Goa on a Shoestring Budget

chillibreeze writer — Surbhi Sood

As I lie languidly on the seashore, bidding adieu to the parting sun, I cannot help thinking how ravishingly beautiful nature can be. The horizon, now a palette of colors, provides a perfect backdrop to the waves romancing the pristine sands. The glint of gold at the surface of the sea makes me wonder if it is blushing at the thought of embracing the shore. The cool sea breeze caresses the palm boulevards so lovingly that they break into rhapsody. The strains of the guitar emanating from the nearby shacks instill in me the desire to be serenaded in this lovely setting. Am I dreaming? The enchantment bursts when the sensuous breeze adorns my face with a spray of water droplets. I wake up to the thought that I am in Goa.

Goa is undoubtedly one of the most favored travel destinations in India. Its spell is not only limited to natural beauty, but extends to the vibrant atmosphere. The colorful carnivals, beach parties and the impromptu dances in restaurants are the essence of unhurried Goan life. There seems to be a endless festivity in the air which is enhanced by the warm and friendly attitude of the locals Besides the long stretches of sea and sand Goa boasts of magnificent churches, imposing forts, dense coconut palm groves and the delightfully appealing Portuguese villas that dot the entire landscape.

REACHING GOA

Goa is well connected by rail, road and by air to all the major cities of the country. For budget travellers the train is the best option. Besides saving on cost, Konkan Railway promises a mesmerizing journey as it traverses one of the most beautiful terrains of the Western Ghats. The best time to visit Goa is from November to March.

ACCOMMODATION

Goa is divided in two districts - North and South Goa. The beaches in North Goa between the Mandovi and the Chapora Rivers are all commercialised and very popular. The beaches in Southern Goa are pristine, cleaner, more secluded and devoid of much commercialisation. The accommodation prices in Goa are reduced to almost fifty percent during the off season, that is from June to September. During the Christmas and New Year period the prices are prohibitively expensive. If you are looking for a serene and peaceful vacation it is better to avoid this period. This will ensure that you escape the maddening crowd and blatant commercialization.

The more popular beaches of Baga, Calangute, Candolim and Colva cater mostly to package tourism. Here accommodation available is generally mid range. If you are on a tight budget and on a long vacation you should head towards Vagator, Chapora, Benaulim or Arambol.. At these places accommodation can also be found in homes for rent. Those on the lookout for sun, sand and sea in idyllic settings, can find reasonably priced accommodation in beach shacks on the beaches of Palolim, Mandrem, Agonda and Morjim.

Budget accommodation can also be found in the youth hostel at Miramar and other guest houses, the details of which can be found on the net or in tourism brochures.

TRAVELLING IN GOA

Taxis service in Goa are very expensive as you have to pay the return fare too. The most popular means of travel are scooter or motorcycle rentals. The freedom of travelling by your own vehicle is unmatched. However, those who do not have a driving license or are not inclined to drive can avail the service of state transport buses. The local bus service in Goa is cheap and frequent and connects even the remotest corners of the state.

Organized tours to the more popular locations are conducted by Goa tourism as well as by other private operators.

ENTERTAINMENT

A visit to Goa is incomplete without a taste of its nightlife, trance parties, dance and music. Here, even the small shacks and pubs come alive at night. The intoxicating atmosphere compels you to shed your inhibitions in no time. Another major attraction is the sunset and the sundown cruises on the Mandovi River which cost Rs. 100 per head. The surreal beauty of the sunset at Miramar with the live band playing in the background leaves you spellbound. You wish that time could stand still.

For those who seek adventure, Goa is the perfect place to indulge in water sports. You can find activities like water scooter rides, parasailing, snorkeling and deep sea diving being offered by various tour operators/hotels.

PLACES TO EAT

This travellers' dream destination also offers the best of all types of cuisine thanks to the number of tourists visiting from all over the world. However, do not miss the ubiquitous sea food, which is highly recommended. There are plenty of restaurants at all the prominent tourist places catering to all budgets. Beach shacks dotting almost all the beaches are excellent sources of reasonably priced delicious food. If you choose to stay in a rented accommodation you can cook your own food. Ingredients for all kinds of cuisine are easily available in the local markets. You will also be surprised to find all types of liquor available at amazingly low prices.

SHOPPING

The flea market at Anjuna every Wednesday offers authentic Indian handicrafts at throwaway prices provided you have the talent to bargain. The market wears a colorful look with lots of funky jewelry, beads, sarongs, T-shirts and carvings on display. There is also another Saturday night flea market at Ingo. However, this is held only between the months of November and March. Don’t miss the local brew made from cashew nuts known as ‘Feni’. It is available in attractively packaged bottles, which can be carried home as souvenirs.

Goa lives upto its proclaimed status of being “365 days on a holiday”. Whether you are looking for a quiet rendezvous with nature or seeking to forget your worries amid the vibrant atmosphere, Goa is the perfect place to be. Its spirit beckons you to fall for its charm again and again.

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Goa on a Shoestring Budget chillibreeze writer — Surbhi Sood

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Goa on a Shoestring Budget

chillibreeze writer — Surbhi Sood