Asia Pacific · India
Goa Travel Guide
Goa is India's beach paradise — a former Portuguese colony with golden sand beaches, whitewashed churches, spice plantations, and a laid-back vibe unlike anywhere else in India.
How Do You Get Around?
Taxi from port to Old Goa (20 min), Panjim (25 min), or beaches (40-60 min).
What Can You See?
Old Goa — UNESCO churches. Basilica of Bom Jesus (St Francis Xavier's remains), Se Cathedral.
Panjim — Goa's capital. Latin Quarter with colourful Portuguese houses, riverside promenade.
Spice plantation — Tour with traditional lunch. See cardamom, pepper, vanilla, cinnamon growing.
Beaches — Anjuna (hippie market), Calangute (popular), Palolem (beautiful crescent).
Where Should You Eat?
Fish curry rice: Goa's staple — spicy coconut fish curry with rice.
Vindaloo: The original Goan version (pork in vinegar and garlic) is different from British curry house vindaloo.
Bebinca: Goan layered coconut pudding. 16 layers of eggy goodness.
Worth Exploring Independently?
Taxis are cheap. Old Goa and Panjim are the closest. Beaches require 40-60 min drive.
Useful Local Phrases
Namaste
Hello
(nah-mah-STAY)
Dev borem korum (Konkani)
God bless
(dev BOH-rem KOH-room)
Local Tips
- •Old Goa has UNESCO-listed Portuguese churches — Basilica of Bom Jesus houses St Francis Xavier's remains.
- •Goan food is unique in India — Portuguese-influenced with vindaloo, xacuti, and seafood.
- •Anjuna and Calangute are the most popular beaches (40-60 min from port).
- •Spice plantations offer tours with lunch (500-1,000 INR).