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Last week, the Goa government announced that it was opening its doors for tourism once again starting July 3, 2019. Tourism Minister Manohar Ajgaonkar said that over 250 hotels have received permission to host visitors once again after a three-month-long lockdown. Now that the Sunshine state is open for business, it's time to once again create your WhatsApp groups and plan your Goa trip. It should also be noted that Goa, which has always been a tourism hotspot among Indian as well as International travellers, remained among those states that were lesser affected by the coronavirus. But before you make an itinerary to visit Goa, there are a few rules that all travellers will be expected to follow before entering the party-state of India.
Rules all travellers must follow before entering Goa
1. First and most important of all, you will have to get yourself checked for the coronavirus. All travellers going to Goa will be required to carry a negative COVID-19 certificate of the test conducted over the past 48 hours. If this is not presented, travellers will be tested in Goa for the same.
2. Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will either have to go back to their home towns or stay in quarantine in Goa, until they’re cured.
3. All travellers are required to pre-book their stay in a hotel that has been approved to operate by the tourism department.
4. Travellers need to pre-book their stay at a hotel that has been approved to operate by the tourism department. Those with bookings in a non-approved hotel or homestay will not be allowed to enter, and the same would be deemed illegal.
If you meet all the criteria and are curious about hotels approved to operate by the tourism department, here are five places that are beautiful and absolutely safe.
5 places to stay in Goa that are safe and beautiful
Even though Goa has opened its doors for tourism, it doesn’t mean that you will be allowed to party at your favourite clubs or shacks. So take a break from the chaos that is North Goa and take this chance to explore the peaceful Southern side that will astound you with its beauty. Saffron Stays has a villa located in Goa’s Dona Paula neighbourhood called Sea Crest, which might be perfect for you. Every bedroom in this 3BHK villa gives you unprecedented views of the Arabian Ocean. And if you want to dip your feet in the sea, you can do so at either Miramar, Vainguinim or the Caranzalem beach which are just a short walk away. Its Portuguese vibe will really make you feel like you’re on the tropical break that you deserve. Here are the policies in place for COVID-19 at all Saffron Stay residences.
You may remember the Siolim area of Goa if you’ve ever been to gorgeous restaurants like Thalassa, Olive and Ciao Bella, among others. This luxurious bungalow is located barely a three-minute drive away. It looks towards the Chapora river and the infinity pool extends itself over it. And before you freak out, Saffron Stays is ensuring a deep cleaning of its home and pools as per Government guidelines before and after every guest leaves. There is a 24-hour gap between two bookings to ensure the cleaning takes place perfectly. It has four bedrooms and has a very modern and luxe vibe to it. Travellers will have to download the Aarogya Setu app, will have their temperatures checked, sanitizers will be placed in every room and guests will be served home-cooked meals with ingredients that have been thoroughly disinfected.
If you don’t want to opt for villas, there are also certain hotels that are offering stays in Goa. The Fairfield by Marriott is located in Anjuna, however, Baga, Vagator and Calangute are only less than 5 kilometers away. The common areas including the pool and gym will be shut off and all travellers will be required to have their temperatures checked, hand sanitizer and reveal their travel histories before they can check into the resort. The location is convenient and it is among the few resorts that carry the safety and hygiene stamp by MakeMyTrip.
Another resort you can trust to take care of your wellbeing is The Lalit Golf and Spa Resort. Located in Raj Baga, Canacona, this 85-acre resort is so spacious that it will ensure social distancing between you and other guests. Once again, all common areas like the gym and pool will be shut off. However, lucky for you, each room comes equipped with its own private jacuzzi tub. There is also a doctor-on-call available for you. Right from the Golf grounds to a spa, to a yoga room, there is nothing you will miss while you’re here.
If you’ve really been missing partying, one of the best options for you is to stay at the Hard Rock Hotel. It is located in Calangute, Goa and will give your holiday the oomph factor required while also ensuring your safety. The location is perfect as the Titos lane, where Goa’s nightlife thrives, is just a short walk away. We expect all common areas to remain shut and Government guidelines to be followed. All the staff will be wearing masks and will follow the six-feet distance policy, among other precautions.
Even though Goa has opened its doors to guests, we’d strongly advise you to practise utmost hygiene and safety. If you have even the slightest symptoms, we’d recommend home quarantining before you step out. It’s important to remember that in times like this, risking your own health equals risking other people's lives.
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