HEALTH

Indian currency is the Rupee (Rs). The average rate last season was Rs 65 to the pound. It is not possible to purchase these before you leave.

One rupee is made up of 100 paise. The largest note available is 1000 rupees - about £14.00 - so if you change £100 you’ll feel like a millionaire!  Most of the notes are very old, but try to refuse any that are very badly torn or defaced, as they may not be accepted elsewhere.

Stamps can be bought from the larger hotels and shops, as well as post offices, and for postcards to the UK they cost 8.00 Rupees each. The best way to send your postcards is to give them to your Tour rep, who will take them to the airport post box. (Please don't give them to the watchman or other staff, except at the reception, or your mail may never reach its destination.)

Buses are by far the cheapest way to travel in Goa - they’re usually overcrowded, and rarely seem to follow any particular schedule, but they’re fine for short trips. For longer trips, Goa’s new national railway system will take you around the region and even as far as Bombay - but you may need to book well in advance.

Although Goa’s clear, warm seas are among the most inviting for swimming anywhere in the world, you’ll need to beware of strong under-currents at certain times of the year, especially in the weeks after the monsoons, normally towards the end of September. Don’t try to swim at all during the monsoon season.

At night, use mosquito nets and insect repellents to avoid mosquito bites and guard against both malaria and dengue fever. It’s also a good idea to shut all your windows just before dusk, which is when mosquitoes are most likely to enter your room.

Public toilets are generally pretty basic and don’t be surprised if you come across the ‘seatless’ Eastern version. ‘Sulab International’ is the sign to look for, as these are far better maintained than most public-convinces.

• Avoid heat stroke and sunburn by staying out of the sun during the hottest times of the day. Wear loose, comfortable clothes in natural fibers, and always use a good sunscreen.
• Steer clear of hiring mopeds and motorbikes, and take great care if you decide to hire a car - India has the worst road safety record in the world.
• Don’t leave valuables such as your passport, tickets, money and traveler’s cheques in your hotel room - ideally put them in the hotel safe or a safety deposit box.
• Watch what you eat and drink - avoid uncooked or reheated food, peel fruit before eating it, and only drink bottled water.
• Government offices are open from 10am to 5pm on Monday to Friday, and on Saturday morning.
• Banks are open 10am to 2pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to noon on Saturdays.
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As a result of September 11 events in the United States and in accordance with instructions from the DTLR, airlines in conjunction with the Airport Authorities will be carrying out additional security checks at all Airports.

 The following items are STRICTLY PROHIBITED from being carried in the cabin.

> Toy or Replica Guns
> Catapults
> Razor Blades
> Swiss Army Knives/Pen Knives/Knives with blades of any length
> Scissors
> Household Cutlery
> Hypodermic Syringes (except for Medical Use)
> Darts
> Knitting Needles
> Sporting Bats
> Billiard, Snooker or Pool Cues
> All of the above items should be removed from your hand-baggage and re-packed in your suitcase.

Due to these additional security measures some disruption may be caused to your flight, but please be assured that our Staff and Handling Agents are on hand to keep you informed of any changes which may affect you.
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