Gone to Goa: A kick-back weekend in India's coastal paradise

Miss the Goa Carnival in February? Not to worry, Goa has more than enough on offer to occupy a weekend getaway in this weeks 52 Weekend getaway. Relax with the Goa hippies, sleep on the beach, eat out at the numerous restaurants and motorbike through the countryside.

Fancy sleeping out on the beach? You probably could. But if not, try one of these options:

For a five-star treat, head to Hotel Taj Exotica in Goa, a Mediterranean-styled hotel that claims to slow down time to a tranquil tempo. Prices start from Rs 10,000. Telephone: +91 832 2771234‎; Email: [email protected].

Another five-star choice is by the Miramar beach. Check out Hotel Goa Marriott Resort for a lovely stay and gorgeous views. Its charming terrace offers stunning views of the sea and glorious sunsets. Prices start from Rs 10,000 Telephone: +91 832 2463333. 

Alternatively you could check in at the three-star Hotel Nova Goa: Prices start at Rs 1,900, but they have attractive packages all year round. Telephone: +91 832 2224958‎ Email: [email protected]. 

Also, there are many tourist lodges available in Goa, also known as homestays. These are looked after by families and promise a great retreat. One of them is Gabriel's Guest House Goa, which has been serving guests since 1980. It’s also close to the beach, always a plus! Telephone: +91 832 2279486, +91 823 882753. Email: [email protected].

Eating frenzy

When in Goa, eating is the primary activity, more important than drinking, sightseeing and possibly sleeping. The common phrase which floats around Goa is “Pig Out!” Yes, Goa truly is a food haven and a sweet treat for the carnivores. The Goan specialities include Ambot-tik, an exotic sweet and sour dish made of fish, and Pao com Chouricos, the fried Goan sausage, sautéed with onions and served with bread. Also try the pork vindaloo: pork is cooked in spicy and oily gravy. They say once your palate has tasted the pork vindaloo, you never go back to any other pork dish ever.

Restaurants in Goa are everywhere. They’re at beaches, shacks, hotels, sidewalks, villages, towns or cities. You can’t not find a place to eat in Goa. Try eating the road side food as well, it’s generally the most authentic cuisine along the coast. 

But for the less adventurous, try Xaviers: This restaurant has the best reputation for serving Goan-style sea food. Telephone +91 832 2273402. Alternatively, Souza Lobo, a local favorite. Mostly popular for Goan fare but also serves Indian, Chinese and European. Telephone: +91 832 2281234/2276463. Email: [email protected]. O'Coqueiro, meaning coconut tree in Portuguese, serves authentic Goan and Portuguese fare and is also the proud recipient of an International Award for Excellence in Cuisine from the International Wine & Food Society, London. Sounds just about right. Telephone: +91 832 2417806/2417271/2417344. 

Drink-joy

The typical drink of Goa is feni or fenny, a pretty exclusive alcoholic drink that is not sold in any other part of India. This Indian liquor is of two types -- cashew feni and coconut feni; it has a strong shelf life and drinking style varies. It is usually drunk with cola, soda, lemon juice or as a base for a cocktail. The most unique feature of feni is the aroma spreading out from a distance even when the bottle is sealed. Get it from any alcohol shop in Goa.

But after your pre-party with feni is over, head to Tito’s Goa (Telephone: +91 832 2275028, +91 832 2276154), or to Club Cubana.

Goa’ing for more

Goa has so much to offer, you might find yourself spending too much time deciding what to do next. So we've done it for you. Check out these great alternative attractions:

As India’s fifth largest waterfall, Dudhsagar waterfalls is an awesome place to head to. The name comes from the milky appearance of the waterfall, Dudhsagar meaning "ocean of milk." The waterfalls are surrounded by the thriving green forests of the Western Ghats and fall from an astounding height of 2,000 feet. Swimming in the calm waters is possible too. Hire a taxi or take a bus from Panaji or Margao.

Get insider's information about spices by visiting the Spice Plantations in Goa. See all steps of spice-making unfolding in front of you -- from picking the herbs at the spice farms to grinding them into powder for use. Another option is the Abyss Spice Farm, where medicinal herbs are grown on a large scale. This is located on high mountains near Ponda. Hire a taxi or auto from Panaji to both destinations. 

And then there's scuba diving. Do it at Goa Marriot Resort, Bogmala Beach. The underwater life of Goa is a mix of mesmerizing creatures and shipwrecks of World War 2. Prices start from Rs 2,000, inclusive of equipment, taxes and boat ride to diving location. More info at http://www.goaaquatics.com.

If motorbiking is of interest, then seeing Goa on two wheels is a great way to experience the "motorbike culture" of India by blazing through the country side.