Those who know India will tell you what a wonderful getaway Goa is. Popularly known as ‘the pearl of the east,’ it’s a tiny state on the western coast of India in the Konkan coastal belt that has long dazzled travelers from every corner of the world with its natural beauty, superb east-meets-west cuisine and exquisite architecture. Nowhere else in India will you find the easy charms of its people, the soothing serenity of a day on its miles of silvery beaches and such an idyllic lifestyle, which embraces any newcomer into its fold.
Goa is probably safer than you’d expect from such a touristy town, but as far as no trip is ever perfect in every way, we have compiled a list of useful tips which might help in making your holiday to Goa one to remember forever.
First of all and above all do some research while choosing an accommodation in Goa. Holiday rentals in Goa are bountiful, ranging from modest beach huts to luxury accommodation and everything in between to cater almost every taste and budget. Check out hotels in a number tourist spots and make sure to compare prices before booking. Do not miss out to pay attention to the comments and ratings of people who have already stayed in the very hotel.
Another tip you should take into account while planning a trip in Goa is to carry your money and travel documents in a Money Belt around your waist well hidden from sight. You’d better carry little cash with you, as ATMs are readily available in most locations around Goa. It’s also advisable to hire a safe deposit blocker to store your valuables. Ah and do not forget to keep the safe deposit key always with you.
While enjoying a beach vacation in Goa, make sure to pay attention the following tips: 1) Do not concentrate only on the more famous beaches such as Calangute and Baga. Goa is blessed with a number of relatively less crowded beaches, which are no less pleasurable than the famous ones; 2) do not go in deeper than your waist unless you are a strong swimmer; 3) swim at least 300 meters away from any river along the Goa beach as currents come up mostly where a river or stream joins the sea. As the tide rises towards the high water mark, it starts to fall, setting off a strong current, which can result in sweeping anybody out to sea.
While tripping in Goa, do not concentrate on the fabulous beaches, as this lively destination is more than beaches, offering plenty of attractions and endless variety land and water oriented adventures that will keep you busy all day long. Chapora Fort, Basilica de Bom Jesus, Sri Temple and the striking Secretariat in Panaji are just some of the must see attractions of Goa. Noteworthy are also the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctruay in the Molem village of Goa and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the Chorao islands, both offering great opportunities to enjoy unique flora and fauna in their natural habitat. For adventurers Goa offers everything from banana ride and karting, to jet skiing and parasailing, to water skiing and speedboat rides. Goa is also famous for its noisy nightlife and teems with cafes, clubs, bars and casinos.
As in many other countries, beggars and touts are a problem throughout India, and Goa is no exception. These people prey on tourists more than anyone, and can often be annoying. What you should do is to ignore them and keep walking, as once you stop and begin a conversation, it will be next to impossible to get them to leave you alone.
The peak season in Goya is between October and January and it’s natural that during this time you’ll find Goa most crowded and mot accommodation offered in high prices. It’s also the time when Goa is more festive than any other time of the year, so if you are looking for a vacation more tranquil and secluded and also want to save a bit, wait until January ends.
