Top Tips On How Tourists Can Choose Between North And South Goa For A Holiday

Although the smallest state in India travellers often find it difficult to choose between the north and south of Goa. There are many benefits to visiting both destinations but often a lack of time can be a major factor to consider when going on holiday. Both parts of this popular Indian state are visited by thousands of domestic and foreign tourists who seek beaches and warm sunshine. They have beautiful, tropical weather but if travellers are searching for less humidity then they should head to South Goa. The best time of year to visit this part of India is between October and April, which is peak season and when Goa will be filled with tourists.

Something visitors in Goa desire is to head to the beach and there are plenty of sandy destinations to choose. There is a clear difference between what the north and the south offers on the coastline. North Goa has plenty of lively parties on the beaches until the early hours of the morning and it a particular favourite of water sports fans. The beaches are definitely crowded but that is often what travellers want. The best beaches that tourists can visit in North Goa include Calangute, Anjuna and Baga that all offer excellent nightlife.

South Goa on the other hand is for travellers who want to truly relax on the peaceful, pretty beaches. Places such as Palolem Beach and Butterfly Beach are known for their tranquillity and many amazing restaurants offering top seafood dishes. A great accommodation to stay in when visiting Goa is Joecons Beach Resort that has amazing rooms, suites and villas ideal for families, couples and those travelling solo. This incredible beach resort in South Goa is located in the town of Benaulim offering a stunning beach, top restaurants and great entertainment venues. Staff members helpfully offer a fast shuttle service to the beach, which is a mesmerising place to head to for its beautiful scenery and to relax under the sun.

The wonderful Joecons Wellness Retreat offers an array of spa therapies and a steam bath that will help tourists relax while on holiday. They can also enjoy using the swimming pool, gym and eating at the superb open-air Joecons Garden Restaurant that offers tasty seafood. Goa is also famous for its magnificent Portuguese-style buildings that are incredible pieces of historic architecture. There are a number of churches that are part of Goa’s past that feature across this part of the country. There are many of these in North Goa including St Antony’s Church and the Church of St Lawrence, which both feature beautiful backdrops.

South Goa also has many stunning buildings to offer travellers but they are usually newer than the offerings in the north. There are equally as grand and include places such as Velim Church and Our Lady of Hope Church. North Goa is also better for budget shopping as it has plenty of markets, while South Goa is perfect for getting unique gifts that are one-off purchases. North Goa is known for its incredible street food, while in the south travellers can experience some gourmet delights. Tourists have to choose which part of Goa they want to visit when on a trip, but whether it’s north or south it will definitely be a rewarding experience.

Places where tourists can visit to experience the most beautiful sandy beaches in Goa

Goa is just an absolute delight to visit as the Indian state has a range of stunning beaches along its glorious coastline. This area has a long and interesting history as a Portuguese colony, which can be seen through its buildings such as its exquisite churches. Naturally it’s the beaches that entice travellers to visit Goa and there is a huge range on offer for sun worshippers to enjoy. Mandrem Beach, in north Goa, is a top example that has brilliant views and is a superb place to head out for a swim. This white, sandy beach is great for going on trips to see dolphins and there is the fascinating Mandrem village to visit.

Querim Beach, also in north Goa, is a quieter beach that has lovely fishing boats along the shore. This is the perfect place to venture to for water sports such as paragliding. Arambol Beach, found again in the north of the state, has a 16km long beach that is surrounded by cliffs on two sides. It has markets nearby and a traditional fisherman village that attracts a great number of tourists. This is also a fantastic place for active travellers who want to have a try at the popular water sport pursuit of kite surfing. The beauty about visiting beaches in Goa is there is such a variety of places and tourists can choose whatever scene they want.

There are many wonderful sandy locations to venture to so tourists will be pleased that there are numerous goa beach resorts. Travellers should pick Joecons Beach Resort that has air-conditioned rooms and suites with a range of modern amenities including free Wi-Fi internet. This accommodation is found in the magnificent town of Benaulim that has many top eateries and shopping spots. Staff members at the residence offer a shuttle service to the nearby beach and are always around to help tourists. Travellers can get newspapers and chilled mineral water sent to their rooms during their stay at this amazing destination.

 

Candolim Beach is a lovely destination for tourists who want to completely unwind during a trip to Goa. It is a relaxing beach and ideal for travellers who just want to take some time out from their hectic tourist schedule and sunbathe. Miramar Beach is a beautiful place to spend some time with the visiting crowds. This is a very popular place as it’s based near the state capital of Panaji and has many shops and restaurants nearby. This is the perfect location for travellers who enjoy spending time on a beach in the sunshine with many other tourists.

Colva Beach is found in South Goa and is probably one of the best beaches for couples. It offers incredible seafood eateries and amazing nightlife. It is also absolutely gorgeous to have a wander around in the evenings. Benaulim Beach is not as rammed as many of the other sandy destinations in Goa, but it’s just as rewarding. It offers a peaceful place to relax and is ideal for tourists who want to head to its nearby vibrant markets and cafes. Another popular place to visit is Palolem Beach known for its white sand and pretty palm groves.

Interesting Attractions near Anjuna Beach

One of the most popular beach destinations in Goa with tourists is Anjuna Beach. The best part of the year to visit the beach is in the months of February, or the months from October to December. There are ample tourist attractions to explore in the area as well as spending a relaxed afternoon lazing around on the beach!

Anjuna beach is one of the best beach resorts in Goa. So finding suitable accommodation will never be a hassle on a trip, as long as you make your reservations in advance in the tourist season. Some of the attractions that are worth a visit in the area are:  

Chapora Fort: It is one of the most visited historical attractions in the area and is popular with tourists to the area. The fort was constructed by the ruler of Bijapur, Adil Shah due to which it also has been named as Shahpura meaning “the town of the Shah”. It was built with the purpose of keeping a watch on raiders from other parts who wanted to establish their own sovereignty in the area. It was annexed by the Portuguese who in 1617 rebuilt the fortress with provision for underground tunnels which could be used as an exit in case of any emergency. Since the rule of the Portuguese, the fort was abandoned and now is a tourist spot.  It offers excellent views of Anjuna and Vagator beaches and is not to be missed on a trip to the area.

St. Michael's Church: It was built in 1613 and is out of the oldest churches in the state. It is located on the Anjuna-Beach road and features an impressive entrance with two towers flanking its sides. It has been built in the Portuguese style of architecture which makes appear extremely attractive. It attracts a large number of visitors including devotees who come to pay devotion to St. Michael. The impressive statute of the saint bears a scale in his left hand and the figure of demon is trampled under his feet. Its centrepiece is the tabernacle that lies in the centre of the main altar. The month of September attracts the largest crows as it is when the feast of St. Michael is celebrated on a lavish scale.

Tiracol Fort: Another favourite with visitors to the area is Tiracol Fort built in the 16^th century, which was captured by the Portuguese and later rebuilt in 1764. The fort was used by a number of freedom fighters during the struggle for the liberation of Goa. It is scenically located along the coast of the Arabian Sea and offers excellent views of the surrounding areas. The fort is now used as a heritage hotel and is popular choice of accommodation with tourists to the area. It also houses an ancient church known as St. Anthony’s Church that features the classic style of architecture.