There’s nowhere in India, or even Asia, quite like the magical city of Goa.
India’s smallest state, Goa lies along the Southwest Coast, with coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea. But what this city lacks in size, it makes up for in unadulterated merriment.
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Beautiful beaches are strung out along the 100km coastline of Goa. Anjuna Beach (pictured) is one of the most popular, pulling in droves of tourists and locals alike.
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But still, you’ll be able to find yourself a private spot along the long stretches of shores. Lap up the calm of sand and sea while the warm sun bathes you in its golden glow.
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They’ve sometimes even got markets by the beach. There, you’ll find intricate embroidery, traditional handicraft and more.
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Lie back under the many beach shacks dotting Mandrem Beach. The gently sloping sand and shallow waters make it a kid-friendly spot.
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Watersports junkie? Get your dose of adrenaline at Baga Beach, popular for parasailing, windsurfing and more. (Catch the annual National Windsurfing Champinships here!)
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A trip to Goa isn’t only about beach-spotting – the multi-faceted city ensconces layers and layers waiting for you to unfold.
See also: And The MOST Visited City In The World By Tourists Is…
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The city is home to many sites of worship, from gothic churches to traditional temples.
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And perhaps the city’s architectural marvel and diversity is best appreciated through such. Here, this old church named after Saint Francis of Assisi is a vestige of Goa’s colonial past as a Portuguese province.
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The various religious sites in the city ring different bells, but each is equally respected and celebrated.
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In the city, the streets are a lot narrower and less busy than, say, Mumbai. It’s a joy weaving in and out of these quaint alleys, whether on foot or on wheels.
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The city is colourful, and its people most definitely are, too. Which means you might even be able to chat up the warm, welcoming Goans and get to know their local way of life.
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This pilgrim wears a Tilak on his forehead, a mark with powder or paste, signifying honour.
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Of course, we can’t not mention the food. Goa’s location along India’s west coast means it’s blessed with the freshest seafood. Tandoori lobster, anyone?
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The Portuguese influence in Goa is also evident in its cuisine. Portuguese-inspired fare are made with locally available substitutes. So the Gateau Sans Rival (almond daquoise) became the Bolo Sans Rival (cashewnut daquoise), since cashewnuts are aplenty in this part of India.
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Drinking in Goa isn’t half as stigmatized as it is in the other parts of India. They’ve even got a fiery liquor to call their own, an aromatic spirit made from distilling the exotic cashew fruit. Fun fact: Feni is classified as a “country liquor”, meaning it’s not allowed to be sold outside the state of Goa.
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Goa always surprises, and it certainly always pleases. Nature is seductively accessible, while the local way of life is also surprisingly easy to fit yourself into. If this Indian haven hasn’t yet made it’s way into your travel bucket list, it’s about time it did!
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By Pinky Chng, December 2017
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