Resorts of India: Goa. The best resorts in India. Which Goa resort to choose? Houses, apartments, villas

North Goa is a territory of free morals, a favorite place of hippies, the birthplace of trance music. People come here for a budget beach holiday, to get acquainted with all kinds of spiritual practices and amazing beach parties.

General information

North Goa is one of two districts of a small Indian state, whose area is 1,736 km², and the population as of 2011 reaches 818 thousand people. Formed on May 30, 1987. Administrative center- Mapusa city.

Unlike the quiet and respectable south, beloved by older people age category, is the main refuge for yogis, downshifters, informals, partygoers and representatives of a wide variety of philosophical movements. This is an inexpensive, fun and bustling part of the state, where life does not stop day or night. It is here that world-famous events such as:

But even if you don’t manage to get to any of these events, don’t rush to get upset - there are always numerous bars, nightclubs and discos waiting for you, delighting with cheap drinks and rich entertainment program. By the way, most of them close in the morning.

How is North Goa different from South Goa?

As you may have guessed, North and South Goa are like two sides of the same coin, the difference between which is noticeable even to an inexperienced traveler. If the southern part of the state is represented by large hotel complexes offering vacations according to the “ all inclusive", then in the north you will find a huge number of budget hostels, small cozy three-room apartments and very simple bungalows located on the beach.

Prices for food, attractions and entertainment in the northern part of the state are almost the same as in the southern part. But in terms of cleanliness, the first one noticeably loses - due to the characteristics of the local contingent. There is a difference in the sand: if in the south it is yellow and fine, then in the north it is coarser, with an admixture of clay and volcanic ash, which gives it a rich gray tint.

As for the resorts of North Goa, they are almost always very noisy and crowded, and therefore are not suitable for a quiet family vacation with children. By the way, you will have to look after the little ones yourself - in the north, unlike the south, there are no special children's rooms, and it is difficult to hire a nanny. And one more important difference - the northern part of the state is incredibly popular among immigrants from the countries of the former USSR, so many local residents speaks Russian well.

When is the best time to come: weather and climate

Although the weather in North Goa remains warm all year round, the best time to visit this resort is considered to be from November to March. At this time, the weather outside is dry, windless and consistently sunny, conducive to a pleasant and quite varied holiday. At the same time, the peak tourist season are the New Year and Christmas holidays, which many European tourists prefer to celebrate under the scorching tropical sun. Finding more or less decent accommodation at this time is extremely difficult, so it is better to book a room in a hostel or hotel in advance. But in summer this part of India is not very comfortable - strong monsoons and almost constant rains will not allow you to go to the beach.

Resorts of North Goa

To understand where it is better to go to North Goa, we will give a brief overview of the most popular resorts.

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Calangute

It is one of the most developed resorts in North Goa. Represents the real beach town, which has everything for have a good rest– a lot of chain hotels, restaurants and cafes, sunbeds and massage therapists, spas, discos, bars and nightclubs. Previously, noisy beach parties were regularly held here, lasting until the early morning, but due to police actions, the scale of these events has recently decreased noticeably.

The coastline of Calangute cannot be called the cleanest, and almost everyone comes here during the Indian holiday season (May and October). local population. True, this does not bother many vacationers at all. Quite the opposite - the presence of Indians makes Calangute even more colorful. One of the most visited places in this resort is the Kerkar art gallery, where national Indian dance evenings are held once a week.

Arambol

With a length of 3.5 km, it is one of the longest on the Goa coast. Life here is simply in full swing: in the mornings, many fishing boats go to sea, during the day numerous vacationers sunbathe and swim, and when evening comes, they hold a fire show, organize folk festivals and walk fighting bulls.

The main advantages of Arambol include a smooth entry into the sea, a wide line of shallow water and the absence of stones. True, the holiday experience can be spoiled by stray dogs and humpbacked cows walking along the entire coast, but they have long become an integral part of any Indian resort. Arambol is quite clean. Umbrellas and sunbeds belong to beach necks. Among other entertainments, you can highlight a hike to a lake with soft clay, which has unique healing properties.

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Sights of North Goa

A holiday in North Goa would be incomplete without visiting the ancient architectural monuments, historical sites and numerous natural attractions that amaze with their genuine beauty. Each of these places is unique in its own way, but perhaps the greatest tourist interest is Old Goa, an ancient Portuguese city located a few kilometers from Panaji. Being the historical center of the state, it has a huge number of churches, temples, chapels and monasteries built during the Portuguese conquest of India.

History buffs will certainly be interested in the two-tiered Fort Aguada, another creation of the Portuguese, located next to the resort of Candolim. The fortress operates as a museum; it has a small restaurant and several souvenir shops. If you wish, you can climb observation tower lighthouse, which offers an excellent view of the watchtowers and high impregnable walls. The state capital, the city of Panaji, deserves no less attention, the most visited sites of which are the Fontenha district, Idalcao Palace, and the church Immaculate Conception Virgin Mary, Maruti Hindu Temple, ship casinos and Azad Maidan.

For connoisseurs wildlife You will enjoy numerous natural attractions, the most important of which are the Salim Ali bird sanctuary, located on the virgin island of Chorao, and the tropical spice plantation, located 6 km from the town of Ponda.

And, of course, one cannot help but mention the famous flea market, located in the vicinity of Anjuna and offering customers goods for every taste. If before this you did not quite understand what you can buy in North Goa, then after visiting it the answer to this question will be obvious - everything! And in order not to spend more than you should, stick to those purchases that will really pay off (Indian cosmetics, spices, tea, leather goods, jewelry, local rum, home textiles). A visit to the Anjuna flea market is worth it even for the most budget travelers. Firstly, it is not only possible, but also necessary to bargain there. And secondly, even without buying anything, you can have a good rest, get a lot of vivid impressions and fully enjoy the local flavor.

More detailed description look at the main attractions of the entire state of Goa.

When planning a vacation in North Goa, listen to these useful tips that will make your vacation at one of the most popular resorts in India even more enjoyable:

Comparison of North and South Goa, visiting the best beaches and cafes:

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When going to Goa, it is worth considering the specifics of this resort area. The quality of your vacation here depends not so much on the chosen hotel, but on your geographic location to a specific beach. Young people who prefer trans parties and nightclubs to everything else will be frankly bored in Candolim. Married couples will not like it in Baga.

We will tell you about the best resorts in South and North Goa, we will try to find the most beautiful beach and select places that are optimally suitable for small children. Let's swim!

Looking for a place to swim in Goa

The villages of Goa fill the coast so densely that sometimes they are a continuation of each other. In the vicinity of the resort villages there are many beaches - all of them are free, so take advantage of them to your health.

If you come across sun loungers, then they most likely belong to a nearby restaurant or hotel complex. At the resorts of Candolim and Baga you will have to pay for the use of sunbeds, in other places “freebies” dominate. Most often, ordering food at a restaurant is considered good form - this action turns you into a full-fledged owner of a sunbed.

The beaches of Goa are conventionally divided into northern and southern. Here are a few popular options:

• Ashvem;
• Arambol;
• Baga;
• Anjuna;
• Utorda;
• Candolim;
• Vagator;
• Cola.

The center of the most “unhinged” youth parties is North Goa.

Three most popular resorts in North Goa

The center of the most “unhinged” youth parties is North Goa. The beaches in the area are extensive areas, dotted with a huge number of three-star hotels. Holidays in the north are budget-friendly, noisy and fun. This is the kingdom of “package” tourists arriving from Germany, England and Russia.

We list the three best beaches in North Goa:

Cola beach on video

To get a better idea of ​​what a beach holiday in Goa is like, watch this short video, filmed by our compatriots. This is Cola Beach - they like it, what about you?

Best beaches in South Goa

Welcome to the respectable world of luxury hotels. Privacy and quality of service are at the forefront here. Visiting tourists are not particularly familiar with the area - the entire south is ideal for respectable couples with children.

The most comfortable hotels in India are located in the vicinity of the beaches of Cavelosim, Varca, Majorda, Utorda and Colva. This is a strip of pure snow-white sand, restaurants with quiet music and developed infrastructure.

The triad “Palolem – Agonda – Kola” deserves attention. These places are perfect for romantics, newlyweds and lovers of beauty. You can stay in a four-star hotel or a luxurious bungalow.

Let's designate the three best resorts in the South:

The triad “Palolem – Agonda – Kola” deserves attention.

Looking for the most beautiful beach

The opinion of most travelers agrees: the most best beaches Goa is localized in the southern part of the region. One of these resorts is Palolem. The beach is located on the coast of a picturesque crescent-shaped bay. Hills covered with coconut trees.

To reach Palolem, you need to take a plane or train to Margao. If you prefer to fly, you will have to fly to Vasca da Gama airport. There are taxis from there, the fare of which is fixed. Railway station is located near Palolem and is called Canacona. There are buses between Margao, the beach and the station, which will take you about an hour and a half.

If you choose Palolem, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• With the onset of the high season, all apartments and hotels are overcrowded. Make sure to make a reservation in advance.
• Columbus Bay is a cozy and environmentally friendly place to stay. An option for those who don't like fuss.
• You can go shopping on the embankment. There is a kingdom of souvenir and music shops, as well as tiny spice shops.
• For 250-300 rubles you can have a great meal in a restaurant.

The busiest and noisiest among the quiet resorts of southern Goa is Colva, the oldest and most large resort, maintaining a colonial style, replete with fishermen's huts. The most crowded - central beach. The “highlight” of Kolva is the seaside restaurants standing on stilts - like huts on chicken legs. The food here is amazing and there's also some nightlife at Ziggys and Splash. Among vacationers in Colva, young people and couples without children prevail, although other categories are also found.

Majorda

The most exotic resort in South Goa, the local beaches are surrounded by coconut palms and other strange plants. Holidays in Majorda are calm, but not devoid of activity. Here you can ride on water devices, play tennis, volleyball, and also try the fish of your choice. Be sure to try the baked goods; they are made here according to ancient recipes - using coconut milk.

The narrowest resort in South Goa, but also the most respectable. Celebrities, politicians and oligarchs like to relax here, including Bill Clinton and Paul McCartney. Of course, the location of the resort is a spit of white beaches, surrounded by water on three sides. Most establishments in Mobor can be safely classified as luxury.

In a sense, it is a “brother” of Mobor, where mostly respectable people relax. It’s quiet, cozy here, dolphins come to visit you, you can go on a boat to the sea and taste the freshest seafood that fishermen will catch before your eyes. Tourists also have the opportunity to go fishing themselves and then order dinner prepared from their own catch.

Palolem

This resort is called the “pearl” of the state. Fluffy sand, a calm sea - warm like fresh milk, an abundance of palm trees lining the beaches, nice people from all over the world - all this makes you come back here again and again. Due to the popularity of Palolem, it can hardly be called secluded, but it is still quieter here than in the north of Goa. In addition, there is a chance to go trekking, diving, canyoning and snorkeling, as well as communicate with dolphins (however, you will have to ask local sailors to take you to the dolphins by boat, but the residents of Palolem readily agree, because such a “trick” is their pride).

This part of the state of Goa is the most developed in terms of entertainment, dating, leisure activities and excursions. In the 70s, this area was called a mecca for hippies. Although those days have passed, the resort area has acquired a different appearance and has become more comfortable, however, the majority of tourists arriving in North Goa are young people who love drive, fun, intense relaxation and nightlife. Tourists vary in income level, but agree on the main thing - preferences. There are also older vacationers - former hippies, creative personalities and other lovers of life on the move. Join us, it will be interesting and fun.

The most Russian resort in India, jokingly called the “Russian village”. And this, in fact, is true - almost 80% of vacationers in Morjim are Russians, and some of them live here on a permanent basis, subsisting on rental housing in their homeland. Why is the resort so popular among compatriots? Why not? Large and still moderately crowded sandy beaches (without rocks), a gently sloping entrance to the sea suitable for children, a warm atmosphere (there are many couples with babies here), no fuss, excellent and inexpensive cuisine, as well as the opportunity to windsurf - what more do you need? to turn life into a constant holiday?!

If you love partying, then you need to head to Arambol, which is the “epicenter” of entertainment for hippies, freaks, junkies and other outrageous youth. Here you can watch and show various performances right on the street, arrange themed gatherings, and do yoga (the local famous yoga center, by the way, belongs to one of our compatriots). The local beach is long, you can find very secluded corners. Housing is budget, mostly bungalows. Arambol has a 24-hour party scene, but you will have to look for drinking, dancing, and luxury rooms at neighboring resorts. However, what happens here is much more interesting.

Mandrem

“Neighbor” Arambol is a quiet “oasis” where mostly couples with their children and parents relax. This is facilitated by the gentle entrance, the absence of rocks and stones on the beaches, ideal cleanliness and spacious coastline. There is good infrastructure here: there is a market, an exchange office, a pharmacy, cozy restaurants. Many tourists who arrive in Tandem are fond of meditation. If you want a dance party, head to neighboring Anjuna or Vagator (the road along the sea will take no more than 20 minutes one way).

Calangute, which was once (in the 60s) a leader among its kind, closes the top three hippie resorts. You won’t find tranquility here, but there are more than enough extraordinary acquaintances, meditation, yoga, massage. There are also karate courses. However, Calangute is famous not only for relaxation sessions; here you can also “have a blast” at a disco, buy souvenirs (merchants at every turn), and also enjoy amazing Indian cuisine. Don’t expect much comfort - there are few hotels, the beach is not pristine, but staying in a bungalow or guesthouse will cost moderately, and you will have plenty of money left over for entertainment and shopping. For young people - just the thing!

This resort is located in the center of North Goa and is famous primarily for its dance focus. Despite the imperfections of the local coast (rocks, steep descent into the sea, dark sand), Vagator is loved by many, because it is especially beautiful here, nature seems frozen in a wild state and there are few people. The accommodation at the resort is comfortable, the restaurants serve wonderful food, you can dance until you drop - why not, if you are energetic, love everything unusual and want to recharge yourself with vivid impressions?!

Anjuna is actually Vagator's "twin". There are also not the best beaches here, but it is fun, a lot of dancing, fun, laughter and unusual emotions. This is one of the rare Indian resorts where you can see a Goa trance party. There are moderate tourists in Anjuna, you can even find secluded places on the fluffy sand. With the exception of Wednesday, when traders and tourists from virtually all over the state come to the village to stock up on souvenirs, clothes and other goods at the famous Flimarket, the largest in Goa.

The resort abounds with married couples with heirs, because there are comfortable living conditions and there are nannies to entertain children of all ages. Meanwhile, local bungalows and villas are no less popular than large hotels. Aguada is beautiful, cozy, has a good beach and you can stroll through a tropical garden, but nightlife is a little difficult, so you’ll have to go to neighboring resorts.

The least crowded resort in North Goa, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. There is little accommodation at the resort, so even renting a bamboo hut will charge you a decent amount. As they say, you have to pay for silence. Those wishing to enjoy privacy, fluffy sand of an unusual dark color, picturesque landscape and local idyll - more than enough, local authorities do not keep up with the pace in terms of hotel construction. Often tourists who love Ashvem act wisely by making a knight's move - they live in neighboring villages and come here to relax on the beach. You can follow their example. The highlight of Ashvem beaches is the white tents with comfortable sofas, where you can enjoy Ayurveda, massage during the day, and parties in the evening.

Sinquerim is best known oldest beach Goa, which has been given the status of a nature reserve. However, its venerable age does not prevent the beach from always maintaining its “brand”, for example, offering water activities respectable level European resorts. You want to lie around like seals, and if you want to get in shape and recharge your drive, you can go surfing, snorkeling, diving, parasailing, and also play volleyball. The service in Sinquerim is impeccable, the infrastructure is impressive, but the prices are appropriate. The beach is not very wide (due to the advance of sand on the shore from under the famous sunken River Princess), but it is comfortable, quiet, and uncrowded. However, experienced travelers claim that the local authorities will soon deal with the ship.

They say that the beach in Candolim is the most beautiful in Goa. The resort abounds with decent hotels, shops and restaurants - more expensive than in neighboring resorts. But you don’t mind paying more for such a service, you’ll see for yourself. Relaxing here is a special pleasure, because there is a chance to “meet” dolphins. Candolim is said to be more similar in atmosphere to South Goa. There are plenty of married couples with children, but due to the steepness of the descent to the water, parents with small toddlers choose other villages. The highlight of Candolim is a crystal clear pond with huge red lotus flowers. The most beautiful vacation photos are taken in this place. Try it yourself!

Baga

Baga is the “cradle” of local tourism, since it was here that the first vacationers who came from other countries appeared in the 20s of the last century. True, then most of them were hippies, but now they are travelers of different backgrounds and ages. Pleased with the range of offers local prices for accommodation and food: you can find both budget options and luxury services. Baga is famous for its fish restaurants, as well as French and Italian cuisine. One of the most exciting entertainments in Baga is the nightly fish barbecue, and the fish used is freshly caught from the sea. The resort is also good in terms of shopping, at least in comparison with its “brothers”. Every Saturday evening there is a fair in Baga. It cannot be called the largest in Goa, but you can find exclusive souvenirs and replenish your wardrobe with colorful outfits. The beach in Baga can hardly be called large, but a wonderful river flows through the village, in which you can also swim. The children adore her. And to the parents seasoned tourists strongly recommend visiting one of the state's old-timers - nightclub“Tito`s”, which appeared almost 45 years ago and has not lost its popularity to this day.

Which Goa resort did you like it? Or maybe you want to travel around several or even all? It’s your right, you definitely won’t have to regret this decision, you’ll see!

The resorts of South Goa are not at all the bustling India, as in the northern part of Goa, because here you will not see crowds of people on the beach, young people having fun. There is light, almost velvety sand here, which is constantly cleaned. Rest on local beaches will give you a mix of peace and exoticism at the same time. So, on which Goa beaches definitely worth a visit? Read more about this.

How to get there

Planes usually arrive at an airport called Dabolim. From here to the place where the location popular resorts South Goa, the best way to travel is by taking a taxi. Transport can be ordered at the airport counter, where you can find out the prices for it.

Of course, you can also go to public transport. First you need to get from Dabolim to locality Vasco da Gama. This can be done using an auto rickshaw. Next from Vasco da Gama they travel by bus to the capital city in the district called Panaji. Then tourists have to travel by intercity flights to the Margao junction, and then from this point you can go by autorickshaw to the resort that you need.

Transport in South Goa

In the southern part of the region, people travel more by bicycles rather than motorbikes, as in the north. These places are flatter, tourists love to enjoy the view of palm trees on the way to the beach.

If you want to experience the Indian flavor even better, you have the opportunity to interact with the people of Goa using the bus service.

Is it possible to rent a car?

South Goa resorts (descriptions of which you will find below) allow you to rent both motorcycles, bicycles and cars. But if you expect to see polite drivers on Indian roads, then the local car culture will definitely disappoint you. It is customary here to honk loudly and cut off, so driving in this region can be a bit difficult for tourists. You can rent a vehicle with a professional driver, but the cost is quite high. For that kind of money you can ride a taxi all day long.

Beaches and popular resorts

If we talk about specific places, the resorts of South Goa (the list is given below) include many tourist centers. We will talk about them further.

Dona Paula (Goa) is a beach that couples in love especially like to come to. According to local legend, it was named so in honor of the daughter of the vice-governor, who jumped into the sea from one of the rocks out of grief. She did this because she could not stand the separation from her beloved, whom she was not allowed to see, because he was an ordinary fisherman. This beach has a gorgeous sports club where you can practice aquatic species sports.

Benaulim (Goa) is calm beaches, next to which you can stay in inexpensive hotels. However, this is a fairly expensive resort for the average tourist. This place is located near the town of Kolva. Goa is perfect for a relaxing holiday. Therefore, here everyone will find something to their liking. "Benaulim" (Goa) is located between the Sal River and the coast of the Arabian Sea.

Betul is considered to be the most inaccessible beach. This is a place where tourists get to by boat, but this is where you can try the most delicious mussels in the area.

Colva (Goa) is one of the main recreation centers for tourists throughout South Goa, but it is here that you can find inexpensive hotels and dine in affordable establishments, where travelers like to watch entertainment shows in the evenings.

Truly luxurious hotels are located on a strip of coastline that is considered Palopem Beach. This is one of the best and most famous places in the world. This beach is perfect for a comfortable, truly heavenly holiday.

A long spit of sand called "Mobor" is surrounded by water, so many tourists come to see beautiful islands and dunes. Don't be upset if you see a sign on one of the beaches stating that it is private property. All land off the coast in India is state, municipal property. Therefore, you can relax peacefully on the beach.

Souvenirs from Goa

In North Goa you can buy many souvenirs that will remind you on cold autumn evenings of the atmosphere of warm and mysterious India. Local flavor is a staple commodity in this region. Many tourists purchase national costumes (sari and traditional pants), home-made fabrics, and bedspreads embroidered with decorative elements. Also popular here are bags made of genuine leather, cosmetics of natural origin, and aromatic products. In addition, in local shops, sellers offer inexpensive metal jewelry (mostly bronze and silver).

Local cuisine

The local resorts are mainly popular for their fish delicacies and seafood. Here you can try fresh dishes from mussels, octopus, squid, and shrimp prepared according to special recipes; feast on oysters, lobsters, etc. As for fish, in Goa you can choose from tuna, shark, lambret, etc. Typically, seafood is fried, baked and served in combination with vegetables. Sauce also comes in handy.

If you are wondering what you can eat in Goa, then on the beaches locals sell flatbreads that are filled with vegetables, chicken and fruits.

What to do and see in South Goa?

The main attraction of the region is Old Goa. A visit to the ancient capital is on the list of must-do activities for tourists. IN historical center The city has many architectural monuments. Travelers especially like the Church of St. Catherine, visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.

If you love scuba diving, you'll love the island of Bath, where... clear water you can see the reef inhabitants.

Those who prefer outdoor recreation can enjoy a sightseeing trip to Dudhsagar. This high waterfall, and near it there is a spice plantation, which tourists also willingly visit.

In addition, travelers like to go to a protected area called Kotigar. Rare species of Indian birds and animals live here under centuries-old trees. Tourists expect to see wild cats, but they are not frequent visitors during the day. However, don’t despair, because you can see monkeys or wild boar.

Not far from the site where Bogmalo Beach is located, there is a museum complex that tells visitors about military aviation. There are models and mock-ups of various vehicles, as well as samples of uniforms worn by Indian pilots during the war.

For lovers of architectural and historical monuments you'll like it the most ancient temple in the region. Mahadeva is dedicated to the great Shiva, and it was carved from granite around the 13th century. There is also a Museum of Crosses in South Goa, where you can look at ancient crucifixes and crosses, represented by a huge collection.

Weather conditions

What time of year is best to come here for a holiday? How are they different? climatic conditions in the north of the region and in its southern part? In fact, the weather is almost always the same. This may be hard to believe, but natural conditions North and South Goa are almost always identical.

How long is the holiday season? It starts in October and ends in May. It is then that Russian and European vacationers come to South Goa. The daytime temperature here rarely drops below thirty degrees Celsius, and the water warms up to twenty-six at any time of the year.

The most popular period among vacationers is considered to be the period that begins in November and ends in February. But even then the humidity level is approximately seventy percent. Do not come here in summer and early September, because at this time it rains in South Goa, and you are unlikely to be able to soak up the beach or explore the city's attractions.

The smallest state of India lives its own, isolated life. Tourists often argue about Goa resorts: where is the best place to relax, talking about it as a separate territory, without mentioning that it is just part of a large state. Culturally and historically, the territory of Goa is divided into 2 parts ethnically, culturally and according to the focus of recreation. Located a short distance from each other, the northern and southern resorts differ greatly in their structure and entertainment.

India state of Goa

The present state of Goa has rich history. Its territory either expanded, exceeding the area of ​​present-day India, or shrank and lost its identity. During the active conquest of the colonies, in 1510, the first European, Afonso d'Albuquerque, set foot on the land of Goa, sailing by sea. He and his army conquered the country and turned it into a colony. Ancient city– Old Goa becomes the capital under his rule.

The second governor was the famous Vasco da Gama. Under his leadership, Goa began to flourish. The territory increased from Mombasa - Africa, to Macau - China. St. Francis Xavier conducted his missionary work in the old city and throughout the colony, and he was buried here.

In Old Goa it was large number religious and religious buildings. For this it was nicknamed the “city of churches.” The mixture of different traditions has given rise to its own original style, unique only to Goa. Temples, pagodas, churches and residential buildings delight with their facades and decor.

At the end of the 17th century, the British and Dutch ousted the Portuguese, first encircling the territories of the prosperous state, then conquering it. Old Goa fell into disrepair and buildings began to collapse. Of some, only ruins remain.

Goa acquired its current status as a state of India in 1961, when Indian troops ousted the British and occupied the territory. For a long time, Portugal could not come to terms with the loss of fertile lands. Only in 1987 did she admit her defeat and the independence of Goa.

What is the difference between north and south

The state is the smallest in India, stretching along the coast from north to south for a distance of 101 km. From west to east, its maximum width is 65 km. To see the sights, it doesn’t matter which resort you stay at. Everything is nearby, a maximum of an hour and a half drive one way.

Upstate

The easiest way to describe North Goa is to say that it is a favorite holiday destination for hippies. They were the ones who stood at the origins of the transformation north coast state in resort area. Traditionally, young people who like to relax here relax active recreation, noisy parties, and is not picky about living conditions.

There are practically no prestigious hotels in the north, 3 stars and below. The cost of tours is significantly lower than the average price. The beaches are mostly public, not very well maintained. On them you can meet crowds of local residents, wandering cows that cannot be touched.

But in the evening, discos and nightclubs open their doors to energetic visitors. Music is also periodically played on the beaches and festivals are held. At one time, the famous Liverpool Four, the Beatles, vacationed and performed in the north.

The north is much richer in attractions; more precisely, traveling to them by motorbike takes on average an hour less than from the southern resorts of the state. Experienced tourists advise going to northern resorts for those who:

came to India for the first time and wants to study the life of the local people, their culture and traditions

young at heart, despite the numbers on your passport;

enjoys simple human relationships;

wants to see the most beautiful places in Goa;

the spirit of freedom values ​​more than comfort;

a follower of the hippie movement and a Beatles fan.

To the resorts North Goa tourists are returning, able to dance and have fun all day long, then, if there is no hotel room, sleep on the beach for a couple of hours and continue to hang out.

South Goa

Lovers of a quiet, comfortable holiday come to the south of the state. The cost of travel is significantly higher. Resorts in the southern part of Goa are visited by people with good incomes and families with children. There is no noisy night entertainment here. Nature is inferior in beauty to northern landscapes. The sand on the beach is gray. But comfortable sun loungers, clean, high-level service.

Many hotels on the first line have 5 star hotels international classification. Lots of shops, spas, sports clubs.

There are few attractions near the resorts. You can always rent a car with a driver-guide and go anywhere in the state and beyond.

To resorts in southern part Goa returns:

for family holidays;

high level comfort without everyday problems;

those who want to spend a unique vacation;

newlyweds;

lovers of nature and clean water;

those who want peace and detachment from the bustle of the city.

If you want to dance or spend the night listening to noisy music, nearby, an hour’s drive away, is North Goa with its nightlife and festivals. You can get there by taxi and come back.

The best resorts in north Goa

Resorts on the coast of the Arabian Sea are located nearby and it is not always possible to determine the boundaries. The beaches smoothly transition from one to another, differing in the types of sun loungers and the degree of grooming. Best time When visiting north Goa, it is considered winter. You can relax and swim well from November to March. The heat begins in April and continues until October. You can swim and sunbathe, but you can’t help but feel like you’re in a sauna.

Morjim

About 20 years ago, Russian tourists came to the small village of Morjim. They liked to relax in this place. Since then, the flow of our compatriots has only increased. The village remained several kilometers inland. Hotels, bungalows, restaurants are being actively built along the coast, shopping centers and other resort buildings.

Morjim is located at a distance of 27 km from the state capital of Panaji. The nearest airport, Dabolim, is a little further, 51 km away. To travel around India, you can use by rail. The nearest station is in Perem, 20 km away.

A special feature of the Morjim resort is the large number of Russians. It is jokingly called Russian Beach. Not only are there many compatriots here, but in restaurants, except local cuisine They serve Russian. Many hotel staff and guides know the language of most vacationers. Thousands of photos of the resort and village have been posted on social networks. Every tourist considers it his duty to take a photo against the backdrop of the most beautiful places and post the pictures for general discussion on the Internet.

Prices for travel packages and hotel accommodations are above average in Goa. This is explained by the influx of Russian tourists. The beaches, 50 meters wide, are quite deserted, with developed infrastructure, stretching for 3 km. The sand is light, almost white and clean. The entrance to the water is gentle.

The road to the village of Morjim is difficult, confusing and not every driver will find it the first time. Tourists do not settle in the village itself. In addition to a hotel room, you can rent a bungalow, separate house on the first line.

A palm grove separates the village from the resort. Vacationers love to take pictures against the backdrop of beautiful trees.

The beach, or rather all establishments on its territory, are closed by order of the state authorities at dusk. This is a manifestation of care for the most important attraction of Morjim - palm turtles. They sail to winter time to beaches and lay eggs. In the spring, together with their newly born children, they swim away to another place.

Mandrem

The resort is different from most located in the north of Goa. It is difficult to meet a noisy company in Mandrem. This is a family vacation spot. Children enjoy swimming in the shallow natural pools formed in depressions in the sand strip along the water's edge.

The hotels provide conditions for children to stay. You can order dishes without curry - a traditional hot seasoning that is added to all dishes in India. Hotels with large areas have children's rooms and entertainment for children.

Arambol

The visiting card of the resort of northern Goa is Arambol. The busiest and famous beach with yellowish sand. There are bars, cafes, and shacks along the trees. Behind them are a number of inexpensive hotels with shops and street trading. In the evening, a “drum circle” gathers on the beach. This market comes to see off the sun. Merchants lay out their goods in the evening and joke that they came to admire the sunset.

Calangute

The resort differs from its neighbors with developed infrastructure. It is a whole town of hotels, bungalows, and cottages for tourists. Finding free housing for anyone who comes on their own is not a problem.

The Calangute resort welcomes guests all year round. Even in summer and the rainy season, there is plenty for guests to do. Noisy companies can be found on the streets of the resort day and night. Various types of recreation, everything for active tourists, who do water sports during the day, party at night.

Candolim

Candolim resort can be called a transition zone between north and south. There are comfortable 4 and 5 star hotels, nightclubs and discos. Prices are above average. The audience is mostly “respectable”. During the day, numerous kiters and windsurfers can be seen from the beach and the mountain above. The descent to the sea is steep, so families can relax with teenagers. Younger children will not be able to swim in the sea.

Tiracol

Most northern resort Tiracol has wild beach with a single neck. On its territory, the river of the same name flows into Indian Ocean. The hotel is located in a restored ancient fort. The wall around it and other buildings are dilapidated.

The hotel rooms are clean, comfortable, without pretensions to luxury. There is a restaurant on the ground floor. Opens from the windows wonderful view to the sea or mountains. The fort is located in the high point on the shore and surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Despite its location in the northern part of the state, the Tiracol resort offers its guests a quiet, relaxing holiday. Party-goers can go to neighboring villages and party until the morning.

Calm and uncrowded southern beaches

Respectable tourists who can afford to pay for comfort go on holiday to South Goa. The beaches have developed infrastructure and cleanliness. There are no cows visible on them and local residents rarely appear here to swim after a hard day.

On southern resorts, especially in hotels with a large surrounding area, all the necessary conditions have been created for families with children:

special menu in the restaurant;

high chairs and cots for babies;

children's rooms with animators;

slides and attractions on site.

At 5-star hotels, the beaches are white sand, clean and well-groomed. They may have limited access to outsiders. But at any time you can call the waiter and place an order.

Colva Beach

Peculiar business card southern holiday. Longest sandy beach on the coast of Goa, 24 km long. The weak current and gentle, even descent make it comfortable and safe for children. They happily splash in the shallow waters near the shore.

Colva Beach combines prestigious comfortable hotels with luxurious rooms and 3-star hotels and small guest houses. A calm day's rest is complemented by active nightlife. In addition to bars and clubs, a night market opens at sunset.

Cavelossim

A small beach with white fine sand is framed by palm trees on the slopes of the Horn. Between them, in the first line, there are luxury villas and small hotels with luxurious rooms. The choice of entertainment is huge:

• viewsurfing;

  catamaran riding;

  walks along the coast on a yacht;

  fireworks and fire shows in the evenings;

  numerous excursions.

Children love walks in the sea with dolphins. Young people spend a lot of time at discos. Party Zone has the best disco club in South Goa.

Marjorda

The most visited resort by Russians in the southern part of the state. Amazing beautiful scenery, magical sunset, white sand on the beach. Luxurious rooms and quality service create suitable conditions for lovers of comfort who have enough money to pay for everything.

Cafes and restaurants serve national and European dishes. The menu is in several languages, including Russian. Vacationers can practice any sport, from surfing to beach volleyball.

You can visit spa salons, massage, fitness club. The resort offers excursions throughout the state and country.

It is enough to accurately determine which type of holiday is preferable and choose the appropriate resort in Goa.