Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Night life in Goa
What to do in Goa?
There are so many things to do in Goa, it is difficult to know where to start.
Firstly there is some of the most stunning buildings to visit, and a trip to Panaji will lead you St Cajetan's Church, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate, Secretariat's Building, the Se cathedral; Asia's largest church and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
If you are a museum lover, then the Rachel Museum of Christian Art is unmissable, and you can add to this list the Kerkar Art Complex, and the Cocoon Art Gallery.
For those interested in military history, you must visit Fort Aguada.
Temples are another must see' in Goa, and principally on your list should be the Shree Mahalaxmi Temple, the Shree BhagawatiTemple, the Shree Hanuman Temple, and the Damodar Temple. You should also visit the holy centre of Safa Shahouri Masjid.
There are several wildlife sanctuaries, and you must visit the Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary which is rich in wildlife, and a definite must for birdwatchers. The Dudhsagar Waterfalls are a mighty 600 meters high, and there are few more impressive waterfalls. Finally you could if you wish take an elephant ride. The Carambolin Lake is a place to visit for bird watching, possibly a bit boring for children, so take them to the artificial Mayem Lake, where you can take them in pedal boats, and if you choose to, try the Kesarval medicinal Spring bath.
Most Goa Hotels have Ayuvedic Therapies, which are reputed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, but the most famous place for Ayuvedic Therapy is Keri village..
Why not take a Crocodile Cruise into the backwaters around Goa, and see not only crocodiles but also all sorts of wildlife. Water is so closely associated with life that a river cruise on the River mandovi is yet another option.
Finally we return to the beautiful beaches of Goa where apart from sunbathing, why not try parasailing or jet skiing.
The list whilst by no means endless will I hope help you to plan your vacation in Goa.
Planning for a Honeymoon in Goa?
Popularly known as "Pearl of the Orient", the state of Goa is located in the west coastal belt known as Konkan of India. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Goa referred as the "Pearl of the Orient" personifies sun kissed beaches, lofty palms, majestic churches and spectacular monuments. Goa is much more than just beaches and sea.Goa has become the ultimate tourist destination. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. It is a tiny emeralds land with its natural scenic beauty, attractive beaches and temples, famous for its architecture, feast and festivals and hospitable people with a rich culture. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer.Goa is also known as "Gomanchala". Gove, Govapuri, Gopakpattan, and Gomant are some other names that the region is referred to in certain inscriptions and texts such as the Puranas. The Indian epic Mahabharata refers to the area now known as Goa, as 'Goparashtra' or 'Govarashtra"' which means a nation of cowherds. 'Gopakapuri' or 'Gapakapattana' were used in some ancient Sanskrit texts, and these names were also mentioned in other sacred Hindu texts such as the Harivansa and the Skanda Purana. The sea and rivers abound in seafood - prawns, mackerels, sardines, crabs and lobsters are the most popular with the locals and the visitors. Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa, Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state. So get swept away by the spectacular sunrises and sunsets and rejuvenate yourself.
Romantic honeymoon packages to Goa have become popular recently, but many are disappointed by the beach resort they choose. Why not look at a place like Majorda, but don’t look at a Majorda beach resort, instead look at the Vivenda dos Palhacos, and you won’t be disappointed.
The Vivenda dos Palhacos is hidden away down a coconut fringed cul de sac in the village of Majorda where life is very peaceful and tranquil, not at all like the hustle and bustle of some of the beaches of Goa. It is a gem of a boutique hotel, set in a restored century old Portugese mansion, and is just a kilometre from the beach, but a world away.
The hotel, and that isn’t really the best words to describe the Vivenda dos Palhacos, staying with friends in their private home would be much better, consists of two buildings are six double bedrooms.
If you can, then book the Konnagar Suite which is huge and has a verandah where you can sit for hours watching village life pass you by.
If you happen to have brought your children, although for an exotic and romantic honeymoon in this laid back part of the world, possibly children would find it less than to their taste. Anyway if there are children the small twin bedded Ballygunge would suit well, or the Chummery a self contained cottage for the whole family.
Some of the highlights of Vivenda dos Palhacos are the fixtures and fittings which are all in keeping with the history of the place.
You will love the food, and the surroundings. You eat either round a big table either set in the dining room or the garden, and the fact that it is real family style, with great hosts means great conversations, and friendships made. It would be fair to say that if your idea of a romantic exotic honeymoon is being on your own, then perhaps this wouldn’t be for you. Mind you there are at least three very good restaurants in the main street of the village only a few minutes away.
Breakfasts are outstanding because it is served when you want it, early or late, nothing seems to be too much trouble, and that is the way it is all the time. You can eat alfresco lunches by the twelve metre pool, have picnics for the beach, and of course all the beach shacks where you can eat good food for very little
The beach is about a fifteen minute walk, and that is also part of the charm of Vivenda dos Palhacos, because you get the chance to see village life. After the sterile atmosphere of a large hotel it is so much more exotic, and adds to the romantic honeymoon getaway feel to be surrounded by the sights and sounds of Goa. Every day you hear the dogs bark, the cocks crow, bells ringing, neighbours talking in unfamiliar tongues, and trains passing in the night. It isn’t just the sounds and the sights it is also the smell of wood burning, incense, food cooking, that confirms Goa is exotic and wonderful when you get away from the twenty first century, and the tourist hordes.
There is a great choice of activities from the flea market at Anjuna, to fishing, boat expeditions, bicycling, riding elephants to name but a few.
Vivenda dos Palhacos is a great boutique hotel, ideal for an exotic romantic honeymoon, providing you like people, and don’t mind the sights and sounds and smells of life in Majorda Goa.
Whats Hot in Goa?
The daily life of any sunny resort place is clear- sporting activity, sightseeing, water and beach occupations and just a sound sleep...after a crazy night party in some Sardinia clubs. But, some can say - all that we have, but how to be with those Sardinia clubs and mad parties? Unfortunately, not all visitors of this Italian island know about the existence of some Sardinian clubs, which differ in range and styles. So let's visit some Sardinia clubs and discover what's hot and what's not!
Sardinia is very protective of its ancient traditions; over the centuries this island has been able to preserve its old gastronomic customs. And Sardinia clubs bear the character of the whole island - diversity of tastes, and opportunities.
Cagliari: This is the capital of Sardinia and is home to the most lively nightlife scene. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from, catering to all tastes and needs. A string of Sardinia clubs and bars are found along Poetto, this is a great place to start off a pub crawling evening.
Sardinia clubs, as well as many others differ by the public visiting them. Most open for a season only, or for exclusive members of some special club (yacht clubs, for example). If you want to fit in with the rest of the clientele of such Sardinia clubs, speak very loudly about how many "regattas" you've won this year, and how long it took you to get round Cape Horn. There are so -called billion Sardinia clubs, but the chances of getting in are very small (unless your dads a millionaire and owns a boat on the harbor).
Boa Goa, located in Oristano is known as the smartest of all Sardinia clubs. Dj's play a wide range of all the latest dance music. This is one of the best night Sardinia clubs and is very popular with a younger crowd of locals and tourists. This is the place to go if you're looking for a wild party, lasting into the early hours of the morning.
In Fabannain La Maddalena there is not much to do, except to have a walk around, enjoying an ice-cream or granite. It is still very pleasant (also because we were always exhausted at the end of the day!)
If your intentions are just to relax a bit in a free and familiar atmosphere, we offer you visit several most popular among all Sardinia clubs. One of them is the Lord Nelson Pub. This English-style pub is one of the best in town, and is very popular with tourists.
Seems that it is the only of Sardinia clubs in Porto Cervo marina, which can be found open even in the small hours. In late September, when the season is over, this is probably the best drinking of Sardinia clubs around the marina. Moreover, the there doesn't fade for a minute.
This bar is basically marketed as an English pub, complete with a darts board and an authentic "stale beer in carpet" smell. The thing is that English drinkers in the UK have long preferred the Mediterranean style of Sardinia clubs because of the infinitely more evolved form of the British boozer.
Expect the place to be empty until about 11pm. They serve a wide range of beers; wines; and spirits, and the prices are very reasonable. This is a great place to relax, have a few drinks and chat with fellow tourists. Drinks fairly cheap for the area - something about 4 euros for a beer. They cater very well to English speaking tourists. The food and drinks are excellent and reasonably priced.
A strange thing - most of the Sardinia clubs are filled with men, we do not have any idea why.
Plan to Visit Portuguese Hertiage Houses & villages in Goa
For a state that was under the domain of Portuguese for 450 years, its difficult to root out the influence. Portuguese left Goa in 1961 but wherever you set your eyes here, you can see their mark on everything. From a considerable Christian population to Portuguese architecture, everywhere you see deep rooted influence. Goa has been a holiday destination for decades but it's not just the trance parties or miles of virgin beach territories that Goa offers. The landscape of Goa is dotted with heritage houses, villas, mansions that are reminiscent of the Portuguese era. There are also some unique examples of clever blend of the Indian and Portuguese styles. At places glimpses of European and Italian styles are also available. These architectural heritages also attract a number of tourists.
Goan villages by and far are better than other villages in India. They might not fit into that mental picture which comes to your mind with word 'village'. Goa has one of the highest literacy rates in the country and education and civic sense reflects in them. Though villages in Goa these days are having the trouble with garbage disposal. Goan villages are generally densely packed with houses. Alleyways broad enough to pass a bullock cart separate the houses, however more than bullock carts you will spot scooters. The houses these days built in Goa are of concrete, the second floor is kept open for grain storage. The older houses are of laterite (red stone) though now days you will see it being used to give a decorative touch to municipal buildings. These traditional old houses were protected from rains by palm frond screens but this has now been replaced by concrete and plastic roller blinds. Though piped municipal water is available in houses but they also have traditional wells in houses and some have roof tanks also.