This small, former Portuguese enclave has a 105km long coastline lapped by the Arabian Sea. Part of the attraction lies in the fact that Goa has a character quite distinct from the rest of India and despite nearly four decades of liberation from Portuguese colonial rule, it has left its legacy, with a proliferation of churches and a cuisine totally different from the elsewhere on the subcontinent. Goa's best attraction is its perfect beaches, which along with a temperate climate, diverse landscapes and luxury hotels, continue to attract many tourists from all over the world.
STAY AT Taj Exotica: situated on 56 acres of exquisitely landscaped lawns, complete with tropical plants and palms, Taj Exotica has 140 air-conditioned rooms, including two presidential villas with private plunge pools. All rooms are spacious, luxuriously appointed and have a private veranda or balcony that looks out on to the Arabian Sea. The hotel also has water slides and offers facilities for water sports, including wind surfing, sailing and para sailing. The Ayurvedic spa is modelled on a Keralan Temple. (00 91 832 277 1234; www.tajhotels.com)
WHEN TO GO: The best time to visit Goa is during the cooler months from November to March. At the end of the high season, April and May can be very humid.
READ MORE in CNTraveller.com's guide to Goa |
