From sun-touched sandy beaches to enchanting architectural marvels; from exotic & standard delicacies to liberating party sanctums; from the vibrancy of street markets to the leisurely contemplation of scenic locations; Goa offers an array of opportunities for you to acquire mindless self indulgence. Tourists can take sanctuary in Goa throughout the year but winters are best suited for a visit to the majestic location. This is mainly due to the caressing drop in mercury levels which allows you to make the most of your time in Goa. Here we give you those eight things without which your Goan Experience will be pretty much incomplete.
Run a Beach Shack
While visiting beach shacks for a bite or two is quite the norm, renting out an entire beach shack and running it as a profitable restaurant is a new-found trend in Goa. You can rent an entire beach shack from the owner by paying a lump-some amount up front. Or you can even buy a beach shack (discreetly though as shack license norms are quite rigid). Moreover, if you have enough faith in your culinary skills then you can go about setting up your own little restaurant. You can also rent rooms and houses as renting an entire beach shack can be quite expensive.
Bites & Gulps
Goa's food culture is evolving 24x7. But the introduction of new flavors, has in no way, undermined the popularity and success of traditional preparations. Goan cuisine is mostly dominated by seafood delicacies with a generous pinch of internationalism. Some of the popular Goan restaurants include Thalassa (a Greek restaurant in every way), Curlie's (for those nocturnal cravings), La Plage (drop by to taste its unique chocolate thali), Ritz Classic (authentic Goan flavor), and others. Don't miss out on cheap fizzy beers and the local favorite Feni which is prepared from coconut milk or cashews. If you love your poison, then Goa glitters as an irresistible & intoxicating avenue.
New Year Hangouts
If it's New Year's, it has to be Goa. No other location can offer you as much fun & excitement as Goa when it comes to New Year celebrations. Party animals can choose from several mind blowing locations while in Goa. A VIP jacuzzi and canopied lounges at Club Cubana; PSY trance ventures at 9 Bar atop the Vagator cliff; open house parties hosted by locals; gambling rallies at any of the casinos; or the safe option of attending star-studded concerts; Goa comes across as a complete package for fun & rave at New Year's. If all else fails, you can grab a beer bottle or two, and settle down on the beach all by yourself. Happy New Year!
Adventure Whizz
A deep plunge into the sea water; a bird's eye view of the picturesque Goan coastline; and the feel of the waves beneath your feet; Goa is home to some of the thrilling adventure sports. If running risks and conquering fears is your thing, then Goa promises an unparalleled adventuresome experience. The wide open beaches and the pleasant weather add to the overall experience. Some of the most popular adventure activities include snorkeling, water skiing, kite-boarding, para-sailing, and others.
Scoot & Steer
The best and most economical way of commuting within Goa is by renting a bike or a car. The sole expanse of Goa is best experienced on a rented vehicle. This is a very popular trend in Goa and you should have no trouble getting access to bike & car rentals. You can travel between North & South Goa as both places offer interesting options to explore. Be sure to carry a valid driver's license and essential safety gear. Also, Goan traffic sense is a bit unusual, as most general traffic practices like using indicators and overtaking from the right are hardly practiced in the state.
PS- Do not drink and drive.
Christmas Parties
The bewildering beauty of Goa reaches its apex during Christmas when shimmering lights combine with a joyful & festive mood. A variety of parties and gatherings are organized all over the state. You can sit in the glare of a bonfire party or you can treat yourself to jovial Christmas carols. The alluring churches are decorated for the festivities making them look even more stunning. Fresh baked cakes and fine wine awaits anyone who wishes to delve deeper into the happiness named Christmas!
Go Street Shopping
Shopping in Goa offers an incredible experience. If you're hunting for bargains, then Goa is rightfully your den. Goan flea markets offer a variety of products from across the globe at reasonable prices. Some of the more popular items include handicrafts, designer jewelry, hippy clothing, funky accessories, beachwear, sea shells, and even rugs & carpets. A few markets which you must visit while in Goa are Anjuna Market, Saturday Night Bazaar in Arpora, Panjim Market, Mapusa Market, and Calangute Market Square. Street Shopping is not the only attraction though. Shopaholics can treat themselves to fancy boutiques and designer stores which are spread all over the state. Although a true Goan experience demands that you take a walk through those stalls and shacks.
Sunburn Goa
While countless musical and cultural festivals take place in Goa throughout the year, none matches the 3 day Sunburn music fest which is held over a period of 3 days every year. Sunburn Goa is held on December 27, 28, and 29 every year. Asia's largest electronic music gathering hosts around 20,000 people grooving to synthesizers and consoles. World famous Djs bring more heat to the festival which allows you to get high via EDM. The 8th edition is expected to witness some 150 Djs including the likes of Knife Party, Sasha, Paul Oakenfold, Head Hunterz and others. Please note that there's nowhere else you'd rather be!
With so much to do and so much to see in Goa, a single visit may not suffice. But the above listed things will surely get you closer to the unique Goan Experience. So go ahead and unleash the travel freak within you!
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