subject: The Ideal Getaway Destination: Goa [print this page] Goa is the place people visit for some peace of mind and for a vacation. It is one of the most frequented retreat destinations in the whole world. In fact, the main earning of the economy comes from its tourism industry. Goa is the smallest state of India and its capital is Panaji. The Arabian Sea lies to its west, Maharashtra lies on its north and Karnataka state lies to its south and east. The coastal areas of all these states and Goa together form a complete coastal community with distinct culture and tradition called the Konkan culture. The Northern part of Goa is the more urban part while the southern part is dominated by forests. While beaches dominate most of the landscape, you will also find paddy fields and coconuts spread across the region.
A long time ago, this little state was ruled by the Portuguese Empire for almost 450 years. Later on, the region passed over to the British Empire as part of a deal between the rulers of both dynasties. Influence of the Purtuguese culture and tradition can be seen very clearly in this culture of the state and also in the architecture of its houses and churches. The food here also offers a touch of Purtuguese taste. The culture of Goa is very distinct from other parts of India. Old Goa is religiously important to Catholic Christians as it is the place where St Francis Xavier had been buried. Christmas and New Year are celebrated very impressively in this region. In fact, Goa sees the most number of tourists at this period of time, which starts from November and ends in February. Besides Christmas and New Year, the Feast of St Franciscan can also be added to the list of festivals celebrated majestically. Starting from north to south, Goa has a long coastline lined with numerous beach towns, all of which are known for its relaxed ambience, amazing food and fun activities like wind surfing, water skiing, sailing, water-scooters, and dolphin spotting cruises. Calanguteand Baga are visited the most while Arambol,Anjuna,Colva, Candolim andPalolem see comparatively less number of visitors.
Panaji and other Goa town will let you locate Portuguese quarters where you can walk along for a peaceful walk. Old Goa city was the former capital of the state but was later abandoned due to the persistent epidemic in the region. You will see numerous cathedrals in Old Goa. Another Portuguese- influenced place is Margao town. Ponda town of Goa has a number of Hindu temples established between 15th to 18th centuries. Goa has an international airport in Dabolim which is almost 29 kilometers away from the state capital, Panaji. Since, the region is located next to the Arabian Sea, it stays humid for most part of the year.
