Goa-A Place You Wont Forget
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.
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