‘Let’s go to Goa;’ the combination of these four words together is music to the ears of every Indian. It is a place you can go to again and again, effortlessly, tirelessly, enthusiastically. The temptation of Goa is such that, it has managed to put itself on the bucket list of locals and foreign tourists alike.
There are 2 types of tourists who visit Goa; the ones that love the crowded beaches that offer various water sports, and prefer to stay in the busy localities of Calangute, Morjim and Baga and the Second, that prefer to stroll on the quite, more un-explored or not-made-famous-by-movies-beaches in the South of the city. All you need during your stay in Goa is a phone with a GPS and a bike you can rent for as low as Rs. 250 a day.
Things to do in Goa
North Goa; the beach life: When some-one asks you about your Goa itinerary, 2 things come to mind immediately; Beaches and Clubs. That’s North of Goa, in a nutshell. North Goa is home to the beaches of Calangute, Baga, Vagator, Morjim, Anjuna, Ashvem and Arambol, among others. While these are popular tourist spots, they are also always crowded, majorly, because you can find water-sports activities such as para-sailing, jet-skiing and the banana boat ride.
Party All night long: No city throws a party like Goa does. From the early hours of the evening, until the break of dawn, the night life of Goa is the stuff to live for. With clubs like Tito’s, Mambos and Club Cubana, make sure you find time in the day, to buy those tickets. Ladies, look for the ‘free-for-ladies nights’ day at each club and party on the house.
South Goa: the hidden treasure: While the North of Goa is usually crowded owing to the party scene, the south of Goa is what is rendered a hidden treasure. A day trip on your motorized two-wheeler should cover it.Explore the beaches of Palolem, Majorda, Varca, Agonda, Cavelossim. Since these beaches remain unexplored, they are also the cleanest beaches you will find in the city. But if you do crave the adventure sports of North Goa, you can always head to Colva Beach. Also, Bagmalo beach is a haven for people wishing to snorkel.
The Dolphin Drive: Dolphins are always so much better to see in reality than on television. Add a trip to the dolphin drive on your itinerary. Take a cruise into the ocean to see the dolphins pepping in a graceful motion. This one delights the old and the young.
But Beaches, dolphins and night-clubs is not all that Goa has to offer. There is so much more to see.
Places to see in Goa
Old Goa, a rich cultural Heritage: Goa offers the best of both worlds. Don’t let the beaches and night-life blind you, for one second, for what is the cultural tavern of the city. Old Goa is a fine example of the variety the city offers. With so many beautiful churches and so much history, one must experience old Goa to see the city in a different light.
Se Cathedral: The Se Cathedral or the seat of the archbishop of Goa; makes one think how a piece of Portugal still resides in the city. Don’t let the simple exterior fool you. The Cathedral is full of artefacts and religious paintings that are a must see.
Basilica of Bom Jesus: The first thing that comes to your mind when you enter the Basilica of Bom Jesus is that you may have perhaps stepped into a foreign realm. Built in 1594, this more than 400 years old church, is a UNSECO world heritage site and holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier
Church of St. Francis of Assissi: Another architectural masterpiece, this church was built in 1661 and is one of the grandest churches in our country. The church certainly gives you a taste of the greatest Legacy that the Portuguese built during their time in India.
Fort Aguada: With a view to kill, and hundreds of pictures to take, make sure you take a half hour in the day to visit Fort Aguada. Built in the 17th century, the fort with its high walls, and its lighthouse were used as a Prison by the Salazar Administration. They now make for a very scenic view of Goa.
Best restaurants in Goa
The culinary scene: When good food meets good view, there is nothing more one can ask for. Restaurants like Thalassa, offer a surreal sun-set view and authentic Greek food, with some live entertainment to keep you company. Make sure you reach at least an hour before sunset to catch the view. Once the sun is down, it gets more spacious. Did you know that Charles Shobhraj a.ka. ‘The Bikini Killer’ had a weakness for the food at O’Coquero restaurant in Goa and was apprehended there while enjoying a sumptuous Portuguese meal? It was his habit of visiting this restaurant that caused his apprehension. If you are not really into fine-dining, the beach shack restaurants of Curlies, Anthony’s and Brittos should be on your list. Good food and good view, is what these shacks bring to the table.
For a city and state the size of a little pea, Goa offers something to every tourist, from the north-south, or from the east-west, every inch of the city/state is worth exploring.
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