Reveling in the laid back luxury of Goa's sunny beaches and retreats cannot be coupled with any other agenda on your itinerary. Sun raked sandy stretches, warm hospitality, parties, natural bounties and multifarious aquatic activities of this most diminutive Indian state, can be best experienced by hiring a scooter or motorbike and exploring its offerings at leisure. Given below are some must-see places if tourist interest in Goa.
Beaches
The sun kissed sandy coastlines of Goa are noted for their diverse and numerous beaches. From shakes, makeshift huts and beach side apartments to pricey luxury hotels; limitless accommodation possibilities in Goa offer rich experiences of its beaches to tourists from all walks of life. These beaches are a haven for those looking for tranquility as well as trance parties.
While Baga Beach is noted for water sports, Arambol is the right place for hanging out with hippies. Agonda, Patnem and Anjuna Beach are most loved by romantic couples looking for their very own pace under the sun.
Flea Markets
Held every Wednesday on the southern precincts of Anjuna Beach, these flea markets are frequented by domestic and international tourists alike. The market has extrapolated in size over the years and boasts of over 500 stalls selling shells, pearls, apparel, beach wear, textiles, scarfs and a host of other attractive fare.
Arpora, located at a short distance from Calangute Beach is famous for its Saturday night market. Along with a mind boggling range of mementos and other quaint items, this market is famous for its live music, eclectic varieties of food and entertainment.
Old Goa
The erstwhile Portuguese capital is distinguished by its cathedrals and imposing churches. Most of the ancient monuments of Old Goa have been transformed into archeological museums and pay rich testimony to the city's historical past. The Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, founded in 1521 and the Basilica of Bom Jesus are oft visited locations in Old Goa.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
If you believed that Goa was all about churches and beaches, then you are in for a surprise. Its strategic location alongside the Western Ghats makes it a glorious location for hundreds of species of animals and birds. 20 percent of the geographical boundaries of Goa consist of wildlife sanctuaries-the most famous being Mollem National Park and Bhagwan Mahavir. The frothy waters of Dudhsagar Falls located in their vicinity is a must visit after monsoons.
Before you book online flight tickets for Goa, remember to check out its various spice plantations. Cheap air fare booking take tourists to the alluring plantations located around Ponda. The natural bounties of Sahakari Spice Farm, Savoi Plantation, Abyss, Pascol Spice Village can be enjoyed by in-time/advance flight booking with a host of domestic carriers.
Martin Wynn
