in Goa
Yes, yes, Goa is scenic and lovely and full of exotic people. So what? Remember, you’re violating their rights- it’s never okay to take pictures of people who are strangers to you. Always take permission and go ahead, have a photoshoot day but, with 100% consignment!
5. Staring at people
Be it at the beach or the roadside, it is just not okay to stare at people in Goa. You never know what’s going on in their insides which might annoy them hugely. Staring may even be very molesting for them so, beware!
A lot of people walk around semi-naked and yes, we do find it fascinating- keep the fascination to yourself, okay?
6. Going topless
Beaches have rules and they’re meant to be followed. Yes, Goa is the party capital of India but, there are rules! As minimal as the bikini sizes out there but, they must not be violated. Public Display of Affection in such ways is not- permitted can be a criminal offense.
7. Wearing the I heart Goa T-shirts
It’s awkward and embarrassing at all levels! Yes, it’s cute but, annoying for them. You need to respect the fact that some people do not appreciate such situations and do not like seeing people displaying so much love for a land they know for the parties. It might lead to some major issues in the local areas.
8. Getting looted
Goa is somewhat like Delhi but, in a pretty way! No offense. Be careful about the people who buy you drinks, people who say that they’re falling for you or any intimate scenes or mugging scenes as well. In cases of foreigners, not trying to drive you out of the country but, be careful about your passports!
Maybe try out to self- defense and self- control techniques?
9. Overdoing it all
There are going to be a zillion pubs, parties, places to go drinking too. There are going to be places where you may find free substances too but, please be careful. It’s never encouraged to end up in a terrible hangover like it happened in the movie ‘Hangover!’
If possible, don’t drink! Just kidding.
10. Opting for cheaper options
This goes with regard to everything, especially with alcohol and adventure sports. There are going to be so many parasailing options, however, are they reliable? Learn to verify it all. Else, you’re going to be in some serious trouble- maybe end up booking a room at the hospital!
12. Buying cheapskate Hawaiian shirts? EW.
It’s funky but, 100% uncool. Firstly, the quality of the shirts are terrible. On top of that it’s an investment with a zillion insults. Who would want to buy something like that? These shirts belong nowhere and if you’re so crazy about buying one, either go to eBay or visit Hawaii!
13. Acting like a Princess
Try being as natural as possible when you’re someplace where you do not belong. Especially in shacks, you may end up being a victim or just kicked out for acting arrogant or pompous!
14. Don’t end up in air- conditioned places
The beauty of Goa lies in its rooftop restaurants, shacks, markets by the pavements and more. Do not miss out on it just because it’s 40 degrees out there- get tanned, get some color and buy some unique junk- you never know when it might turn out to be an antique!
15. Drink and drive
So many deaths have occurred due to drink and drive cases- Goa is not the land of killings and killers. If you cannot handle your alcohol intake, ensure you have somebody to take you back home, safe and sound at all levels!
16. Passing out at the beach
Remember eating crabs by the seaside? Well, if you pass out by the beach, they definitely eat you up! The nights may seem to be very cheesy and lovely with the stars and the scenic beauty. But, in the morning, Goa shall show you its true colors with crabs and other creatures.
17. Wearing heels
Goa is for adventurous people, people who like chilling. It’s not meant for people who want to look tall! Unless you’re planning on to book a yacht, please do not wear heels- the sand will suck you in!
Be careful, have fun- sums it all up, eh?