North GoaThe north is home to Goa’s most developed resorts, the majority of which sit on a 30km stretch of magnificent sand. Renowned for hippie vibes, Anjuna attracts visitors for its Wednesday flea market and palm fringed, golden sand beach. Next is Baga, which offers sun-drenched sands, water sports, and the liveliest nightlife in North Goa. Lying 5km inland and surrounded by countryside is tranquil Arpora.Back along the coastline Calengute, Goa’s busiest area. Its beach is one of the most , popular for its steeply shelving sands and watersports. Kashmir run handcrafts boutiques and Tibetan stalls line the streets and low key nightlife centers around the hotels and restaurants. For a calmer atmosphere try candolim, which has relaxing bars and restaurants along the main road.
South GoaSouth Goa attracts visitors with its stunning beaches, lush countryside and relaxing atmosphere. Popular Bogmallo is here, boasting palm-lined, crescent beach with watersports and beach front bars & restaurants. Along the coast are the fishing villages of Arrosimand Mobor, each offering unspoilt beaches and hotel-based amenities. For a glimpse of traditional Goa pick Majorda or Benaulim.Majorda boasts goan architecture and golden sands, whist the pretty fishing village of Benaulim offers Portuguese houses alongside a handful of bars and restaurants.The laid back resorts of Betalbatim,Utorda,Varca and Cavelossim are havens of tranquility. Deserted beaches offer seclusion and watersports, whilst low key nightlife focuses on beach shacks, village restaurants or bars within the Hotels in south Goa.
Places to see Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961, when taking a holiday in Goa you’ll see the influence in the architecture, Goan food and the easy laid back attitude of the Goan people. The state capital of Panaji has fountains in the old Latin Quarter and many impressive churches. Old Goa is worth a visit for the historical church of boom Jesus and the old museum. As well as the beaches in Goa, it is worth travelling inland to the famous waterfalls and view the wildlife on-route.
Eating OutThere is a plethora of restaurants to choose from whilst on holiday in Goa. Goan and Indian cuisine feature everywhere and fish curry and rice is the staple diet, try it! In the resorts and hotels of Goa you will also find restaurants catering for every taste from English, Itianlian, French, Chinese, Mexican, and German Cuisine and much much more, it really is a diner’s paradise and all at extremely good value prices.
ShoppingPlan a visit to the Wednesday flea market at Anjuna or the Saturday night markets at Baga or Arpora. Bartering is a must and part of the fun-everything under the sun is sold here.Panjaji offers a good choice of international stores at rock bottom prices.
NightlifeNorth Goa is very lively in the evening with many discos and nightclubs, particularly in Baga. There are numerous bars and restaurants, and many beach shacks remain open with music and fireworks. South goa resorts are quieter but most of the large hotels in Goa have their own in-house discos and live entertainment.
Getting aroundRickshaws and taxis are very visible, and are the easiest, fastest and cheapest way to get around. Always agree the price with the driver before setting off. The local busses are an interesting form of transport and during rush hour usually overcrowded. For the more adventurous traveller, a journey on the train is a great experience, India has the largest railway system in Asia thanks to the days of the British Raj.
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