Hello there! At Funky Monkey Hostel, we've hosted countless adventurous solo women travelers from across India and around the globe. With some of our team members being solo female travelers themselves, we understand the challenges and joys of exploring Goa alone. We've curated a set of tips to help you plan your solo adventure in Goa, ensuring it's as safe and smooth as possible!
Tip #1: Be Assured, You Won’t Be Alone
Since its hippie days in the 1960s and 70s, Goa has been an essential stop for backpackers from around the world looking for the best places in India for beaches, music, and a conscious living community. Traveling to Goa remains popular today, attracting people of all kinds with plenty of activities to enjoy throughout the year. When traveling alone to Northgoa, you’ll likely meet other solo female travelers quickly! In general, you usually meet more friends when traveling solo than when traveling with a group. So, don't be worried about venturing to Goa alone. Consider opting for a hostel with girls-only dorms for better start and chances to connect with fellow backpacking girls. The Funky Monkey Hostel offers “Señorita” girls-only dorm. Check availability here.
Tip #2: Plan Ahead
Do your research before coming to Goa and ensure the information you’re reading is up-to-date. Goa offers different experiences across its seasons and areas, from peaceful beaches to bustling ones with raves, lush jungles, busy markets, charming towns with Portuguese architecture, and a variety of activities. Each spot attracts different crowds and has its unique scene. Book a trustworthy accommodation (read reviews on trusted apps like Hostelworld) and make sure you understand where your arrival destination is located and its distance from your stay. If you choose to stay at The Funky Monkey Hostel, you can contact our front desk team via WhatsApp; they’ll help you with organising an airport pickup!
Tip #3: Stay Connected
Ensure you share your travel plans and locations with a trusted friend and family member before exploring Goa solo. Keep your phone fully charged and consider carrying a portable charger. While most cafes in Goa offer phone charging stations and free WiFi, be mindful that Goa's tropical weather can occasionally affect electricity, network, and connectivity. International travelers without a tourist SIM may find accessing certain public WiFi points challenging (like airports or certain shopping malls) due to OTP requirements. In such case, don't hesitate to approach a local for a hotspot in emergencies! We provide free accesible WiFi at The Funky Monkey Hostel!
Tip #4: Use Technology
We recommend using Google Maps to navigate unfamiliar areas confidently. As mentioned before, Goa's tropical weather can occasionally affect connectivity, so for longer journeys (or if you don’t have a local/tourist SIM), consider using an offline map alternative. Additionally, the Hostelworld-App is a great tool for solo backpackers. It allows you to connect with fellow hostel guests before checking in, make friends and plan activities in advance. Find The Funky Monkey Hostel Goa on Hostelworld
Tip #5: Explore the night with friends!
When you're in the mood to party, North Goa offers an exciting mix of everything. From vibrant psy trance raves on Anjuna Beach during peak season to barefoot dancing on Arambol Beach, along with techno, hip-hop, rock 'n' roll, live music, drum circles, open mic nights, and karaoke, there's something for everyone here. To fully enjoy Goa's nightlife, we recommend connecting with fellow travellers and exploring together! Our bar is a great spot to meet other travelers, make new friends, and dive into Goa's nightlife scene together!
Tip #6: Trust Your Instincts
If a situation or person feels off, trust your gut and remove yourself from the situation! Don't hesitate to ask our Hostelteam for help when needed!
Tip #7: Make Informed Decisions
While exploring Goa solo, embrace the adventure while prioritizing your safety too. Goa offers a variety of exciting activities, from exploring hidden beaches to diving into its vibrant nightlife. Travel responsibly by trusting your instincts, avoiding risky situations, and familiarizing yourself with areas before venturing out alone at night. Enjoy the thrill of adventure while making informed decisions to ensure a beautiful and safe time in Goa! Ask our team and we will help you to plan the perfect trip around Goa!
Tip #8: Navigating unwanted Attention
Goa is known for its open-minded and liberal atmosphere, especially on its beaches and at parties where you can relax, sunbathe, and dance freely. However, depending on the crowd, you may encounter unwanted attention or discomfort from individuals not respecting personal boundaries. To navigate this, consider carrying a light scarf or cover-up to use as needed. When visiting local areas such as markets or religious buildings, make sure to dress appropriately to maintain your comfort and respect local customs.
Tip #9: Getting Around
Finding reliable and pocket-friendly taxi services in Goa can be challenging, especially since services like Uber do not operate here. Taxi rates in Goa are generally higher compared to other states in India. Catching a taxi in Goa is a bit like picking a fortune cookie: you might luck out with the nicest driver who shares Goa's cultural gems with you, or end up in a sweltering car with broken AC and blaring music. Our tip: Once you find a nice driver, get their contact number for future rides! For some distances like Mapusa, budget-friendly TukTuks are a popular option among our guests. Some of our more adventurous guests prefer to get around by bicycle. In any case, we recommend having one or two contact numbers for a taxi driver just in case! At Funky Monkey Hostel, renting a bike is a great way to explore all of Goa (don't forget your international license if you're visiting from abroad!). If you're not comfortable driving, trust your instincts! Find a travel buddy and share a ride with them.
Tip #10: Prioritize Self-Care
Prioritize your well-being! Enjoy the local cuisine by choosing restaurants recommended by fellow travelers, opting for freshly cooked dishes, and avoiding undercooked food. Stay hydrated throughout your adventures, especially in Goa's tropical climate and during hot season (coconuts are a lifesaver!). Keep mosquito spray, electrolytes, and any essential medicines handy. Don't forget to carry a reusable water bottle to refill at water stations. At the Hostel we provide a water refill station!
Tip #11: Pack Light and Smart When traveling to Goa solo, packing light and smart will make your journey more comfortable. Bring versatile clothing that suits Goa's tropical and humid climate, sunglasses for hot season and don't forget sturdy, non-slip shoes or flip-flops. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle for your journey, and mosquito repellent to keep the biters at bay. Rest assured, there are many shops in Goa, from small local vendors to shopping malls, where you’ll find (almost) everything you need. If you are visiting during monsoon, a light rain jacket and a quick-dry towel can be helpful additions!
Tip #11: Have Fun!
While exploring solo, dive into the local culture and everything Goa has to offer! Experience the relaxed "susegad" lifestyle, savor some chai and poi at a local roadside stall, have some authentic Goan Thalis and explore the beautiful beaches around. Stay positive, and be open to making new connections— likely you will end up making a lot of new friends!
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