The best resorts in Goa. GOA is the main Indian resort and favorite place for a beach holiday. things to do in Goa

• Tours for May Worldwide
• Last minute tours Worldwide

According to legend, the first European to set foot on the soil of Goa - the Portuguese Afonso Albuquerque - wanted to exclaim “Wow!”, but choked on port wine - he was so amazed by the view. The colonialists immediately made Old Goa the capital of Portuguese India, recognizing that the buildings they discovered were superior in beauty to all the temples of the previously subjugated East. By that time, the history of India had already spanned more than 4 thousand years. The small Indian state remained under the yoke of Europeans for more than 400 years, until the mid-20th century, but it did not lose its identity, and it is now difficult to imagine a freer land.

People go to Goa mainly for beach holidays and Ayurveda - all diseases " big city“Here local massage therapists and other healers heal very quickly. Excursion program Goa is not rich; local attractions include the Dudhsagar waterfall, the village of Hampi with a bunch of ancient ruins, and popular outdoor activities include boat trips and fishing.

Hotels and guesthouses located in South Goa are considered expensive, and not only by Indian standards. They are popular among wealthy Europeans and wealthy Indians. The complete opposite is North Goa, relatively inexpensive, noisy and democratic - in the 60s. This place was chosen by hippies and stayed there. Today, the numerous villages of North Goa are inhabited mainly by partygoers from America and Europe, thanks to whom these regions have become famous throughout the world.

How to get to Goa

Goa became a tourist destination not so long ago, about 50 years ago, when hippies began to arrive on the coast along circuitous routes - by land and sea. In the mid-1960s. Dabolim Airport, the state's only air hub, opened its doors to international travelers. Since then, the Dabolim terminal annually receives about 200 thousand tourists from Europe and Russia. Travel time from Moscow is 7-9 hours, ticket prices start from 325 USD round trip.

Search flights to Goa

By train or bus

Some tourists travel to Goa by train. To do this, you need to fly to Mumbai and take a train to Goa there. This option is attractive because of its low cost - tickets to Mumbai are usually significantly cheaper than directly to Dabolim, even taking into account the cost of a train ticket. The train takes 9-13 hours, before buying a ticket, check if there is a stop at the station you need. There are also trains from Delhi to Goa, but you will have to spend about 30 hours on the road, and the savings are quite dubious.

Resorts of South Goa

• Dona Paula, Bogmalo, Colva, Benaulim, Palolem, Cavelossim, Mobor, Majorda.

What to try

Some tourists are cautious about Indian food, fearing the abundance of spices. However, Goan cuisine is as Europeanized as possible and least spicy compared to the rest of the country, so you can safely try it. However, while vacationing in Goa, it is really worth taking some precautions: drink water only from a bottle and do not buy food from street vendors.

Seafood is a kind of business card local cuisine. Crabs, shrimp, lobsters, clams, octopus, sharks, squid, lobsters, etc. Grilled or oven-baked, in coconut milk or semolina crust - the fish menu of even a small restaurant is usually quite varied. But people here don’t like to cook meat, especially beef, and in some places they don’t even know how to cook it, since the cow is a sacred animal for Hindus.

Pay attention to the Indian version of pilaf - “biryani”. The dish is prepared from rice and meat, chicken or seafood and is quite hot in taste due to the abundance of spices. When placing an order, do not forget to emphasize “note of spice.”

Another interesting local dish is “siesler”: a side dish and meat (or fish) are fried on foil or a frying pan and placed on cabbage leaves. The whole secret of the original taste is in the signature sauce, which each chef has his own.

Flatbreads in Goa are prepared so masterfully that they are often served as a main dish. Paratha flatbreads are baked with ghee and sour cream, and then served with spicy vegetables and spices. Garlic or cheese naan (other flatbreads), in turn, are inimitable when paired with tomato soup.

Many Indians adhere to the laws of Ayurveda - the “science of life”, according to which it is enough just to eat right to stay young and healthy for a long time.

Paneer tikka, a dish of traditional cheese rolled in spices and grilled, is also popular among tourists. Paneer can be prepared in dozens of other ways; this cheese is healthy and very popular in India.

Bean or lentil soup “dal” is also valued by tourists for its aroma and unique taste. This vegetarian dish, flavored with herbs and spices, is a daily food for most Hindus.

Most Indians are vegetarians; some restaurants and cafes (especially for locals) do not meat dishes in principle, local chefs have no equal in the art of preparing vegetables. Try sabji, a mixed vegetable flavored with spices.

Local desserts may seem too sweet, but they are definitely worth a try. Burfi, a milk fudge that may contain berries, coconut, nuts, saffron, rose water and other ingredients, has a very delicate taste.

Cafes and restaurants in Goa

There are cafes and restaurants at every turn in Goa - they love and know how to cook delicious food here. Shekis are especially popular among tourists - tiny shacks that line the beaches during the tourist season. These are local fast food restaurants - there is not much choice of dishes, but everything is cheap and tasty.

Shek food can be ordered directly to the beach lounger, and the prices in such establishments are very affordable - soup costs about 120-150 INR, shrimp - from 400 INR, cooked shark will cost 700-800 INR. For drinks - juices and smoothies (very tasty, by the way) - you will pay about 100-120 INR. It may seem that cooking conditions in Shek are quite unsanitary, but complaints about stomach problems are rare here. Each owner of the outlet values ​​​​his reputation, and rumors about stale shrimp and dirty plates spread along the coast very quickly.

Restaurants in Goa delight with variety: they serve literally everything - from Indian curries to bloody schnitzels. However, it is better to give preference to local cuisine; local chefs do it best, although there are also quite a lot of Italians with pizzerias here.

The average bill in a regular Goan restaurant is 1200-1600 INR; a dinner with alcohol for two will cost from 2000 INR.

Best photos of Goa

Entertainment and attractions

Old Goa

The city of Old Goa, built by the Portuguese colonialists in the early 16th century, is one of the most visited places in the state. First of all, it is famous for its architecture - over the centuries, Europeans built majestic cathedrals here, which are now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Particular attention of tourists and pilgrims is attracted by St. Catherine's Cathedral - the largest Catholic church in India and one of the largest in Asia. Here is the chapel of the Miraculous “growing” Cross, which was carved by a local shepherd in the 17th century. According to legend, the Savior appeared to the shepherd on this crucifix, after which the monks decided to erect a chapel around the cross. And it miraculously increased during construction to the size of the Calvary cross. They say the relic grows to this day, heals the sick and grants wishes.

The Goa Archaeological Museum is part of the complex of St. Catherine's Cathedral; it is located in the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Each of the museum's galleries is dedicated to a different historical period of the state. The museum exhibits both artifacts from prehistoric times, as well as objects from the Middle Ages and modern times.

The Basilica of the Merciful Jesus (Bon Jesus) in Old Goa is also a center of Catholic pilgrimage, as the relics of the Spanish missionary Francis Xavier are kept here. During the three years he spent in southern India, the preacher built about 40 temples, and after his death he was canonized and received the status of patron of Goa.

The current Church of St. Cajetan is considered one of the most beautiful and memorable temples of Old Goa. The building has been restored, so the appearance of the temple is truly impressive. In it you will see a wooden platform covering an old well. According to some historians, this well is the only thing that remains of an ancient Hindu temple that once existed on this site.

Fortress buildings

As you know, Goa was under the influence of European expansion for a long time; Portugal recognized Indian sovereignty over the state only at the end of the last century. In an effort to strengthen their positions, the colonialists built many forts in Goa. Today these are dilapidated fortress walls, but the views offered to tourists are exciting. It is strange to see silent military cities and cannons entangled in vines next to serene beaches.

The impregnable Aguada Fortress, located on the outskirts of Candolim Beach, is considered one of the best preserved fortifications in Goa. The fort was built in the early 17th century and served as a bastion against the Germans and British. The most significant building in the fortress is an impressively sized lighthouse, which is no longer operational today.

Chapora Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1612; it has been in ruins since the late 19th century. You can climb to the fortress, which stands on a hill, from Vagator beach. Essentially, these are just the remains of walls - sand and stones, but the fortifications offer stunning views of the ocean. There is a tradition among tourists to spend the last evening of their stay in Goa here.

Korjum Fort, built by the Portuguese in 1705, is located a few kilometers from the Aldona settlement. It is in good condition - the loopholes are best preserved, a sign with a coat of arms is visible above the main entrance, and very close by is the Catholic altar, to which flowers and candles are still carried. Guides tell tourists about a girl named Ursula Lancastre, who was so eager to serve at the fort that she dressed up as a man. After exposure, she managed to remain unpunished and even remained in the fortress, marrying the captain.

One of the most beautiful fortresses, Yashwantgad (Redi Fort) is located on the border of the states of Goa and Maharashtra, not far from Paradise Beach. The fort resembles an enchanted castle - powerful banyan trees and fancy flowers emerge from the loopholes, and the fortifications are permeated with vines. The pristine beauty of the nearby beach and absolute silence only enhance the overall impression of an ancient fairy tale.

Reserves

The largest protected area in Goa is Bhagwan Mahavir. The sanctuary occupies an area of ​​240 km² on the border with the state of Karnataka on the slopes of the Western Ghats. "Bhagwan Mahavir" is inhabited by elephants, tigers, bears, leopards, porcupines, as well as a huge number of birds, reptiles and insects. The famous Dudhsagar Falls and the Mahadeva Temple, built in the 13th century, are located on its territory. This is the oldest surviving temple in the state; in February-March, Mahashivratri, the “great night of Shiva,” is celebrated here on a grand scale. Those who do not sleep during the holiday are promised material prosperity and a place in heaven in the sacred books.

The small but very popular Bandla Nature Reserve can be reached by taking a bus from Panaji and Margao. Its area is only 8 square meters. km, but there is something to see there. During your walk you will meet elephants, peacocks, wild boars and huge squirrels, but dangerous predators- leopards and panthers - live in fenced areas. To see them, you need to be patient.

In the Cotigao Nature Reserve, 12 km from Palolem, there are no dangerous cats, but colorful tropical birds and insects live. The area of ​​86 km² has good trails and two observation towers. Due to the proximity of rivers, the vegetation here is so lush that sunlight has difficulty penetrating through the thickets where hyenas, porcupines and bears roam.

Not far from the city of Valpoi there is a large reserve "Mhadei Wildlife" - the residence of Bengal tigers, it is also known as the "tiger corridor". This predator is considered the national animal of India. But finding it in its natural habitat is not so easy; more often than not, their appearance in Mhadei is recorded by cameras, not by people. From time to time, local authorities question the permanent residence of tigers in the reserve.

The Salima Ali Bird Sanctuary, located near Panaji on Chorao Island, is home to about four hundred species of birds. The Kingfisher Kingfisher is often found here. This little bird is a unique symbol of Goa; it even became the logo of a popular Indian beer. This fact misleads tourists; some are even sure that this bird bears the name of beer, and not vice versa.

Storks, ducks and herons also rest in the swamps of the reserve. Visitors can meet otters, jackals, crocodiles and even flying foxes.

On the Mhadei River there is one of the most beautiful sights of Goa - the Dudhsagar waterfall, whose waters fall from a height of 310 m.

The waterfall is most active during the rainy season, but getting there during this period is almost impossible.

India remains the world leader in spice production. Chili, cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, mustard, turmeric, asafoetida, etc. are grown here. On numerous plantations you can not only see how all these spices grow, but also be treated to a well-seasoned lunch, as well as receive individual advice Ayurvedic doctor about the benefits of specific herbs.

10 things to do in Goa

1. Go to an Ayurvedic doctor and get cured of any disease without taking pills.
2. Do yoga on the beach and realize that chakras are not a myth.
3. Find the head of Shiva on Vagator beach, take a photo with it and show off to the less fortunate.
4. Go to a Vedic astrologer and finally understand your purpose.
5. Get a temporary henna tattoo - mehendi - just before departure to surprise your family with a fancy pattern.
6. Go to the market in Arpora, learn how to bargain and buy a bunch of clothes for three times cheaper.
7. Order grilled shark for dinner at a ridiculous price, and then try all the Goan seafood.
8. Visit an elephant show, watch them play football, climb on one of them and let yourself be doused with water from their trunk.
9. Dance until the morning at a trance party.
10. Pet the local cow, if it’s not scary, and thus receive absolution.

Trans parties

Goa is the birthplace of the trance music genre of the same name (it’s for the sake of mega-parties that crowds of people from all over the globe flock here), and a blessed place where people for marijuana are first threatened with life imprisonment, and then they wag their fingers and are released for ten bucks.

There are official places where you can safely come after midnight and dance wildly until the morning (for example, Hill Top, where admission is free for “whites”). And there are mysterious semi-legal “parties” about which until the last moment nothing is known: where exactly they will take place and whether they will take place at all. It all depends on whether the organizers are able to reach an agreement with local authorities. But literally a quarter of an hour after receiving permission, any local child will know the exact place and time of the disco, not to mention taxi drivers and sari sellers.

Popular excursions in Goa

The following excursions are especially popular among tourists: “The Gold of Vasco da Gama”, a cruise on the “pirate” schooner “Visiting the Banderlogs”, an excursion to Mumbai, a two-day jeep excursion to the abandoned city of Hampi and “Explore Goa!” - an excursion for respectable white tourists through the crazy night Goa of hippies and ravers.

The state's most famous natural attraction, Dudhsagar Falls, is also in demand, as is the Spices and Crocodiles tour to the Savoy Spice Garden and a boat ride along the Kumbarhua Canal in search of these cute animals. Extreme lovers will enjoy the excursion “The Jungle Book - 1” (one-day excursion into the mountain jungle, rafting on the river on bamboo rafts, lunch, elephant rides), as well as “The Jungle Book - 2” (a two-day excursion combining the program “The Jungle Book - 1” with a walk to a waterfall, yoga lessons and accommodation in clay huts).

Goa for children

Warm sea and sandy beaches do Goa great place For a holiday with children, the main thing is to choose a clean area with developed infrastructure. In this regard, resorts south coast can be called more suitable - the northern states are much more crowded than the south.

However, sun, sea and sand are not a guarantee have an interesting holiday. Goa has plenty of entertainment for children, including very young ones. Little ones will love a visit to the Butterfly Park at Pond. A great attraction for older kids is a walk to the dolphin habitats. School-age children will also be delighted by the local nature reserves, where rare animals and strange birds can be found. And a trip to an ancient dilapidated fortress, such as Fort Aguada, can be a real adventure for any “Jack Sparrow”.

The resorts of South Goa are not at all the bustling India, as in the northern part of Goa, because here you will not see crowds of people on the beach, young people having fun. There is light, almost velvety sand here, which is constantly cleaned. Relaxing on local beaches will give you a mix of peace and exoticism at the same time. So, which beaches in Goa are you definitely worth visiting? Read more about this.

How to get there

Planes usually arrive at an airport called Dabolim. From here to the place where the popular resorts of South Goa are located, the best way to go is to take a taxi. You can order transport at the airport counter, where you can find out the prices for it.

Of course, you can also go to public transport. First you need to get from Dabolim to locality Vasco da Gama. This can be done using an auto rickshaw. Next from Vasco da Gama they travel by bus to the capital city in the district called Panaji. Tourists then have to take long-distance flights to the Margao hub, and then from this point they can take auto-rickshaws to the resort of their choice.

Transport in South Goa

In the southern part of the region, people travel more by bicycles rather than motorbikes, as in the north. These places are flatter, tourists love to enjoy the view of palm trees on the way to the beach.

If you want to experience the Indian flavor even better, you have the opportunity to interact with the people of Goa using the bus service.

Is it possible to rent a car?

South Goa resorts (descriptions of which you will find below) allow you to rent both motorcycles, bicycles and cars. But if you expect to see polite drivers on Indian roads, then the local car culture will definitely disappoint you. It is customary here to honk loudly and cut off, so driving in this region can be a bit difficult for tourists. You can rent a vehicle with a professional driver, but the cost is quite high. For that kind of money you can ride a taxi all day long.

Beaches and popular resorts

If speak about specific places, then the resorts of South Goa (the list is given below) include many tourist centers. We will talk about them further.

Dona Paula (Goa) is a beach that couples in love especially like to come to. According to local legend, it was named so in honor of the daughter of the vice-governor, who jumped into the sea from one of the rocks out of grief. She did this because she could not stand the separation from her beloved, whom she was not allowed to see, because he was an ordinary fisherman. On this beach there is a chic sports club where you can exercise aquatic species sports

"Benaulim" (Goa) - these are calm beaches, next to which you can stay in inexpensive hotels. However, this is a fairly expensive resort for the average tourist. This place is located near the town of Kolva. Goa is perfect for a relaxing holiday. Therefore, here everyone will find something to their liking. "Benaulim" (Goa) is located between the Sal River and the coast of the Arabian Sea.

Betul is considered to be the most inaccessible beach. This is a place where tourists get to by boat, but this is where you can try the most delicious mussels in the area.

Colva (Goa) is one of the main recreation centers for tourists throughout South Goa, but it is here that you can find inexpensive hotels and dine in affordable establishments, where travelers like to watch entertainment shows in the evenings.

Truly luxurious hotels are located on a strip of coastline that is considered Palopem Beach. This is one of the best and most famous places in the world. This beach is perfect for a comfortable, truly heavenly holiday.

The long spit of sand called Mobor is surrounded by water, so many tourists come to see the beautiful islands and dunes. Don't be upset if you see a sign on one of the beaches stating that it is private property. All land off the coast in India is state, municipal property. Therefore, you can relax peacefully on the beach.

Souvenirs from Goa

In North Goa you can buy many souvenirs that will remind you on cold autumn evenings of the warm and mysterious India. Local flavor is a staple commodity in this region. Many tourists purchase national costumes (sari and traditional pants), home-made fabrics, and bedspreads embroidered with decorative elements. Also popular here are bags made of genuine leather, cosmetics of natural origin, and aromatic products. In addition, in local shops, sellers offer inexpensive metal jewelry (mostly bronze and silver).

Local kitchen

The local resorts are mainly popular for their fish delicacies and seafood. Here you can try fresh dishes from mussels, octopus, squid, and shrimp prepared according to special recipes; feast on oysters, lobsters, etc. As for fish, in Goa you can choose from tuna, shark, lambret, etc. Typically, seafood is fried, baked and served in combination with vegetables. Sauce also comes in handy.

If you are wondering what you can eat in Goa, then on the beaches local residents they sell flatbreads stuffed with vegetables, chicken and fruits.

What to do and see in South Goa?

The main attraction of the region is Old Goa. A visit to the ancient capital is on the list of must-do activities for tourists. IN historical center The city has many architectural monuments. Travelers especially like the Church of St. Catherine, visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.

If you love scuba diving, you'll love the island of Bath, where you can see reef life in the clear waters.

Those who prefer outdoor recreation can enjoy a sightseeing trip to Dudhsagar. This high waterfall, and near it there is a spice plantation, which tourists also willingly visit.

In addition, travelers like to go to a protected area called Kotigar. Here they live under ancient trees rare species Indian birds and animals. Tourists expect to see wild cats, but they are not frequent visitors during the day. However, don’t despair, because you can see monkeys or wild boar.

Not far from the site where the Bogmalo beach is located, there is a museum complex that tells visitors about military aviation. There are models and mock-ups of various vehicles, as well as samples of uniforms worn by Indian pilots during the war.

For lovers of architectural and historical monuments you'll like it the most ancient temple in the region. Mahadeva is dedicated to the great Shiva, and it was carved from granite around the 13th century. There is also a Museum of Crosses in South Goa, where you can look at ancient crucifixes and crosses, represented by a huge collection.

Weather

What time of year is best to come here for a holiday? What is the difference climatic conditions in the north of the region and in its southern part? In fact, the weather is almost always the same. This may be hard to believe, but natural conditions North and South Goa are almost always identical.

How long is the holiday season? It starts in October and ends in May. It is then that Russian and European vacationers come to South Goa. The daytime temperature here rarely drops below thirty degrees Celsius, and the water warms up to twenty-six at any time of the year.

The most popular period among vacationers is considered to be the period that begins in November and ends in February. But even then the humidity level is approximately seventy percent. Do not come here in summer and early September, because at this time it rains in South Goa, and you are unlikely to be able to soak up the beach or explore the city's attractions.

The smallest state of India lives its own, isolated life. Tourists often argue about Goa resorts: where is the best place to relax, talking about it as a separate territory, without mentioning that it is just part of a large state. Culturally and historically, the territory of Goa is divided into 2 parts ethnically, culturally and according to the focus of recreation. Located a short distance from each other, the northern and southern resorts differ greatly in their structure and entertainment.

India state of Goa

The present state of Goa has rich history. Its territory either expanded, exceeding the area of ​​present-day India, or shrank and lost its identity. During the active conquest of the colonies, in 1510, the first European, Afonso d'Albuquerque, set foot on the land of Goa, sailing by sea. He and his army conquered the country and turned it into a colony. Ancient city– Old Goa becomes the capital under his rule.

The second governor was the famous Vasco da Gama. Under his leadership, Goa began to flourish. The territory increased from Mombasa - Africa, to Macau - China. St. Francis Xavier carried out his missionary work in the old city and throughout the colony, and he was buried here.

Old Goa had a large number of religious buildings. For this it was nicknamed the “city of churches.” The mixture of different traditions has given rise to its own original style, unique only to Goa. Temples, pagodas, churches and residential buildings delight with their facades and decor.

At the end of the 17th century, the British and Dutch ousted the Portuguese, first encircling the territories of the prosperous state, then conquering it. Old Goa fell into disrepair and buildings began to collapse. Of some, only ruins remain.

Goa acquired its current status as a state of India in 1961, when Indian troops ousted the British and occupied the territory. For a long time, Portugal could not come to terms with the loss of fertile lands. Only in 1987 did she admit her defeat and the independence of Goa.

What is the difference between north and south

The state is the smallest in India, stretching along the coast from north to south for a distance of 101 km. From west to east, its maximum width is 65 km. To see the sights, it doesn’t matter which resort you stay at. Everything is nearby, a maximum of an hour and a half drive one way.

Upstate

The easiest way to describe North Goa is to say that it is a favorite holiday destination for hippies. They were the ones who stood at the origins of the transformation north coast state to the resort area. Traditionally, young people who like to relax here relax leisure, noisy parties, and is not picky about living conditions.

There are practically no prestigious hotels in the north, 3 stars and below. The cost of tours is significantly lower than the average price. The beaches are mostly public, not very well maintained. On them you can meet crowds of local residents, wandering cows that cannot be touched.

But in the evening, discos and nightclubs open their doors to energetic visitors. Music is also periodically played on the beaches and festivals are held. At one time, the famous Liverpool Four, the Beatles, vacationed and performed in the north.

The north is much richer in attractions; more precisely, traveling to them by motorbike takes on average an hour less than from the southern resorts of the state. Experienced tourists advise going to northern resorts for those who:

came to India for the first time and wants to study the life of the local people, their culture and traditions

young at heart, despite the numbers on your passport;

enjoys simple human relationships;

wants to see the most beautiful places in Goa;

the spirit of freedom values ​​more than comfort;

a follower of the hippie movement and a Beatles fan.

To the resorts North Goa tourists are returning, able to dance and have fun all day long, then, if there is no hotel room, sleep on the beach for a couple of hours and continue to hang out.

South Goa

Lovers of a quiet, comfortable holiday come to the south of the state. The cost of travel is significantly higher. Resorts in the southern part of Goa are visited by people with good incomes and families with children. There is no noisy night entertainment here. Nature is inferior in beauty to northern landscapes. The sand on the beach is gray. But comfortable sun loungers, clean, high-level service.

Many hotels on the first line have 5 star hotels according to the international classification. Lots of shops, spas, sports clubs.

There are few attractions near the resorts. You can always rent a car with a driver-guide and go anywhere in the state and beyond.

To resorts in southern part Goa returns:

For family vacation;

comfort high level no everyday problems;

those who want to spend a unique vacation;

newlyweds;

lovers of nature and clean water;

those who want peace and detachment from the bustle of the city.

If you want to dance or spend the night listening to noisy music, nearby, an hour’s drive away, is North Goa with its nightlife and festivals. You can get there by taxi and come back.

The best resorts in north Goa

Resorts on the coast of the Arabian Sea are located nearby and it is not always possible to determine the boundaries. The beaches smoothly transition from one to another, differing in the types of sun loungers and the degree of grooming. Best time When visiting north Goa, it is considered winter. You can relax and swim well from November to March. The heat begins in April and continues until October. You can swim and sunbathe, but you can’t help but feel like you’re in a sauna.

Morjim

About 20 years ago, Russian tourists came to the small village of Morjim. They liked to relax in this place. Since then, the flow of our compatriots has only increased. The village remained several kilometers inland. Hotels, bungalows, restaurants are being actively built along the coast, shopping centers and other resort buildings.

Morjim is located at a distance of 27 km from the state capital of Panaji. The nearest airport is Dabolim a little further, 51 km away. To travel around India, you can use by rail. The nearest station is in Pernem, 20 km away.

A special feature of the Morjim resort is the large number of Russians. It is jokingly called Russian Beach. Not only are there many compatriots here, but in addition to local cuisine, the restaurants serve Russian cuisine. Many hotel staff and guides know the language of most vacationers. Thousands of photos of the resort and village have been posted on social networks. Every tourist considers it his duty to take a photo against the backdrop of the most beautiful places and post the pictures for general discussion on the Internet.

Prices for travel packages and hotel accommodations are above average in Goa. This is explained by the influx of Russian tourists. The beaches, 50 meters wide, are quite deserted, with developed infrastructure, stretching for 3 km. The sand is light, almost white and clean. The entrance to the water is gentle.

The road to the village of Morjim is difficult, confusing and not every driver will find it the first time. Tourists do not settle in the village itself. In addition to a hotel room, you can rent a bungalow or a separate house on the first line.

A palm grove separates the village from the resort. On the background beautiful trees Vacationers love to take pictures.

The beach, or rather all establishments on its territory, are closed by order of the state authorities at dusk. This is a manifestation of care for the most important attraction of Morjim - palm turtles. They swim to beaches in winter and lay eggs. In the spring, together with their newly born children, they swim away to another place.

Mandrem

The resort is different from most located in the north of Goa. It is difficult to meet a noisy company in Mandrem. This is a family vacation spot. Children enjoy swimming in the shallow natural pools formed in depressions in the sand strip along the water's edge.

The hotels provide conditions for children to stay. You can order dishes without curry - a traditional hot seasoning that is added to all dishes in India. Hotels with large areas have children's rooms and entertainment for children.

Arambol

The visiting card of the resort of northern Goa is Arambol. The busiest and most famous beach with yellowish sand. There are bars, cafes, and shacks along the trees. Behind them is a row inexpensive hotels with shops and trade on the street. In the evening, a “drum circle” gathers on the beach. This market comes to see off the sun. Merchants lay out their goods in the evening and joke that they came to admire the sunset.

Calangute

The resort differs from its neighbors with developed infrastructure. It is a whole town of hotels, bungalows, and cottages for tourists. Finding free housing for anyone who comes on their own is not a problem.

The Calangute resort welcomes guests all year round. Even in summer and the rainy season, there is plenty for guests to do. Noisy companies can be found on the streets of the resort day and night. Various types of recreation, everything for active tourists, who do water sports during the day, party at night.

Candolim

Candolim resort can be called a transition zone between north and south. There are comfortable 4 and 5 star hotels, nightclubs and discos. Prices are above average. The audience is mostly “respectable”. During the day, numerous kiters and windsurfers can be seen from the beach and the mountain above. The descent to the sea is steep, so families can relax with teenagers. Younger children will not be able to swim in the sea.

Tiracol

The northernmost resort of Tiracol has wild beach with a single neck. On its territory, the river of the same name flows into Indian Ocean. The hotel is located in a restored ancient fort. The wall around it and the rest of the buildings are dilapidated.

The hotel rooms are clean, comfortable, without pretensions to luxury. There is a restaurant on the ground floor. The windows offer wonderful views of the sea or mountains. The fort is located in the high point on the shore and surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Despite its location in the northern part of the state, the Tiracol resort offers its guests a quiet, relaxing holiday. Party-goers can go to neighboring villages and party until the morning.

Calm and uncrowded southern beaches

On holiday in south goa Respectable tourists come who have money to pay for comfort. The beaches have developed infrastructure and cleanliness. There are no cows visible on them and local residents rarely appear here to swim after a hard day.

On southern resorts, especially in hotels with a large surrounding area, all the necessary conditions have been created for families with children:

special menu in the restaurant;

high chairs and cots for babies;

children's rooms with animators;

slides and attractions on site.

At 5-star hotels, the beaches are white sand, clean and well-groomed. They may have limited access to outsiders. But at any time you can call the waiter and place an order.

Colva Beach

A unique calling card for a southern holiday. The longest sandy beach on the Goa coast is 24 km long. The weak current and gentle, even descent make it comfortable and safe for children. They happily splash in the shallow waters near the shore.

Colva Beach combines prestigious comfortable hotels with luxurious rooms and 3-star hotels and small guest houses. A quiet day's rest is complemented by active night life. In addition to bars and clubs, a night market opens at sunset.

Cavelossim

A small beach with white fine sand is framed by palm trees on the slopes of the Horn. Between them, in the first line, there are luxury villas and small hotels with luxurious rooms. The choice of entertainment is huge:

• viewsurfing;

  catamaran riding;

  walks along the coast on a yacht;

  fireworks and fire shows in the evenings;

  numerous excursions.

Children love walks in the sea with dolphins. Young people spend a lot of time at discos. Party Zone has the best disco club in South Goa.

Marjorda

The most visited resort by Russians in the southern part of the state. Amazing beautiful scenery, magical sunset, white sand on the beach. Luxurious rooms, quality service create suitable conditions for lovers of comfort who have enough money to pay for everything.

Cafes and restaurants serve national and European dishes. The menu is in several languages, including Russian. Vacationers can practice any sport, from surfing to beach volleyball.

You can visit spa salons, massage, fitness club. The resort offers excursions throughout the state and country.

It is enough to accurately determine what type of holiday is preferable and choose the appropriate resort in Goa.

Tatiana Solomatina

Which beach and resort to choose in Goa?

Good day, dear friends! I present to your attention a brief overview of the resorts of Goa. I visited some of them personally, friends told me about some of them, so I took the liberty of describing all the beaches of Goa. However, this is just my point of view, draw your own conclusions, there is a lot of information.

Goa is a great choice for beach holiday. There are gorgeous sandy beaches, warm, clean sea, comfortable sunny weather in season. However, all Goa beaches have their own characteristics, and if you don’t know about them in advance, your vacation can be completely ruined. This is what we will talk about in this article.

The state of Goa stretches along the sea for about 100 km. There are many beaches here, some have the names of coastal villages, but it is very difficult to determine where one beach ends and another begins, especially in South Goa.

The state is nominally divided into two parts, northern and southern. The northern part is more lively and prices here are much cheaper. The South is calmer, the beaches are cleaner, but vacations are more expensive. While this is of course a general characteristic, there are always exceptions.

Holidays in Goa are not only about the warm sea, the bright scorching sun, luxurious beaches and colorful tropics. Goa embodies the best features of Indian and European culture. Life here moves slowly. You will be able to feel relaxation and serenity. This perfect place for those who need a complete and comfortable rest. For everyone who has been to Goa, this place is something personal and special. After all, there is everything you need here: from calm, cozy deserted beaches to noisy entertainment areas. A large number of interesting and eventful excursions are organized in Goa, which will tell you a lot of new things about the culture and life of the country.

Holidays here are possible throughout the year due to the mild climate. But from June to September it rains, brought by tropical monsoons. In both winter and summer, temperatures vary from +23°C to +33°C.

Those who gravitate towards an active “party” holiday should choose the northern regions of the island, in central rest belongs to the mixed type - ideal for those who do not know what exactly they want from their upcoming vacation. In the southern part, life is more solid and measured; there are a large number of luxury hotels and well-maintained comfortable beaches. Everything here personifies comfort and sophistication.

The length of Goa's beaches exceeds 100 kilometers. There are centers for water sports on the coast. Diving will give you unusual sensations and impressions. This is an opportunity to see real sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, exotic fish, and stroll through underwater coral cities. In addition to a lush tan, beaches and sea, vacationers on the island engage in self-improvement, rejuvenation and weight loss. For this purpose, Ayurveda centers have been created, where qualified specialists will give a lot of useful tips about the basics of a healthy lifestyle, talk about proper nutrition, and teach you how to relieve stress and tension. All dishes served in cafes and restaurants are prepared from natural products.

Another type of recreation is excursion holiday. Typically, tourists visit Panaji and enjoy the scenic view of the mysterious Dudhsagara Falls with a lake containing crystal clear water. They go to see spice plantations, ride elephants, hunt crocodiles in the mangroves of Kumbarhua and Mandovi. Goa, like other regions of India, has a rich cultural heritage, a large number of architectural monuments.

Markets are regularly held on the island, where you can buy souvenirs for friends and family and do cheap shopping. Prices here are much lower than those set by street vendors. Remember that exporting spices, tea and local port wine abroad is prohibited. Many come here to enjoy the culinary delights of local cuisine. Perhaps the main one distinctive feature is the abundance of spices. In local restaurants you can order huge, freshly caught fish, which will be cooked before your eyes. Wash it down with local fenni alcohol and you will get an indescribable sensation. It is impossible to accurately indicate prices for holidays in Goa. They may vary depending on the area of ​​the island, hotel, resort and additional services, which you will resort to during your trip.

The quality of your holiday depends on its organization. Without knowledge of the matter, you can lose a lot of effort, money and time and not get what the island could give you. Therefore, it is very important that professionals deal with the formation of the route. Contact the specialists of our company. We will arrange for you best vacation in Goa.