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India's Finest Coastline
Goa, nestled between the hills of the Western Ghats to the East, and the Arabian Sea to the West, is a land that possesses some of the finest stretches of sandy coastline in India. From its rich and varied cultural heritage, which gives it the Indo-Portuguese flavour, to its stunning wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna, it undeniably has it all.
One can head out and explore old, historical sites, with their awe-inspiring architecture or catch a glimpse of a bygone era in many of the Museums in Goa. Magnificent temples and churches are a witness to the intense religious history of a diverse people. Churches like ‘St. Cathedral’ and ‘The Church of St. Francis of Assisi’ in Old Goa are some of the most beautiful, while ‘The Shree Damodar Temple’ and ‘The Shree Nagueshi Temple’ are a must-visit.
Goan cuisine, a blend of Portuguese and local flavours, is a vast treasure trove of culinary delicacies. One can dine in idyllic seaside resorts or indulge in authentic Goan delights in many of the shacks gracing its beaches. A must-try is the Goan fish curry and dishes such as Vindaloo and Xacutti, as well as its exquisite variety of seafood specialties.
Visit Souza Lobo, located in Calangute, which offers an excellent selection of seafood dishes like tiger prawns and mussels. Britto’s in Baga stirs up a scrumptious variety of seafood as well, and Cavala located in Baga, serves authentic Goan food in a charming setting along with great entertainment.
From Continental, and German to Thai, and Italian, Goa offers a plethora of multi-cuisine restaurants. Sizzling garlic prawns can be found at the Tibetan Kitchen, located in Calangute. Visit Casa Nostra in Anjuna where you can get Italian cuisine at its best. The Banyan Tree located in the Taj Village, in Sinquerim is a restaurant set amidst huge banyan trees that serves authentic Thai & Chinese cuisine.
Goa, with its unique culture and characteristics, will surely help you unwind in its natural beauty and languid atmosphere. While Siesta is an important part of life in Goa with shops downing their shutters from one to four, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches while sipping on a cocktail is just perfect. Arambol and Morjem in the North of Goa are some of the most gorgeous beaches that have tiny Coco huts, while Palolem and Patnem, located in the southern end of Goa, are beautiful, unspoiled beaches that offer a sense of calm and tranquility.
If you’re just about too relaxed and sense that you need some action, then head out for some water sport activities like para-sailing, wind-surfing and water-skiing, where one can have their fair share of adventure and fun. An ideal destination for parties, Goa attracts tourist to its sprawling beaches and nightlife. Discothèques are plentiful but if you are in the mood to dance to the sound of the waves, then partying on the beach is a sure way to get you up and going. ‘Tito’s’ and ‘Mambo’s’ located in Baga Beach are popular nightclubs or head out to ‘9-Bar,’ a club that rests on the cliff of the stunning Vagator Beach.
Shopping in Goa is truly adventurous, with shops selling everything from local handicrafts to footwear and even spices. The Friday Market at Mapusa is where you can shop for the famous and delicious goan sausages and even dried fish, as well as ‘Fenny’ (a local drink made of cashew fruit).
The Anjuna Flea market that started way back in the '70s is truly a shopper’s paradise. From colourful sarongs and embroidered bags, to beautiful Indian artifacts and jewellery, it’s definitely the place to be on Wednesdays. Goa, with its exotic cuisine, fine variety of shopping, exuberant nightlife and stunning beaches, gives one a sense of timeless peace and serenity.
Fiona Fernandes
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