Goa
Entertainment Quality: 5 / 5
Safety: 3 / 5
Nightlife: 5 / 5
Walkability: 2 / 5
Living Standards: 4 / 5
Free WiFi: 3 / 5
Goa in Prices & Facts
$2.4 $2.44
Quick Lunch for One
Spoken Languages
English, Hindi, Russian
$0.4 $0.43
Public Transport Ride
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Getting Around
Taxi
Goa's taxis are widely available across the beaches and tourist spots, with fares starting around ₹25 for the first kilometer and ₹15 for each additional kilometer, so be sure to negotiate the price upfront as they're not metered. To save money, opt for sharing rides through local taxis such as those at Palolem or Baga Beach, as you'll quickly meet fellow travelers heading in the same direction.
On Foot
Walking around Goa is completely free and offers great coverage in popular areas like Calangute and Candolim, perfect for exploring hidden beaches and local markets. Avoid the midday sun by starting your stroll early or late in the evening to stay cool and enjoy spectacular sunsets.
Tourist Reviews
All photos and texts belong to their authors
Where do you like to escape to from winter in the summer? Share your thoughts! 😌 »
The sun blazes, it’s sweltering (even bananas can’t stay fresh here - they all look weird in the market). I almost want to toss my things and seek some shade. And as I try to find Wi-Fi, it's funny how the friendly locals turned off the routers! 😊 But hey, I've found a place for the night. Right now, I’m in Mordjim. What’s next? Which beaches should I visit? How many more local spots can I discover? How often can I deal with the humidity, partially spoiled food, sweat on my skin, and other little nuisances? Quite often.
Overall, the longer I travel through Goa, the more I love Bali. 😍 »
What country would you like to visit? Where did you enjoy the most? »
Today we reached the southernmost beaches of the Gulf - Candle and Kalangut.
These places are more reminiscent of the usual resorts, with wider streets, shops, and quite a few local spots, although not too many tourists around. We were stopped by the police twice, just because we looked like tourists. They insisted on talking to us based on what they see and what you eat, just thriving on stereotypes.
Our interaction with them was rather amusing - "just step away from the police for two seconds."
The beach itself, Candle, has clean, bright yellow sand. The waters here are deeper and cooler. There are plenty of shacks around, lounges, and even some older Europeans hanging out.
Candle is essentially an extension of Kalangut. In principle, they are quite similar, with just more cafes and shops available.
Each to their own, but for us, our village in Morgime suits us better 😄🏖️😎. »
Morning starts with a stroll by the sea, ending in pleasant chats on the terrace. It brings back a childlike view of the world, and that's priceless. Everything feels fresh, and I love it! 🏖️✨ »
If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, Goa is the place to be! The streets of Mormugao are adorned with huge masks that transform the atmosphere. 🌈
The main essence of the carnival is to eat, drink, and be merry. Every February, for three days and nights, the state of Goa comes alive with the legendary King Momo leading the festivities.
So there we were, participants in the vibrant carnival reign, with a mask that cleverly conceals the ancient, playful spirit of Momo - a delightful mix of mischief and celebration! 🥳 »
The southern region boasts different architecture compared to the north, with its vibrant Portuguese style (there were many years of Portuguese colonization) really shining through. The beauty is striking. In the south, you'll find wealthier estates and everything looks cleaner, more luxurious, and more polished.
While riding down the roads, you see fields changing and on the edges, there are cows, chickens, and little pigs. I saw for the first time how they hand-milk cows with their bare hands; the husband was just standing there milking away. Around the cows, traditionally, there are roosters strutting about with ease.
Interestingly, we didn’t see roosters up north. Our last video captures our final day in Goa - we were hit by a severe monsoon and flooding, it submerged everything. The waves were dreadful - there was no getting around it. We managed to leave just in time, getting to enjoy the sunset. 😄 »
After a tiring day, we’ll be heading back to our hotel this evening and getting up at 5 AM tomorrow. We plan to head over to a spice plantation, then hit the jungle to search for sloths and other wildlife. 🌿✨ »
Truth be told, you live here and you want the day to stretch as long as possible, but time... it flies by unnoticed 😔 »
We spent 7 days on the southern coast of Goa, and we stayed at Palolem. It’s the best place along the entire southern coastline. 👍🏼 We rented bikes and explored several beaches - conclusion: this is the best one. 🍉
By the way, many people have asked if it’s safe to travel to India? Yes, especially with a child! Friends, Goa feels like a small, cozy place. Unlike what you might expect from the rest of India, like Delhi or Agra...
Kids can easily enjoy rice, macaroni, chicken soup, and more (even though I stocked up on packaged porridges, now they’re just sitting in my suitcase). And yes, I stocked up on some antiseptic, just in case. 😂
The weather in February is simply fantastic. We aren’t melting from the heat like, let’s say, in Thailand. 🌤️ Even with temperatures around 30°C, it’s quite pleasant here.
The beachfront is filled with little cafes equipped with sun loungers during the day, and in the evening, tables start to appear. Just imagine: you arrive at the beach 🏖️, relax on a sunbed, and you’re served throughout the day. And yes, the sunbeds are free!
In the first few days, we got a bit of sunburn right on the beach. We stayed there for quite a long time. 🤗 »
No one thinks about what to expect 🤔, but when you look around, it goes straight to your soul💫. All the people here are so unique, and the people you encounter are just stunning🤩 the combination of tranquility and inspiration 🙏🏼 and whether Goa accepts you or not - that's 1000% guaranteed.
For a person whose values are only material, inside they might be filled with anger and aggression; they'll never come to love this place😅.
Somehow it is what it is 🤯✨ »
We touched down at 5 AM, and while we were freezing in -35 degrees back home, here it was already +35 in Goa. Traffic rules here are not strictly followed; before a turn, you’ll hear a honking horn, so it’s a noisy and chaotic environment. The wild dogs and sacred cows are all around, roaming about, reinforcing that we were indeed in India. You’ll see groups of smiling men strolling along the beach, just enjoying the moments together. It's just friendship and tradition. Everyone is smiling.
In the shacks along the coastline, you can spot people sleeping on benches without any blankets, just lying on cardboard boxes. Next to a hotel stood a shack where a group of workers gathered in the evening, and opposite them was a modest hut where rice was being served (there’s a photo of that hut somewhere). I’ll share more about the hut tomorrow if you're curious. »
What struck me first was their height. Joking or not, most of the girls are shorter than me, while the men are mostly the same height as me.
If anyone happens to see me, I’m around 5 feet 2 inches tall. 😄
The locals, especially in rural areas, are kind, curious, and a bit surprised. Children call out "hello," and after they get a response, they beam with joy. It’s astonishing how much happiness a simple greeting can bring!
Traveling by train initially felt daunting, with crowded carriages packed with people, but it turned out to be quite an adventure. Everyone was polite, made space for me, smiled, and offered help.
I also noticed how incredibly clean everything was. In the morning at the station and near the toilet facilities, there were always people with brooms ensuring everything was tidy. After two days of traveling by train, it really felt fresher than on any transit I’ve experienced before.
In the mornings by every canal and river, it’s common to see people washing themselves, and even in rural areas, it’s almost like a daily ritual. They seem to take pride in cleanliness, and it’s lovely to see. 😊 »
📍Location: Northern Goa/Arambol 📍
The history of the parade dates back to the vibrant 80s, when the Northern Goa was the paradise for all famous hippies! This carnival features people dressed in various costumes, gathering by the mountains in Arambol and indulging in a warm celebration with music and dances, and after sunset, they light bonfires, dance, and have fun until dawn. 🚨INTERESTING: 🤫The Freak Parade is an unofficial event, and the authorities tend to keep its dates under wraps each year. But one thing is always certain: it takes place in February. 🎊
My IMPRESSION:
The Freak Parade isn’t free to attend 🎭. I noticed a huge presence of creative and free-spirited people, each showcasing their own whimsical fantasy and talents. 👯♀️ At the parade, you could spot people in pharaoh costumes, tribal outfits (check out the photos: there was a lady dressed in a traditional outfit with blue hair and golden accents, developing quite the vibe), mummies, elves, dragons, and many more! 👌🏻
This event brings together diverse age groups, nationalities, and cultures. 🔥
It’s worth attending this event to share your energy and soak it up from others. 🌈 »
📍Location: Northern Goa/Arambol 📍
The history of the parade dates back to the vibrant 80s, when the Northern Goa was the paradise for all famous hippies! This carnival features people dressed in various costumes, gathering by the mountains in Arambol and indulging in a warm celebration with music and dances, and after sunset, they light bonfires, dance, and have fun until dawn. 🚨INTERESTING: 🤫The Freak Parade is an unofficial event, and the authorities tend to keep its dates under wraps each year. But one thing is always certain: it takes place in February. 🎊
My IMPRESSION:
The Freak Parade isn’t free to attend 🎭. I noticed a huge presence of creative and free-spirited people, each showcasing their own whimsical fantasy and talents. 👯♀️ At the parade, you could spot people in pharaoh costumes, tribal outfits (check out the photos: there was a lady dressed in a traditional outfit with blue hair and golden accents, developing quite the vibe), mummies, elves, dragons, and many more! 👌🏻
This event brings together diverse age groups, nationalities, and cultures. 🔥
It’s worth attending this event to share your energy and soak it up from others. 🌈 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
❓ Which beach to choose in Goa?
Bagha and Calangute are the most popular ones, but they tend to be the busiest too. Here, you will encounter not just a lot of tourists, but also a huge number of Indians. 😥 Anjuna, Vagator, and Morjim are significantly quieter, where you can enjoy a more tranquil and cultural experience. ☀️ Arambol is a hidden gem – you will see people truly relaxing in their comfort. 👌
Every 10 meters here you come across something new happening - people singing, dancing, practicing capoeira, learning kitesurfing, meditating, and playing on the beaches. As the sun sets right on the shore, a small market starts to set up, where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and other goodies. 💕
All together, it creates a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere, and your eyes open up to the colorful personalities and local attractions around you. 🥰 »
“Is it dirty in Goa?” — one of the most frequently asked questions online and in real life.
When you first arrive, you step out of the airport and look out the window, your first thought will be: “Oh my God, where have I landed?” You look up — blue sky and palm trees. You look down — piles of trash, bottles, bags, and all sorts of litter.
On the second day it already gets better, and by the third day you start thinking “yeah, in the outskirts of Goa it will be dirtier.”
Dirt is mostly found where local people live. They tend to be a bit careless, and the littering is a real problem. In the tourist areas, everything is much better.
Beaches are cleaned regularly, and along the main roads, there's practically no trash. The sea is clean too.
I want to say that the trash in Goa is ultimately not a huge issue. But for those who are open to new experiences — the litter won’t become a problem.
In reality, you will immerse yourself in a new culture, sun, fruits, and the ocean. The trash will just be a part of the landscape that you accept as part of the environment, where it simply lies under the sun and eventually disappears.
As for the dogs, they roam around the beach territory, but I haven't seen any cows on our or neighboring beaches.
Goa is the cleanest state in India. Of course, it’s hard to imagine what happens in Delhi or Mumbai, for example. Just think of the Ganges River, where people bathe, and the pollution levels are crazy. But still, people live there and seem to be happy 😄
That's it 👌
I know that in Bali, Thailand, Vietnam, and other places, the litter situation is similar. You’ll share your impressions ❤️ »
I want to highlight one thing. Access was free. Cleanliness was on point. There were no police or historical object inspectors, but there were people walking in an organized manner, respecting personal space and showing consideration for others. All good!
No one was shouting: "Ma'am! You can't go past the barriers!! Ma'am! Not over there!! Ma'am!!! Don't touch that!!! Ma'am!! Delete that photo!! I'm waiting, ma'am!" I found this surprisingly refreshing. Back in 2014, I strolled around places where you could barely take a step without being told off. Here, it was complete freedom of action.
There were some tricky crossings, and high stairs, and no one seemed to care. Even the local drunks 😂🤷♀️ were in decent shape. If you visit, you have to take a look, it’s highly recommended. But please, if you walk, be careful, it’s a bit steep 🥴. On the way, I even picked some flowers 🌸 that I found beautifully blooming on the side! »
Today, there was a yogi sitting by the fire, preparing a chillum (a local variation of a peace pipe), lighting it up and passing it around. Some people were smoking the chillum, while others were just acting as a link, passing it from one hand to another.
Interestingly, all the locals, as well as the permanent residents of Banjara, shouted some loud chant before starting to smoke. I was later informed that it was their way of honoring Goddess Shiva, the guardian of the chillum's contents.
As for the yogi preparing the chillum, he was very charismatic, radiating warmth, and communicated solely through simple gestures. During all the time I spent there, I didn’t hear him speak a single word. However, he would call over anyone trying to communicate with him using signs, smile, take some ash from the fire, and make a mark on their forehead. I can’t say for sure why he did it, but it seemed like a kind of blessing. »