Overview of Goa This small state, halfway down India's west coast, was a Portuguese colony until 1961, which goes some way to explaining the alternative atmosphere found in the region. Cut off from British India by a wall of mountains and vast plains, Goa relied on trade with a declining Portuguese Empire. However, what was lost in terms of British trade was more than made up for in terms of Portuguese attitude. To this day, Goa retains a distinctly laid-back and relaxed feel. Goa was 'discovered' by travellers in the late 1960s, when many were searching for somewhere unique and off the beaten tourist track. Goa quickly became a kind of hippie paradise, where holidaying meant simply hanging out and partying on the beach (particularly during full moon). The state quickly grew a reputation for its hedonism and liberal attitude, not to mention its hot sun, that sets in splendour every evening over the Arabian Sea. In recent years, though it still hosts epic trance music festivals (such as Sunburn), the authorities of Goa have tried to discourage hippies and budget backpackers from swamping the area, angling rather for clientele with fatter wallets, with the result that Goa is slowly losing its reputation as India's 'party central'. With a quick rail link to Mumbai and charter flights from the UK, thousands of tourists flock here each winter to relax and enjoy the famous Goan cuisine, which largely consists of seafood prepared in exotic Indian spices. Many hotels and resorts have popped up over the last few years to cater for this ever-popular destination, but with more than 25 miles (40km) of beautiful sandy beaches, there is still plenty of tranquillity to be found.
Key Facts
Language: English and Hindi are the official languages, with Hindi spoken by about 40 percent of the population. Urdu is the language common with the Muslim demographic. India has a total of 22 official languages. Passport/Visa: Visa extensions are not possible for tourist visas. Other visas may be eligible for extensions, which are applied for through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Holders of multiple-entry Tourist Visas (visa type code "T"), with a validity ranging from above three months and up to 10 years, are no longer required to leave a gap of at least two months between visits unless they are nationals from Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan and Bangladesh. Indian law does not permit dual citizenship for nationals of India. An Indian national holding dual nationality should contact their embassy or consulate for further information. Passengers in possession of an "Overseas Citizen of India" card or a "Person of Indian Origin" card, however, are liable to enter the country without a visa. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in India within six days of leaving or transiting through heavily infected areas. Also note that the following areas of India are restricted, and require that visitors obtain a permit BEFORE entering them: (Protected Areas) parts of the state of Manipur, parts of the state of Mizoram, parts of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, the whole state of Nagaland, the whole State of Sikkim, parts of the state of Uttaranchal, parts of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, parts of the state of Rajasthan, parts of the state of Himachal Pradesh; (Restricted Areas) the whole of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, part of the state of Sikkim. If surface travel is involved, and nationals travel via restricted areas, they require a "pass" issued by either the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (located in each major Indian city), or the Superintendent of Police (located in each Indian district), or the diplomatic representation of India in Bhutan or Nepal. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), which is divided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Major currencies can be changed at banks, and authorised bureaux de change. It is illegal to exchange money through the black market and it is advisable to refuse torn notes, as no one will accept them apart from the National Bank. It is best to change money into small denominations. Major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in tourist orientated establishments. ATMs are available in large cities and airports but are not generally available in rural areas. Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of power outlets are used in India, but most plugs have two or three round pins.
Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.
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Travel to Goa Climate for Goa Goa has a tropical climate, with hot, humid weather for most of the year. In summer the temperatures can reach as high as 91°F (33°C) and there are monsoon rains from June to September. Goa has a short winter, lasting only from December to February, with temperatures averaging around 77°F (25°C). The best time to visit Goa is during the cooler months between November and March, when the weather is warm, there is no rain, and the seas are calm and clear. The most popular time to visit Goa is over December and January, partly because the weather is ideal at this time, but also because Goa is renowned for its Christmas and New Year's celebrations. October, at the very start of the tourist season, is a good month to visit in if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, but, although the beaches will be lovely and empty, many facilities will be closed and it'll be harder to find open restaurants and shops. March or early April are also good times to arrive, as it isn't quite as busy and not yet very hot.
Health Notes when travelling to India There are many health risks associated with travel to India. Although no vaccinations are required for entry into the country, travellers should take medical advice on vaccinations at least three weeks before departure. Outbreaks of dengue fever and chikungunya virus occur, both transmitted by mosquitoes. Malaria is common, particularly in the northeast of the country. Outbreaks of cholera occur frequently. Travellers coming to India from an infected area should hold a yellow fever certificate. Rabies is also a hazard; travellers should get immediate medical advice if bitten. Food poisoning is the most common problem among travellers to India. Visitors should only drink bottled water and ensure that the seal on the bottle is intact. Avoid ice, as it's often made from tap water. Meat and fish should be eaten with care in all but the best restaurants, and should always be well cooked and served hot. Salads and unpeeled fruit should be avoided. Health facilities are adequate in the larger cities, but limited in rural areas. Travellers should have comprehensive medical insurance, and carry a small first-aid kit complete with a travellers diarrhoea kit and a course of general antibiotics. Safety Notes when travelling to India Although the vast majority of trips to India are trouble free, there are some risks that travellers should be aware of. As in many countries, there is a threat of terrorism; in the past there have been attacks in popular tourist haunts like hotels, markets and temples. Travellers should take caution at large religious events, where huge crowds can result in life-threatening stampedes. On a more everyday level, there is a risk of minor theft, such as pick-pocketing, but incidents of violent crime in India are low. Travellers using India's vast railway network are advised to lock their baggage, and keep it close. Visitors should be on guard; if someone offers a 'business opportunity' that seems too be good to be true, it probably is. Female travellers should note that there are rare incidents of rape and assault. Women should respect local dress codes and customs, and avoid travel to secluded rural areas, including beaches, at any time of day. Customs in India India is a tolerant society, but visitors should educate themselves about the countries religious and social customs so as not to cause offence: for example, smoking in public was banned in 2008. When visiting temples visitors will probably be required to remove their footwear and cover their heads. Generally, women should dress more conservatively than they may be used to doing at home, both to respect local sensibilities and to avoid unwanted attention. Topless bathing is illegal. Indians do not like to disappoint, and often instead of saying 'no', will come up with something that sounds positive, even if incorrect. Social order and status are very important in Indian culture - remain respectful and obliging with elders. Avoid using your left hand, particularly when eating. Duty Free in India Travellers to India over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 100 cigarettes or 25 cigars or 125g tobacco; two litre bottle of alcohol; medicine in reasonable amounts; and goods for personal use. Prohibited items include livestock, bird and pig meat products.
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Doing Business in India Business in India is conducted formally, with punctuality an important aspect. Suits and ties are appropriate, and women in particular should dress modestly. If it is very hot, jackets are usually not required and short-sleeve shirts are deemed appropriate. It is customary to engage in small talk before getting down to business, and topics can range from anything from cricket to politics. Business cards are usually exchanged on initial introduction, using the right hand only. Handshakes are fairly common, though one should wait to see if greeted with a hand, or a 'namaste' - a traditional Indian greeting of a small bow accompanied by hands clasped as if in prayer. Visitors should return the greeting as it is given. It is common for women to participate in business meetings, and hold high positions in companies, and foreign businesswomen are readily accepted. Business hours are usually from 9.30 to 5.30pm (weekdays) with a lunch break from 1pm to 2pm, and Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm. Communication in India The international access code for India is +91. International calls are expensive and there are often high surcharges on calls made from hotels. Buying a local SIM card is a good option, as international roaming fees can be high. Free wifi is offered at cafes and hotels in major cities. Tipping in India In India, taxi drivers do not expect to be tipped. However, tipping is expected for other services (porters, guides, hotel staff and waiters in small establishments). In tourist restaurants or hotels a 10 percent service charge is often added to bills. 'Baksheesh' is common in India: more a bribe than a tip, it is given before rather than after service. Passport/Visa Note Visa extensions are not possible for tourist visas. Other visas may be eligible for extensions, which are applied for through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Holders of multiple-entry Tourist Visas (visa type code "T"), with a validity ranging from above three months and up to 10 years, are no longer required to leave a gap of at least two months between visits unless they are nationals from Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan and Bangladesh. Indian law does not permit dual citizenship for nationals of India. An Indian national holding dual nationality should contact their embassy or consulate for further information. Passengers in possession of an "Overseas Citizen of India" card or a "Person of Indian Origin" card, however, are liable to enter the country without a visa. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, if arriving in India within six days of leaving or transiting through heavily infected areas. Also note that the following areas of India are restricted, and require that visitors obtain a permit BEFORE entering them: (Protected Areas) parts of the state of Manipur, parts of the state of Mizoram, parts of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, the whole state of Nagaland, the whole State of Sikkim, parts of the state of Uttaranchal, parts of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, parts of the state of Rajasthan, parts of the state of Himachal Pradesh; (Restricted Areas) the whole of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, part of the state of Sikkim. If surface travel is involved, and nationals travel via restricted areas, they require a "pass" issued by either the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (located in each major Indian city), or the Superintendent of Police (located in each Indian district), or the diplomatic representation of India in Bhutan or Nepal. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
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Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid for their intended period of stay. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for their period of intended stay. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Entry requirements for UK nationals: UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for their intended period of stay to enter India. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for their intended period of stay to enter India as tourists. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Australian citizens can apply for visas online before travel provided they have a printed copy of the e-Toursit visa confimation that was applied for online, a passport containing at least two unused visa pages, and return or onward tickets.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for their intended period of stay to enter India. A visa is required, exept for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
Entry requirements for New Zealanders: Citizens of New Zealand must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay to enter India. A visa is required, exept for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. New Zealanders can apply for visas online before travel provided they have a printed copy of the e-Tourist visa confirmation that was applied for online, a passport containing at least two unused visa pages, and return or onward tickets. e-Tourist visas can only be issued a maximum of two times per calendar year.
Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for their period of intended stay to enter India. A visa is required, except for passengers with a Person of Indian Origin (PIO) or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card or booklet. E-visas can be obtained online before departure. Passengers using the e-visa for the first time must have a passport with at least 2 unused visa pages, and printed confirmation of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). South African citizens can apply for visas online before travel, provided they have a printed copy of the e-Toursit visa confimation that was applied for online, as well as a passport containing at least two unused visa pages.
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Getting around in Goa, India A wide variety of transport is available in Goa. Most tourist sights can be accessed by road and there are buses, rental cars, taxis and scooters available for travellers to use. The best (and the most fun) way to get around Goa is to hire a motorcycle/scooter, but be sure to carry the necessary paperwork (licence, registration and insurance) because checks on foreigners are a lucrative source of 'baksheesh' for the Indian police force. Roads and attractions are not well sign-posted, so don't hesitate to ask for directions. Note that accident and fatality rates on Goan roads have been high in the past, so it pays to be cautious. Local buses stop at the main beaches. Auto-rickshaws are also a popular transportation option, and are available in town and from the airport, railway station and bus terminus. When taking taxis or rickshaws be sure to negotiate a fare before setting out to avoid being overcharged or having an argument. Goa is generally easy to get around and public transport is not expensive. As most visitors choose to stay near or on the beach front, limited transport is needed on a daily basis because restaurants, shops and attractions tend to be in walking distance.
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Attractions in Goa, India Goa boasts a number of great attractions for visitors to enjoy while on holiday. This area is of course famous for its gorgeous beaches, but there are also many splendid historical sites to visit in Old Goa, colonial architecture to explore in Margao and Panaji, and a vast flea market to browse in Anjuna. The Dudhsagar Waterfall and Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary are also popular Goa attractions. There are many stunning beaches in Goa: Anjuna Beach was once the famous hippie hangout but this beautiful stretch of palm-lined sand has become popular with tourists of all kinds; Baga Beach is great for swimming and a little less crowded than Anjuna, though no less picturesque; Calangute Beach is the busiest and the most commercial, and although it is not as lovely as some of the others aesthetically, visitors enjoy exploring the beach bars, restaurants and shops; Colva Beach is a developed resort area and somewhat blighted by all the hawkers, hotels and hangers-on, but visitors who walk just a little way can still find beauty and peace along this stretch; Palolem Beach, in the south, is the most unspoiled and natural of Goa's popular beaches, and has retained its laid-back and secluded charm. Although still known as India's party paradise, Goa is a wonderful, relaxing destination to visit with kids on holiday. Children will love the variety of things to see and do, be it renting a bike to explore the local area, catching a boat for some swimming and dolphin-watching, or simply enjoying the beaches. Please note, however, that although some hotels or guesthouses may offer childcare services, and this may be tempting, it is strongly advised that you keep your children with you at all times while in a foreign country.
Anjuna Flea Market Once just a backpacker and hippie hangout selling kaftans and chillums, the Anjuna Flea Market is now more commercial, with a broad range of high-quality goods on sale. Traders from all over India come to sell their wares: Lamani women from Karnataka, dressed in their traditional garb, sell colourful, elaborately woven clothes; Kashmiri stalls display silver and papier-mâché boxes; and Tibetans preside over orderly rows of sundry Himalayan curios. Visitors are expected to bargain - often the starting price will be more than double what something is worth and rule of thumb is to try and haggle down to 50 percent of the original asking price - but the stall owners tend to be friendly and less pushy than in some other markets. Even if not planning to haggle for anything, the market is a great place to watch the world go by and mingle with bands of musicians, snake charmers, beggars and the inevitable juggling hippies. The place is colourful and vibrant, and conveniently located right on the beautiful coastline. It is a good idea to go early to avoid the crowds and midday heat. The market takes place every Wednesday. Address: Anjuna, beach town in north Goa Website: www.india.com/travel/goa/things-to-do/shopping-anjuna-flea-market/
Panaji For most visitors to India, Panaji is simply a busy bus terminal, offering connections between India's southern cities and the beautiful beaches of Goa. However, this most sedate of state capitals has plenty to offer tourists, and should rightly have a day or two devoted to it on any Indian travel itinerary. Situated on the southern banks of the Mandovi River, Panaji only became the capital of Goa in 1843, after the harbour at Old Goa silted up and disease had driven its inhabitants out. The best way to explore the town is on foot, wandering around the old cobbled alleyways, colonial villas, red-roofed houses, taverns and cafes, all of which has the look and feel of a small Portuguese town. There are some wonderful old government buildings, dating back to before colonisation, and some elegant Catholic churches. Most memorable is the Church of the Immaculate Conception: built in 1541, it's topped with a huge bell that sits between two delicate Baroque-style towers, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Panaji is a delightful place to explore and has an extremely laid-back atmosphere and small town feel unusual for a state capital.
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Old Goa Old Goa was the state's capital city until 1843, when it was moved down river to Panaji. Once a byword for splendour, with a population of several hundred thousand, Old Goa was virtually abandoned from the 17th century, as the river silted up and a series of malaria and cholera epidemics drove out the inhabitants. It takes some imagination to picture the once-great capital as it used to be. The maze of twisting streets, piazzas and grand Portuguese villas have long gone: all that remains are a score of extraordinarily grandiose churches and convents. Old Goa has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and today is the state's main cultural attraction. Tourists take a break from the beach resorts to come and admire the massive facades and beautiful interiors of the city's well-preserved churches. The Tuscan St Catherine's Cathedral is the largest church in India and took eighty years to build, finally being consecrated in 1640. The scale and detail of the Corinthian-style interior is overwhelming: huge pillars divide the central nave from the side aisles, and no less than fifteen altars are arranged around the walls. An altar to St Anne treasures the relics of the Blessed Martyrs of Cuncolim, whose failed mission to convert the Moghul emperor Akbar culminated in their murder; while a chapel behind a highly detailed screen holds the Miraculous Cross, which stood in a Goan village until a vision of Christ appeared on it. Reported to heal the sick, it is now kept in a box; a small opening on the side allows devotees to touch it. Other sights worth seeing include the Arch of the Viceroys, built in 1597 to commemorate Vasco da Gama's arrival in India, and the distinctive, domed Church of St Cajetan (1651), modelled on St Peter's in Rome. Old Goa is a major site for Christian pilgrims from all over India who come to visit the tomb of St Francis Xavier, the renowned 16th-century missionary whose remains are enshrined in the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
Goa Beaches Goa has some amazing beaches, and draws a steady stream of local and international tourists. In the north, Anjuna Beach once played host to hordes of hippies, but is now home to a number of trendy beach bars as well as the famous Wednesday Market. The new hippie haven is Arambol beach, also good for dolphin-viewing and paragliding. With its white-sand beaches, Vagator is gaining in popularity. However, the sea is not safe for swimming due to the rip tides. The busiest, most commercial beach is Calangutell, while neighbouring Baga Beach has great nightlife spots. In the south, Agonda is a quiet stretch of beach with a few souvenir stalls and restaurants, while Benaulim Beach, south of Colva, is known for its fishing and laid-back atmosphere. In recent years, Benaulim has become popular with tourists wanting to get away from Goa's party reputation and just lay back, jog along the long stretch of beach and indulge in the city's fresh and healthy culinary fare. The shady palm trees and soft sands of Palolem Beach, also known as Paradise Beach, are backpacker territory. However, it's also a great place for a dolphin cruise or picturesque sundowner at one of the many beach bars lining the water. Nearby Patnem has some lovely beach huts available to rent. There are a couple of great beaches to take the kids to in Goa. The fishing village of Benaulim, near Colva, has a few quiet spots with soft sand and beautiful clean water. A firm family favourite is the Mandrem beach area, which offers shallow waters for kids to play in, and beach beds for parents to relax on. Between the beach at Mandrem and the dunes, there's a little wooden bridge crossing a river that kids love to play on.
Dudhsagar Waterfall A great outing in Goa is a trip to the Dudhsagar Waterfall, which is one of the most popular natural attractions in the area. The falls are located in a tropical jungle near the Goa-Karnataka border, and are surrounded by a network of gently flowing streams and pools. Swimming, hiking and picnicking are popular pastimes at the falls and the deep pool beneath the falls is a favourite nature spot. The waterfalls are among the 100 highest in the world, and visitors who take the difficult climb to the top will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats' wooded mountains. There are usually monkeys to be found in the jungle and around the falls and they tend to be very tame because tourists often feed them. Feeding the monkeys is prohibited because they quickly become a nuisance when they associate people with easy food. They are fun to watch and interact with but be cautious with your food and possessions as they may try to take something. The most common way to get to the falls is to take a fun 30-minute Jeep ride from the entrance to the jungle, but some intrepid travellers choose to walk along the train rails from Castle Rock Station. The hike is beautiful but it is over eight miles (14km) and should only be attempted by the fit.
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Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary The Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is home to around 400 species of birds, both local and migratory. Here visitors can expect to see kingfishers, pintails, coots and egrets, as well as a few crocodiles, jackals and foxes inhabiting the mangroves. Although this is one of the smallest bird sanctuaries in Goa, it is among the most famous in India. It is important to go at the right time of year: the best time to see the migratory birds is after the monsoon season, from October to March; and bird and animal sightings are likely to be better early in the morning. The sanctuary is not a zoo and the animals are in no way enclosed so experiences vary hugely with regard to how much people see. The mangroves themselves are interesting and beautiful and for many nature lovers a boat ride through this unusual landscape is reason enough to visit the sanctuary. For those who prefer to explore on foot, guided walks through the mangroves are also available. Bear in mind that exploring a swamp invariably means there will be mosquitoes - insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing are in order. Photography is welcomed but there is a small extra fee for cameras. Address: Chorao Island, on the Mandovi River Website: www.goatourism.gov.in/destinations/sanctuaries/162-dr-salim-ali-bird-sanctuary
Anjuna Famed as a hippie hangout since the 70s, the main source of Anjuna's enduring popularity as a holiday destination is its superb beach. Fringed by palm trees, the curve of soft white sand conforms more closely to the archetypal vision of paradise than any other beach on the north coast. The quieter southern end is protected by rocky outcrops, while to the north the beach widens and stretches for almost a mile past groups of bars, cafés and handicraft stalls. Revellers from the UK and all over India come to Anjuna on holiday, lured by the club scene and the promise of big beach parties (particularly over Christmas and New Year). Outside this peak season the resort normalises to a simple, relaxed atmosphere; except on Wednesdays, when locals and tourists flock from all around to shop at the famous Flea Market and drink sundowners at one of the many restaurants and bars that stretch along the beach. The best place to spend a night out in Anjuna is the same place visitors would probably have spent the day...the beach. Stopping in at any of the beach-front bars and restaurants for a cold beer can lead to a night of fun, with the bar owners dispensing great advice about the latest impromptu party.
Baga Beach The Baga Beach holiday resort is a few miles south of Anjuna, and is basically an extension of Calangute. Lying in the lee of a rocky, wooded headland, the only difference between this far northern end of the beach and its more congested centre is that the scenery here is marginally more varied and picturesque, and the beach less crowded. It is a good swimming beach but there are no promising breaks for surfers. However, there are lots of other watersports on offer. Hawkers can be an irritation but no more than on most other popular stretches of sand in Goa; a firm 'no' usually does the trick. Baga Beach has the best range of restaurants and liveliest nightlife in the area, with a number of popular restaurants, beach bars and clubs to choose from.
Calangute Beach Once a peaceful fishing village - and then a haven for hedonistic hippies - Calangute is now Goa's busiest and most commercialised holiday resort, a 45-minute bus ride north of the capital, Panaji. The road from the town to the beach is lined with Kashmiri-run handicraft boutiques and Tibetan stalls selling Himalayan curios and jewellery. The quality of the goods - mainly Rajasthani, Gujarati and Karnatakan textiles - is generally high, but haggle hard and don't be afraid to walk away (the same stuff will crop up again and again). The Calangute beach is nothing special, but is more than large enough to accommodate the huge numbers of holiday visitors. To escape the hawkers, visitors should head fifteen minutes or so south of the main beachfront area, towards the rows of old wooden boats moored below the dunes. There, teams of villagers haul in their nets at high tide, and fishermen can be seen fixing their tack under bamboo shacks. Calangute's bars and restaurants are mainly grouped around the entrance to the beach, and along Baga Road. As with most Goan resorts, the emphasis is firmly on seafood, though many places also offer vegetarian dishes, and western breakfasts feature prominently. Thanks to repeated crackdowns by the Goan police on parties and loud music, Calangute's nightlife is surprisingly tame, with most bars closing by 10pm, though there are some exceptions.
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Colva Colva is the oldest and most heavily-developed South Goan holiday resort. The town itself is dotted with colonial-style villas and ramshackle fishing huts, but the beachfront is crowded and blighted with unimaginative concrete hotels, snack bars and souvenir stalls. Indian tourists and local children mill around this central area and foreigners are pestered by traders and beggars. However, it is easy to steer clear of this central area: within a few minutes' stroll from here the beach is spotless and relatively quiet. Benaulim is only a 30-minute walk to the south, still on Colva beach, and attracts a more upmarket clientele, including British and Indian visitors on holiday. There are many luxury resorts along the coastal stretch, and brightly-painted wooden fishing boats litter the beach. The hawkers and touts here are persistent, but in a good-humoured rather than aggressive way. To escape completely, visitors can hire a bicycle and ride further south along Colva beach, beyond Taj Exotica, which stretches for miles with the only possible interruption likely to be a stray cow wandering along the sand. Restaurants line the beachfront at both Colva and Benaulim, and in general the food is of an excellent standard, and the atmosphere is much better than at the hotel restaurants. For the freshest fish, aim for the more popular restaurants.
Palolem For years Palolem remained a secret holiday getaway to all but the most independent traveller. Situated towards the southern tip of Goa, twenty miles south of Margao, it has now been discovered - but thankfully, due to strict urban planning restraints, tourism is kept in check. Palolem's crescent-shaped bay is lined with a beautiful white sand beach and backed with groves of coconut palms. Either side of the bay is a rocky headland covered in thick black forest, and offshore there is a tiny island whose only permanent inhabitants are a colony of black-faced langur monkeys. Although there aren't really any watersports facilities on the beach - the vibe is more relaxed than active - visitors can take boat rides out into the bay to see the dolphins and maybe even swim with them. The beach is also lined with a selection of beach shacks and bar-cum-restaurants serving up the daily catch and lots of other kinds of meals and snacks. During December and January the beach swells with day-trippers, who come to escape the more commercial resorts. However, outside this peak season, Palolem returns to a breezy, sedate pace, and one of the reasons it is so special is because it is generally less crowded and much less commercial than most beaches in Goa.
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Events in Goa, India Goa Carnival Saturday February 22, 2020 to Tuesday February 25, 2020 (22 - 25 February 2020) Where: Panaji A throwback to the days of 18th-century Portuguese colonialism, the Goa Carnival is a mardi gras-style, four-day party held every year on the weekend before Ash Wednesday, which encompasses three days of music, dancing and general merriment. The tradition comes from the Christian habit of having a big celebration before Lent, a period when meat and luxury foods are not meant to be eaten and time is set aside for prayer and charity; the Carnival is a huge party to mark the beginning of this austere period, when people are meant to indulge in all the things they will shortly give up. Though primarily a Christian custom, the carnival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the local Hindu people, and their traditions are also evident in the festivities. Goa is known for its fun party culture year-round, but during the Goa Carnival this joyful spirit reaches its climax; as one might expect, the centre of the celebrations are the popular beaches, where festivities of all kinds run late into the night. The Carnival was once a local affair but it has grown to attract thousands of visitors from all over India and the world. New Year's Eve in Goa Tuesday December 31, 2019 (New Year's Eve annually) Where: Beachfront Beachfront trance parties in Goa are somewhat legendary in the global party community. Revellers with a lot of stamina groove to psychedelic music under the stars, while famous Bollywood personalities put in cameo dancefloor appearances. Although the entire coastline comes alive to party into the New Year, festivities inevitably centre on Anjuna. If you prefer a more intimate setting, then seek out one of the smaller beaches, like Palolem with its somewhat smaller gatherings. Travellers in Goa should note that the authorities have been cracking down on the party culture over the last few years, imposing increasingly strict liquor laws. As the state is undergoing something of a transition, tourists are advised to check up on the current situation before going. Sunburn Music Festival Monday February 17, 2020 to Wednesday February 19, 2020 (TBC 2020) Where: Pune The MTV-sponsored Sunburn Music Festival is one of the fastest-growing trance music festivals in the world. In 2008, the event drew 5,000 electro heads to beautiful Candolim Beach in Goa; in 2009, 18,000 people were there; and in 2010, the crowd was in excess of 30,000. Featuring heavyweight performers, such as Avicii, Paul van Dyk, Funkagenda and Ferry Corsten, and blessed with an ideal location on the shores of the Arabian Sea, 'South Asia's first electronic music festival' is bound to keep growing in international status. There are about seven stages at each festival, allowing for a lot of variety, and other fun activities and entertainment to enjoy. The festival's organisers work closely with the Goan police department to make sure that the revelry stays safe and legal, which has gone a long way toward appeasing the local community, who initially opposed the event. The Sunburn Festival is streamed live on MTV India every year, prompting scores of celebrities to turn up and join the party. Sunburn music festivals are now held in many cities in India and even some other countries, but the Goan festival remains the most famous and popular.
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Nightlife in Goa, India Flaunting its strong Portuguese heritage, Goa is definitely the nightlife hub of India. Goa still retains a laid-back hippie atmosphere in many areas and impulsive beach parties are a common occurrence, with visitors and locals relaxing on the beach after sunset with a couple of cold drinks and some mellow tunes. There are also numerous houses which have a room open to the public as a bar-cum-restaurant, usually serving great seafood. Goa hosts great rave and trance music parties, especially in winter under the full moon. The venues for these raves are kept secret till just hours before they kick off, and visitors will have to ask around at local bars for details. Goa is also developing fast as a resort centre and many hotels provide their own party venues. The most famous Goan party season is over new year's eve, when visitors flood onto the beaches to dance under the stars and enjoy fireworks and trance music in this beautiful setting. If you travel to Goa for a new year's party be sure to book far in advance as it is very popular. Travellers should note that over the past few years authorities have been cracking down on the Goan party scene, closing numerous bars and passing new liquor laws. Much fun can still be had in the state, but it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the laws before travelling as at the moment state legislature is somewhat up in the air.
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Shopping in Goa, India There's great shopping to be done in Goa, with the most popular shopping spots being in Panaji and Anjuna. The quintessential Goan souvenirs are azulejos, Portuguese-style tiles and ceramics that have been beautifully hand-painted, but there is a huge selection of fine and funky goods in the markets, and it is easy to see that Goa still caters to the hippie crowd when exploring the shops. Sometimes the outdoor markets have a carnival atmosphere, with musicians and entertainers performing around the stalls. Tourists will be expected to bargain in the Goan markets; a good rule of thumb is to try and barter the price down to half of the original. Remember that most goods will be offered by multiple stalls, so don't be scared to walk away and compare prices. The Anjuna Wednesday market has everything from trendy rave gear to comfy hammocks; while semi-precious stones, paintings and local crafts are available from the Ingoe and Mackie night bazaars. The Mapusa Friday Market is good for freshly-baked Goan breads, homemade pork sausages and an assortment of pickles. In Calangute, the Casa Goa boutique offers local designer wear, artwork and silk drapes, and tribal art is available from the nearby Leela Art Palace. Visit Sangolda for rattan loungers and Rajasthani chests. There are also stunning lamp shades available at Soto Décor.
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Dining in Goa, India
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Airports in Goa Dabolim Airport (GOI) Dabolim Goa International Airport aai.aero/allAirports/goa_generalinfo.jsp Location: Goa The airport is located 18 miles (about 29km) southwest of Panaji Time: Local time is GMT +5.5. Contacts: Tel: +91 8325 13806 Transfer between terminals: There are two terminals adjacent to each other, and which you can get between on foot. Getting to the city: Train: The airport has a train station 1km from the terminals. The Indian Rail line goes to Margoa, about 45 minutes away, as well as to Vasco da Gama, about 2 miles (4km) from the airport. Bus: There are public buses that leave from just outside the airport terminal every half hour. They go to Panjim, Mapusa, Ponda and Margoa. Public buses also go to the nearby city of Vasco da Gama. There is also a stop at the closer Chicalim bus stop, about 0.93 miles (1.5km) from the airport. Taxi: Pre-paid taxis are available outside the terminal building. Car rental: Although it is not recommended that you do so, you can hire cars through local operator Savaari, which has pick-up points outside both the domestic and international terminals, as well as the railway station. Airport Taxis: Taxis available outside the arrivals area. Facilities: Money and communications: Currency exchange services are available, although you might find better rates elsewhere. Luggage: Complimentary luggage trolleys are available throughout the airport. A baggage wrapping machine is located in international departures. Conference and business: No business facilities are available at this airport. Other facilities: There is a first aid centre at the airport, and a child-care facility is currently under construction. Wi-Fi: Wi-fi is available via Tata Indicom. Information: An information desk with details on local tourism and transport options is located in the international arrivals hall. Shopping: Shopping at the airport is very limited, but a small selection is available. Between Goa Handicraft Emporium and Peals & Leather Garments there is a fair selection of Goan mementos available from the domestic terminal, and the TR store has some local fashions in the international departures, in addition to the duty free. Food and Drink: Best not to arrive too hungry at Goa International Airport, as options are limited once you've gone through security. There is a small snack bar in international departures, and the odd vending machine. If you haven't yet gone through security, an airport restaurant is located outside domestic arrivals. Parking: Goa airport has capacity for 350 cars and 10 coaches. Parking is charged at INR 60 for up to four hours, and INR 360 per day.
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Currency The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR), which is divided into 100 paise (singular paisa). Major currencies can be changed at banks, and authorised bureaux de change. It is illegal to exchange money through the black market and it is advisable to refuse torn notes, as no one will accept them apart from the National Bank. It is best to change money into small denominations. Major credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in tourist orientated establishments. ATMs are available in large cities and airports but are not generally available in rural areas.
Exchange rate for 1 INR - Indian Rupee 0.01 BMD 0.01 EUR 0.01 USD 0.01 GBP 1.62 JPY 0.02 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.01 CHF 0.02 AUD 0.37 UAH 5.02 KZT 22.39 LBP 0.01 LYD Swiss Franc Australian Dollar Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar 0.10 BOB 1.60 NPR 0.01 OMR 0.05 QAR 0.02 SGD 0.12 SEK Bolivian Boliviano Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona 0.10 TTD 0.15 VEF 0.68 DOP 0.10 HRK 0.28 MXN 8.72 XOF Trinidad Tobago Dollar Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc 0.05 PGK 0.01 BSD 0.03 FJD 0.34 HNL 1.64 DZD 17.71 MMK Papua New Guinean kina Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat 0.17 BWP 0.05 PEN 10.31 CLP 7.11 AMD 0.36 CZK 0.30 MDL Botswana Pula Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei 1.85 ISK 43.69 UZS 0.06 ILS 0.01 JOD 0.00 KWD 0.47 UYU Icelandic Krona Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso 0.53 MUR 0.42 NIO 0.12 NOK 0.06 PLN 0.06 SAR 2.17 LKR Mauritian Rupee Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee 0.53 THB 0.05 AED 0.05 BRL 0.06 RON 0.12 HKD 8.74 XAF Thai Baht U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc 334.14 VND 0.21 ARS 0.04 XCD 0.12 GTQ 0.15 MAD 0.01 BHD Vietnamese Dong Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar 0.01 PAB 0.02 AZN 46.35 COP 1.02 KGS 4.16 HUF 0.12 TJS Panamanian Balboa Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble 203.43 IDR 0.13 EGP 17.71 KRW 84.29 PYG 0.06 MYR 8.01 CRC Indonesian Rupiah Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón 0.02 NZD 1.56 PKR 0.99 RUB 0.23 ZAR 0.03 TND 0.03 BBD New Zealand Dollar Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar 0.03 BGN 0.04 TRY 0.69 PHP 0.48 TWD 2.92 NGN 1.59 XPF Bulgarian Lev Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc 0.06 GHS 1.86 JMD 0.03 ANG 0.02 BND 1.64 RSD 0.10 CNY Ghanaian Cedi Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan 295.84 BYR 0.10 DKK 0.05 TMT
Belarussian Ruble Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat
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