Goa, located on the western coast of India, is smaller in size than most Indian states, but draws tourists in much greater numbers. It is famous for its picturesque beaches that go alive around Christmas every year with beach parties and carnivals. Other than beaches, it also features some old Churches located in the capital Panaji. Goa is increasingly becoming a center for water sports – both competitive and recreational.

Goa is easily accessible and connected with all the metros by direct flights. It also falls within the Konkan Railway network which is quite famous for its beauty and tunnels. Main rail heads are Vasco da Gama and Thivim. Taxis are easy to get once you reach Goa, and they are quite reasonably priced as well. You can also rent motorcycles and jeeps if you want to travel all by yourself, though there is room for negotiation on the quoted charges.

The main beaches to explore include Calangute and Anjuna in the north and Palolem in the south. There are two old Churches in Panaji which are worth a visit. Lovers of beautiful ruins should visit the old Aguada Fort. Also, don’t miss the splendid sunset at the beaches. The most popular amongst all Backpackers is Anjuna and Baga Beach.

Places to eat:
There are numerous restaurants around the beaches that fit every budget. One must try the ‘shacks’ – beachside restaurants with thatched roofs – that serve fresh juices and omelets in addition to regular food. Goa’s fish curry is immensely popular. For dessert, don’t miss the rum balls – chocolate balls marinated with rum.
It’s a Backpackers paradise because no matter which country you belong to, you are bound to run into a restaurant that serves food from your country.
Goa is not only popular for its “places to eat” but more popular for places to drink.
Goa serves its own homemade “Port wines” as well as “Kings Beer” which is the popular Beer in Goa.

Places to shop:
Small shops throng the beaches. Buy hats, towels, t-shirts, slippers and rum balls. Wine is really cheap in Goa, though it is not meant for connoisseurs, for it is much sweeter and strong. The good part is that it comes in plastic bottles so you don’t have to worry about carrying it back without breaking the bottle. Goa’s Fenny is famous as well!

Special/unknown/discovered facts or chilling out place:
Try the breakfast at the shacks – sandwiches, omelet and juice, while watching the morning waves. Also, you can find accommodation in the shacks. They usually have 2-3 halls at the back of the restaurant. This way you are closest to the sea.

Partying the Goa way:
Get ready for an extravaganza and be a part of New Year Celebrations in Goa. Party whole night on the cool beaches or aboard cruises. You can also enjoy the celebrations in various hotels and resorts in Goa during the New Year time. If you are partying on the beaches, then expect some dance, music, food, Fenny and Port Wine, and top it up with some quiet moments at the beach - perfect for the married couples. You could also choose a different way of celebration by choosing wildlife resorts or spa resorts in Goa too.

For those in the know and music fanatics, there is no way you could slip a chance to enjoy the Sunburn festival. Sunburn is a 3-day Electronic Dance Music Festival held in Goa every year. It brings together renowned Indian and International DJs to entertain crowds of thousands in December, catering to a wide Indian and International audience, and showcasing India as a music and dance destination to the world!

This year, Sunburn will be held from 27 - 29 December, 2011 on Candolim Beach, Goa. Big names like Pete Tong, Gabriel & Dresden, Jerome Ismae – ae, Perfect Stranger, Laughing Buddha, Rae, Brute Force are expected to turn up at Sunburn’s shores for the first time ever to set the festival on fire!

Sunburn also brings the biggest crowd favorites like Above & Beyond, Jalebee Cartel, Funkagenda, Pearl, John 00 Fleming, Skazi, Ma Faiza, Anil Chawla & Dale Anderson, Liquid Soul, Sanjay Dutta, Lost Stories, Nawed Khan and Shaanwill.

So if you are looking for an experience of a lifetime plan your travel to Goa now!

Article by Mridul Gupta
An Indian Backpacker