Goa

Colonised by the Portuguese in 1510, they ruled here for 450 years until evicted using military force by Nehru in 1961.  As is to be expected, the strong influence of her European masters is still tenable in today’s Goa and Portuguese influence is still to be found in cuisine, in architecture and in religion.  Around one third of Goa’s population are Christian and the central region is home to many white-washed churches and shrines.

Goa does however retain a strong Indian influence – aromatic and spicy food and exotic religious festivals still characterise the region.  It is in fact this entrancing cultural blend of East meets West which draws visitors back time and time again.

In general terms, Goa can be split into two main parts – North and South.  The North is home to the renowned beach of Anjuna, as well as Fort Aguada and Calangute.  It is also home to the famous flea market and boasts a wide selection of restaurants and bars.

South Goa is renowned for its quiet beaches – endless stretches of picture perfect sand and palm trees.  It is also home to some of Goa’s most luxurious five star resorts.