As the sky turns from pastel pink to a dark peach and finally dusky orange, this place is brought alive. The tropical state of Goa being the smallest in India, simply doesn’t need any introduction. It contributes to one of the most sought after destinations due to its scenic beaches, pristine waters, pure white sand and party vibes. Calm Shores, thrilling water sports, luscious and unusual food, it’s all you need as beach therapy; that’s what this entire place is about! Much of Old Goa retains its essence from the Portuguese era, making one fully addicted to its vivid houses and iconic handcrafts.

Baga Beach, the most popular of all Goan beaches, is well known for it’s water sports, barbecues and awaited parties.  The little pubs offering foot-tapping music and serving authentic Goan cuisine, lighten up this seaside town. The most famous beach amongst foreigners and back-packer hippies is the Anjuna beach where one can get cheap stays and enjoy jet skiing and paragliding; this is a perfect paradise for beach lovers. Ayurvedic and Reiki massages are available on the beach front. Calangute, Colva, Vagator, Morjim Beach and The Dona Paula Beach are a few of the other popular beaches worth a visit.

Goan Cuisine represents a mix of the east and west through a perfect blend. Goa offers a broad sweep through its cooking due to its unique approach towards the consequences of historical events that have taken place in the past. This cuisine is influenced by the doings of Christianity and Hinduism but overtime, the cooking methods have been mixed together providing an authentic selection of delicacies. For anyone who is looking for broadening their culinary horizons and trying something new, Goa has plenty to offer from the Chilli Crab to the Prawn Balchao, the lobster to fillet of snapper, the Goan fish curry and Goan rice are all worth a try.

Most people assume that Goa has less of shopping and more amount of beaches, but they’re wrong. Goa is the flea and night market hub! It offers a variety of handicrafts, designer wear, comfortable beach wear, oxidise jewellery and several more. If you’re low budget shopaholic then Goa will get you the best bargain! The Anjuna Flea Market takes place every Wednesday in North Goa and you can fetch yourself anything and everything funky right from beachwear to souvenirs, wall hangings to junk jewellery. This one being the most popular is really worth a visit. The Calangute Market Square, Panjim Market and the Baga Market will surely grab your interest as a traveler.

When it comes to nature, DudhSagar Waterfalls is a four-tiered structure waterfall and is one of the tallest in the entire nation. Another creation by the Portuguese is the grand old fort of Aguada, dated back to 1612 accompanied by a one of a kind lighthouse and offers the view of Sinquerium Beach and the Candolim Beach. This fort is a great way to spend your day exploring it or simply sitting down to watch the sunset and enjoy the sea breeze. Bom Jesus Basilica is the most prime tourist place where the body of Saint Francis Xavier is preserved.

Goa indeed has plenty of amazing things to offer to its tourists right, from world heritage sites to beautiful churches and old Portuguese structures that one cannot miss. There is always so much more to be added to Goa’s to-do list each time you visit. As the sky turns from pastel pink to a dark peach and finally dusky orange, Goa is brought alive.