An Introduction to India's Goa
Goa is one of India's smaller states. It is situated roughly halfway down the west coast of the country and remained a colony ruled by Portugal until 1961. A vast curtain of mountains segregated Goa from British India so the state had to rely on trade from the dwindling Portuguese Empire. Because of these ties Goa is very different to the rest of India, lacking many of the British marks left places like Delhi. The Portuguese influence has given Goa a unique charm and culture which is rather calm and relaxing. The atmosphere here seems to relax those on their holidays, removing stresses and strains allowing visitors to fully enjoy their holidays.
Holidays to Goa
Goa was not discovered by travellers until after it left Portugal's rule and therefore retains a somewhat western style with Portuguese style villages dotted along the coast. Situated out of mainstream India, holidays in Goa are perfect for those that are seeking some sun, with a laid back attitude and some beautiful scenery. This once popular "hippy hangout" has now shed it's drug-fuelled reputation in favour of an alluring resort for family holidays. Goa is next to the Arabian sea and under a hot sun which has attracted thousands of UK tourists for their holidays every year, the beaches here are deemed by both visitors on their holidays and locals alike, to be some of the best in India. Because of the government's push for change and regeneration, they have attempted to attract those with larger wallets into Goa, because of this a great deal of the accommodation is of a very high standard with many four and five star hotels along with a great deal of very affordable accommodation. Some areas are opulent and classy to cater for the visitors who enjoys a touch of luxury on their holidays whereas there are entire resorts that are much more laid back and focus on the mysterious culture and spice that Goa has to offer.
Getting to Goa
Goa has it's own international airport but direct charter flights from the UK rarely go outside of the peak tourist season. Holidays outside the winter months will see tourists from the UK usually getting a connecting flight to Mumbai (Bombay). From the main city tourists can get a domestic flight to Dabolim Airport in Goa. Alternatively tourists can use the fast rail link between Mumbai (Bombay) and Goa which gives opportunities to see some fantastic Indian scenery.
The Beach and the Culture
Goa is in a fascinating period of cultural change, looking to keep up with the modern, popular holiday resorts of today there is plenty to see and do to keep you busy during your holidays. A great deal of the culture here is in the inhabitants, many that visit on their holidays find that hours can be spend in traditional street side cafes simply people watching and soaking up the rich local culture. An attribute of this area that cannot be overlooked is the 25 miles of golden, velvety sand that hugs the coast, this often attracts tourists and create beautiful seaside-style resorts. Those that are looking for a touch of true history and culture on their holidays will be best in the backstreets, where remnants of the Portuguese rule will be found, with some fascinating artefacts and architecture.
