“The Land of Sun, Sand, and Fun: Exploring Goa, India.”
For travelers looking to kick back, relax, and enjoy life, Goa, India is the place to go. Although its only 25,000 square kilometers, the pristine white-sand beaches, exciting party scene, and exquisite cuisine all make this tiny state an adventurer’s paradise. Goa is located along India’s west coast, about 400 kilometers south of Mumbai.
Goa’s beautiful beaches are the stuff of legend. Mandrem, Anjuna, and Arambol Beach were some of the first on the scene for the hippy culture movement in the 1960s. Since then, designer resorts, boutiques, and luxury villas have gradually descended on Goa, making it a world-renowned mecca for sun worshipers and beachgoers alike. While many of the beaches draw in plenty of visitors each day, there are still some relatively untouched beach gems in the region. Some of Goa’s lesser-known beaches include Agonda, Baga, and Sinquerim.
When the sun sets, Goa’s cities come alive with bustling night markets and pumping nightclubs. The beach bars along Baga and Anjuna are some of the best places to kick off a night of revelry, but if you’re looking for something a little more low-key, then Calungute and Vagator are ideal spots for an evening stroll and dinner under the stars.
For those seeking some cultural enrichment, Goa has plenty to offer. The old Latin-style colonial villages are full of historical landmarks and colonial-era architecture, including several splendid churches, fortresses, and museums. Take a tour of Old Goa, then head over to Panaji, the state’s capital, and do some exploration.
But above all else, Goa is a foodie’s paradise. The region’s coastal location dictates the fare served up in the local restaurants – seafood is the star of the show here. From the spicy seafood curries to the delicious fish bhaji and freshly caught tandoori squid – all washed down with a cold Kingfisher beer – Goa has a reputation for serving amazing, lip-smacking dishes that give other cuisines a run for their money.
From its exotic beaches and late-night parties, to its compelling history and exquisite cuisine, Goa truly has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Goa for the adventure of a lifetime.
