If you are tired of the same type of holiday in Spain or Greece, try something different. And by different we mean a different continent and a completely different type of place. Choose a place that will not only be an eclectic mix of hauntingly beautiful scenery, exuberance and thrilling entertainment but also one that will help you.

Indian cities have always been on the radar of tourists and explorers willing to go beyond the European Alps and the French soufflé. With a culture that has more twists and surprises waiting than the whole Sherlock Holmes series and a reputation for being a safe haven for tourists – Goa should be on your “places to see” list. All you need are some travel tips for Goa, and a Goa travel guide that will lead you through this mesmerising place.

So what attracts tourists like moths to this maritime paradise?

• Beaches – The golden beaches, awash with hash-raving hippies and dreadlocks are the prime attractions of Goa. You will find poor toddlers to CEOs of IT giants revelling in the sands of Anjuna beach. And for all the fun and frolic, strolling in the sun and sipping a cocktail is fairly priced – a great touring incentive for the retired on fixed income.

• Churches – An almost dream-like fusion of Portuguese and Indian architecture, Goan churches are a treat to see. Dotted with churches and serene settlers around, the peace and tranquillity of the churches will make you feel like settling down in this paradise-like state.

• The Carnival – The Goan Carnival, though smaller in stature than its Brazilian counterpart, is one of the main reasons tourists flock to this small state. Even though Christian is the basic faith and motif behind the Carnival, it exhibits a great mix of all races, religions and colour.

• The Dudhsagar Waterfalls – Located in Sanguem district, it can be approached via Panaji (the capital city of Goa) or Margao. Only about 60 km away from the capital, this place is a virtual dream for nature lovers as well as romantic couples. So, if you are an over-50s couple looking for a place to share cherished moments, Dudhsagar Waterfalls is the ideal destination.

• Spicy and Appetising – The last but best tip in our Goa travel guide is to try out the Goan cuisines. A super-spicy ensemble of Portuguese flavours, Indian spices and local innovation, Goa is heaven for food-junkies.

With these few travel tips for a Goa tour, experience the fun and frivolity that Goa represents in full fledge.

Tags: goa, tourism, Travel Tips

Travelling or the yearning for it does not wean away with age. In fact, the urge to travel to uncharted territories and heavens on earth only grows more as you grow older. However, unlike in youth, simply packing your bags and jet-setting to far corners of the world can be a challenge during the later stages of life.

Travelling, for older people, can require extensive planning. A few tips would only help in that direction:

• Check whether problems of jet lag or a change in the food can affect you worse than others. If yes, then you need to cut down on extensive flying and trying out experimental dishes.

• Consult with your doctor when you start planning for the trip. You are going abroad my friend! A thorough check-up is a must.

• Vaccines and medicines – These days pandemics (such as swine flu or bird flu) wreak havoc on your holiday and health. Getting yourself properly vaccinated and carrying the right medicines is very important for each travelling individual queuing up for elderly travel tours!

• Travel insurance is another aspect that needs attention. Often elderly travel enthusiasts skip travel insurance in order to cut down on burgeoning travel costs. But this is a gross mistake as travellers are often left stranded without insurance in the middle of nowhere. To avoid such situations, make sure you have the right over 65 travel insurance plan to back you up in case of an emergency.

While these points are enough to catch you from getting caught unaware in the midst of a mess-up, travelling abroad is a risk even for the sturdiest of older people. However, in case of elderly travel, other factors such as travelling in groups and signing up with a proper travel agency are crucial.

Unlike youngsters who may be able handle untoward situations, sometimes through ignorance, elderly people can lack the emotional power and stamina to tackle similar situations. A thorough understanding of the destination and information regarding the food, weather and culture is one of the most important elderly travel tips you can have before setting out into the sun!

Tags: elderly travel insurance, older people, over 65, travel advice, travel tours