In the end the flight from Mumbai to Goa was over two hours late. Sun was setting when we finally got on board. I was admiring the beautiful sunset and taking pictures of it with my phone camera, when the airhostess started to complain and told me to delete all the pictures I had taken. I thought it was only in Goa airport, where you weren’t allowed to take photographs.

Finally yesterday I got to wet my toes in the Arabian Sea. I enjoyed my tea in a beachshack, where I spent my time reading a good book until it was time for the sunset. Which was, beautiful.

The only negative thing here in Goa, India, and I mean the only, is the hard mattress in my bed. Otherwise I’m happy.

The weather is hot during daytime, but after a few days it will get cooler, say the locals. Nights are already rather cool – I’m almost freezing, when wearing a t-shirt only.

Quite a many tourists have also arrived here. I was eating in a Chinese restaurant and the next table was having a conversation in Finnish.

Update in 2023: Photographing in the airports

Photography is often restricted in airports around the world, including Goa’s Dabolim Airport, for a variety of reasons primarily revolving around security and privacy concerns. Here are some of the key factors:

1. Security: Airports are high-security zones. Unauthorized photography could potentially capture sensitive information that might be useful for those with malicious intent. This could include the layout of security installations, the locations of surveillance cameras, and even security protocols.
2. Privacy: Airports serve a diverse range of people from different backgrounds and cultures. Photography might inadvertently capture people in the background, which could be a violation of personal privacy.
3. Operational Efficiency: Airports are bustling places with many people moving about in a hurry. If everyone stops to take photos, it could disrupt the smooth flow of human traffic, thereby causing delays and potentially interfering with airport operations.
4. Commercial Concerns: Some airports may have shops, lounges, or art installations that are proprietary. Unauthorized photography might infringe on the commercial rights of these establishments.
5. Legal Liabilities: Photographs could be used in a way that is misleading or defamatory, creating potential legal issues for the airport authority.
6. Distraction: Focusing on taking photos could distract individuals from paying attention to important announcements or instructions, particularly in emergency situations.
7. Uniformity of Policy: Finally, having a clear and straightforward rule that applies to everyone helps in the easy administration and enforcement of these policies.

Of course these rules may vary by location and specific airport regulations. Generally, if photography is crucial for a specific purpose such as journalism, one might need to get special permission from the airport authorities. Always check with local rules and regulations when traveling.

Read more about traveling in India from my visual travel guide INDIVUE – Trip to India