Goa Beaches are Just the Beginning of Your Vacation

“Susegado” – an evocative, exotic, emotive word used by the Goan people to describe their way of life, their desire to take it easy and experience everyday through their senses. But to sum up Goa in one word would be impossible. Although it is the smallest Indian state, it is definitely the jewel in a richly sparkling crown. The sapphire sea hugs an emerald, palm fringed coastline that entrances all visitors with its exquisite simplicity and stunning vistas. Temperate waters are home to a dazzling array of seafood that is freshly caught and prepared by the most hospitable people on the planet who ensure any stay in Goa is epitomised by glorious smiles at every opportunity. Azure skies, balmy tropical breezes and locations that embrace the soul make Goa a perfect beach holiday.

            As seductive as the whispering palms may be, to experience the myriad facets Goa has to offer, you need to extricate yourself from the sandy clutches of the beach and head towards the lush tropical interior of the country. Goa is one of the most bio-diverse spots on the planet, indeed National Geographic compared Goa with the Amazon and Congo basins for richness in tropical bio diversity. Travel only a few miles inland and you’ll find great rivers feeding picturesque inland waterways. As you travel further vibrant, green tropical plantations give way to jungle covered mountains - the great Western Ghatts, which are part of the reason for Goa’s rich plant, animal and bird life. ­Over 20% of Goa’s jungle interior is classified as national parkland home to exotic wildlife and a simply never ending array of stunning bird species. One of the best ways to spot Goa’s bird life is to take a boat ride down the rivers where you will also witness crocodiles, dolphins and the slow, harmonious village life on the riverbanks as you pass by. For animal lovers there are many jungle book excursions or head by Jeep for the Dudhsagar falls. Enjoy a dip in the refreshing pools at the foot of Goa’s largest and most spectacular falls, keeping one eye on the monkey who has one eye on your clothes!

           People have been drawn to the state ever since the Portuguese arrived in 1510. Their rule lasted right up until 1961, which marked the arrival of a more Bohemian class of travellers, the hippies, who embraced the simplicity and unrivalled warmth of Goa and helped to establish the more recognisable tourist trail of today. Both the Portuguese and the hippies have left legacies in Goa. The famous flea markets started by the hippies bring an eclectic mix of goods from around the globe and India for you to explore and discover exotic treasures amid the palms. However the greatest legacy of all must be the food. The Portuguese influence on the Indian cuisine creates a unique blend of mouth watering dishes and the global culinary experiences of the hippies have developed into an array of international restaurants which leaves you completely spoilt for choice.

Goa’s unique charm stems from not only years of trade but the cultural diversity contained in every street scene that you stumble upon. Goan people welcome all visitors without hesitation. You are not viewed as a visitor in their country, but a friend in their home. This engaging tolerance is most strikingly shown in the festivals that define Goa, with people of all faiths joining in the spirit of celebration together. Goa is constantly surprising to both the eye and the mind, stunning whitewashed Churches sit elegantly in the palms, Old Colonial mansions slouch elegantly at the end of hidden tracks and brightly coloured temples strike you as you travel round a bend in the road. World heritage architecture provides another essential ingredient to the irresistible mix that is Goa and nowhere is this more apparent than the charming streets of Panjim. Modern buildings provide a startling and intriguing contrast to the Portuguese colonial quarter, a wonderful place of colour and vibrancy.

 The real Goa, the one hidden down the village lanes, with bullock carts, swaying palms and a slow pace of life long forgotten to most of us, is just waiting to be discovered. In order to give yourself the time and freedom to explore this extraordinary country on your own terms you need to find a special private villa that encapsulates the sensuous nature of Goa through design and service, making your holiday an experience you’ll savour forever. Location is everything and these villas offer the discerning traveller a chance to immerse themselves in village life whilst being mere moments from the beach. Swimming pools and Jacuzzis offer weary explorers a chance to unwind before sampling the next delicacy Goa has to offer. Many private villas even have their own car and driver allowing you the freedom to follow your heart, the guide book or even, return to favourites time after time!