Top 23 FAQs About Goa - Everything You Need To Know

Top 23 FAQs About Goa - Everything You Need To Know
Trip101 Editorial
Trip101 Editorial 
Published
| 11 min read
Nirja Bhatt
Endorsed by a Goa (state) Local Expert
|
Nirja Bhatt
Aditi Roy
Endorsed by a Goa (state) Local Expert
|
Aditi Roy

Goa has long been one of the most well-liked vacation spots in India, and it continues to have some of the nicest beaches in the nation, many of which are ideally crescent-shaped and lined with palm trees. Goa also provides the best opportunities for water sports and other adventurous activities like parasailing, snorkeling, banana boat rides, and paragliding. Even if it is no longer as inexpensive as it once was, Goa, nevertheless, offers many chances for a low-cost vacation. There are plenty of Airbnb vacation rentals in Goa, as well as inexpensive, family-run lodgings that are close to the beach and populated neighborhoods. Planning to take a vacation soon? Keep on reading to see a list of FAQs about Goa.

1. What can I do over 3 days in Goa?

Make the most of your three days in the state by engaging in some of the best things to do in Goa. The first stop to start your getaway is the beautiful Baga Beach. Tourists here get to enjoy amazing nightlife experiences, mouthwatering delicacies, bustling shacks, and plenty of water sports to try.

In addition, you can join tours in Goa that includes visits to some historical churches and cathedrals, deep-sea fishing trips, dolphin-watching tours, snorkeling day trips, and jungle adventures.

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2. What is Goa famous for?

Travelers from all over the world visit the most beautiful beaches in Goa to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand. And one of its well-known beaches is Palolem Beach, famous for its sandy shores with a long curve of palm trees. Another sight is Anjuna Beach where you can try jet skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving.

Furthermore, Goa also boasts hundreds of nightclubs where locals and tourists dance, drink, and party all night long. Plus, don’t forget Goa’s mouthwatering cuisines from thousands of seafood restaurants and dhabas.

Traveler's tips

Enjoying the waves Watching the clear waters Sunset at Agonda

If you're in South Goa, you must visit Agonda Beach to enjoy breathtaking sunsets and clean golden sand. This is one of the most secluded beaches in Goa. It is well-maintained, too, as there are many resorts located along the beach. This is an ideal destination if you're on a romantic getaway.

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3. What food is famous in Goa?

The state is dotted with countless restaurants whose menus never fail to delight you. There are huts by the sea that provides the most delectable beverage or an apparently run-down establishment on any local corner that serves the best street foods in Goa.

The cuisine in this region is heavily affected by Portuguese customs, although it still has tangy characteristics to maintain its Goanese identity. Travelers to Goa should be familiar with the most well-known traditional food in Goa, including fish curry, prawn pickles, Chicken/Pork Vindaloo, Chicken/Pork/Prawn Xacuti, Mackerel Rawa Fry, Crab xec xec, and Prawn balchão. Also, for sweet lovers, Serradura (or sawdust pudding), is the most popular local dessert.

Traveler's tips

Kingfish fry

Goa is well-known for its fresh seafood, and the kingfish is among the most beloved delicacies found here. Try some fried kingfish marinated in local spices with a glass of chilled beer or the refreshing Goan drink, Cabo! I particularly enjoyed relishing the kingfish fry at Treetop Tava, a restaurant in Agonda.

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4. Why are cashews cheap in Goa?

You can buy cashews at cheaper prices in Goa because they are locally grown here. In fact, in Goa, out of all the horticultural crops, cashew is the top majority. Furthermore, cashews bought in night markets in Goa are almost the same price as Delhi and Mumbai, just that the quality is way better.

Plus, you can get them in almost every flavor, freshly shelled, salted, and colored. So, if you’re traveling all the way to Goa for cashews, you should carry as much as you can to save a lot.

Traveler's tips

Sahakari Spice Farm

If you love cashews, make sure to buy some from Sahakari Spice Farm in South Goa. You can enjoy a tour of the farm and then buy fresh cashews sourced directly from the plantation. Other farm items such as coffee beans, peri-peri chilies, and spices can also be purchased here at reasonable prices.

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Goa (State) Tour Guide

Nibedita Sen

Nibedita Sen

A hearty WELCOME to our page Happiness Activist. We are here to solve the problems of foreigners who come to explore India. Firstly, we suggest them to stop visiting the wonders and mundanes of social media advertisements about overrated traveling. We provide them the basic needs and guidelines that the audience requires when they first step into an unknown land which we have already explored. Secondly, we are not like any other travel guides. If you are here to explore the museum, zoo, or places that you can easily google about Kolkata then Sorry, we are not the right one to help you. Our USP is to guide those travellers who are offbeat and craze for the undiscovered and less travelled places in India, Egypt and Israel. Through our eyes, 'WE WILL MAKE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF'

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Goa (State) Tour Guide

Narender Kumar

Narender Kumar

I have been a tour guide/ escort for more than 10 years and have guided tourists pan India to historical and cultural heritage sites, national parks & bird sancturies, monuments places like- Delhi , Agra, Jaipur, Khajuraho Exotic Temples, Ranthambore National Park, Mumbai, Nashik , Aurangabad ( Ajanta Rockcut Caves & Ellora Rockcut Temples ), Goa etc. I am proficient in English, Russian, Hindi and Urdu. I became a tour guide due to my passion for travelling and I love meeting new people and share incredible experiences and learn more about a culture and place. I have a good sense of humor and love cracking jokes which will make your trip fun and lively. I love taking care of people and your safety is my top priority. You will have the best holiday memories with me as your tour guide/escort.

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5. What should I pack for a Goa trip?

Planning to go on a weekend getaway to Goa? Make sure to pack a pair of mirrored sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your eyes and skin from the harsh UV rays. Do not forget to bring your favorite swimwear to enjoy the beach, appropriate footwear for you to comfortably walk on the sand, and a hat to keep the sun away.

You will also need some cotton shirts, shorts, or trousers to keep you cool in the hot weather when exploring some best places to visit in Goa.

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6. What is unique in Goa?

There will always be new things to do and unique experiences to have in Goa. Visit the St. Thomas Ward area and have a glimpse of the amazing lifestyle of the locals. Then, walk through the popular Fontainhas neighborhood that is filled with colorful houses built in Portuguese style.

You can also go beach-hopping or enjoy fun adventure sports in Goa such as paragliding, parasailing, and jet-skiing. What’s more? Take a hot air balloon tour and have a good look at Goa from the sky,

Traveler's tips

Kayaking at Cola Beach Kayaks on the lagoon Cola Beach

Enjoy a unique experience by visiting Cola Beach in South Goa. This beach is bordered by the sea on one side and a lagoon on the other. The trek down to the beach is quite rugged, and it's advisable to hire a car to reach it. You can hire a jeep or a truck on the spot itself; however, since the road is extremely bumpy, expect expensive rates. Once you reach the beach, you can either swim in the sea or kayak on the lagoon for an extra fee of around INR 150 (USD 1.81) for 30 minutes.

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7. When is the best time to visit Goa?

The greatest time to visit the city known for its parties is from mid-November to mid-February when the temperature is agreeably mild and pleasant. While other travelers are making the most of their three months in Goa, it’s the ideal time to unwind on the beaches.

In addition to significant celebrations, Goa has one of its most well-known festivals in India, Sunburn, in December, drawing thousands of tourists from around the globe to the region. Because it is the busiest time of year, you may wish to reserve your hotel rooms well in advance.

Tip from Trip101 local expert

Nirja

Nirja
Goa (state)

Miramar circle during IFFI 2021 IFFI 2021

To spot celebrities and for some added fun, time your visit with the annual International Film Festival of India (IFFI). This event usually takes place for a week in Panjim in either December or January, and the whole city takes on an ethereal glow. Register for the event months before and attend film screenings, listen to talks or debates on various topics in cinema, and even get a chance to meet a celebrity or two! However, do make sure to book your accommodations in advance since IFFI is a popular event and accommodations get filled up quickly.  

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8. Are there casinos in Goa?

Ideally, there are a few hotels with casinos in Goa for travelers who are looking for accommodation that offers both comfort and leisure. However, most of the casino cruises can be found docked on River Mandovi in Panjim such as Deltin Royale (the oldest casino in Goa), Deltin Jaqk, and Big Daddy.

Trying your luck in casinos is one of the best things to do in North Goa, you can gamble as much as you want without feeling threatened.

Globally, Goa’s casinos are well-known for their tremendous energy, tasty dishes, delectable beverages, and excellent music. Not to be overlooked is the enormous selection of games that these casinos provide. Simply said, Goa is the ideal location for everyone who enjoys gambling.

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9. Is Goa safe for female travelers?

For the most part, Goa is secure for all types of tourists. In fact, it is regarded as one of India’s safest locations for female tourists. Although drug usage is not very popular, it is hardly surprising considering the state’s pervasive hippy culture.

To guarantee your safety, stay away from such gatherings, and even if you decide to indulge, it is advisable to do so only among individuals you trust. Hotels with beach views in Goa are also guarded and equipped with CCTVs to ensure everyone’s security. Additionally, avoid traveling alone through dark, empty streets in the early morning hours since you might quickly become disoriented and stranded owing to a weak network.

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10. When does Goa carnival take place?

One of the many festivals in India, Goa Carnival, commemorates the state’s culture and food over the course of four jam-packed days of entertainment, providing visitors from all around the globe with a vivid glimpse into its way of life and past.

Each year, the festivities typically take place between the end of February and the start of March. Depending on when Easter falls, the precise dates will change. This noisy and bright event is dated next year on February 25 to 28.

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11. What are the best things to buy in Goa?

There is a long list of things to buy in Goa including seashells, cashew nuts, Azulejos tiles, and Kokum sherbet. Find these goods in Anjuna Flea Market and practice your bargaining skills to get good deals.

You should also include Feni in your list, the state’s most famous liquor that is made out of coconut and cashews. You can also buy spices at cheap prices here such as nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, and cloves. Plus, sea salt here is amazing and is made locally.

Traveler's tips

A bottle of feni

Your trip to Goa won't be complete unless you taste some feni and Cabo. Feni is a locally produced drink that has medicinal properties. However, it is widely used as an alcoholic drink post-fermentation. You can buy a bottle of cashew or coconut feni from any liquor shop in Goa. Note that the drink is priced according to quality, so you can find both really cheap bottles and moderately expensive ones. Cabo, on the other hand, is a local coconut-flavored rum that pairs brilliantly with pineapple juice and is also available in most liquor shops in Goa.

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12. How many days are enough for a Goa trip?

No matter how many days you spend in this vibrant state, it would never be enough. However, if you are short on time, you could explore the main sights within two to three days. The breathtakingly mesmerizing azure beaches in Goa are a must-see when you’re there. You may stay in a hotel with a private beach in South Goa and schedule a half-day beach excursion where you can lounge about, unwind, and enjoy some of the exciting water sports available.

If you want a longer trip, you can stay for three to four days in a luxury Airbnb in Goa and you’ll be able to cover a lot in terms of attractions and experiences.

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13. Which are the famous beaches in Goa for water sports?

Goa is not only famous for its stunning coasts but it is also known as home to some of the finest adventure sports in India. Beaches such as Calangute and Sinquerim have plenty to offer when it comes to watersports activities. In addition, things to do in Cavelossim include jet skiing, windsurfing, paragliding, and Ringo ride.

Next on the list is Varca Beach which boasts speed boating, banana ride, and parasailing. For people who are not that fond of adventure, water sports such as kayaking and boating would be a good experience too.

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14. Which part of Goa has the best beaches?

For a peaceful beach holiday in India, check out some of the beautiful resorts in South Goa. This part of the state offers stunning white sand beaches that are set in quiet and relaxing neighborhoods, making it the perfect place to rest and unwind.

If you are into nightlife experience, you should check out North Goa’s beaches. North Goa is known for its party scenes, young crowd, and lively pubs. Despite their differences, both parts of Goa are great places to enjoy watersports activities

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15. Which beach is most beautiful in Goa?

Both locals and tourists couldn’t seem to choose only one as the most beautiful beach in Goa. Some of the known beautiful beaches are Candolim Beach, Miramar Beach, and Butterfly Beach. Also included is Palolem Beach, which is famous for its crescent-shaped and palm-fringed shores.

Another one is Patnem beach, located only 10 minutes away from Palolem. It is much more peaceful and is the perfect location to relax and romantic strolls. If you are looking for chic pubs and restaurants, Mandrem, Morjim, and Ashwem are the places to be.

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16. Is Goa a family destination?

Goa is a popular tourist destination for families because of its fantastic lifestyle and dynamic culture. Play about in the sea, create sandcastles, or engage in a game of Frisbee. Seeing the Dudhsagar Falls as it flows from the Western Ghats’ lofty hills would delight kids as well.

Furthermore, forts like Chapora also provide enjoyable excursions and are the subject of fascinating tales. The Portuguese constructed Chapora Fort in 1617 to protect their lands from the Marathas, and now it is a popular tourist destination because of its rich history.

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17. Which beach is best in Goa for families?

If you are heading to South Goa, Agonda Beach is a good place to spend the weekend with your family. Its sandy white dunes and beautiful sea are where mega-tourism does not exist - it is the epitome of a quiet and serene vacation destination. It’s perfect for outdoor holiday activities. Furthermore, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, if not the world.

On the other hand, if you are planning a trip to North Goa, the beaches of Anjuna, Morjim, Ashvem, and Calangute sees a lot of family travelers.

As such, the best family resorts in Goa include Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort, and ITC Grand Goa, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa.

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18. Which places are the best to stay in Goa?

Goa is an overall beautiful destination with stunning beaches, gorgeous forts, and a lot of attractions and activities. So, no matter where you stay here, you are sure to enjoy your vacation.

While Anjuna and Vagator are highly popular among solo travelers and younger groups, families prefer staying in Baga and Calangute. Arambol is a great area for those who wish to enjoy the hippie life of Goa. For something quieter and closer to nature, Palolem and Agonda in south Goa would be better.

If you’re a local seeking for a place to relax and unwind, you can check out some of the best staycations in Goa.

For vacationers, a resort or a hotel in Goa is a great place to escape and loosen up with modern conveniences. In addition, you can indulge in thrilling water activities like jet skiing and parasailing to break up the tedious daily schedule.

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19. Is South Goa better or North Goa?

Both are distinctive and lovely in their own ways. The beaches in North Goa, such as Baga and Calangute, are unquestionably much busier than the beaches in South Goa, such as Agonda and Palolem. If you enjoy being around large groups and a friendly environment constantly, a hotel with a private beach in North Goa is a wonderful choice for you.

On the other side, things to do in South Goa are perfect for some alone time such as a peaceful stroll along the beach or through the city.

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20. Which beach is best for nightlife in Goa?

Beach resorts in North Goa tops the list when it comes to lively nightlife such as the Fiesta Beach Resort. This beautiful resort sits right next to Club Tito’s, also known as one of the popular clubs in North Goa. Other beach resorts that offer one-of-a-kind party scenes are Arambol Beach, Ashvem Beach, and Vagator.

Additionally, luxurious resorts in Goa also boasts exciting nightlife, paired with amazing beaches and bustling bazaars. Tourists from near and far know for sure that Goa’s nightlife is a must-have experience.

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21. Why is Morjim beach famous?

One of the nicest beaches to visit while on vacation is Morjim Beach, often known as “Little Russia.” This location is defined by the visual magnificence of the changing sky colors and setting sun. The calm atmosphere of the Morjim beach makes it one of Goa’s most pristine beaches.

It is also well-known for being the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles’ nesting location. Spending time with some of these amazing natural species is one of the best things to do in Morjim Beach. For accommodation, there are Airbnb vacation rentals in Morjim to keep you comfortable during your stay.

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22. Which part of Goa is best for nightlife?

While party hotels in Goa are found all over the state, you can also experience Goa’s vibrant nightlife on its beautiful beaches. When exploring things to do in the coastal town of Baga, you will come across Baga Beach, known to have the best party scenes in North Goa.

You can also include Candolim Beach and Calangute Beach on your list, as well as Anjuna Beach and Ashvem Beach. Bars and pubs are also within distance of these resorts, so you can just hop from one place to another.

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23. Where can I find free parties in Goa?

There are some amazing resorts and clubs in Goa that offer free parties. In fact, beach resorts in Palolem turn into open-air clubs at sunset and host lively party scenes that extend deep into the night. Get to enjoy good music, tasty food, drinks, and friendly company.

In addition, exciting things to do in Calangute include partying all night in free-entry nightclubs. Check out Tito’s Retro Club, Buddha Lounge Goa, On The Rocks, Souza Lobo, Brittos Bar And Restaurant, and Delta Residency Restaurant & Bar.

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Goa beach sunset
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gayatri Priyadars... used under CC BY-SA 4.0
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This article has been endorsed by Goa (state) local expert Nirja Bhatt and 1 other(s)

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