Planning your vacation to goa this time? Well Since, the place is a major tourist attraction you might need to reconsider your plan and preparations. No, by no means we are stopping you from going there but all we want is to make your trip extra enjoyable by giving you some tips. We have put together all the information you need for planning a trip to goa. From booking resorts in Goa to popular places to visit to even handling your money, we will guide you to plan your trip in almost every aspect. So, let’s get started.
How to reach Goa? Air, Train or Road
Basically, it comes down to your preference and your location. While if you are from north India, it might not be wise enough to travel via road, Railways or airways will serve you right. Most of the flights will take 2 hours on an average to reach Goa from any part of the country while it can stretch to even beyond a full day if you choose to travel by train. When it comes to booking a ticket it is more or less similar to Goa resort booking where the early bird will always grab a nice deal.
Create a packing list wisely and stick to it
Sunglasses, tank tops, flip-flops, hats, shorts, beachwear should be on top of your list. Don’t stick only to shoes because you cannot wear them to beaches. Also, pack one or two formal attire in case you plan to visit a fancy restaurant. If you are going to visit the churches and temple pack some traditional clothes as well.
Best time to travel Goa
All in all, avoid December and January. At these times all you would be able to encounter is a lot of tourists from different places but you are not on a hunt to find people from different regions, you want to experience the calm and chill. In our opinion, shifting your dates just a bit early in November or in February, will give you better time plus your total expense will reduce greatly which always sound good, right.
Rent a vehicle to get around
Assuming that your trip’s going to last a few days and you will probably travel a lot, renting a vehicle will make getting around more convenient. Immediately rent yourself a two-wheeler after arriving and just get started on your hunt to exploring this beautiful state. And yes, with a vehicle do not let yourself fall into a dilemma to choose between south goa and north Goa. You can easily explore them both with a little bit of timely planning.
Don’t limit yourself to popular beaches
Doing just a little bit of research on the internet will reveal a lot of beaches in Goa which are less crowded and thus, more peaceful and enjoyable. Well, there is no wrong in visiting the Calangute beach or Candolim beach but the crowded ambiance and a lot of rush will not be what you expect from it. Travel to some undeveloped beaches and you will find yourself closer to nature enjoying the peace and calm which will fill you full of energy.
Visit markets and play your cards right especially if you are a foreigner
Just like every other tourism state, be ready to encounter highly quoted prices for everything. Goa has got a lot of markets and you can grab some interesting stuff there but be ready to play your bargaining cards with the shopkeepers and if you are a foreigner, let’s just say best of luck.
Enjoy Goan cuisine and avoid getting spirited
Goan cuisine has some delicious foods and a lot of restaurants around the town serves some exotic dishes. Be open try the new foods be it the Goan food or the seafood. But, definitely, avoid drugs and alcohol especially on the beaches and other public places. Goa resort booking will give you chance to enjoy these new dishes.
Where to stay?
Goa resort booking is not easy as you have to be an early bird to grab some nice deals. Also, your budget plays a deciding factor in finalizing your choice and if your stay is going to last longer you can switch your options to renting a house in Goa.
Explore the state beyond beaches
Goa has a rich culture and unique history which goes beyond beaches and beers. Drive yourself to popular forts and churches around the town. Visit the heritage sites to get experience the Portugal influence. One of the best places to visit is the Fontainhas which is the heritage colony of goa and has some vibrant colored houses with red rooftops and state of the art nameplates.
Keep your money safe and spend wisely
Hotel reservations and travel expenses will definitely shave off the majority of your budget. For the rest of the trip, carry less cash in your pockets at a time but don’t rely on cards only. Keep filling your wallet again and again and carry it either in your bag or in your front pockets while avoiding the back pockets.
And the last piece of advice from us would be to travel with least expectations because this way you will definitely get more in return, Bon Voyage.
Author: Anjali Dixit