For lovers of beaches, Goa is the perfect tourist spot. WIthout any exaggeration, Goa is all about beaches along with touch of Portuguese culture and historical buildings which differentiate the state from rest of the country. A tour to Goa takes you in a different world altogether, creating a perfect holidaying setting. Smallest state of India, Goa is situated on the western coast with the state of Maharashtra in the north and the state of Karnataka in the North. Having been a Portuguese colony for 450 years until it came under India in the year of 1961, one can see traces of its history at almost each and every corner of Goa. From architecture of churches to the stricture of old houses to the culture of the town to the lifestyle of people, one can notice dissimilarity from rest of the country.
With few of the finest beaches in the entire world, Goa presents amazing natural setting for relaxation. Be it having sunbath on the one of the beaches or having a barbeque under the moonlit sky or just having a relaxed walk with your loved one as the cool sea breeze caress you, Goa beaches are suitable for all. Trance parties on the beaches of Goa are also quite popular amongst tourists. apart from all this, there are enough of adventurous opportunities as well. Parasailing, paragliding, water skiing, surfing, windsurfing, sailing, water-scooters, and dolphin spotting cruises are few of the activities that attract water sports enthusiasts.
The beaches of Goa can be divided into South Goa and North Goa. Anjuna beach, Baga beach, Calangute beach, Chapora beach, Vagator beach, Miramar beach, Dona Paula Beach, are few of the beaches in North Goa. Some of the beaches in South Goa are Cavelossim beach, Colva beach, Bogmalo beach, Majorda beach, Benaulim Beach, Palolem beach which is also known as 'Paradise beach', Varca beach.
Along with beaches, there are various other tourist spots in Goa. Some of these are Albuquerque Mansion, Chapora Fort, various famous churches such as Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Augustine church, Church of St Francis of Assisi, etc. There are various beautiful churches in Goa because of which the place has been given the name of "Pearl of the Orient".
While on your Goa tour, do try authentic seafood. Some of the Goan dishes which mustn't be missed are Ambot Tik, Chicken Xacuti, Bebinca, Sorpotel, Chicken Cafreal, Chouricos, Prawn Balchao and Fish Recheado.
The best time to plan your Goa holiday is during the months from October to March. Visiting during the Christmas and New Year celebrations or during the time of Goa Carnival which happens mostly in February or during Feast of St Francis (December) can be a good idea.
