With palm-lined white-sand beaches and rich colonial heritage, Goa is a breath of fresh air! Discover exquisite architecture which can be attributed to more than 500 years of Portuguese colonial rule. Dip your toes in sparkling waters set against the captivating Arabian Sea. And sample the unique cuisine where East meets West.
Don’t feel like this list doesn’t apply to you if you happen to live far away from India. Goa receives plenty of international tourism from all kinds of people. This is partially due to the fact that it is becoming increasingly easy to find places to stay in Goa online. All it takes is a few seconds to set up a nice hotel reservation close to the beach, the temples, or just about anywhere in Goa that you can think of. The weather is always pleasant, so you can plan a trip to Goa any time of the year.
Wander the Sahakari Spice Plantation in Ponda – Sahakari is the largest spice plantation in the region. The sights and smells are out of this world. Pluck and taste locally grown peppers. And if you are brave enough, bite into the fabled peri-peri chili; the hottest pepper in the world. You can also bathe with the elephants and your tour ends with a traditional Goan lunch made with their farm spices.
Explore Old Goa – A 20-minute drive to the west of Panjim, Old Goa is a captivating site. Old Goa was the state capital for three centuries and was called the “Rome of the East”. The cityscape in this southern city is breathtaking with quaint bakeries, bungalows, churches and art museums. If you find yourself here, be sure to check out the Basilica of Bom Jesus for its magnificent architecture and the Se de Santa Catarina, the largest church in Old Goa.
Visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary – Located near Molem, the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary showcases exotic wildlife. There are panthers, mouse deer, sloth bears and barking deer to be seen. There are also over 200 species of birds in this sanctuary. Come to this wildlife sanctuary and commune with nature for a unique experience in Goa.
Take a Casino Cruise along the Mandovi River – Board one of the casino cruises along the Mandovi River. These yachts are a lot of fun with their glittery lights. You can also relax and enjoy floating down the Mandovi. Of course, you can also do some gambling in these yachts if you prefer. Just make sure to bring your lucky charm! And don’t worry about the holiday budget as this list of Yatra coupons will save you money on your trip!
Browse Inigo’s Night Market – Started by a German hippie who moved to Goa, Inigo’s Night Market is now an exotic and extravagant site with hundreds of illuminated stalls. If you are looking for one-of-a-kind finds such as a bone necklace or a handmade bag then this is the place for you. Inigo’s Night Market is open every Saturday night.
Lounge around on the Beaches of Goa – The number one reason that tourists flock to Goa is to go to the beach. But instead of lounging around the beach, try some of the watersports they offer. Surfing, jet skiing and parasailing are only the few things they have. So there is something for everyone.
Experience a Dolphin Cruise – A dolphin cruise in Goa is exciting for both children and adults. The cruise will allow you to see swimming dolphins around your boat. You and your group will also have a chance to tour Grand Island which is ideal for lounging around and having a picnic.
Party the Night Away – Besides the beautiful beaches, Goa is also known for its crazy party scene. Clubs or shacks as they are known in Goa are right near each other so get a feel of the nightlife by shack-hopping. Most places don’t have an entrance fee but expect free-flowing alcohol, loud electronic music and beautiful people all night.
Visit the Museums – Transport yourself back to ancient history by visiting the museums in Goa. An interesting combination of Portuguese and Hindu artifacts can be seen in their museums. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Old Goa to see Hindu relics amidst Portuguese architecture. For photography junkies, Goan museums are a definite must-see.
Sample the cuisine at Martin’s Corner – Foodie travellers go to Beltabatim to eat at the famous restaurant Martin’s Corner. This restaurant serves the most delicious seafood in Goa. Their specialties are the king crabs and prawn Vindaloo. Celebrities, locals and tourists all flock to Martin’s corner to sample their delicious dishes. And the best part, a meal for two costs 600 rupees.
