So much has been written about Goa – about its beautiful beaches, its sunsets, the friendly people and the shopping - that sometimes it feels like there is nothing new left to tell. But that wouldn’t be entirely true.
Goa is simply the favourite winter haunt of Indian tourists, that is true. Every body seems to have visited it or they want to. What is it about Goa that makes it such a favourite?
The answer lies somewhere in the eating shacks that line its beaches, the xacuti and vindaloo that is doled out generously by the shack owners, the beautiful beaches, the awe-inspiring churches of Old Goa and the care-free beautiful people who tramp the city streets. Goa does seem to have it all.
You really have to see Goa for yourself and experie
+ more about GoaSo much has been written about Goa – about its beautiful beaches, its sunsets, the friendly people and the shopping - that sometimes it feels like there is nothing new left to tell. But that wouldn’t be entirely true.
Goa is simply the favourite winter haunt of Indian tourists, that is true. Every body seems to have visited it or they want to. What is it about Goa that makes it such a favourite?
The answer lies somewhere in the eating shacks that line its beaches, the xacuti and vindaloo that is doled out generously by the shack owners, the beautiful beaches, the awe-inspiring churches of Old Goa and the care-free beautiful people who tramp the city streets. Goa does seem to have it all.
You really have to see Goa for yourself and experience its unique vibe. Shops still down their shutters for the afternoon siesta, old ladies offer the freshest sausages and spices possible and great bargains are available for those willing to hunt for them in the city’s famed flea markets.
For the sake of convenience, the state of Goa is referred to as North Goa and South Goa. North Goa’s beaches were the first to become popular with tourists. It is here that the famed Goan rave parties are held over the weekends – Calangute, Baga, Anjuna (don’t miss the Wednesday flea market and subsequent rave parties) and Vagator. Those looking for a quieter time head to South Goa – Majorda (an expanse of white powdery sand), Colva, Canacona and the pristine Palolem.
The state was once a thriving Portuguese colony, the remains of which are visible in church strewn Old Goa or the old quarter of Fontainhas with its beautifully preserved Old Goa.
The thing really to do in Goa is – absolutely nothing. Chill out on the beach, grab a bite and a cold beer, hire a motor bike and explore its nooks and crannies, sample the local Konkani and Portuguese food, browse the shopping alleys, get that tattoo you always wanted, and, if you are a fan of electronic music, then groove to its hypnotic beats. Don’t worry, the real world has been left far behind.
Highlights
Cities: Panjim, Goa Velha (Old Goa), Mapusa, Margao
Beaches: Calangute, Baga, Anjuna, Palolem, Majorda
National Parks: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Salim Ali Bird Park
Churches and Forts: Church of St Francis of Assisi, Cathedral of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, Fort Aguada, Chapora Fort
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