Goa is a state in western India with a coastline that stretches along the Arabian Sea. Goa is very well known for its fabulous beaches, from popular stretches at Baga and Palolem to laid-back fishing villages such as Agonda. Goa stands out in India for its Portuguese colonial buildings and heritage. Here, you will find whitewashed churches, old forts and cathedrals.
The best time to travel to Goa is our winter season, October to February. The temperature ranges from 23 – 32°c, and you will receive 9 hours of sunshine throughout the day. The better weather conditions will see the resorts begin to come alive as the months go on. May has been recorded as the hottest month in the year, reaching up to 35°c. Monsoon season starts from June to September so expect tropical storms, heavy rainfall and humid conditions.
The most well-known beach in Goa is the Candolim Beach which is an 8 kilometer stretch of golden sand and crystal blue sea. The beach joins together with Calangute and Baga Beach. Candolim is a great all-rounder resort, and possibly the best choice for families, offering water sports, shops and cafes on the seafront for everyone to enjoy. You will also find plenty of beach huts spaced along the sand. Often, you will find the locals strolling up and down the beach selling merchandise and souvenirs. If you want to avoid this, take a short walk to Sinquerim Beach where you are less likely to be approached. Right at the end of the beach is a small area that is sectioned off by the old ramparts of Fort Aguada, this is where you can sign up for water-skiing, banana boats and parasailing.
Visit the vibrant and diverse markets of Goa which take place on different days throughout the week. The Saturday night market at Arpora gives you the opportunity to listen to Goa’s most talented musicians and taste a varied blend of International and Indian cuisine. At the night market, you can even get a haircut or a tattoo! The Friday market at Mapusa, on the other hand, is very traditional and this is where all farmers and craftsmen travel to, from all over north Goa to sell their wares. These include livestock, vegetable, fruits, spices and handicrafts.
Between the months of December to March, flights depart from London Gatwick on a Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (based on Thomas Cook flights). Thomas Cook also fly from London Southend, Manchester and Southampton.
Top Hotels:
- Hard Rock Hotel Goa
- Whispering Palms Beach Resort
- Double Tree by Hilton Goa
- Country Inn & Suites
Goa fact file
The Currency Unit in Goa, as in the rest of India, is the Indian Rupee. An English pound equates to about 90 Indian Rupees. You can purchase your travel money on arrival to India, which can be done at the airport. However, you are not allowed to take Indian currency out of the country when you depart.
Goa has a mix of official languages because of its rich & complex heritage, so you will most likely hear Konkati, Marathi and Hindi spoken. English is also frequently spoken, which will make it much easier when travelling around.
You will need to get a Visa before travelling to India. You can find more information on how to apply for one by clicking here
You will need to contact your GP for the most up to date information on any travel vaccinations you may require. For health advice before travelling to India, click here
9 hours and 20 minutes
The time difference between India and the UK is 4 and a half hours. When it is 09:00am in London UK, it is 1:30pm in Goa India.
Goa is a vibrant paradise with plenty of things for you to see and explore, whether you’re travelling as a couple, in a group or with the family. To search our list of excursions, click here
