A FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE TO GOA, INDIA

Even though Places to visit in Goa is the smallest state on the west coast of India, it is also one of the most popular due to its rich heritage, warm and friendly people, tropical climate, beautiful beaches and exotic handicrafts. In the ‘60s and ‘70s, the north of the island became a hippie-haven, a place to escape from everyday life and quickly a place for backpackers to hang out and party. For people traveling to India alone, this was a perfect introduction. Naturally, the more popular a place is, the more it changes over time. The North now appears to be associated with high-rise hotels, watersports, street markets and cultural buildings, but it still retains much of its party-vibe. GUIDE TO GOA

This of course can vary, depending on whether you want a budget holiday or a luxury-filled escape; However we highly recommend that first-time visitors base themselves in Candolim, in the north of the state. Not only does this resort tick the box for its endless expanse of beach, but it is also lined with a colorful beachfront street selling souvenirs and refreshing drinks. Plus, there’s a long strip of shops, restaurants and bars just off the beach, where you can taste some incredible, fresh Goan cuisine.

WHAT’S THE BEST PLACE TO VISIT ON YOUR FIRST TIME IN GOA:-

Whether you choose to establish yourself in the northern, southern or central region of Goa, fitting all your sightseeing adventures into one Goa vacation can be a daunting task. So, keeping that in mind, we have created a great and easy way to see a collection of the main attractions of Goa on our ‘Glimpse of Goa’ excursion. You’ll get to visit some of Ponda’s most elaborate temples, its aromatic spice plantations, explore the wonderful history of Old Goa, and explore Panjim, the capital of Goa, all in one action-packed tour.

WHAT TO EAT ON YOUR FIRST TIME IN GOA:-

If you love to try new and exciting flavours, you will not be disappointed with Goan cuisine.Its mix of Portuguese and Indian influences means it is utterly unique, and once you tour a spice plantation, you will truly get an amazing sense of the taste of Goan. We recommend you to try Goan Fish Curry for the first time in Goa. A popular dish that you will find all over the state,it can be made using a variety of fresh white fish, so you will find an amazing assortment on offer .For those with a sweet tooth, we also recommend sampling the Bebinca Cake – a layered dessert made using coconut milk, sugar, egg yolks, and nutmeg. GUIDE TO GOA

HOW TO REACH GOA

AIR:-

Goa’s international airport is located in Dabolim,near Vasco da Gama. You can get down here and hire a taxi to your hotel/hostel. While most cities in India have organized cab services like Uber and Ola, Goa is devoid of them. However, we cannot confirm its services as it is relatively new. People have always relied on taxis parked on the roads (be prepared to bargain and make sure to set prices before the journey starts) or prepaid taxis at airports that have a fixed price. You can always ask at your accommodation if they offer airport transfers.

BUS AND CAB:-

buses in Goa are quite cheap but also inconvenient as you have to change many vehicles to reach your destination in Goa. You will need to board a bus to Vasco da Gama (7 km from the airport) and then take another bus to the bus station in your preferred area. In addition, you will need to take a tuk-tuk/taxi to your accommodation.

TRAIN:-

Goa is also well connected to the rest of India by train. The main railway stations are Vasco da Gama (Central), Margao (South) and Thivim (North).

Goa is divided into North and South Goa, with its capital Panaji (known as Panjim) located around the Centre. For a first time in Goa, it is confusing to decide that different corners of the state offer different experiences. North Goa comes alive with its tourist-filled beaches, adventurous water sports, nightclubs and lively flea markets. South Goa is at a slow pace 

with unexplored beaches, a plethora of spiritual retreats and luxurious resorts. Panjim is rich in history with Portuguese influenced architecture and world heritage sites. It is the first of its kind in India lit by floating casinos on the Mandovi River. Getting the accommodation right is important, as the distance in Goa is huge. For example, the distance between the popular beaches Arambol (North) and Palolem (South) is over 100 km which translates to a 3 hour drive. Check out the Goa travel guide map to better understand the locations of major beaches and attractions. GUIDE TO GOA