Goa-The Ultimate Tourist Paradise

‘The Delight of the East'- that's Goa. It's the ultimate heaven on earth for all people who love sun, sand and beaches. This sun-drenched city is situated in the Western side of India. Amidst tranquil beaches and white sand, the natural scenery is abreast with coconut trees and palm foliage.

Goa is a Hub of Konkan culture. The Konkani seafood is the perfect gourmet delight for the foreign and local visitors to the city. Amidst the lovely greenery and golden beaches, Modern Goa offers many luxury hotels and lodges for weary travelers. Even the serene beaches have little shady hutments that serve chilled drinks and delicious spread of seafood. The hawkers attend to needs of many customers, anytime of the day and the nightlife is alive and kicking with party spirit.

But many foreigners and tourists visit Goa for discovering the wonderful historical landmarks and ancient culture. Some of them are:

• ST Cathedral Church : Constructed in the 16 th century, this Tuscan styled church is one of the biggest Churches in India. The Cross-of Miracles is a wonderment, which is believed to have grown bigger and said to have magical properties of healing. The church is devoted to Saint Catherine. The Golden Bell is another major attraction of this old church.
              
• St. Francis Church : It showcases numerous paintings of Portuguese authorities, who used to rule the land and also many images of Hindu Gods and religious temples are depicted inside the church. The floorings are covered with tombstones, which voice the life-scenes of ST. Francis. The Monastery has been converted into an Archaeological Museum.
                  
• Basilica of Revered Bom Jesus : The Miracle of the Lord is evident in the mortal remains of the great saint ST. Francis Xavier. The Church treasures the tomb and the earthly remains of the Saint.
                

Goa is a town of diverse cultures, along with historic value and tradition. It is believed that the early Portuguese people, who came to this land to seek spices during the 16 th century decided to settle down in this beautiful paradise. Due to the Portuguese stronghold in Goa, the land is a blend foreign and Indian culture. Even the architectural structures take pride in showing off its unique mixture of integrity of diverse heritage. Goa is easy to access from Mumbai, The financial capital of India. You can reach Goa by luxury buses, trains or airways. Apart from its stunning beaches, Goa is also known for its water sporting activities like windsurfing, parachute gliding, yachting and deep sea diving sport among many others. All these sports are encouraged and financed by the Goa Authorities.

Goa is famous for its magnificent beaches and tranquil scenic greenery. The Beaches are the main attraction of tourists from all over the world. Some of the lovely beaches in Goa are:

• Colva : The Colva Beach is situated near Margao Township. Beautiful coconut trees, white sand and deep blue water adorn the beach. It is like a queen among the other beaches.
                    
• Panjim : It is the hub of Goa. The city houses many residential complexes and government structures of Portuguese era. Portuguese signboards still hover over many shops, restaurants and governmental buildings in Goa. The Panjim beach is one of the most celestial water resorts of Goa.

Apart from all this, Goa also has a mystic and enchanting modern nightlife. The discotheques, restaurants and pubs vouch for the thriving nightlife in the city. The Rave parties organized at New Year bashes are gala and fun-filled with lots of shimmering lights, music and dancing.

Goa is also shopper's paradise. Your vacation in Goa is incomplete without a souvenir in remembrance of the lovely place. From handicraft items to brassware, from bamboo works to artistic shell works, you will get them all at local shops and government Emporiums.