For more than four centuries, this western part of India was a Portuguese colony, and you’ll still notice a distinctly European character here today. Expect historical churches and delicious cuisine, plus a 66-mile stretch of coastline running alongside the Arabian Sea, complete with unspoilt beaches. Holidays to Goa will take you to a place where east meets west. Head for the north, and you’ll discover vibrant towns like Baga brimming with lively markets. It’s also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa, the former colonial capital that had its heyday during the 16th century. Then there’s the south, with its pure white sand, coconut groves and sophisticated hotels. No wonder this state is known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’!
Things to do
From north to south, this multicultural destination boasts so much more than action-packed beaches and stunning sunshine. Holidays to Goa are also about delicious cuisine, lively nightlife and fascinating culture. Foodies will love sampling this region’s unique Indo-European cuisine, which blends oriental spices with Mediterranean flavours. This part of the world is also known for its neon nightclubs and bustling bars where you can let your hair down. A trip to Old Goa will take you to historic 16th-century ruins, and to the peaceful Mollem National Park within the Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. And as for souvenirs, why not pick up some beautiful handmade textiles or tasty local spices? The markets are brimming with colourful goodies.
