Goa Govt: Don’t click selfies with tourists without their permission

The next time you are in Goa, think twice before clicking pictures of tourists. Be sure that you have the decency to take their permission first before doing so and respect their privacy. In fact, the Goa tourism department has issued this advisory for tourists, along with a set of directives that is aimed to protect the privacy of travellers, ensure their safety, and also help them to avoid getting cheated by unscrupulous elements, among other things.

The advisory states, "Do not take selfies and photographs without permission of other tourists/strangers, especially while sunbathing or sea swimming, so as to respect their privacy." The advisory also prohibits tourists from taking selfies at dangerous locations like sea rocks and steep cliffs to avoid accidents, apart from several other issues related to the tourism industry. The state tourism department has further urged travelers visiting the coastal state not to damage or destroy heritage sites by scribbling graffiti or trying any method to disfigure any monument.
The advisory also asked travelers to be cautious and not to hire illegal private taxis, and urged them to go on metered fares to avoid overcharging. Holidaymakers are also advised to book accommodation with legal hotels/villas or housing facilities that are registered with the Department of Tourism.

As per the advisory, consumption of alcohol in open areas like beaches, etc. is prohibited and is a punishable offense; however, one can consume alcohol responsibly, inside the legally licensed premises like shacks/restaurants, hotels, etc.

Tourists have also been advised not to entertain illegal touts or agents for booking water sports and river cruises. The advisory further adds that cooking food in open areas is prohibited, and anybody found violating the rule may attract a penalty up to INR 50,000.