Goa is one of those exotic destinations you need to see at least once before you die. After all, it’s not for nothing that they call it the “Pearl of the Orient.” It is a fusion between both Indian and Portuguese cultures and a place where the sun, sand, and sea meet in perfect harmony.
Whether you are looking for a haven with breathtaking sandy beaches stretching alongside the Arabian Sea, a fun destination with various bars and all-night parties or a place to discover your spiritual side, Goa has everything you could ever imagine.
But, as unbelievable as Goa may sound, if you do decide to visit this sunshine state, there are a couple of things you may want to take into consideration before embarking on an adventure to the tropical enclave. Here are the top 5 tips you need to know before visiting Goa:
- Pack Wisely
Goa has a hot and humid climate, so make sure to pack your suitcases with swimwear, flip-flops and, of course, sunscreen. Avoid chunky jewelry and accessories that can be uncomfortable and seem over the top for a day at the beach. And ladies, try not to bring or wear a lot of makeup because the humidity and water will most likely make it melt on your face.
If you are planning to visit religious places, you should carry appropriate and conservative clothes as temples require a specific dress code. Get a travel packing cube to make it easy to carry your stuff. They are lightweight and help keep everything organized.
- Travel in the Off-Season
Goa is a fantastic place, but visiting it at the wrong time can make it lose its magical vibe. In peak season, between October and January, room rates and prices skyrocket. Plus, because it is a tiny state, it becomes highly crowded.
Don’t assume that if you travel in the off-season, then there won’t be any interesting things to do in Goa. Not only that you will enjoy less crowded beaches, but you can also save some money as the prices tend to be lower than in peak season.
- Try the Local Cuisine
There are many things to do in Goa, and tasting their traditional food is one of them. Because Goa is located in a tropical climate, the local cuisine is heavy on spice and intense flavors. So, their recipes aren’t for those with weak stomachs.
- Be Safe
Goa is a free-spirited state, but that doesn’t mean you can do anything you want. Even though, it is one of the safer parts of India, taking some safety precautions is highly recommended.
Although Goa is the party capital of India, stay away from drugs. Drug offenses are non-bailable and can range up from 6 months up to 30 years in prison, depending on the severity of the crime. Also, if you’re a watersports fan, keep in mind that the equipment might not have subjected to quality checks. So, look at the equipment yourself, read reviews online about the agency, see if there are many tourists interested and always wear a life jacket just in case.
- Pick between North and South
The beautiful state is divided into two districts: North and South Goa. The north side of Goa offers a true partying and clubbing experience, while the south side of Goa is less crowded and has a more relaxed vibe. Also, not all beaches are the same. The beaches on the north side have rougher seas than those on the south side.
Goa is a destination that has the best of both worlds, and it should be on your bucket list. But, to make your experience even more memorable, make sure to take into consideration our travel tips mentioned above.
