Goa-A Place You Wont Forget

by Nikee Kapoor An India travel expert

Goa is much more than beaches, beer and belly dance. It is a fusion of Indian and Portuguese culture, with essence of sea, sun,sand and spirituality. There is no place in India that can beat Goa in terms of splendid beach holiday spot or favourite honeymoon destination. It is also the place most visited by the foreigners and hipsters. Some of the tabooed western practices are acceptable in Goa which makes it an evergreen destination for youngsters and vagabonds.

A Dash of Historical Touch

The original capital of Portuguese, now known as old Goa is situated six miles upriver. The awesome sight of marvellously preserved Portuguese city is one in it's own kind. The ruins of Church Augustine are displayed on a far distant hill and St. Cajetan's church is considered to be the replica of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican city. St. Cajetan's church is also considered to be the most haunted one too. An isolated arch propping up in the churchyard is the only evidence of Palace of Adil Shah, the emperor who ruled Goa before Portuguese arrived.

The Beach Beauty

The biggest attraction of Goa is undoubtedly it's splendid beaches with shimmering sand that stretches along the Arabian Sea from head to bottom. Each beach has it's own charm and uniqueness that makes it different from the other and the people feel bound to visit all. Goa's wealth is richly laid in it's exotic beaches, each with it's own entreaty. Swimming could be easily enjoyed in the selected areas at any of the thirty beaches but a little bit of cautiousness is expected in the months of October and November when the seabed still remains in the process of settling down after the monsoons. Regardless of the Goa's reputation to be the most liberal and modern of the Indian states, topless sunbathing and wearing revealing clothes in other areas besides the beach is still considered offending and disrespectful. Calangute and Baga beaches are the top choices in beaches till far and are also the most inundated by the tourists round the year. These beaches also have the reputation of having the best hotels in close proximity. To see the extensive flea market on Wednesdays head towards the famous Anjuna beach that was once a traditional hangout for the hipsters. One could see the hawkers selling jewellery, bangles and fabrics from different places in India on this beach. The southern beaches are equally astounding with picturesque views, slothful beach life and sensational nights. To experience something more calm and secluded visit the

Patnam beach in south.

Cultural Pot

Goa is well known for it's Portuguese colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. Being enticed by the exuberant East and luring spice routes, the Portuguese entered Goa in 1510.

They left an indelible influence on on state's architecture, structure of churches, collapsed forts, and impressive cathedrals.

Spiritual Refuge

Goa tops the chart when it comes to holistic healing and spiritual enrichment. One can choose from a varied range of activities like reiki healing programs, meditation,

sunrise t'ai chi sessions, spiritual exploration and self awareness. Many people come to practice serious and authentic yoga sessions and search for spiritual retreats on the streets and corners of Goa. If you too want to be endowed with this enchanting gift of spiritual awakening then make haste and book your flights to India

Goan Cuisine

Sea food, rice, coconut, meat, pork and vegetates are the main components of Goan kitchen in every home. Use of Kokum is a peculiar feature of Goan cuisine and the flavours in various dishes have influence from Catholic and Portuguese colonization. The food in Goa will be relished by anyone who visits the place, be it a Bhali Pau breakfast(bread roll dipped in curry) or vindaloo with essence of wine vinegar and garlic or spicy xacuti sauce. Bebinca is the famous sweet dish of Goa. It is a cake made from egg, coconut milk, sugar and ghee. The Portuguese effect is luscious treat to taste buds on this place. People relish their favourite food with sparkling wine on an exotic beach resort which is an ultimate delight to experience. So, gear up and book your Flight tickets to India with best travel agents in London and confirm your last minute trip to Goa.