GOA - Short Trip Check List

Welcome to Goa – the land of clean sandy beaches, Portuguese culture, swaying palm trees, seafood curries and cheap booze. It’s a must on any traveller’s bucket list, a small trip to Goa is an injustice to its beauty and adventure but if you can just take out few days from your schedule, here is a check list of things you must not miss when in Goa.

1. So many beaches, So less time

Goa is all not only about scenic beaches but it is an important aspect definitely. Plan for half a day sightseeing and indulge in beach hopping. Visit Calangute, Baga, Candolim, Colva, Agonda and Palolem beach and enjoy the natural beauty, happening crowd, beach shacks and water adventure. Be it north or south, the beaches are truly mesmeric and one can chill out, sunbathe, relax or simply indulge in super thrilling water sports. If you just have 3 - 4 days in Goa.

2. Churches, all the best one

The preserved body of St. Francis Xavier is one of the major things, that pulls tourists here. Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Goa. Known as Old Goa Church, this marvelous structure is one of the ancient churches in Goa and an example of marvelous architecture, beautiful frescos, precious stonework and works of Dom Martin Basilica Bom of Jesus.

3. Beach Shacks and Night Club – Here you rock!

The nightlife in Goa is fabulous and offers amazing experiences for all. Enjoy this sizzling side of Goa, while you visit various pubs, clubs, shacks and lounges, taste the best of food and cocktail and dance with peppy live music. So, if you are a party animal like me, make the most of your short trip in Goa.

4. Casino – where’s the Lady Luck?

Try your luck and enjoy some the exciting games and you may earn some handsome amount of money. The casino offers package inclusive of drinks and food and offers amazing ambience and live music. Every casino opens from 9 pm until midnight, so whenever you are free take your lady luck and enter a casino.

5. Rent-a-bike – Fun on wheels

Get wet in rains this season. Hire a bike for Rs. 150/- per day and ride to every corner of Goa. Wear a helmet for your safety. Don’t drink and ride. Though it doesn’t make a difference to the cops there, it is for your own safety.

6. Forts – Don’t be surprised

Portugese have ruled Goa for the maximum tenure. They made marvelous forts that gives us a glimpse of their culture and foresight. Though you will not want to see all, see atleast the Aquada fort tucked by the Candolim beach. The fort was built to safeguard the Portugese community from Maratha and Dutch attack. Fort Aguada is counted as one of the most-visited tourist places in Goa which has become more popular after the shooting of Bollywood movie Dil Chahta Hain. So, even if you are in Goa for a short trip, make sure, Fort Aguada is in your itinerary.

7. Saturday Night Market – Here you go!

The Saturday night market is a buzzing place where tourists and locals flock to pick up trendy outfits, accessories, Goan handicrafts, ornaments, gypsy boxes and leather goods. Moreover, the market is dotted with food stalls, so if you wish to relish authentic Goanese delicacy, this is the best option for you. If one of your days in Goa is a Saturday, head to night market at Arpora for a hearty shopping scene.

8. Dudhsagar Falls – Magical

People will say its Far!. Your travel mates will suggest you to sleep for some more hours. But, don’t miss this, the 5th largest waterfall in India, Dudhsagar is one of the must-see places in Goa. Located near Kulem, this gorgeous cascade is a sight of delight and wonder. Enjoy the scenic drive of 60 kms from Goa to see how this mesmerizing waterfall gushes down in multiple layers amid thick luxuriant greenery.

9. Spice Gardens. Yes they exist!

The spice plantation is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Goa during monsoon that can be reached through a serene drive along the verdant valley and tropical forests. You can have awesome lunch there followed by some local wine. Its all coved in the entry fee and it is not expensive I promise. Take a try, thank me later.

10. Sea Food – Can’t we eat all day

Calling all seafood lovers! You can listen to the waves lap against the shore while you sip an Urrak cocktail and enjoy your choice of seafood Goa is the place for crab, prawns, lobster, oysters, mussels and other seasonal shellfish that you might be craving. The chicken steaks are juicy, tender and wonderfully prepared. Choose from a variety of desserts including the layered coconut dessert Bebinca and Creme caramel, two Goan favourites. Eat all day! Who’s stopping?

Time simultaneously will fly by while seeming to stand still. Days will be spent lazing on the beach, town-hopping via scooter, shopping at markets, swimming in the Sea, Adventure spots and snoozing in a beach shack. It’s tropical perfection at its finest. Isn’t it?