Tourism portal - Paratourism

Indian resort Goa. Resort Goa - resorts of India

The busiest and most bustling of the quiet resorts in southern Goa is Colva, the oldest and largest resort, which retains a colonial style replete with fishermen's huts. The most crowded is the central beach. The “highlight” of Kolva is the seaside restaurants standing on stilts - like huts on chicken legs. The food here is amazing and there's also some nightlife at Ziggys and Splash. Among vacationers in Colva, young people and couples without children prevail, although other categories are also found.

Majorda



The most exotic resort in South Goa, the local beaches are surrounded by coconut palms and other strange plants. Holidays in Majorda are calm, but not devoid of activity. Here you can ride on water devices, play tennis, volleyball, and also try the fish of your choice. Be sure to try the baked goods; they are made here according to ancient recipes - using coconut milk.



The narrowest resort in South Goa, but also the most respectable. Celebrities, politicians and oligarchs like to relax here, including Bill Clinton and Paul McCartney. Of course, the location of the resort is a spit of white beaches, surrounded by water on three sides. Most establishments in Mobor can be safely classified as luxury.



In a sense, it is a “brother” of Mobor, where mostly respectable people relax. It’s quiet, cozy here, dolphins come to visit you, you can go on a boat to the sea and taste the freshest seafood that fishermen will catch before your eyes. Tourists also have the opportunity to go fishing themselves and then order dinner prepared from their own catch.

Palolem



This resort is called the “pearl” of the state. Fluffy sand, a calm sea - warm like fresh milk, an abundance of palm trees lining the beaches, nice people from all over the world - all this makes you come back here again and again. Due to the popularity of Palolem, it can hardly be called secluded, but it is still quieter here than in the north of Goa. In addition, there is a chance to go trekking, diving, canyoning and snorkeling, as well as communicate with dolphins (however, you will have to ask local sailors to take you to the dolphins by boat, but the residents of Palolem readily agree, because such a “trick” is their pride).



This part of the state of Goa is the most developed in terms of entertainment, dating, leisure activities and excursions. In the 70s, this area was called a mecca for hippies. Although those days have passed, the resort area has acquired a different appearance and has become more comfortable, however, the majority of tourists arriving in North Goa are young people who love drive, fun, intense relaxation and nightlife. Tourists vary in income level, but agree on the main thing - preferences. There are also older vacationers - former hippies, creative personalities and other lovers of life on the move. Join us, it will be interesting and fun.



The most Russian resort in India, jokingly called the “Russian village”. And this, in fact, is true - almost 80% of vacationers in Morjim are Russians, and some of them live here on a permanent basis, subsisting on rental housing in their homeland. Why is the resort so popular among compatriots? Why not? Large and still moderately crowded sandy beaches (without rocks), a gently sloping entrance to the sea suitable for children, a warm atmosphere (there are many couples with babies here), no fuss, excellent and inexpensive cuisine, as well as the opportunity to windsurf - what more do you need? to turn life into a constant holiday?!



If you love partying, then you need to head to Arambol, which is the “epicenter” of entertainment for hippies, freaks, junkies and other outrageous youth. Here you can watch and show various performances right on the street, arrange themed gatherings, and do yoga (the local famous yoga center, by the way, belongs to one of our compatriots). The local beach is long, you can find very secluded corners. Housing is budget, mostly bungalows. Arambol has a 24-hour party scene, but you will have to look for drinking, dancing, and luxury rooms at neighboring resorts. However, what happens here is much more interesting.

Mandrem



“Neighbor” Arambol is a quiet “oasis”, where mostly married couples with children and parents relax. This is facilitated by the gentle entrance, the absence of rocks and stones on the beaches, ideal cleanliness and a spacious coastline. There is good infrastructure here: there is a market, an exchange office, a pharmacy, cozy restaurants. Many tourists who arrive in Tandem are fond of meditation. If you want a dance party, head to neighboring Anjuna or Vagator (the road along the sea will take no more than 20 minutes one way).



Calangute, which was once (in the 60s) a leader among its kind, closes the top three hippie resorts. You won’t find tranquility here, but there are more than enough extraordinary acquaintances, meditation, yoga, massage. There are also karate courses. However, Calangute is famous not only for relaxation sessions; here you can also “have a blast” at a disco, buy souvenirs (merchants at every turn), and also enjoy amazing Indian cuisine. Don’t expect much comfort - there are few hotels, the beach is not pristine, but staying in a bungalow or guesthouse will cost moderately, and you will have plenty of money left over for entertainment and shopping. For young people - just the thing!



This resort is located in the center of North Goa and is famous primarily for its dance focus. Despite the imperfections of the local coast (rocks, steep descent into the sea, dark sand), Vagator is loved by many, because it is especially beautiful here, nature seems frozen in a wild state and there are few people. The accommodation at the resort is comfortable, the restaurants serve wonderful food, you can dance until you drop - why not, if you are energetic, love everything unusual and want to recharge yourself with vivid impressions?!



Anjuna is actually Vagator's "twin". There are also not the best beaches here, but it is fun, a lot of dancing, fun, laughter and unusual emotions. This is one of the rare Indian resorts where you can see a Goa trance party. There are moderate tourists in Anjuna, you can even find secluded places on the fluffy sand. Except for Wednesdays, when traders and tourists from virtually all over the state come to the village to stock up on souvenirs, clothes and other goods at the famous Flimarket, the largest in Goa.



The resort abounds with married couples with heirs, because there are comfortable living conditions and there are nannies who entertain children of all ages. Meanwhile, local bungalows and villas are no less popular than large hotels. Aguada is beautiful, cozy, has a good beach and you can stroll through a tropical garden, but nightlife is a little difficult, so you’ll have to go to neighboring resorts.



The least crowded resort in North Goa, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. There is little accommodation at the resort, so even renting a bamboo hut will charge you a decent amount. As they say, you have to pay for silence. Those who want to enjoy privacy, fluffy sand of an unusual dark color, picturesque landscape and local idyll - more than enough, local authorities do not keep up with the pace in terms of hotel construction. Often tourists who love Ashvem act wisely by making a knight's move - they live in neighboring villages and come here to relax on the beach. You can follow their example. The highlight of Ashvem beaches is the white tents with comfortable sofas, where you can enjoy Ayurveda, massage during the day, and parties in the evening.



Sinquerim is known for the oldest beach in Goa, which has been given the status of a nature reserve. However, its venerable age does not prevent the beach from always maintaining its “brand”, for example, offering water entertainment at the level of respectable European resorts. If you want to lie around like seals, and if you want to get in shape and recharge your drive, you can go surfing, snorkeling, diving, parasailing, and also play volleyball. The service in Sinquerim is impeccable, the infrastructure is impressive, but the prices are appropriate. The beach is not very wide (due to the advance of sand on the shore from under the famous sunken River Princess), but it is comfortable, quiet, and uncrowded. However, experienced travelers claim that the local authorities will soon deal with the ship.



They say that the beach in Candolim is the most beautiful in Goa. The resort abounds with decent hotels, shops and restaurants - more expensive than in neighboring resorts. But you don’t mind paying more for such a service, you’ll see for yourself. Relaxing here is a special pleasure, because there is a chance to “meet” dolphins. Candolim is said to be more similar in atmosphere to South Goa. There are plenty of married couples with children, but due to the steepness of the descent to the water, parents with small toddlers choose other villages. The highlight of Candolim is a crystal clear pond with huge red lotus flowers. The most beautiful vacation photos are taken in this place. Try it yourself!

Baga



Baga is the “cradle” of local tourism, since it was here that the first vacationers who came from other countries appeared in the 20s of the last century. True, then most of them were hippies, but now they are travelers of different backgrounds and ages. The range of prices offered by locals for accommodation and food is encouraging: you can find both budget options and luxury services. Baga is famous for its fish restaurants, as well as French and Italian cuisine. One of the most exciting entertainments in Baga is the nightly fish barbecue, and the fish used is freshly caught from the sea. The resort is also good in terms of shopping, at least in comparison with its “brothers”. Every Saturday evening there is a fair in Baga. It cannot be called the largest in Goa, but you can find exclusive souvenirs and replenish your wardrobe with colorful outfits. The beach in Baga can hardly be called large, but a wonderful river flows through the village, in which you can also swim. The children adore her. And experienced tourists strongly advise parents to visit one of the state's old-time disco clubs - the Tito's nightclub, which appeared almost 45 years ago and has not lost its popularity to this day.



Which Goa resort did you like it? Or maybe you want to travel around several or even all? It’s your right, you definitely won’t have to regret this decision, you’ll see!

All about holidays in Goa in 2020! Reviews from tourists, pros and cons. Prices for tours, hotels, food. The best resorts and beaches. Useful tips.

Goa is the smallest, most Europeanized and most touristic state in India. After a holiday in Goa, someone becomes imbued with eternal love for him, some even go to live, but someone can no longer be lured with gingerbread. We will tell you everything you need to know about holidays in Goa, and you decide whether to go there or not.

When is the best time to go to Goa?

High season. According to reviews, the best time to holiday in Goa is from November to March. The peak season, when the state is crowded with tourists and prices soar, is December-February. The weather is ideal: almost no precipitation, comfortable humidity. Water temperature +28...+29°С, air temperature during the day +33...+34°С, at night about +22...+24°С. In the evenings by the sea it can be cool, so take a light jacket with sleeves.

Low season. Some people go on vacation to Goa during the low season - this way they can save money and relax in silence. For example, in April the weather is still good, but it gets hotter and the wind gets stronger, and there are fewer tourists.

This is the weather in high season in Goa (Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / License CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Tours to Goa in 2020

Prices are for two people with departure from Moscow.

The most expensive holidays in Goa are for the New Year and Catholic Christmas. Prices jump sharply, and the minimum prices for tours to the cheapest 1-2* hotels cost from 90 thousand rubles per week, and in 4-5* hotels - from 150 thousand!

Much cheaper in January: a week's holiday in Goa in budget hotels costs from 40 thousand, in 4-5* - from 90 thousand. Prices for 11-night tours are only slightly higher - 10-20 thousand, and sometimes the same price as tours for a week!

In February and March, vouchers become slightly more expensive: a week in inexpensive hotels - from 45-50 thousand rubles, in 4-5 * - from 70-90 thousand rubles.

Advice. Always compare the cost of tours for a week and for 11 days - sometimes the prices are the same or the difference is small. Also look for last-minute tours - there are especially many of them in Goa.


Palolem Beach in Goa (Photo © tripster.ru / Unexplored beaches of North Goa)

How much do tickets cost to Goa?

Minimum prices for air tickets to Goa from Moscow and back in winter and spring - 23-28 thousand rubles per person. Flying from St. Petersburg is almost twice as expensive - from 42 thousand rubles. Tickets from Voronezh, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Ufa and Samara cost in the range of 42-45 thousand rubles.

Insurance. Before traveling to India, we advise you to buy a medical policy for your peace of mind. Apply for insurance on websites or - they compare prices from all major insurance companies. You can choose a policy according to the parameters you need and the best price. The policy costs from 450 rubles for 10 days.

Do Russians need a visa to Goa?

Yes, a visa is required. You can get it online, upon arrival (if you are flying on a tour) or order it in advance. According to reviews, most tourists apply e-visa in Goa online is the simplest and most convenient solution. You send your documents and pay the fee, and they will send you a document by e-mail that you need to print and show to the officer at the airport. Valid for 60 days. Price - $100 + $2 for payment by card.


Incredible view while traveling by train, Goa (Photo © unsplash.com / @jk)

South or North Goa - what to choose?

North and South Goa are very different! Find out how to choose the best resort.

South Goa: expensive and relaxing holiday. South Goa is almost 2.5 times larger than its northern counterpart in area and 3 times in coastline length. There are excellent sandy beaches, clear water and mountains. In the reviews, tourists advise families with children and those who want privacy to go to South Goa - there are fewer people here, but the hotels are mostly expensive.

North Goa: budget and party vacation. In the north of the state there are beaches with grayish sand of volcanic origin, not as beautiful as in the south. The infrastructure here is better developed, there is a greater choice of housing - from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses. And if the south is preferred by lovers of secluded relaxation, then in the north there are noisy parties and a vibrant nightlife. Mostly unpretentious people come here, their goal is entertainment. It was this part of the state that was once chosen by hippies in the 60s of the last century.

Previously a hippie vacation spot, now it is a popular crowded beach with hotels and restaurants. Locals love to visit Calangute; it is never empty. There are palm groves all around, and the dome of the temple rises at the entrance. There is also an art gallery with works by local artists. According to reviews of holidays in Goa, the main drawback of this beach is that it is crowded and intrusive from local merchants.


Calangute Beach (Photo © booking.com / Canopus by Vista Rooms)

Candolim Beach

The beach is clean and not as crowded as Calangute. But the descent to it is quite steep. Candolim is considered more prestigious: locals rarely come here, more often foreigners.

According to reviews from tourists, this beach in Goa is very popular among Indians and families come to relax. Mostly they crowd at the main entrances, so move 200-300 meters to the side - there are fewer people there.


Colva Beach (Photo © booking.com / C Roque)

Betalbatim Beach

Well suited for family and relaxing holidays, several hotels and shacks on almost 1.5 km of sandy strip. The most popular among our tourists is Nanu Resort Goa.

This beach is loved by Russians. Prices in Morjim are higher, but the infrastructure is developed - new bungalows, excellent restaurants, always well-groomed territory. The wave is well suited for surfing and kiting. All hotels are located in a green area one kilometer from Morjim.


Morjim Beach (Photo © booking.com / Larisa Beach Resort)

Arambol Beach

The beach has fine white-golden sand and is surrounded by cottages and huts. There is also a yoga center here. Arambol is popular among surfers and hippies, but the place is quite calm and peaceful.

Ashwem Beach

Ashvem is calm and uncrowded. Small warm backwater and shacks with varied cuisine. According to reviews, it is better for romantics and families with children to relax on this beach in Goa.

(Photo © Natesh Ramasamy / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC 2.0)

Goa hotel reviews and prices - 2020

Hotels in South Goa are better than hotels in the north. But in North Goa there is a lot of budget housing. The range of housing prices in the state is huge: you can rent a double room from $8 per night to $400-500 and even more.

There are many hotels here - choose to suit every taste! The cost of a simple double room near the shore starts from $8-9 per night, with many housing offers in the range of $10-30. Pay attention to hotel ratings and reviews - this is especially important in India.

Hotel prices in Goa in high season 2020 for double occupancy:

- beautiful territory, garden, separate bungalows, clean beach, delicious breakfasts, but there are also rooms with falling apart furniture and worn-out linen.
  • in Cansaulim - new rooms, spa and Ayurveda services. Cons: kitchen and slow staff.
  • Leela Goa 5* in Cavelossim - great rooms, great beach and good cuisine. A small minus - because of the river there are a lot of mosquitoes in the neighborhood, and there is nowhere to walk - there are only poor fishing villages around.
  • Bad hotels. The tourists left a lot negative reviews about the Valentines Retreat hotel in Candolim: old furniture and bathroom, poor food and poor service, it is better not to use laundries. They complain about The Golden Palms Colva 4* hotel - poor service, worn-out furniture, unpretentious food, which in the summer becomes too spicy due to the influx of Indian tourists.


    Top view of ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa (Photo © booking.com)

    Food prices in Goa - 2020

    According to reviews, prices in Goa pleasantly surprise tourists, they are so low here: a portion of soup costs 50-60 rupees, rice with chicken 100-150 rupees, shrimp - 150 rupees, tea - about 30 rupees, juice - from 50 rupees. True, you will have to pay at least 1,200 rupees for a lobster. .

    The main catering establishment is the beach shack. There is a kitchen-shed with everything you need, in front of it there is a terrace and tables for visitors. So primitive, but so delicious! There are dishes of Indian, Chinese, European cuisine, always seafood, chicken, rice, juices.

    In reviews of food in Goa, tourists call Cafe Maitree in Arambol the best and downright expensive - check the price of the dish in advance. If you feel homesick, go to Home Cafe Dacha in Arambol, where you can eat for 300-500 rupees. Rainbow Bar is popular in Morjim - tasty, inexpensive, good service, average bill - 500 rupees.

    Find out where else you can inexpensively vacation and live.


    Thali - several dishes on a tray or banana leaf (Photo © bionicgrrrl / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

    Administratively and historically, Goa is divided into northern and southern zones, the border between which runs along the mouth of the Zuari River.

    This division largely determines the features of tourism infrastructure and recreation, and also makes the differences between districts noticeable in terms of energy and atmosphere. There are still ongoing debates about where it is better to relax in Goa: in the north or south? To answer this question for yourself, it is worth understanding the distinctive features of these areas.

    It's been this way since the hippie movement, that North Goa is chosen by fans of active recreation, dancing, parties and other entertainment. People come to this part of India not in search of peace, but rather for new existential impressions and experiences, as the legendary Fab Four once did The Beatles.

    The local beaches are always full of young people, cheerful, noisy, easy-going.

    And in general, the crowd here is unpretentious: North Goa does not offer tourists ultra-modern hotels and elite service. Therefore, the conditions here are simpler and much lower than in the neighboring southern district.

    The best beaches in North Goa

    1. Arambol

    Arambol is considered the hallmark of North Goa - it is the most famous local beach and therefore the busiest. There are many bars, cafes (sheks), inexpensive hotels, shops and street vendors. Arambol is also known to tourists for its beach market and the so-called “drum circle”, which gathers every day to accompany the sun into sunset.

    2. Mandrem

    On Mandrem it is difficult to see a noisy, dashing company; it is more often chosen by married couples. It is one of the beaches in North Goa where it is better to relax with children. The conditional boundaries of its territory are two small rivers, one of which is crossed by simple bamboo bridges. On the sandy strip along the sea there are many shallow natural pools with sea water - children especially like to splash in them.

    3. Morjim

    This gently sloping sandy beach is a landmark in itself: locals jokingly call it “Moscow Beach.” The vast majority of tourists here are Russian speakers, and this trend is noticeable in everything: the names of dishes on the cafe menu, the vocabulary of traders, the music playing everywhere...

    Compared to other beaches in North Goa, Morjim is not a cheap place. But it’s very cool to go kiting and windsurfing here: hot, sunny and moderately windy weather is perfect for these types of recreation.

    Last minute tours to the best beaches of Goa

    4. Calangute

    In the eyes of tourists, Calangute is a whole town with a well-developed beach infrastructure: hotels, cafes, restaurants, massages, sun loungers on the coast, and much more. It is quite noisy and crowded here at almost any time of the year, but a variety of recreational activities are always available and guests of North Goa have no problems with accommodation and food.

    5. Candolim

    If it is difficult to decide where it is better to go on holiday in Goa, Candolim can serve as a “golden mean”. Perhaps this is the most respectable and “secular” beach in the district, closer in spirit to South Goa than North Goa.

    Prices here are higher, but the conditions live up to expectations: peaceful atmosphere, comfortable accommodation, developed infrastructure. The descent to the sea is quite steep, but this drawback is made up for by the beauty and spaciousness of the water surface, on which you can see the figures of kiters and windsurfers.

    Holidays in South Goa

    South Goa is considered in India a place of respectable relaxation, full of dignity and leisurely contemplation. A selective audience comes here: wealthy or even very wealthy tourists seeking high-level service and accommodation with maximum comfort.

    It is better to relax in South Goa for those who are looking for the opportunity to visit gorgeous beaches with light clean sand and stay in a 5-star hotel.

    Here you can be sure of additional services for the child (animator, children's room, etc.), which is why South Goa is often chosen for. In general, local resorts attract a mature and sedate audience, so late-night parties and noisy get-togethers are rare.

    Best beaches in South Goa

    1. Colva Beach

    The cleanest and most beautiful beach with a length of more than 24 km proudly bears the title of the best in the entire state of Goa. A flat sandy bottom, a gentle slope to the water, and a weak current make it safe, especially for swimming children.

    The conditions for recreation in this part of South Goa are different: from luxury hotels with spacious rooms to very small guest houses. Another feature of the place is its active nightlife: In addition to entertainment venues open after sunset, there is even a night market.

    2. Cavelossim

    A snow-white beach framed by palm groves with luxurious villas and a huge selection of entertainment: from catamaran riding and diving to fire shows and fireworks. Various excursions and trips around India are organized from here, including a boat trip with dolphins. And lovers of night discos will be pleased Party Zone, the No. 1 disco club in South Goa.

    3. Majorda

    Those who have ever been to Goa, India, have no question about where it is better to go on vacation - of course, to the Majorda resort! According to reviews from tourists, this is where there is a truly gorgeous beach with snow-white, fine and gentle sand, not to mention stunning scenery.

    Local cafes serve national dishes, have menus in Russian, and host entertainment events with dancing and music. One of the undoubted advantages is the opportunity to visit SPA, go on an excursion and play almost any sport: from volleyball to surfing.

    4. Palolem

    A relatively small beach in South Goa (only about 2 km) with atmospheric bungalows and boats on the shore. It is located in a bay, so there are no big waves here and water activities are simple and quite traditional. The sand is fine and soft, the surrounding area is clean and tidy, many cafes and shops are open, and the choice of holiday accommodation is practically unlimited: hotels, guest houses, bungalows.

    5. Cooking

    An uncrowded, well-maintained and beautiful beach with enchanting natural views. There is not much entertainment here: you can go cycling or watch dolphins. Prices for accommodation in local hotels are quite high, but the level of service corresponds to them.

    North or South Goa, which is better?

    Travel to North Goa if you:

    • you are going on holiday to India for the first time and want to get to know the lifestyle of its inhabitants better;
    • value the spirit of freedom above the comfortable shackles of civilization;
    • enjoy simple human joys;
    • You are young in body and soul and want to maintain this feeling for a long time.

    All about holidays in Goa in 2020! Reviews from tourists, pros and cons. Prices for tours, hotels, food. The best resorts and beaches. Useful tips.

    Goa is the smallest, most Europeanized and most touristic state in India. After a holiday in Goa, someone becomes imbued with eternal love for him, some even go to live, but someone can no longer be lured with gingerbread. We will tell you everything you need to know about holidays in Goa, and you decide whether to go there or not.

    When is the best time to go to Goa?

    High season. According to reviews, the best time to holiday in Goa is from November to March. The peak season, when the state is crowded with tourists and prices soar, is December-February. The weather is ideal: almost no precipitation, comfortable humidity. Water temperature +28...+29°С, air temperature during the day +33...+34°С, at night about +22...+24°С. In the evenings by the sea it can be cool, so take a light jacket with sleeves.

    Low season. Some people go on vacation to Goa during the low season - this way they can save money and relax in silence. For example, in April the weather is still good, but it gets hotter and the wind gets stronger, and there are fewer tourists.

    This is the weather in high season in Goa (Photo © Sergi Hill / flickr.com / License CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

    Tours to Goa in 2020

    Prices are for two people with departure from Moscow.

    The most expensive holidays in Goa are for the New Year and Catholic Christmas. Prices jump sharply, and the minimum prices for tours to the cheapest 1-2* hotels cost from 90 thousand rubles per week, and in 4-5* hotels - from 150 thousand!

    Much cheaper in January: a week's holiday in Goa in budget hotels costs from 40 thousand, in 4-5* - from 90 thousand. Prices for 11-night tours are only slightly higher - 10-20 thousand, and sometimes the same price as tours for a week!

    In February and March, vouchers become slightly more expensive: a week in inexpensive hotels - from 45-50 thousand rubles, in 4-5 * - from 70-90 thousand rubles.

    Advice. Always compare the cost of tours for a week and for 11 days - sometimes the prices are the same or the difference is small. Also look for last-minute tours - there are especially many of them in Goa.


    Palolem Beach in Goa (Photo © tripster.ru / Unexplored beaches of North Goa)

    How much do tickets cost to Goa?

    Minimum prices for air tickets to Goa from Moscow and back in winter and spring - 23-28 thousand rubles per person. Flying from St. Petersburg is almost twice as expensive - from 42 thousand rubles. Tickets from Voronezh, Novosibirsk, Kazan, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Ufa and Samara cost in the range of 42-45 thousand rubles.

    Insurance. Before traveling to India, we advise you to buy a medical policy for your peace of mind. Apply for insurance on websites or - they compare prices from all major insurance companies. You can choose a policy according to the parameters you need and the best price. The policy costs from 450 rubles for 10 days.

    Do Russians need a visa to Goa?

    Yes, a visa is required. You can get it online, upon arrival (if you are flying on a tour) or order it in advance. According to reviews, most tourists apply e-visa in Goa online is the simplest and most convenient solution. You send your documents and pay the fee, and they will send you a document by e-mail that you need to print and show to the officer at the airport. Valid for 60 days. Price - $100 + $2 for payment by card.


    Incredible view while traveling by train, Goa (Photo © unsplash.com / @jk)

    South or North Goa - what to choose?

    North and South Goa are very different! Find out how to choose the best resort.

    South Goa: expensive and relaxing holiday. South Goa is almost 2.5 times larger than its northern counterpart in area and 3 times in coastline length. There are excellent sandy beaches, clear water and mountains. In the reviews, tourists advise families with children and those who want privacy to go to South Goa - there are fewer people here, but the hotels are mostly expensive.

    North Goa: budget and party vacation. In the north of the state there are beaches with grayish sand of volcanic origin, not as beautiful as in the south. The infrastructure here is better developed, there is a greater choice of housing - from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses. And if the south is preferred by lovers of secluded relaxation, then in the north there are noisy parties and a vibrant nightlife. Mostly unpretentious people come here, their goal is entertainment. It was this part of the state that was once chosen by hippies in the 60s of the last century.

    Previously a hippie vacation spot, now it is a popular crowded beach with hotels and restaurants. Locals love to visit Calangute; it is never empty. There are palm groves all around, and the dome of the temple rises at the entrance. There is also an art gallery with works by local artists. According to reviews of holidays in Goa, the main drawback of this beach is that it is crowded and intrusive from local merchants.


    Calangute Beach (Photo © booking.com / Canopus by Vista Rooms)

    Candolim Beach

    The beach is clean and not as crowded as Calangute. But the descent to it is quite steep. Candolim is considered more prestigious: locals rarely come here, more often foreigners.

    According to reviews from tourists, this beach in Goa is very popular among Indians and families come to relax. Mostly they crowd at the main entrances, so move 200-300 meters to the side - there are fewer people there.


    Colva Beach (Photo © booking.com / C Roque)

    Betalbatim Beach

    Well suited for family and relaxing holidays, several hotels and shacks on almost 1.5 km of sandy strip. The most popular among our tourists is Nanu Resort Goa.

    This beach is loved by Russians. Prices in Morjim are higher, but the infrastructure is developed - new bungalows, excellent restaurants, always well-groomed territory. The wave is well suited for surfing and kiting. All hotels are located in a green area one kilometer from Morjim.


    Morjim Beach (Photo © booking.com / Larisa Beach Resort)

    Arambol Beach

    The beach has fine white-golden sand and is surrounded by cottages and huts. There is also a yoga center here. Arambol is popular among surfers and hippies, but the place is quite calm and peaceful.

    Ashwem Beach

    Ashvem is calm and uncrowded. Small warm backwater and shacks with varied cuisine. According to reviews, it is better for romantics and families with children to relax on this beach in Goa.

    (Photo © Natesh Ramasamy / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC 2.0)

    Goa hotel reviews and prices - 2020

    Hotels in South Goa are better than hotels in the north. But in North Goa there is a lot of budget housing. The range of housing prices in the state is huge: you can rent a double room from $8 per night to $400-500 and even more.

    There are many hotels here - choose to suit every taste! The cost of a simple double room near the shore starts from $8-9 per night, with many housing offers in the range of $10-30. Pay attention to hotel ratings and reviews - this is especially important in India.

    Hotel prices in Goa in high season 2020 for double occupancy:

    - beautiful territory, garden, separate bungalows, clean beach, delicious breakfasts, but there are also rooms with falling apart furniture and worn-out linen.
  • in Cansaulim - new rooms, spa and Ayurveda services. Cons: kitchen and slow staff.
  • Leela Goa 5* in Cavelossim - great rooms, great beach and good cuisine. A small minus - because of the river there are a lot of mosquitoes in the neighborhood, and there is nowhere to walk - there are only poor fishing villages around.
  • Bad hotels. The tourists left a lot negative reviews about the Valentines Retreat hotel in Candolim: old furniture and bathroom, poor food and poor service, it is better not to use laundries. They complain about The Golden Palms Colva 4* hotel - poor service, worn-out furniture, unpretentious food, which in the summer becomes too spicy due to the influx of Indian tourists.


    Top view of ITC Grand Goa Resort & Spa (Photo © booking.com)

    Food prices in Goa - 2020

    According to reviews, prices in Goa pleasantly surprise tourists, they are so low here: a portion of soup costs 50-60 rupees, rice with chicken 100-150 rupees, shrimp - 150 rupees, tea - about 30 rupees, juice - from 50 rupees. True, you will have to pay at least 1,200 rupees for a lobster. .

    The main catering establishment is the beach shack. There is a kitchen-shed with everything you need, in front of it there is a terrace and tables for visitors. So primitive, but so delicious! There are dishes of Indian, Chinese, European cuisine, always seafood, chicken, rice, juices.

    In reviews of food in Goa, tourists call Cafe Maitree in Arambol the best and downright expensive - check the price of the dish in advance. If you feel homesick, go to Home Cafe Dacha in Arambol, where you can eat for 300-500 rupees. Rainbow Bar is popular in Morjim - tasty, inexpensive, good service, average bill - 500 rupees.

    Find out where else you can inexpensively vacation and live.


    Thali - several dishes on a tray or banana leaf (Photo © bionicgrrrl / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

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