Trip to Goa: A tryst with Goa is a joy forever

When one remembers Goa, the images of palm-fringed shores, turquoise sea, medieval-age cathedrals, fishing villages and old colonial buildings flash by. A trip to Goa culminates ecstasy and wonderment since this captivating state in the south-west India is one that has been mesmerizing tourists from ages. From the adrenaline-pumping beach sports to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary- Goa packages have something to offer to everyone whether you are a sport junkie or a wildlife enthusiast. Goa sightseeing also integrates visits to historical sites, old mansions, century-old churches and monuments & forts built by Portuguese and the British. These heritage sites will, simply, floor a student of history. So, your trip to Goa promises you a tryst with the sea, a date with birds & beasts, a rendezvous with old buildings & churches and an experience of an effervescent cosmopolitan culture.

Goa sightseeing and beaches: Goa is renowned for its many beaches where you can chill out, relax, sun-bathe, swim, sail, surf, play volleyball and get into some livewire action with parasailing, skiing & aqua cycling. The beaches of Goa are also extremely panoramic and some of them are worth a visit even during night time.

When in Goa, you just cannot elude the centuries-old churches like the Se Cathedral, Basilica of Bom Jesus and Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. Old buildings like the Braganza House must also feature in your itinerary. Don’t forget to check out natural sites like the Dudhsagar Falls, Arvalem Falls and Kesarval Spring.

Where to eat: Goa has an array of food joints, restaurants, eateries and hotels where you can eat any type of cuisine you can think of. Goa is known for serving excellent seafood and its local cuisine is lip-smacking as well.

Where to stay: Goa is a major tourist destination. So, you will find plenty of Goa hotels where you can slip in. You can also find a guest house, inn, or accommodation as a paying guest (if you know any local family). And if you are ready to splurge, then try the 5-star resorts and beach huts. Also, buy Goa packages to avoid last minute hassles & anxieties.

Major Goa attractions: Chief attractions of Goa are
• Se Cathedral (must see)
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (must see)
• Dudhsagar Falls (must see)
• Mayem Lake
• Kesarval spring
• Church of our Lady of the Rosary
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (must see)
• Bondla wildlife sanctuary
• Arvalem Falls
• The 16th century Braganza House

When to visit: A trip to Goa can be planned anytime during the year since the state has a very pleasant climate conducive for stay & sightseeing. Nevertheless, the best time to visit Goa is betwee
October-April. If you wish to take part in the fanfare of Winter Carnival, then head to the place during December-January.

Local festivals: All Saints Feast, Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Winter Carnival

Emergency Number: Police- 100, Ambulance- 102, Tourist Info- 0832-2438520/ 0832-2541644