Goa is one of those places that turns out to be different than you expect. Unlike the rest of India, which was heavily influenced by British Imperialism, Goa was a colony of Portugal. This makes India’s smallest state a unique atmosphere of modern India infused with Portuguese colonialism. Located on India’s west coast, Goa is known for its beaches, its famed architecture, and its ancient temples. However, hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit each year will also find increasingly modern cities with shopping, nightlife and five star hotels in Goa.
As a port, Goa was second only to Libson as a Portuguese trade and commercial center. Today, this coastal region offers tourists two benefits: beaches and seafood. The beaches offer a range of expereiences. Some are small and quiet, while others are crowded, active destinations. Anjuna Beach is home to a weekly flea market and the Albuquerque Mansion. Most beaches offer sparkling waters and golden sand. Take advantage of opportunites like parasailing and diving to get a non-traditional view of Goa.
Goan cuisine is famous for its seafood. Xit koki (rice with fish curry) is a dietary staple. Elaborate recipes involving chili peppers and spices create a wide variety of fish dishes. Khatkhate is a vegetable stew native to Goan that is popular during both Christian and Hindu celebrations. Other native Goan dishes include Sannas (a type of idli), Koilori (a variation of dosa), and bebinca (an egg-based sweet dish that is popular at Christmas).
Goa is home to a number of historic sites, some of them religious in nature. Bom Jesus Basilica and the mangueshi Temple are two of these. There are also several forts in the area as well as museums such as the Goa State Museum and the Houses of Goa which is an architectual museum and the Naval Aviation Museum.
Many visitors are drawn to Goa as an entry point to India – a charming, slower-paced alternative to the large metropolitan destinations. Once they arrive, however, visitors discover that Goa is so much more than they expected.
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