You may not have heard of the Indian state of Goa. One of its most distinctive features is that it was under the rule of Portugal for 450 years. In spite of it being an integral part of India, both cultures are very apparent. The Portuguese influence is visible throughout Old Goa – especially in the beautiful old Mansion Houses.
Carnivals, especially during Christmas and Easter, are a unique blend of both Indian and Portuguese religious and cultural traditions. You’ll experience Christian influences mingled with the Hindu celebrations of Divali and Holi.
The exciting night life of Goa has something for everyone, no matter what you enjoy. The larger hotels offer local singers and bands who can tackle selections from the 50′s and 60′s, as well as what’s currently playing on the pop charts. Even if you’re staying at a Goa vacation villa or guest house, folk singers can be called upon.
You’ll be amused to see the bread man delivering his fragrant loaves by bicycle, not once, but twice everyday. For such things as milk, butter and eggs, head for the shops.
If you are visiting Goa as the calendar heads for the monsoons of summer, be sure and to pack insect spray. Please consult with your doctor, who will recommend the appropriate malaria tablets, as well as other sprays and lotions for compating bug bites.
Before vacationing in Goa it is best to learn something about the place so you can be prepared. Air temperatures during the most popular months of November, December, January and February stay pretty much around 30 degrees celsius during the day under sunny skies. Evenings cool down a bit to 25 degrees. With lower humidity during this period and lovely sea breezes, air conditioning is not usually needed. This heavenly weather begins to deteriorate about mid April when the temperature and humidity begin to rise once again.
In Goa there is no need to remain confined to your hotel area. It is generally safe to explore the villages, beaches and countryside by foot, bus, or auto rickshaw. Many villas include a car and driver in their prices as well.
Goa is a vacation destination with so much going for it. One of the very best ways to experience the culture, see the sights, and get a taste of everything Goa has to offer is by staying in a Goa villa rental. This puts you much closer to the ordinary people than staying in a large hotel.
