subject: Goa: The Holiday Retreat Destination [print this page] Goa is probably best known as a holiday retreat destination where tourists visit for a vacation or peace of mind. Goa is Indias smallest state on the western coast of the country bordering the Arabian Sea. Goa is famous internationally for its beaches and its main industry is tourism. Maharashtra lies north of Goa the state of Karnataka lies to its south and east. The coastal stretches of these regions and Goa together form a region known for its rich culture known as Konkan. Northern section of Goa is urban while the southern part is afforested. Other than beaches, paddy fields and coconut plantations dot the region.
In the past, Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for almost 450 years until the British Empire took control. The Portuguese influence is visible in many aspects of the state including the architecture of its houses and food. If closely observed, the distinctness of its culture from that of other parts of India can be noticed. To Catholic Christians, Old Goa is religiously important since its the place where St Francis Xavier was buried. We all know how grandly Christmas and New Year are celebrated in this city, along with which can be added the Feast of St Francis which is also celebrated impressively. The Goa coastline extends from north to south with a number of beach towns lined along it. These towns are characterized by a relaxed atmosphere, tasty sea food and a number of water sports which include wind surfing, water skiing, sailing, water-scooters, and dolphin spotting cruises. The most visited beaches are Calanguteand Baga while other less frequented beaches are Arambol,Anjuna,Candolim,ColvaandPalolem.
Panaji is the state capital where you can find old Portuguese quarters and take a peaceful walk in them. Also, you can go for cruises on Mandovi, Goas main river. Nearby this region you will find Old Goa city which was the former capital of the state. This city was later abandoned because of a prolonged epidemic. Old Goa is particularly known for its numerous famous cathedrals. Another town where you can see a lot of Portuguese influence is Margao town. Ponda has a number of Hindu temples built between 15th to 18th centuries for which it is well known. Goas international airport, Dabolim, is situated 29 kilometers away from Panaji. This region is humid for most of the year and the peak season extends from November to February.
The busiest period is the Christmas to New year when people from different parts of the world come in for their beach vacation. Sonesta Inns,Candolim Beach, Waterfront Holiday Home in Panjim, Pearls Oceanique Resort in Colva, Tony Cottages & Coco Huts in Palolem are some of the many great hotels you may want to consider putting up in.
