Goa - European India
Goa is a southern state of India with its capital in the city of Panaji. In turn, the state itself is divided into two more halves: southern and northern. In the central part of the coast is the island of St. George and the island of Bogmalo. The population of Goa is approaching one million people, 80% of whom are Hindus. The official languages here are English and Hindi.
The official currency is the Indian Rupee. The climate, as in the whole of India, is monsoon and has three distinct periods. The most acceptable period to visit is from October to March with dry and warm weather. The time relative to Moscow is +2.5 hours (in summer +1.5).
The uniqueness of this place is that it can only be called Indian geographically.
The main part of the buildings in Goa is made in the Spanish style. There are many small and cozy restaurants and cafes, as well as typical European houses on narrow streets and a traditional church in the center of the main square.
All this splendor did not arise here by chance. More recently, Goa was a Portuguese colony and only since 1961 has gained independence. The influence of the colonialists is felt especially strongly within Old Goa. It is located a couple of kilometers east of Panaji and is included in the list of UNESCO monument cities.
Goa attracts various categories of tourists. Starting from young people, who are more suited to the discreet simplicity of North Goa, ending with a respectable audience, which is attracted to South Goa by the luxury of hotels and impeccable service. This resort is not ignored by divers either. They have a great opportunity to dive near the islands, enjoy the splendor of colors, shades and a variety of forms of local marine flora and fauna. In addition to the unconditional spiritual pleasure of contemplating the surroundings, you can also get physical pleasure by visiting spas or taking a course of thalassotherapy.
Getting a visa to India will not be difficult. It is only necessary to collect all the required documents and submit them to the embassy, and a trip to India will become a reality, you will be able to visit all the memorable places of this wonderful country. On average, the visa is ready in 8 working days, but it is better to be safe and submit all the information at least 2 weeks before the expected departure. The consular fee at the Indian embassy is 50 US dollars, and leaving Goa you will also have to pay an airport fee of 750 rupees. The consular fee is not paid by children under 14 years old, who are entered in the passport of one of the parents.
Before traveling, be sure to study all customs prohibitions and restrictions to avoid unplanned expenses or other unnecessary problems.
The import and export of rupees to Goa is prohibited. Currency in the amount of more than 2500 US dollars must be declared, as well as personal computers. Goods with a value not exceeding 750 rupees, a camera and 5 films to it, 200 cigarettes, 0.95 liters of alcoholic beverages are not subject to duty. Prohibited for export: leather and skins of wild animals, live plants, rare animal skin products, antiques (over 100 years old), gold and silver bullion, jewelry items whose price exceeds 2000 rupees, except those purchased in the "Duty Free Shop".