GOA TOURS: AN ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE

GOA

A coastal retreat with sights of gleaming sands and azure waters with a shimmering sun in the backdrop, Goa is the smallest state in the country and one of the nation’s most prominent tourist destinations. It doesn’t matter what you are planning for, a “happening holiday”, a family holiday, a quick weekend getaway with friends or looking to spend some cherished moments with that special someone in your life, Goa is the perfect destination for every holiday you can ever think of.

WHAT TO SEE?

• BEACHES: Goa has over 25 amazing beaches. They range from full-of-life party destinations to serene and peaceful ones. Sprightly beaches like Baga, Calangute, Anjuna and Arambol can be found in North Goa. At the same time, mellow and quiet beaches like Colva, Palolem, and Galibaga (famous as nesting grounds for Olive Ridley turtles) can be found in South Goa.

• CHAPORA FORT: This famous fort from “Dil Chahta Hai” is located in North Goa. It offers absolutely amzing views of the adjoining Vagator beach and overlooks the Arabian Sea from all angles. With slopes on all sides, it is almost in ruins now but still attracts a lot of visitors to where it is located i.e. on top of a hillock.

• BASILICA DE BOM JESUS IN GOA: This church in Old Goa is extremely popular throughout the Roman Catholic world and is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. this place contains the mortal remains of the famous missionary Saint Francis Xavier.

HOW TO GET THERE?

BY AIR

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport

Distance: 29 kilometres from the state’s capital Panjim 

BY TRAIN

Major railheads: Madgaon and Thivim

BY BUS

GOVERNMENT BUS OPERATORS: KSRTC, MSRTC, KTC

PRIVATE BUS OPERATORS: Neeta Tour And Travels, Paulo Travels, Naik Tours And Travels

BUDGET

Although Goa is not a costly place to visit, it mostly comprises the luxury-resort-loving crowd but backpackers still form one of the largest parts of visitors. The hotels offer rooms from INR 200 to INR 2,000-10000. If we talk about the average expenses per person a week then it costs around INR 7000 (inclusive of food and exclusive of water sports). But this expense means you have to choose Budget and Mid-range hotels. These costs also may vary according to the location.

WHAT TO EAT?

• VINDALOO: Made up of chicken, pork, mutton or prawns with a little bit of vinegar and sugar, Vindaloo is a fiercely spicey gravy that literally is a hot favoMurite in Goan households. The main highlight of this dish is its distinctive flavour.

• CRAB XEC XEC: Made by cooking crabs in thick gravy of tamarind, red chillies and coconut, Crab Xec Xec is another fiery preparation from the Konkan Kitchen. Best served with steamed or boiled rice, it is a staple in Goan households.

• BEBINCA: A pudding with 7 layers (or more!) Bebinca is a popular Goan, East Indian and Mangalorean dessert. It is made up of flour, eggs, sugar, coconut milk and cardamom-nutmeg powder and can make a great gift for your friends back home.

WHEN TO GO?

• MID-NOVEMBER TO MID FEBRUARY: If you want to relax on the beaches and enjoy all the other outdoor activities then December can be a great month for you as during this month Goa witnesses one of its most popular festivals. From Sunburn, Christmas to New Year celebrations Goa witnesses lakhs of visitors during these celebrations.

• MARCH TO MAY: This period is suitable if you want to visit Goa for peace and calm. The sea becomes rougher and and weather turns hot and humid but the best thing about this season is that the prices of hotels and home stays become way too reasonable.

• MID-JUNE TO OCTOBER: A great time to visit if you love  monsoon and  lush green countrysides. This season witnesses parties across the length and breadth of Goa to welcome the rains that hit the state. The famous Sao-Jao ( fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist) is also held in June and interseting events like men jumping into wells that are overflowing to fetch bottles of the local alcohol called Feni also attract a lot of people.

THINGS YOU SHOULD PACK

• Clothes that are light in weight like the cotton ones.
• A strong sunblock.
• Caps and sunglasses if you want your sightseeing and beach experience happening smoothly.
• Swimming clothes, equipments and whatever beach gear you want to carry. However don’t forget the sunscreen as although it’s not compulsary but still recommended.
• Shoes with firm grip. You will visit one of the forts in Goa and for that you need good shoes to trek up there.
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Goa is a wonderful and exciting holiday spot, known for its Portuguese-influenced culture, amazing beaches, great food, and bustling nightlife. But for many, planning a trip to Goa is actually a daunting task. To help make your trip as successful and memorable as possible, we’ve compiled this ultimate guide to Goa tours.



First, determine how much time and budget you have. Are you looking to stay in Goa for a few days or a few weeks? Budget travel options are available if you’re on a tight budget, while luxury packages are available if you’re looking for the highest level of luxury and comfort during your stay. You’ll also need to decide where you want to go in Goa. Popular places include the beaches of North Goa, the Portuguese-influenced old quarter of Panaji, and the coastline of South Goa.



Once you know your budget, time frame, and destination, you can begin researching Goa tour packages. Many companies offer specialized packages to suit different needs and budgets. Browse the different packages on offer, and pay attention to their inclusions and exclusions. Are meals included in the package, or will you have to pay for them separately? Likewise, does the package include sightseeing tours, or are these activities charged separately? Asking these questions ahead of time will help you make the most of your Goa tour.



You should also research some of the must-see attractions in Goa before booking a tour package. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral. Spend a day (or more!) soaking in the vibrant city life of Panaji, the state capital. And don’t forget to explore the gorgeous beaches of both North and South Goa – some of the best in the world.



Finally, it’s always worth reading reviews and feedback from other customers who have gone on Goa tours, so you can be sure to make the most of your holiday. Goa is an amazing destination, and with some careful planning and research, you can ensure that it will be a memorable trip.