Planning a trip to Goa? Here’s the Guide for First Timers

1. Planning a trip to Goa? Here’s the Guide for First Timers Goa Tour Packages – Top 6 Guide to First Time Goa Visitor Even though it is the smallest state in India, Goa is probably the most popular tourist destination here with its vast beaches, lip-smackingly delicious Goan cuisine, laid- back lifestyle, historic architectural spots, thriving nightlife and adventure activities. A Goa trip has something to offer for everyone irrespective of the age group. The best bet on your first visit is to explore the various Goa tour packages as they cover all the important destinations without the hassle of you having to plan and book hotels. You can book a good package pack your bags and enjoy. MakeYouTravel has excellent Goa tour packages to suit your needs be it a group tour, honeymoon tour or a vacation with family you are bound to have a great time here with everything taken care by the Goa tour packages. If you are visiting this sun-kissed paradise for the first time then there are a few pointers to keep in mind so that your Goa travel can be memorable without any glitches. Hire a Two Wheeler As Goa is a small state once you reach Goa the best way to explore the state is on a two-wheeler. Bikes are available for rent and you can hire one easily at a very attractive price. You will thoroughly enjoy the beauty of this vibrant state as the roads are very well maintained. Shopping at the various flea markets become easy as

2. you won’t have to carry everything and won’t have to worry about parking as finding parking spots for your two-wheeler will be quite easy. You can even cover both North Goa and South Goa easily in a day as the distance is quite less. If you are renting the bike for a long duration then you can surely get a good discount. Make sure to carry your driving license and always wear your helmets as it is compulsory in Goa. Explore adventure sports Goa has lots of beaches but doesn’t mean you only have to swim and lay down on the beaches. You can try para-sailing, scuba diving, jet-skiing, windsurfing, power- scooter ride etc. These adventure sports are sure to kick your adrenaline into high gear and make your experience of Goa more thrilling and a trip to remember Savour Goan cuisine As the popular saying goes the best way to live your life is to ‘Eat Local, Think Global’. When you are in Goa don’t order what you usually have for breakfast at your home. Indulge in the local Goan cuisine. Trying the local cuisine not only helps in waking up your taste buds to new dishes but it also contributes enormously in keeping you healthy as the food at a particular location will be the healthiest option due to the climatic influences at the place and even better if the food is grown at the same place. Goan cuisine is a delicate amalgamation of various cuisines due to colonization by various countries. So the cuisine is a fusion of Portuguese, Arab, Malaysian, Konkan, French, Malabar and Chinese flavours which come together perfectly to create an explosion of flavours in our mouth for an exquisite experience. The seafood is a jewel in the Goa’s crown and a must try to experience goa in its true sense. The local liquor Feni is another hot favourite here. It is a delicate spirit made from either coconut or cashew nut. Be sure to consume this in moderation as this can get you high very quickly.

3. Be smart about the beaches Don’t hit the popular beaches if you really want to have a good time. Chances are the popular beaches will be swarming with people making it hard to have a “laid back” holiday. Explore some not so popular beaches on your own and discover new experiences. Check with your friends and family as to which beach was less crowded. Some not so popular restaurants have their tables so close to the sea that you can dine with the waves hitting your feet but may not be listed as a popular hotel. So make sure to explore on your own before going to very popular beaches or popular clubs where there will hardly be an inch of space left to enjoy Baga, Candolim, Vagator, Calangute, and Anjum are very popular beaches with heavy crowds while Butterfly beach, Mobar beach, Kakolem, Galgibaga, Velsao, Ashwem are less known beaches that are unspoiled by tourists and you can enjoy with peace. Do practice caution at the beaches as some of them have strong rip currents and tides, such areas will be marked with red flags and ensure to keep away from the flagged area to avoid any untoward incidents. Pack wisely The main attraction in Goa Tour Packages is the beach so pack your beachwear, flip flops, sunglasses, hats, lots of sunscreens to apply and re-apply and lightweight clothes. Although you can even get lots of clothes for very low cost at the local flea markets do pack some just in case you cant find good ones at the shops. Do not wear expensive jewellery and watches. Do remember to pack a few conservative clothing to wear when you visit the popular churches and temples in Goa It would be wise to carry some cash as many shacks and popular joints wouldn’t accept cards. In case you wouldn’t want to carry a lot of cash with you then it would

4. be wise to get familiar with ATM’s close by your area so that you can draw cash as and when needed. Needless to say do keep an eye on your belongings while you are relaxing at the beach or while you shop as there are pickpocketers lurking there. Do not do drugs You may be invited to raves and parties at Goa when you meet new people. Bear in mind that these parties do have drugs in circulation and possession or consumption of drugs is a punishable offence and can land you behind bars for ten years. To be safe it is always better to avoid drugs and not accept drinks from a person you don’t know.