Having been to Goa 8 times, I feel the need to tell everyone about my experiences in such a wonderful country. Goa is split into two areas – North and South. North is where it all happens. The main resorts are Baga, Calangute and Candolim.
The amazing beach spans all three resorts and there is nothing better than to walk along the beach, stopping at the numerous beach shacks along the way. The food quality in the beach shacks is nothing short of amazing!! There are fruit sellers galore, offering pineapples, melons, coconuts, bananas etc. There is one seller in particular – Mama Goa – is a favourite of mine. She is 75 and has worked the beach since she became a widow 12 years ago in order to support her family!! She will take 10 minutes out of her tiring day to share her life experiences with you. One thing to notice – watch out for the cows that stroll along the beach!! Don’t worry, they won’t harm you but they are partial to a pineapple or two!!
One of the best things about Goa holidays is the food. Imagine lying on a beach and the wonderful aroma of Indian food drifting up your nose – heaven!! However, if you don’t like the idea of eating Indian food for breakfast lunch and dinner, don’t worry as all restaurants are multi national cuisine. One of my favourite restaurants is East Meets West in Baga. Think of Chateau Briand (a full fillet steak serving 2 for £7), the most tender Lamb Balti and succulent Tiger Prawns. I would say that this is our most expensive meal but we still get change from £20 and that includes a cheeky bottle of wine or two!!
Shopping is to die for! Top branded names including Gucci, Ray-Ban, Lacoste to name but a few, all at a fraction of the cost you would expect to pay in the UK.
The excursions on offer are also amazing. A must is to visit the Elephant sanctuary, where you can feel free to bathe the elephants, take a ride on them and feed them – they love all the attention! The spice trail is another favourite of mine as I love to buy all the wonderful herbs and spices to take home.
Night life in the North of Goa!! Tito’s road is a must. The well known Tito’s Club has been there for as long as I can remember. Top Dj’s now perform in this club as it has become a landmark in the North. Also try Mambos, Cocktail of Dreams, the Ivy – to name but a few. Again the prices of drinks are superb. Try a Mojito Cocktail for less than 75p and don’t be concerned when it comes in a pint glass!! You will even see a typical Irish Bar – Shamrock – how bizarre to see the locals rocking it on the Karaoke!!
If you prefer something a bit more serene, take a trip to the South. Cavelossim, Benaulim and Varca are some of the main resorts. All of the big 4 and 5 * hotels are now springing up here. Nightlife is quite laid back but make sure you head to Mikes Place for an evening of fun and great food!
All in all, holidays to Goa will be a life changing experience for you. You will find yourself (like me) going back time after time.
0 comments:
Post a Comment