Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Goa
Before you leave
Do I need a visa for India?
Yes, it is compulsory and must be valid for 6 months prior to travel.
For further help go to:- India Visa Head Office
Do I need injections or Malaria protection prior to travel?
Although not compulsory it is advisable to seek advice from your local doctor and Government website.
Sites to help:- Fit For Travel India or Atlas Travel Clinic
British Consulate Goa Telephone number 0832 243 8897
Ensure you have photocopies of your passport and visa.
Should you lose your passport the British Consulate will get you a replacement and will happen faster if you can provide photocopies of the original?
Before leaving the UK you are advised to register with LOCATE an on-line service with the Foreign office which enables them to track you should you be caught up in a crisis.
www.fco.gov.uk/travel and click on LOCATE
When I am there
What is the rainfall?
What is the sunshine and temperatures?
Can I drink tap water?
Preferably not – use bottled mineral water. Make sure the seal has not been broken.
Can I eat fresh fruit and salads?
Only if you are sure it has been washed in purified water.
Can I take ice in my drink?
Only if you are sure purified water has been used.
I am a vegetarian is this course suitable for me?
Probably not, as the course covers a mixture of meat, vegetables and fish dishes.
How much is a beer?
Depending on where you purchase it but about £1
What will a 2 course evening meal cost?
Depending again on where you eat but approx £10/head in a beach shack and up to £30 in a top restaurant.
The Hotel and Cooking
Are the rooms air conditioned?
Yes all rooms are air conditioned
Can we book the whole thing and specify a menu?
The menu provided for cooking is pre-planned and designed to give a wide taste of Goa. A bound copy of menus prepared will be provided at the end of the course. To change the menu would need the agreement of other clients who have booked on the basis of that advertised.
I am disabled will I be able to access the hotel and the kitchen?
There is a staircase of some 20 steps up to the accommodation, and steps down and up again into the kitchen area. It is unsuitable for wheelchair users and those who cannot stand for 3 hours as this is a working hands-on school, on kitchen tops at normal heights.
Is this holiday suitable for children?
It is difficult to imagine what would appeal to those younger than say 16 unless they had a specific interest in cooking. The rooms are not equipped with an extra bed and there is little young people entertainment in the area.
Can I walk to the beach from the hotel?
Yes, it is a pleasant stroll of about 1.2 Kilometres although cheap taxis are available each way until late in the evening
Will I get eaten by mosquitoes?
At the beginning of the season in September the mosquitoes are more active than towards the later part of the season in May due to lying water to breed in. They do seem however to feed between 6:00pm and 8:00pm and it is advisable to rub on some protection.
We suggest you use local insect repellent as this is far more effective.
Transport
Taxis are much cheaper than in the UK but please ensure you agree the cost before beginning your journey.
Auto Rickshaws, three wheeler vehicles (Tuk-Tuk) space for two people and cheaper than a taxi. For short distances are worth while – again agree fare before travelling.
Buses – cost virtually nothing, but are overcrowded. Numbers and destination are displayed at the front.
Trains are also very cheap and can be booked at a station within a 10 minute cab ride from the hotel. It is possible to travel locally and all over India from here.
Flights to most major Domestic Cities are available from Goa Airport on a regular scheduled service.
If you have specific requests to add trips beyond those included in the holiday or you wish to extend your trip then please contact us and we can introduce you to a local travel agent who is able to satisfy any wishes you may have.
Where is the nearest doctor/hospital?
The nearest doctor is in Betalbatim village, details will be available in your room.
The nearest hospital is in Margao – approximately 15 minutes drive from the resort – again information will be in your room.
Is it safe in Goa I heard about an English girl being killed last year
It is no more dangerous to be in Goa than anywhere else.
As with any foreign trip you must be aware of your surroundings and personal safety.
Goan people are polite, friendly and helpful and you will soon be recognised in the village and surrounding area and made to feel welcome.
Is there any night life?
There are many bars and restaurants in South Goa to relax and enjoy the evening.
Most of the night life clubs, casinos, night-markets are in North Goa – approximately 1 hour’s drive away.
Can we arrange a shopping trip?
Yes and can be arranged locally
Is there any diving nearby?
Yes, and bottom walking in plastic helmets.
Can we go sailing are there boats for hire?
Yes, there are many opportunities to hire boats and crew
Dress code
For the courtesy of the local people if you visit temples or places of worship do not wear shorts or singlet tops, remove shoes before entering.
