Classical India Tour

Goa has a special place in my memories. It is the place where I met my husband and also because this was my first expedition alone. I had heard that the new year eve is celebrated with much fun and frolic in Goa. As I had been selected as a lecturer in a college and had been saving money for something special, I decided why not take a trip to Goa. I found that people in North India are much intruding and misbehaving towards a lone female traveler. Though I did not face such problem in Goa.

Goan history:

Often known as 'The Rome of the East', Goa was ruled by a great number of Indian kingdoms and dynasties from the 4th century onwards. The name 'Goa' is derived from the Konkani (The Goan Language) word 'Goyan', which means a patch of tall grass. Mythologically, Goa's origin is ascribed to Parshurama, a God of the Hindu pantheon. Goa became a Portuguese colony in 1510 following the urges of trade and demand of spices, cotton and indigo. Portuguese renovated Goa by erecting one of the great churches like the church of St. Cajetan and Bom Jesus basilica in Old Goa, which is a pilgrimage site for the Christians all over the world.

Goan culture

When you travel to Goa, "The jewel of India" you discover that they enjoy life to the fullest without getting tense about the unfavorable repercussions. 'Siesta' is an important part of life in Goa. I noticed shuttered down shops in afternoon, my host told me that the time from1pm to4 pm provides an afternoon nap to the Goans. Legendary Lata Mangeshkar is from Goa just like the classical singer Kishori Amonkar and the pop singer Remo Fernandes There is a vast representation of the gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon, which testifies to the catholicity of the people's beliefs as well as their mutual tolerance. Indeed, Goa is could be loved just for this rare quality which one feels imperceptibly on even a short visit.

Goa beaches:

Calangute is my favourite beach. It is the most famous and most crowded. if u love music, dance, chitter-chatter of countless people around you then Calangute is the place for you. The main road which leads straight to the beach is full of Kashmiri-run handicraft boutiques and Tibetan stalls selling Himalayan curios and jewelery. The high quality textiles from Rajasthan, Gujarat and Karnataka can be bought from here.

Anjuna Beach: Anjuna is known for its infamous full moon parties and for its flea market.

Baga beach: Baga is actually an extension of Calangute beach but it is secluded enough to gain popularity among the topless sunbathers, though it is not among the famous 'nude' beaches. It is difficult to arrange for the transport in the late evenings in the area as there are no buses to the place after the dark and it takes a long walk to the Calangute taxi stand from the beach.

Palolem Beach - is also known as "Paradise Beach". This beach is south Goa is about a mile long and it provides seclusion and idyllic scenery. If you're looking for a most unhurried and balmy beach experience, complete with the most breathtaking coastal scene, this is the beach for you.

Mandrem or Morjim: This is a place for those seeking peace and solitude. The beach stretches across three hamlets: Mandrem, Ashwem and Morjim. Divided by little creeks, these are spectacular windswept stretches of sand, devoid of crowds of people.

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