According to forum posts, obtaining a visa for Goa involves completing an online application and scheduling an appointment to finalize the application. Some travelers indicated that you can choose the appointment location, such as Cardiff instead of traveling to London, which could be more convenient depending on your location.

For many users, the type of visa and its validity period can vary. Some travelers have reported receiving a 12-month multiple entry visa, while others received a 6-month single entry visa, both costing around 149 pounds. There was also mention of a 5-year visa option, though it's noted that to maximize the 5-year validity, the timing of the application is crucial.

Travelers have called out some challenges in the visa application process, such as issues with saving and printing the online form. Despite these issues, helpful advice and links to step-by-step guides are frequently shared within the forum to assist others experiencing similar problems.

According to forum posts, some travelers prefer accommodations with specific amenities. For instance, a user planning a month-long stay emphasized the need for strong Wi-Fi and a good view, preferably beach-facing. Another traveler inquired about lodging for six families, highlighting the need for a pool, play area, and barbecue facilities.

Travelers have called out specific hotels and resorts in their discussions. For example, the Taj Holiday Village and the Goa Marriott Resort & Spa are recommended for their quality and location. However, one user noted that the Taj Fort Aguada appeared tired and didn't meet the usual standards of other Taj hotels despite having beautiful bedrooms. Mistral accommodations in Benaulim were praised for being just 10 minutes from the beach and town, providing a convenient and pleasant stay.

According to forum posts, some popular beach shacks in South Goa include Café Del Mar in Palolem, Pipkins, Pina Colada Beach Cafe, Johncy’s in Benaulim Beach, Zeebop in Majorda, and Boomerang on Colva Beach. These shacks are recommended for their vibrant atmosphere and scenic locations.

Travelers have indicated that beach shacks in South Goa like those in Cavelossim are operational, providing a good spot for relaxation. Additionally, a small shack named Gill, Star Fish, located on the beach at Arossim/Cansaulim, is open and has been recently reviewed, suggesting active operations and visitor satisfaction.

These shacks offer a mix of good food, drinks, and sometimes live music, making them ideal for evening outings. They are particularly recommended for their lively environments and scenic beachfront locations.

According to forum posts, taxis are readily available at Goa Airport. Travelers have mentioned a prepaid taxi booth outside the airport, and the Goa Miles app as an alternative for potentially cheaper rates. Specific prices noted include Rs. 1271 to Candolim and around Rs. 2000 to South Goa locations like Agonda.

Some travelers said that bus services are available but may not be direct and could involve transfers, especially if heading to South Goa or specific destinations like Cansaulim. The closest bus stop from the airport is about a 10-minute walk.

For many users, renting self-driven cars is an option, though there are no major rental companies directly at Dabolim Airport. Nearby rental services can be found online, offering a convenient way to explore Goa at one’s own pace.

In cases of taxi strikes, government buses to popular destinations are laid on, and autorickshaws are also mentioned as an alternative, although specific fare details are not provided.

At Mopa Airport, several prepaid taxi booths operate, offering services from various companies. Travelers can inquire and compare prices directly at these booths upon arrival.

Most taxi booths accept payment via credit cards, and some also accept cash. It is advisable to confirm the payment method at the booth. Additionally, for travelers needing local currency, ATMs are available near the taxi booths.

GoaMiles, an app-based taxi service, is available at Mopa Airport. Travelers can book rides through the app, which often offers competitive rates compared to traditional taxi services.

According to forum posts, TUI has experienced significant disruptions in its flight services to Goa, including frequent cancellations and schedule changes. Many travelers reported that TUI cancelled numerous flights from Manchester to Goa, often with short notice, causing considerable inconvenience and uncertainty. Some users mentioned that TUI's communication about these cancellations was poor, leading to frustration among passengers.

Travelers have also discussed the complexities of obtaining visas for travel to Goa with TUI flights. The need for paper visas instead of e-visas, coupled with the high cost and appointments at the embassy, was highlighted as a complicating factor. This has reportedly led to lower bookings and subsequent cancellations of some TUI flights.

In response to the cancellations and difficulties with TUI, some travelers have opted for alternative airlines or changed their destination entirely. For instance, some have chosen to book with Qatar Airways or Air India, which reportedly offer more reliable services and better customer communication.

According to forum posts, it is currently not possible to purchase SIM cards directly at Goas airports. Travelers previously inquiring about obtaining SIM cards upon arrival were advised to purchase them at local shops in nearby resorts or towns.

For many users, Airtel and Vodafone Idea are popular network choices, offering good connectivity and data speeds. These can be obtained at various mobile shops away from the beach to avoid inflated prices. Some travelers mentioned purchasing prepaid plans for around Rs 400, which include substantial data allowances.

Travelers have called out that acquiring a SIM card in Goa requires a copy of the passport and sometimes additional documentation like a visa or photos. Activation might take a few days, although some users reported quick activation times at local stores.

Some travelers also discussed the availability of eSIMs from providers like Airtel and Vodafone Idea, which can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to change their physical SIM card.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend trying local Goan dishes such as Chicken Cafreal, Pork Vindaloo, and Goan Fish Curry. Popular restaurants mentioned include Artjuna for breakfast, and Anthony’s and Thalassa for dinner.

Some travelers said street food in Goa is a must-try. Popular items include Ros Omlette, Pav Bhaji, Bhel Puri, and Pani Puri. Street food is praised for being both delicious and affordable.

For seafood enthusiasts, forum users suggest dishes like Red Snapper in garlic butter, King Fish on a bed of spinach, and Crab Xec Xec. Beach shacks, as well as specific restaurants like Joe's River Cove and Starlight, are recommended for quality seafood.

Travelers have called out Bebinca paired with ice cream as a delightful Goan dessert. It's often recommended as a sweet finish after spicy Goan meals.

For a mix of Goan and international cuisine, places like Martins Corner and Fisherman’s Wharf are mentioned, though some users find them overpriced compared to local spots like Joe's River Cove.