Drugs in Goa and Other Warnings Or Dangers

Warnings and Dangers in Goa, Drugs

Goa is a relaxed destination with lots of natural beauty, good food and nice people. You can have a wonderful time here, enjoying local culture, relaxing on beautiful beaches, enjoying the weather, the food and the people. Goa is an amazing experience, but you have to be careful.

Whether you enjoy drinking, socializing and participating in the party scene, or whether you are just here to take in the environment and enjoy a relaxing vacation, you must exercise caution. Drugs are prevalent here, more so than many other destinations. This creates a variety of issues for tourists visiting Goa. Even if you don’t partake in drug use, you still have to be careful.

Drugs Are Illegal

This is something you may logically know, but not understand. Because so many people are offering and indulging, it can be easy to get lured into a false sense of security. People often loosen their inhibitions while traveling, but this is not the place to suddenly become lax in your safety and common sense practices.

If you are found to be in possession of, under the influence of or attempting to buy or sell drugs, you can be arrested, charged and imprisoned. In many cases, the police will demand money from you in order to avoid incarceration. This may not be a problem if you have money to spare, but if you are traveling on a budget and don’t have savings or family to fall back on, having to bribe the police can be devastating financially.

Keep in mind that drug dealers often have arrangements with police, and will sell you drugs and then turn you into the police. This is a relatively common scam.

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People May Try To Take Advantage Of You

The easygoing atmosphere of Goa can lure you into letting down your guard. This can happen in any situation, so be aware. Yes, sometimes people are genuinely friendly, concerned, helpful and sociable. You don’t have to assume the worst of people, but don’t be so relaxed that you become a victim.

Mind Your Drink

This is something to always watch for. Do not ever turn your back on your drink. Don’t leave your drink on a table, go to the restroom, come back and drink it. Don’t leave it sitting behind you while you chat with a fellow patron. People spike drinks here all the time. This often leads to robbery and assault. It sometimes leads to worse. Don’t leave your drink unattended.

Don’t leave bags laying around or hold anything for anyone. Even if you aren’t partaking in drugs, you are not immune from potential trouble, as someone could try to plant drugs on you, notify police and leave you “holding the bag.” This will undoubtedly result in you having to bribe police.

These are the most common dangers when it comes to drugs in Goa. Stay vigilant and stay safe.

Editor’s Note: The above article was compiled from the reports and reviews of travelers about warnings and dangers in Goa.