Synopsis: Be aware if you are planning your goa in near future. It is no more allowed to take selfies with unknown tourists on goa beaches.Â
The government has warned people not to take selfies with tourists without first asking them. This warning comes at a time when people are worried about privacy and the unapproved use of personal photos for business.
So, if you're going to Goa in the near future, please don't take pictures of random tourists. Respect their privacy by making sure you get their permission before sharing any personal information about them.Â
The tourism department of Goa has given this advice to tourists as part of a larger set of rules meant to protect tourists' personal information, keep them safe, and stop them from falling for scams.
The warning reads, "Do not take selfies and photographs without the permission of other tourists/strangers, especially while sunbathing or sea swimming, so as to respect their privacy." As one of many concerns about tourism, the advisory tells people not to take selfies on dangerous ground, like rocky beaches or the edges of cliffs.
The state tourism department has also warned visitors to the coastal state not to deface historical sites with graffiti or other acts of vandalism.
The advisory also told tourists not to take unofficial private taxis. Instead, it suggested that they use taxis with meters. Travelers are asked to only book stays at hotels, villas, and other places to stay that are registered with the Department of Tourism and have a valid registration number.
The advisory says that drinking alcohol in public places like beaches is against the law and could get you in trouble with the law. However, responsible drinking is allowed in places that have the right permits to serve alcohol.
Visitors should also stay away from illegal touts or agents who offer to help them book water sports or river cruises. The advisory also states that it is illegal to cook food in public places and that anyone caught doing so could face a fine of up to INR 50,000.