If you haven’t actually visited Goa, there’s no way you can imagine half the real charm it has. It’s not just the beaches and the hippies that make Goa what it is, it has much more than that. A rich mix of many cultures, Goa presents an India unlike anywhere else in the country. The beaches, the city, the countryside and the forests present a different world for each unique visitor. The sun-kissed beaches in Goa offer solitude for chill-seekers during the day and become a haven for party-goers at night. The waves offer excitement to sports enthusiasts as the seaside becomes a rage for shopaholics and the bustle of flea markets.

A long Konkan coastline allows Goa to afford a good number of exotic beaches, something that has enchanted local tourists. Pick any beach in Goa and you have a totally unique experience to offer. Anjuna Beach in Goa has the place of being the most frequented beach here. It particularly gathers for its full moon night beach parties and Wednesday flea market. However, the queen of beaches here is Calangute Beach. Its silver-white sands captivate all visitors, even as the beach offers a world of water sports activities. Baga Beach in Goa is mostly known for its famous restaurants and cafes. The nearby town of Arpora is known for its night market. A calmer experience can be had at Candolim. It stands out for its serenity and the presence of some of the most important churches in the area. Seeing a river meet the sea at Miramar beach is always a delight. As we go south, the beaches become calmer and quieter. Bogmalo and Palolem stand out especially for their serenity and calm. Colva Beach in South Goa is more happening here than its other counterparts. It is frequented for shopping, night life and some old churches.

Known primarily for its nightlife and party culture, Goa has kept a rich culture alive very well. A rich amalgamation of Hindu and Portuguese cultures, the state is home to some of the most exotic religious sites in the country. Mythology attributes it to Lord Vishnu and hence it has a good number of temples. The best churches in the whole country are also found in Goa. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is probably the most visited religious place in Goa. It houses the mortal remains of San Francisco Javier. Other notable churches are the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panjim, the Church and Convent of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Chapel of Saint Catherine, the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Royal Chapel of Saint Anthony and the Church and the Monastery of San Agustín. . Some of the best known Hindu shrines in the state are the Mahalsa Temple in Mardol, the Mangueshi Temple in Priol, the Shantadurga Temple and the Ramnath Temple in Kavlem.

Another characteristic trait of Goa is its love for food. The best and most authentic is not available in the five-star hotels, but in the cabins by the sea that never lack visitors. Fish curry, pickles and fried fish are undoubtedly the staple food of Goa. Try talking to the locals or check out some good travel guides for information on where to get the best food. Different places have different specialties, so try the dishes only in the best places. To be on the safe side, try the beach shacks run by locals. They serve good food and are mostly hygienic and fairly priced.

What most people don’t expect in Goa is shopping, but it’s one of the best places to buy the most unusual. Anjuna Flea Market, Anjuna Saturday Night Bazaar, Mapusa Friday Market The Mapusa Friday Market offers a wide variety of groceries. Ingo’s Saturday night market in Arpora are experiences not found anywhere else in the world. The beaches are lined with stalls selling t-shirts, trinkets, trendy jewelry, quilts, mirrored garments, electronics, Goan sausages, dried fish, cashews, feni, Goan masalas, xacuti and cafreal spices, Goan sweets and much more. . . The treats on offer here are so tempting that you’ll probably end up buying things you don’t even need. But don’t leave without choosing a bottle of Goan Feni.

Goa has even more than anyone can write. A vacation in Goa is truly wonderful. Make sure you have good weather available to enjoy the varied sights and sounds of Goa as much as possible.