Goa

A haven for your taste buds and your spirit. An exotic land of soft beaches, swaying palm trees, magnificent sunsets and wildlife, where the food is delicious and markets are ablaze with colour. Sunbathe and snack from a traditional beach shack, then relax beneath the palms as the fiery sun sets. You'll be tempted to spend your whole holiday on the deserted beaches of Betalbatim, Varca or Tamborim, but there are hippie vibes to enjoy at Anjuna's market and Portuguese architecture to see in Panaji. You could also cycle around Cavelossim, travel inland to the Dudhsagar waterfalls or visit elephants at the Shanti nature reserve.

Language

Local languages are Konkani and Hindi, though English is widely spoken throughout Goa.

Geography & Landscape

Goa is an Indian state with 120km of coastline which naturally divides into three areas, each with its own attraction: North Goa (Anjuna down to Candolim) is a bustling area with simple accommodation which is ideal as a base for travelling further a field, Central Goa (Panaji to Diabolim Airport) which provides excellent bases for visiting the capital easily and South Goa (Bogmalo Beach south to Mobor) which boasts the most modern, international-style hotels and some of the best beaches. Please note that the seas in Goa tend to have a strong undercurrent and are not suitable for children.

Best Buys

Markets are the perfect place to buy souvenirs, with a Wednesday market in Anjuna, Arpora's Saturday Night Bazaar, Mapusa's Friday market and Panaji and Margao's daily markets. Made to measure clothing, jewellery and handicrafts are popular souvenirs.

Local Delicacies

Try fish or chicken cafrial, fried chicken or fish in mint marsala, or one of the many authentic curries on offer from one of the local cafes or beach shacks.