Hippie’s paradise, Goa has long been one of the most visited destinations in India. Goa is a small state tucked away on the west coast and has a predominantly colonial culture in the more popular tourist spots. A Portugese colony once, it has some of the best architecture of the period showing pure and mix styles of art.

But Goa is better known for its superlative beaches, fun, frolic and feni( a mildly intoxicating drink made from the locally abundant cashews). It is also known for its little schools of oga and meditation, the Osho version of it and the general happy go lucky attitude.

The beaches of Goa are famous for their multiethnic facets. People from the world over are seen here. The local Konkanis are a friendly lot and mingle easily. The beaches are lined with shops selling everything from different parts of India, unless the beach is privately owned. You can get Kashmiri Pashmina shawl or a bamboo craft from north east, a silk saree from south or a string of rudraksh from the Himalayas, spices from Kerala or cut work quilts from Gujarat, name it, they sell it. Although some of the beach resorts of Goa have experienced the downfall of runaway development it is still possible to find plenty of attractive, uncrowded beaches in this former Portugese colony.

Because of its European history Goa has a very different feel to it than the rest of India, and the paddy fields and coconut groves co-exist with crumbling colonial fortresses and whitewashed Portuguese churches. Fresh fish caught daily go into making delicious Goan curries. Add a cold beer and that perfect sunset and you have the makings of a chilled out holiday

The annual Goa carnival is a great attraction. A bit like the south American carnival, but not so boisterous Goa’s carnival is a much awaited event each year. People flock the roads to see the colourful floats and pageantry.

Sun, sand and fun, Goa has everything plus a colonial heritage, colourful culture and delectable cuisine. Need more reasons to visit this paradise?