Goa

State: Goa Famous for/as: Beaches Languages: English, Konkani, Hindi Best Season: Oct - Mar Weather: Summer 23-40°C, Winter 20-23°C Altitude: 0 m Pincode: 403xxx STD code: 0832

Goa traces its origin right upto the epic of Mahabharata, where the land of Goa has been repeatedly referred as Goparashtra (country of cowherds). The formation of Goa has another amazing legend attached to it wherein it is believed that Lord Parshuram (Sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu) shot seven different arrows in various directions marking the limits of the oceans (Neptune). The sea withdrew from the places wherever the arrows fell. A village called Banauli / Banaulim (arrow village) is often referred to as the place where the arrow struck and surprisingly even the Indologist and geologists marvel at the presence of burned sea shells and marine fossils which date back to 10,000 BC.

Later Goa saw glorious years under the Kadamba dynasty however; the fortunes of Goa continued to fluctuate until the Portuguese snatched the land from Adil Shah of Bijapur in 1510 AD. The Portuguese admiral Alfonse de Albuquerque realized the dream of Vasco da Gama of establishing a permanent base / colony in India. The Portuguese constructed many fortresses, churches, monuments and buildings in Goa and have left an indelible mark on the culture of Goa. The Portuguese rule continued even after independence of India as the Portuguese refused to hand over the state. The same was however, forcefully snatched from the Portuguese Garrison after a successful liberation action by the freedom fighters, Indian Navy and Indian Army. Goa was liberated and is now one of the states of independent India.

The Goans generally communicate in English, Konkani and Marathi. With a healthy mix of many religions, the lifestyle and culinary habits of the Goans are a mixed blend arising out of these cultures. Thus the popular celebrations start with the Hindu Diwali encompass the entire spectrum of Christmas, Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi, New Year's Day, Sigma and Carnival.

The Portuguese rule has left a strong influence on the Goan culture and it is visible in every walk of life. The clothing, accent, music, dance and celebrations have an unmistakable tinge of Portuguese culture. While English songs are popular, traditional Konkani and Marathi folk songs along with the Bollywood Hindi numbers have a sizable following too. Manddo is regarded as the traditional Goan music while the younger generation dances to the tunes of trance music. However, it can be safely said that the Goans prefer pop, soft rock as well as melodious ballads to hard rock or hip-hop. The traditional Goan dances viz. Dekhnni, Corridinho and Fugdi are displayed during festivities and are very popular amongst the tourists due to the innovative steps and the novelty of dance form.

The Goan dietary preferences are heavily influenced due to the presence of the great ocean nearby. Rice and fish curry is the most common meal in Goa. The variety of available fishes makes it the most important dish of the Goans and it is possible to find seafood in every cuisine. Coconut and it's by products are also widely used. Pork, vegetable stew, a rich egg-based sweet Bebinca is preferred during Christmas while Kaju Feni tops the alcoholic's list.

There are many ways that a traveler can get around Goa. Some of the main modes of transportation within Goa are hired bikes, buses, auto rickshaws, taxis and jeeps. The roads are well developed and the public transportation system in the place is also reasonably good.

Hired Motor Bikes

Hired motor bikes are the preferred mode of transport for those who are visiting the place. They are available near most of the beaches in Goa. They cost around Rs 400 per day, excluding petrol expenses. Motor bikes are the best way to get around as they are easy to ride and can access the smaller village roads as well. Helmets are compulsory and you will have to make sure that the person who is renting the motorbike provides them. A fine of Rs 100 is the norm for riding without helmet, especially in South Goa.

Buses

Government buses are available all around the place and tickets are inexpensive. There are designated bus stops that are located in and around the various towns. Tickets cost around Rs 10 to 15 for a ride of around 30 km. Opting for these buses is also a good way to see the country side.

Taxis

Taxis are available in most parts and can be hired through the hotels and resorts. A/C taxis are available as well and opting for these is advisable during the summer months. Taxis cost between Rs 7 and 12 per km depending on the type of vehicle. SUVs are also available and these are a good option if you are travelling in groups.

Private Cars

There are a few rental companies and others who provide cars for hire. These are a good option if you are not comfortable with riding bikes. The cars here are generally in good condition and sedans can accommodate around 5-6 people. They cost around Rs 1000 per day excluding petrol charges.

Jeeps/Gypsies

Jeeps and gypsies are available in many places around the town. Some of the jeeps do not have a roof, and these jeeps are great to drive in the countryside, especially during the winter months. It might not be advisable to hire open jeeps during the heat of the summer. Jeeps are also a good option for travelling through the ghat roads, which have many twists and turns. Jeeps would cost around Rs 800 a day, excluding petrol expenses. They are generally in good condition and it is always advisable to check your jeep before renting it out.

Auto Rickshaws

Auto rickshaws are available from many auto stands that are located in and around the towns. These are a good option for short distances and the prices are generally negotiable. Travelling up to 25 km in an auto rickshaw is possible. However, travelers should be prepared for many bumps and jolts. Rates differ according to the towns and it is always advisable to check the rates before boarding. Night fares may also be applicable.

Cruises and Catamarans

Catamarans are available in most beaches during the peak season. Catamarans can be used to travel into the sea for short distances. While this is not exactly a transport option, it is a good adventure ride.

Cruises are available at the River Mandovi. There are two cruises everyday around sunset, at 6 pm and 7.15 pm respectively. They cost around Rs 200 per head.

The very mention of beaches, one thinks of the palm fringed seashore with golden sandy stretches, incessant waves, free flowing drinks and mouth-watering delicacies. The beaches of Goa are the main draw, which attract the tourists worldwide to this small state.

With almost 150 km of seashore stretch one is spoiled for choice in Goa. The fun and frolic is never ending and the variety of adventure and thrill that the beaches promise has to be experience to be believed. Beaches such as the Anjuna, Bogmalo, Calangute, Dona Paula, Colva and Vagator are the equivalents of paradise on earth and the carnival atmosphere that prevails on these locations at any time of the day or night is ample proof of the entertainment and comfort that these beaches offer to the tired bodies and souls.

The recent surge of adventure activities has provided a new dimension to these beaches where apart from the soothing ocean winds and relaxing waves various adrenalin pumping activities such as Parasailing, Paragliding, Water surfing, Banana and Ringo rides, Diving, Dolphin and crocodile watching etc have become a compulsory part of the tour itinerary. The beaches are clean and well maintained and the presence of Life Guards at all times is sure to boost the confidence of the wave watchers.

However, a word of caution here, resist the temptation to stretch your swim too long lest the strong undercurrent drags you into the ocean. Even the strong lifeguards never venture that far without proper protective gears.

A heady mix of delicious sea food and cocktails wafts in the air of Goa and the nights turn colorful and exciting with the steady beats of music ranging from the soft 60s to the wild and rocking trance as well as psychedelic rock. With free availability of liquor and party joints, not to mention the vast shoreline, the nightlife in Goa rocks with every passing moment after sunset. The carnival festivities of the beaches slowly shift to some sophisticated, many conjured up discotheques, clubs, pubs where the din grows and reaches a crescendo till the wee hours of the morning.

Generally, the parties are conceived and decided on the beaches by like-minded groups. Thus, a rave party or a psychedelic party venue is generally under the wraps till a close associate discloses the location to all and the party scene shift. Some of these parties go on for hours and some even for days with a regular shift in venue. The parties are an experience not to be missed, if not for the enjoyment then for the novelty.

However, one must guard self from the rowdies and thugs who are on a lookout for vulnerable targets. As a rule, avoid lifts to strange venues from total strangers. Also, avoid drinks and smoke offered by strangers, no matter how innocent and appealing they look and behave. Ingo's Night Bazaar, Anjuna's Market, Tito's, Kamaki, Mambo's, Congo Lounge, and Geoffreys are some good recommendations to indulge & have a nice time.

The lure of a relaxed holiday attracts many tourists to Goa; it is not a big surprise that the same people would be found scanning the Flea markets and Bazaars of Goa in search of hidden treasures and memorabilia.

It is not only the shopaholic but also the regular tourists who cannot resist the charms of the local Goan markets. Anjuna’s Wednesday market, Colva’s Sunday market, Ingo’s Saturday night market, Velha Goa galleria, Government Emporium and scores of different markets are usually flooded with crowds enjoying the festive atmosphere and indulging in some binge shopping on the spur.

The availability of cheap liquor and great seafood apart, the markets are famous for the shear variety, which they cater for. Thus one finds herself surrounded by Tibetan, Nepalese, Chinese, Japanese, European, Kashmiri, Rajasthani, Gujarati, and even Indonesian stuff been sold out at affordable prices and also open to bargain. While there are numerous boutiques and showrooms encasing a variety of art and antique items, one has to admit that the novelty and uniqueness which is provided by the local flea markets and bazaars has to be experienced to be believed. The ides then is to let go the worries of overburdened pockets, pack some empty bags, and jump into one of the market with an aim to wander around in search of something, which would catch the eye and please the pocket, which in fact would be many.

Enjoy the great dishes served on the tables of all food shacks and joints & soak in the revelry.

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