Friday, February 20, 2009

Goa - Land of Plenty

By Ava Mason

Nestled on Indias West Coast, Goa's varied mix of culture and beach offers a unique introduction to India.

Most roads in Goa are little more than a tarmac indication of the direction you can travel. They snake along the countryside with nothing more than an arbitrary nod towards modern engineering and road construction. Around blind corners, cows - exploiting their sacred status - wander across the road regardless of traffic, earning them the nickname from locals of "Goan Traffic Police". In its own way the road system works - allowing day-to-day work and travel with minimum fuss and maximum noise.

As a holiday destination India has always promised a lot, and more often than not it delivers. Goa is no exception. Many are drawn to its modern resorts, vibrant bars and beautiful beaches. In recent years Goa's population has grown to over 1 million as migrant traders seek to make a living on its shores.

Land of Riches... This former Portuguese enclave has freed itself from its European colonial past, keeping much of what was good and ditching the rest. Now, Goa is a busy state and a wealthy one, too. There is tourism to cater for, fish to be caught, rope twisted and twined, and cashew nuts harvested.

For most visitors to Goa, the main attractions are the bars and beaches - and they are superb " as well as the hunt for that elusive bargain souvenir. The Goan or Nepalese traders have years of experience of what "special price" really means. They have another quality - patience. Their stalls are set up with meticulous precision as part of an ordered daily ritual.

Spirited nightlife and tranquil hideaways... Goa offers everything from hedonistic moonlit beach parties to tranquil restaurants by the beach. Baga in the north is Goa's largest resort and the liveliest. Palolem is a tranquil haven with a picture postcard beach. Old Goa, the state's original capital, is an atmospheric town where you can take a day exploring the colonial villas and grand churches of its colonial heritage.

A sunset to remember... Sunset on a Goan beach is greeted with a noise and an atmosphere. Villagers set up food stalls, sarong sellers offer silks and cottons, and children offer flower necklaces.

A glorious mix of Indian culture and European influences makes Goa a unique holiday destination. Set foot on its shores and you wont be disappointed.

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