Goa-An exotic weekend location

Goa is one of the most popular and exotic location for weekend outing. It was previously a union territory but now a state. Goa is a state in western India with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. Its long history as a Portuguese colony prior to 1961 is evident in its preserved 17th-century churches and the area’s tropical spice plantations. Goa is also known for its beaches, ranging from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to those in laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda.

There are lot of beaches in Goa but few are popular like Anjuna, Calangute, Candolim, Baga and Palolem. But out of these five Baga is most popular and commercialized. But I prefer sitting in Candolim or calangute as it’s less crowded and less noisy. Days are hotter and humid in Goa compared to nights. The best thing to do in Goa after the sunset is to visit one of the beach, chose a good shack , order a chill beer and sit in a chair facing the sea. This would take you out of the world and release your stress.

Food is never a problem in Goa as this place is visited by people across the world. So a traveller would get almost all kinds of cuisines in Goa. It’s a bit over priced in shacks but there are few hotels and restaurants in the beach roads good food is available at reasonable price.

Accommodation is a bit expensive compared to other tourist locations in India. But it depends on the time when you are visiting and which location are you choosing. Normally Baga is most expensive. Candolim and calangute are comparatively cheaper. Distance is not a problem in Goa as the rental vehicles are easily available but whosoever taking vehicles on rent should have valid driving license or else you could end up paying heavy penalty to the Goa traffic police.

Goa is the epitome of Portuguese culture. Vasco da Gama is its largest city. The historic city of Margao still exhibits the cultural influence of the Portuguese, who first landed in the early 16th century as merchants and conquered it soon thereafter. Goa was a former state of the Portuguese Empire. The Portuguese overseas territory of Portuguese India existed for about 450 years until it was annexed by India in 1961.

The best time to visit Goa is November to January, especially in December for New Year celebrations and beach carnivals. It’s also famous for Scuba diving and other water sports. It’s also affordable and cheap. But there are lot vendors who overcharge customers so before selecting one you should always bargain to get the best price.

Places to visit in Goa…

• Calangute Beach

• Baga Beach

• Candolim Beach

• Fort of Aguada

• Basilica of Bom Jesus