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Goa was a Portuguese colony from 1510 until December 1961,
when it was annexed by India. Goa and two other former Portuguese
enclaves, Daman and Diu were organized into a single district
in 1965. While Daman and Diu remained a union territory, Goa
was recognised as a state and became reorganised into two
districts, North Goa and South Goa.
Goa is the smallest state in India, thus making it the easiest
to explore and with the region's Portuguese past combined
with traditional elements of Indian culture, it has plenty
to offer.
Goa is a beach lovers paradise, equally perfect for a couple
of weeks of winter sun or as a stopover on a backpacking trip
around Asia. In addition to its beautiful golden beaches and
perfect sea, it has plenty of sights to offer, entertainment
to enjoy and a unique cuisine to satisfy even the most seasoned
traveller.
With the swing to tourism, Goa has accommodation that is
plentiful and varied. Luxury hotels to the very highest standard
are available as too are low-cost backpacker lodgings and
mid-range hotels.
There are plenty of galleries and museums to explore as well
as some spectacular temples and mosques. At night-time, sample
the delights of the MS Caravela, India's first floating casino.
Or if you are young and energetic, then drop in to one of
the many parties and raves that dot the coastline during the
tourist season. You can even enjoy the thrills and spills
of go-karting or the more sedate pleasurw of bird-watching.
Go crocodile-spotting near the village of Cumbarjua, just
don't get too close.
Experience a true mixture of modern shops and markets selling
everything from handmade furniture and brassware to clothing,
fresh spices and cashew nuts - "yes real cashew nuts"
a particular favourite with the locals and tourists alike.
If you are staying in Goa for the full length of your holiday
but fancy seeing more of India, then you can take advantage
of Indias extensive rail system. Mumbai is easily accessible
if you don't mind a 500 km train journey, but that is an experience
in itself. You could have some fun using the buses which are
plentiful even though they make many unscheduled stops to
pick up anyone who might be waiting. There are plenty of rickshaws
around or try one of the unique motorcycle taxis but do remember
to hold on tight.
Goa, being in the tropical zone and near the Arabian Sea,
has a warm and humid climate for most of the year. The best
time to go to is probably between September and March, with
a short cool season between mid-December and February when
you will experience cool nights of around 20 °C, and warm
days of around 29°C with moderate amounts of humidity. The
hot, sticky monsoon takes place during the standard summer
months with May being the hottest, seeing day temperatures
of over 35 °C coupled with high humidity.
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