15 Aug CHANDIGARH TO GOA TRAVEL 2020 | COVID-19 TIMES

This blog is concerning my recent Travel Journey (Chandigarh to Goa) during the times of COVID-19.

So, it all started with a random plan. At first, I planned to ride from Chandigarh and enter Goa in 4-5 Days, but, while researching, I discovered that it is not safe since there are chances of loot, plus due to COVID-19 the state boundaries are restricted too. So, I decided to take a flight preferably than riding.

Then finally, I got myself tested in Govt. Hospital Sector 16, Chandigarh, to get a ‘FIT TO TRAVEL’ Certificate for free and I started my journey from Chandigarh on August 9, 2020, at 9 PM. My first halt was in Delhi for 08 hours, I boarded from Delhi at 6:30 AM to Hyderabad via connecting flight to Goa. The moment I arrived in Goa, all the passengers were given a piece of paper to fill in our information that had two options to choose from, we either had to opt for an Institutional or Home Quarantine for 7-14 Days or get the COVID-19 test done and enter Goa with no restrictions at all.

I tested Negative for COVID-19 —  and It took me just 2 hours to get the results and the cost for a Rapid COVID-19 test was INR 2000. The testing process was also moderately easy, although it took more than 20 minutes to reach the front of the line. No, I was not scared at all, but, yes somehow I was preparing myself about the whole sole scenario that if I get COVID positive, who all I need to speak up with and get through an organized structure of medical care.

Once through with the process, I took a cab for INR 1100 from Goa Airport to my reserved Air BNB Property in Candolim, Goa. Being a travel photographer in India, what else would I expect while to traveling to Goa during monsoon, it was raining cats and dogs. As they say, there is a lot to do and enjoy during Monsoons in Goa I was preparing myself for the same. It took me 55 minutes to reach and the moment I saw this Air BNB Property, I was stunned to see such a beautiful small area with a pretty organized structure. I booked Air BNB from an official app and it cost me INR 750 per day, I hired the aforementioned for the first 10 days, and eventually, I will look for a leased accommodation. Probably a studio apartment or 1 BHK.

My first day out in Goa was a surprise, one of the most travelled and preferred beach getaway, had No tourists at all. I felt it’s the best time to be here when there’s no one on the beaches.

To be continued…

Note: It’s important to take all the necessary precautions, please do wear masks and gloves if you plan to travel during COVID times, and do not touch your face till you wash your hand thoroughly.