GOA FOR FREE

1. Old Goa

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Located 10 km (7 miles) east of Panaji, Old Goa was built in the 15th century by the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur. The port city was captured by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, but abandoned due to a plague in the 18th century. Today, the remains of the city are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The imposing Church of St Cajetan in Old Goa

2. Beaches

With endless stretches of sand Goa is a beach-lover’s paradise. The happening beaches of North Goa buzz with life and offer Konkan cuisines, snacks, cocktails and mocktails. The beaches of South Goa are ideal for those in search of a bit of peace and quiet.

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Idyllic setting of Vagator Beach

3. Fort Aguada

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Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the well-preserved 17th-century Fort Aguada was constructed to defend against attacks by the Marathas and Dutch. The fort got its name (aguada means water) from the freshwater spring within the fort that provided water to the ships that docked here.

4. Churches

Goa boasts some of the oldest churches in India and they showcase an amazing blend of Portuguese and Indian architecture. Among the more famous ones are the Basilica de Bom Jesus, Sé Cathedral, Church of St Francis of Assisi, Church of St Cajetan and the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.

5. Fontainhas

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Cut off from Panaji’s din, Fontainhas is Goa’s Latin Quarter. It offers a walk that is an experience in itself. The Portuguese influence is evident from the architecture. Look out for the narrow winding and tapered streets, flanked by old villas with tiled roofs and buildings painted in the traditional colours.

6. Goa Carnival

Celebrated since the 18th century, the boisterous Carnival is Goa’s most famous festival. It is believed that Goa comes under the rule of King Momo who encourages all to eat, drink and make merry.

7. Flea Markets

Arpora’s Saturday Night Bazaar is among the best places to shop for handicrafts, fashion apparel, rugs, accessories, designer jewellery, herbs and spices as well as a quick bite or a delicious meal. The weekly Anjuna Flea Market, which is open until sunset, is another great option too.

8. Dudhsagar Falls

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This majestic four-tiered waterfall, among India’s tallest, is located on the Mandovi River. The best way to reach the falls is by car via Colem. For those looking for more adventure, trekking is an option too.

9. Public Astronomical Observatory

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Set up by the Association of Friends for Astronomy in 1990, the Public Astronomical Observatory is an ideal place for amateur astronomers and stargazers. Owing to its seaside location and the lack of tall buildings, the view of the sky can be astounding. One can simply go for stargazing and beach astronomy, or attend the science film festival organized by the AFAO.

10. Mario Gallery

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Discover how history shaped Goa through the years in signature Mario Miranda’s style. His artworks are used on various articles such as crockery, T-shirts, postcards and illustrated books. These can be bought as souvenirs.

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Souvenirs for sale at Mario Gallery

TOP 10 BUDGET TIPS

1. A convenient option for travelling around Goa is by gearless motorbikes, which can be rented easily.

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Motorbikes for hire

2. Motorcycle rickshaws are a cheap mode of transport in Goa.

3. Skip conventional restaurants and try the beachfront restaurants that Goa is famous for. They offer affordable and delicious food options that range from continental to local cuisine.

4. Various mobile apps offer online table reservation services plus discounts and cashbacks on restaurant bills. Dineout is a popular app that works for both Android and iOS. Set lunches and buffets as well as weekend brunches at popular restaurants can be very good value and cost less than the evening meals.

5. Many bars and pubs have “Ladies Nights” on weekdays where entry and drinks are free for women.

6. Most bars have happy hours during early evenings (usually 5–8pm) that offer “one plus one” on drinks as well as spirits.

7. Alcohol is cheaper in wine shops compared to in restaurants, bars or beach shacks.

8. Test your bargaining skills at local markets – you might get a good deal off the original quote.

9. Everything from room rates to food is cheaper during the off season months – April to October.

10. If you want to try your hand at gambling, visit the casinos on weekdays. The prices usually go up over the weekends from Friday to Sunday.

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