Goa reopens to tourism despite Delta variant not giving India breathing space
Goa reopens to tourism. This could be wonderful news, except that India is grappling with a new [...]
Goa reopens to tourism. This could be wonderful news, except that India is grappling with a new wave of contagions. The Delta variant is straining its health care system, but the country can hardly afford a further lockdown and a prolonged absence of tourists.
In this article:
Let us therefore find out together how Goa has reopened.
Goa reopens to tourism: rules
According to local media reports, Goa (Western Indian state and popular beach destination famous for its busy beaches) Now allows access to tourists who have completed their vaccination cycle at least 14 days ago, but also to those who are in possession of a negative PCR test carried out at an accredited laboratory. The opening follows a decrease in cases in the state, which, unlike the rest of India, experiences a less dramatic situation. However, the requirement to wear a mask remains in place (including on beaches).
According to local media reports, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) president Nilesh Shah said the state is ready to welcome tourists. However, to ensure the safety of residents and travelers, the government has put in place strict measures to be followed and set guidelines for all tourism businesses. Thus, although a kind of soft lockdown was in place until last August 16, political and sports events, social and cultural gatherings, weddings and ceremonies have already been allowed into the country for days. Restaurants and cafes are open, while casinos remain closed.
Can Italians go to India?
The news that Goa is reopening to tourism is certainly good news for those looking forward to flying overseas. However, Italians still cannot go there. Until August 30, in fact, the Special restrictive measures for Brazil, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
Entry from India is allowed only:
- to Italian citizens who have also been registered residents in Italy since before April 29, 2021
- to Italian citizens registered in the Registry of Italians Resident Abroad (AIRE)
- For humanitarian or health reasons that cannot be deferred, subject to the express authorization of the Italian Ministry of Health
Tourism from and to India is not allowed at all., at least until the end of August.
What to see in Goa
But what will you be able to do in Goa when Italy finally returns to allow travel to the country? The ideal is to rent a car or a scooter, to go and explore this beautiful tropical landscape. Baga, Anjuna and Arambol are the most beautiful beaches in the northern area, Palolem and Agonda are perfect for those going south. But you can also visit the Dudhsagar Falls here, take part in yoga classes, go kayaking at sunset, or go shopping at antique markets or among typical clothing stalls. After all, Goa is a hippie paradise. Echoes of the 1960s can still be heard, which is why visiting this corner of India is an experience not to be missed.
