Archive for the Category »Goan Culture «

Shopping In Goa: Flea Markets, Malls And Night Bazaars

By Sanjog KR

Your trip to the beach state of Goa is not worth without shopping for the rarest of handicrafts and other local artifacts. The artisans in Goa are expert in designing such unique articles and items with natural elements like coconut shells, sea shells, wood, leaves etc.

Shopping is included in the priorities of the itinerary of every tourist in Goa. The state offers something special to buy to its every guest with varied taste. Bargaining is actually a fun while shopping in Goa. You can bring down the prices and make the purchase a worthwhile experience.

Markets in Goa are loaded with handicrafts, cuisine, spices, cashew nuts, wine and other interesting stuff. Goan markets are a mirror of Goa’s ethnic culture and let you enjoy the best of cosmopolitan culture.

If you are a fashion lover, you must try out the fashion shops located in fabulous old Goan houses. Traditional, modern and beach side outlets are ideal for memorable souvenirs. Panjim, Old Goa, Anjuna Flea Market, Mapusa Friday Market and Night Bazaars are paradise for shopaholics.

Tibetean Flea Market in Baga, Goa

Popular things to buy in Goa are:

  • Pottery & Terracota (flower garden pots, bowls with floral designs, figures of Gods-Godesses & animals, ashtrays and pen holders etc.)
  • Wooden laquerware/Wood turning (cradels, babycarts, toys, corner stands, etc.)
  • Crochet & embroidery (table cloths, children and ladies gartments, pillow and cussion covers, linen etc.)
  • Bamboo Craft (flower baskets, mats, and letter-holders, pen stands, fans and other decorative items)
  • Fibre craft (shopping bags, ladies purses, coasters and wall hangings, etc. made of banana or sisal fibre)
  • Jute Macrame craft (decorative bags, belts, wall hanging, lamp shades, flower pots, hangers, etc.)
  • Coconut mask carving
  • Sea shell craft (ashtrays, lamp shades, coasters, chandeliers, curtains, pot hangers, table mats, clocks, mirror frame, etc.)

These products can be bought at the most reasonable prices from beach side shops or the Government owned as well as private emporias. Goa Rural Handicraft and small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GRHSSIDC) is an authentic institution for these souvenirs. Shopping in Goa is must while on a Goa tour. Go through the Goa travel guide and you will come to know what special does this small state offer to its guests.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Goa In The Monsoon Season: Paddy Fields And Coconut Trees

By Aprana Singh

Goa is an all season holiday destination of India. Whether in winter, summer or during the monsoon, Goa looks amazing in every season. With the onset of every season, this tropical paradise of western India dressed up in entirely new attires to give pleasure to its native and welcome its guests.

Generally, vacationers who wish to spend great moments in Goa with their loved ones, prefer to visit the state during October to March. This time period is considered as peak season for Goa’s tourism industry.

But, if you are an avid nature buff and wants to enjoy nature at its best than you must explore this coastal state during the monsoons.

Goa in the monsoons

Goa Monsoon Attractions:

During this season of incessant rains, Mother Nature bedecked Goa and covers entire state with a green layer. Fresh intoxicating air, colorful flowers, new green grass and leaves are the prime attractions of the monsoon in Goa.

In this season, vacationers can engage themselves in various interesting activities within the territory of Goa. For instance, they can participate in wildlife safari to some of Goa’s national park and wildlife sanctuaries such as Bandla National Park, Mollem National Park and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.

While peeping into the wild world of animals in Mollem National Park, holidaymakers can also enjoy leisure moments near the Dudhsagar waterfall.

Apart from exploring these forested areas, holidaymakers can also visit the Savoi Spice Plantation near the Ponda. Another important activity in which travellers can engage themselves during their monsoon holiday is an evening boat cruise on river Mandovi.

Goa Monsoon Festivals:

The monsoon season in Goa is celebrated with utmost joy. To enhance the level of enjoyment of during this season, Goan people love to organise colorful festivals like Sao-Joao (the fertility feast of Saint John the Baptist). On the occasion of this festival, young village men jumps into the well and retrieve the fenni bottles.

Another important festival related to monsoon is the Bonderam flag festival, which is held on tiny Divar Island in the month of late August. If you want to witness all these unique things plan a trip now and enjoy Goa in the monsoons.

Goa-travel-tourism provides info on Goa travel.


Photo source abcdz2000

Goa Wildlife Sanctuaries And Parks: Not Just For Party Animals

By Sanjog KR

Goa is a destination known for its rich and vibrant collection of flora and fauna, mesmerizing symphony of sun, sand and sea, gourmet cuisines and eclectic carnival.

The geographical location of this place gifted it with a range of wildlife sanctuaries which are also a vital facet of Goa tourism. These wild sanctuaries and Parks are enchanting destinations teeming with varieties of wild animals, birds and plant species.

Some of the well known wildlife sanctuaries in Goa are:

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Goa’s only bird sanctuary which is located in Chorao Island on the Mandovi River. It spreads over an area of 1.8 Sq Km and is known for its rich collection of local as well as migratory birds.

This bird sanctuary is named after the India’s famous Ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali. It is among the well-known attractions and is known for several unique species of birds and plants. Some of the well known attractions are kingfishers, mudskipper, pintails, black drongo coots, egrets etc.

The mangrove ecology of this place nurtures several varieties of birds and plants. The exotic collection of 400 species of birds, including migratory attracts scores of tourists to this place. The best time to visit this place is from the month of October to March because the weather is pleasant and birds come here in plenty.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary was initially established as a refuge for injured or orphaned animals. Today, it is a well known wildlife sanctuary visited by scores of tourists from several parts of the globe.

The attraction of this place is a botanical garden, a rose garden and a small deer-park. Some of the other common species found here are bison, wild bear, deer, leopards, serpents and birds.

The best time to visit Bondla wildlife sanctuary is from the month of November to March because the weather is pleasant.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is located 53 km from Panaji in Sanguem taluka, South Goa district. It is the largest wildlife reserve in Goa which is spread over an area of 240 sq. km. This sanctuary is situated amidst deciduous and evergreen flora which makes it rich in natural beauty.

The Molem National Park is a well known attraction of this park which is known for its herds of deer and gaurs (Indian bison), Malayan giant squirrels, clusters of monkeys and python.

The wild beauty of this park attracts scores of tourists to this place every year. But from October to March is considered as the best time to enjoy the beauty of this place.

Goa Tourism is among the most attractive destinations of India visited by both national and international tourists. Goa Wildlife Travel will offer you fun, thrill and excitement & make your holidays memorable.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Goa Hotels: Where Foodies Enjoy Sumptuous Culinary Delights

By Chandan Kumar Sinha

With the gleeful carnivals, lazy evenings on beaches, tantalizing aroma of fish curries and the resplendent gesture of its emerald environs, Goa enchants and inspires its visitors with its delightful camaraderie.

Goa hotels similarly are evocative of a certain sense of bonhomie. Their main objective is to make the guests feel absolutely like at home when they are residing in it. These hotels in Goa are focused to make their rooms exude warmth and the ambiance to be refreshing and they have been very successful in their endeavor to do so.

Not only the rooms at these hotels are well equipped, but also they are very tastefully decorated for which they deserve a special mention. Another added advantage of these properties is the stunning view from the rooms, the beach resorts overlooks the ceaseless sea and most of the other hotels are placed amidst lush foliage creating a soothing ambiance for the guests.

The foodies on vacation in Goa find their perfect base at the luxury hotels in Goa. The famous luxury hotels known for offering sumptuous culinary delights are:

Taj Exotica Goa

Ranging from casual to fine dining and all day-eateries, the brand hotel of Taj offers numerous choices to dine at. The selection of cuisines and refreshing drinks are prepared by the expert chefs and their proficient teams. An array of cuisines is prepared to impress a diverse clientele residing at the hotel. The restaurants here are:

Adega Camoens: Superior quality beverages are served at this handsomely panelled lounge bar.

Allegria: Fresh flavors of Goan cuisine and delectable sea food is served with Portuguese Wines.

Eugenia: Ranging from traditionally prepared Indian cuisines to other Asian delicacies to satiate your taste-buds.

Li Bai: Try succulent flavors of Sichuan, Canton, Hunan delicacies.

Lobster Shack: As the name announces, this is a thatched beach view restaurant offering impressive selection of seafood.

Miguel Arcanjo: A feast of delicious Italian, Moroccan, Spanish and Provencal fares is on offer.

Taj Exotica - Lobster Shack

A quiet evening at the Lobster Shack at Taj Exotica, Goa

The Leela Kempinski

The hotel known for its distinctive hospitality and international standards offers a wide range of options when it comes to dining and wining perfect for all moods. Its restaurants are:

Jamavar: Most Goan hotels specialise in Indian food, but at this restaurant you will be served only the best of Indian along with special Goan fares.

The Cafe: By the pool this is the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate with coffee.

Riverside: A romantic setting by the Sal River with open terrace adding a magical ambiance and the perfect Italian cuisines the whole scene is nothing less than intoxicating.

Susegado: The restaurant keeps Portuguese flavours of Goa alive by offering most elegant seafood grill to its guests.

Yali Lounge: The majestic domes of the restaurant along with soothing live music serve for ideal settings for savoring cocktails.

Aqua: The entertainment lounge.

The Pool Bar: Serves choicest of cocktails and spirits by the pool.

These and other restaurants at five star hotels in Goa make dining a luxurious affair. Check out Nautilus at Bogmalo Beach Resort for a la-carte treat of delectable national and international cuisines. Visit Morisco at Fort Aguada Beach Resort to savor ultra-fresh seafood in the state.

© Chandan Kumar Sinha is a traveler who likes to share his experiences. All the articles published by him will help you understand India better and answer all your holiday queries regarding South India Tour, Travel to Kerala and Goa hotels. Find tourist info on travel destination, Holiday Packages, India hotels and much more.

Resources For Foodies:

Recipes From Around The World – Packed with more than 1000 tantalizing recipes from far away lands, the 2 volume set lets you serve and satisfy even the most sophisticated of cravings with inspired meals created fast and easy. Packed with more than 1000 tantalizing recipes from far away lands, the 2 volume ebook set lets you serve and satisfy even the most sophisticated of cravings with inspired meals created fast and easy.

Cooking Tips From Around the World: A Culinary Travel Adventure – An enhanced e-cookbook with recipes, tips, photos and videos from some of the best culinary professional worldwide. Travel to New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bali and Europe.

101 Camping & Outdoor Recipes – Food tastes better outdoors. Even campers who have never cooked anything more complicated than S’mores can make great meals and snacks over the campfire. Get 101 delicious, and easy-to-prepare recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are sure to make you a hit around the campfire.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com & Photo source Flickr

Adventures In Goa: Aquatics, Camping, Trekking And GoKarting

By John Michel Cane

Sun, sand and snorkeling! Those who love Goa are crazy about its inimitable charm that has attracted hordes of tourists over the years. Goa is a must for those who love the passion and excitement of adventure sports and is well known for the variety of water sports offered.

Snorkeling in Goa is one of the most fun adventure sports that you can enjoy while exploring its beautiful beaches. Those who like more variety, can get their adrenaline pumping with other sports like river rafting, kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving, go-karting and trekking.

Aquatics In Goa: Scuba Diving And Snorkeling

Goa has many sites to enjoy this particular adventure sport. Being one of the popular sites in Goa, Grand Island possess some of the most thrilling adventure scuba diving sites such as Suzy’s Wreck, Umma Gumma Reef, Davy Jones Locker, Shelter Cove, and Bounty Bay.

A day trip to Goa can include a visit to this place where you can enjoy these water sports more easily. In addition to the adventure you’ll enjoy the view of the beautiful marine life on this beach. The famous Barracuda Diving club and other clubs at Bogmalo beach provide specialized water sports training to tourists.

If you want to enjoy learning more about these sports then you get enroll in one of these courses. With exotic sea species and water sports, Goa is truly a haven for travelers. The best time to visit is from November to April.

Kayaking on Palolem Beach in Goa

Kayaking on Palolem Beach in Goa

Trekking, Hiking And Camping in Goa

The best months to go for trekking in Goa are from October to December. The Goa Hiking Association organizes a popular hiking program in Panaji by every year in the month of October.

Even in the month of December, there are various trekking excursions and family trekking trips organized in Goa. Apart from this, there are famous treks accessible in this very travel destination.

Goa is not only fun for treks and excursions but also for the ancient temples, churches and other sacred places that dot the landscape and add to its exotic look and feel. You can take in the Portuguese architecture of the houses if you take a road trip in Goa.

Goa Go-Karting

Go-karting is the newest craze in Goa. One of the finest places in Goa to go-karting is at Nuvem, on the Panaji-Margao Highway. This place is near south Goa and its 500 meter long track thrills its trekkers with a lot of twists and turns in it. Another go-karting track is located in north Goa near the Calangute and Baga beaches. It is 300 meters long and fun to drive in.

Whether you just want to relax and enjoy the waves rolling at your feet, take the pleasure of adventure sports or just enjoy the sea food and culinary traditions, Goa is the ultimate destination for travelers. Even on a budget, you can have a great time with adventure tourism in Goa.

Just Do India is India’s leading holiday tour companies offering various tour packages including trekking tours in India such as snorkeling in Goa, Himalaya trekking, trekking in Uttrakhand and many more places.

Additional Resources:

Camping Equipment – Buy Direct:
All of the family camping tents, canvas tents, sleeping bags, camping mattresses, camping furniture and camping accessories are direct from our own factory with no middle men involved – so you can take advantage of our discounts!

101 Camping & Outdoor Recipes – Food tastes better outdoors. Even campers who have never cooked anything more complicated than S’mores can make great meals and snacks over the campfire. Enjoy these 101 delicious, and easy-to-prepare recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are sure to make you a hit around the campfire.

The Hotel Bootcamp: A Travelers Guide To Staying Fit – The hottest guide for anyone wanting to stay in shape while traveling. Easy to follow with illustrated workouts you can do in the privacy of your hotel room. No more nasty hotel gyms!

Scuba in Goa – and those showoff puffers

Article Source: EzineArticles.com & Photo source Flickr

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