Most travelers from abroad will need a visa to enter India, so we suggest applying for either a regular visa or an e-Visa. Just a quick reminder: make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after you arrive in India. If you need an invitation letter, feel free to ask us! Apply for an e-visa here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html When you're packing, don’t forget to bring your passport, Indian visa, a printed copy of your return flight tickets, and your travel insurance and COVID vaccination certificates. It’s also super helpful to have the address of where you’ll be staying handy—this info is included on your Save the Date! While there aren’t any mandatory vaccinations for entering India, it’s always a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider and look over any travel advisories before you head out. Safe travels!
Please fly into Goa Dabolim International Airport (GOI). Regular flights depart from Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Dubai, and more. Please notify the Shubhtithi team of your flight details so we can arrange airport pickups using the Caravela Beach Resort shuttle services.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at Caravela Beach Resort. If your mobile plan includes international roaming, you will have access to phone services. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the international airport or use an eSIM through Aerlingo. Please note that it may take up to 30 minutes to issue a physical SIM card. Ensure that your phones are compatible and unlocked for use with international SIM cards or any Indian network provider. Please be aware that bringing satellite phones into India is not allowed. In India, the plugs used are Type C, D, and M. The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. It's recommended to bring a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with your devices. Be aware that devices rated for 110 volts may not work. If your devices are not dual voltage (110-240V), you will need a voltage converter. Caravela Beach Resort has universal outlets in their rooms.
The local currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Exchange rates vary daily, and commissions are charged on transactions. We recommend avoiding exchange rates below our minimum benchmark rates, as these would not be favorable deals. Bring crisp, unblemished currency bills in higher denominations to get the best rates and ease of exchange. Current Exchange Rates: 1 USD = INR 80 1 Euro = INR 87 1 GBP = INR 96 Money exchanges are available at airport Forex counters, and the hotel may also offer money exchange services. ATMs dispensing INR can be found in major cities. Most ATMs will limit withdrawals to INR 10,000 (equivalent to USD 135) per transaction, per card, per day. Some ATMs may allow two transactions of INR 10,000 each. A few select ATMs may only dispense INR 4000 per transaction. You can use multiple debit or credit cards to withdraw more cash. Please note that an INR 240 fee will be charged for every ATM transaction, regardless of the amount withdrawn. Currency Restrictions: When entering India, travelers can carry up to INR 25,000 (approximately USD 300) in cash. Foreign Exchange: Every international traveler is allowed to carry up to USD 5,000 in cash. Any additional amounts must be declared. Please check the regulations before you travel. If you're carrying more than USD 5000, it's advisable to split the cash among family members. Bank Cards: Not all international cards may be accepted at Indian ATMs. HDFC Bank ATMs are generally reliable. In remote cities, ATMs might occasionally run out of cash. Additionally, not every vendor accepts credit cards, and they may impose an extra charge of 3% to 6% per transaction.
In January, Goa enjoys pleasant, warm, and dry weather, making it an ideal time to visit. The average daytime temperature is around 21°C (70°F), with highs reaching 31°C (89°F) during the hottest part of the day. Evenings are mild, with temperatures dropping to about 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is minimal, averaging just 0.2mm, so showers are rare. The sea temperature is also warm, averaging around 27°C (81°F), which is perfect for swimming. Most wedding events are held outdoors, so be aware that daytime and evening temperatures may vary. Outdoor fans might or might not be available. However, all rooms and halls will be air-conditioned.
All accommodations will be at Caravela Beach Resort. Most rooms will be available for double or triple occupancy. The Shubhtithi team or the couple will reach out to discuss accommodation details. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with universal outlets and ensuite bathrooms. Caravela Beach Resort offers a variety of facilities, including Wi-Fi, dining services, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a golf course, and direct beach access from the property.
Alcohol: You are allowed to bring in up to 2 liters of alcohol from your home country or purchase it duty-free at your arrival airport. If you are open to trying new options, Indian brands are available and worth considering. Please note that bar hours at the hotel may be limited. Not all American, Scottish, European, Australian, or South American brands are readily available and may be sold at high prices due to steep customs duties. If you have specific brands or types of wine you prefer, feel free to bring them along. The wedding celebrations will take place throughout the day (according to the Schedule tab). Cocktails and beverages will be served on the house. There will be many interesting customs, rituals, music, and dance programs, all of which are best enjoyed with a moderate amount of drinking at the open bar. This way, you will be able to fully appreciate the celebrations and create lasting memories. Alcohol consumption is permitted only in private areas within the hotel premises or at designated bar areas. The hotel may also offer a paid bar service. India has strict drug regulations, so please do not bring any narcotics or controlled substances, regardless of their legality in your country. Be sure to check the list of banned and restricted drugs before your arrival.
Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or allergies. We will ensure that suitable meal options are available at all events. The use of chilies and nuts in curry is common, but these ingredients may not always be visible. Most dairy products will be made from A1 cow or buffalo milk, and most baked goods and breads may not be gluten-free. Kindly let us know if you are lactose, nut, or gluten intolerant. While nuts can be easily avoided, opting for gluten-free and vegan bakery items will limit your choices. Most chicken and mutton dishes will be served on the bone, as this is traditional for curries in India.
Absolutely! Goa is a beautiful destination and the hotel has offered discounted rates for the night before and night after the wedding. We can assist you in arranging these extra nights at Caravela Beach Resort.
COVID-19 Guidelines: Check the latest entry requirements, as they may change. Additional Vaccinations: Although not mandatory, it is advisable to stay current on routine vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Malaria. Travel Insurance: It's essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events. Food & Water: Stick to bottled water and avoid street food. Indian cuisine can be spicy, so take precautions if you have a sensitive stomach and carry anti-diarrheal medication. You will have an unlimited supply of water bottles provided by Caravela Beach Resort. Pollution: Air quality can vary, especially in urban areas. Those who are sensitive may want to carry masks for added protection.
Police: Dial 100 for police assistance. Medical Emergency: Dial 102 for an ambulance. In the event of a medical emergency, please contact the hotel’s front desk or our wedding planning team. We will arrange for the fastest transportation to the nearest hospital. We will also have a selection of over-the-counter medications, such as fever reducers and antacids, as well as a first aid kit available. However, we highly recommend that you bring your prescribed medications or any emergency medications that you have been prescribed in the past. Please remember to carry your prescription. Additionally, please check whether any of your medications are banned or restricted in India. Tourist Helpline: The Indian government operates a 24/7 tourist helpline at 1800-11-1363 (toll-free) for any assistance. Embassy Contact: Keep the contact details of your country’s embassy in India readily available.