While most tourists to India tend to converge on the beach areas in northern or southern Goa, the central region, and in particular the area around Dona Paula beach, are an absolute treat not to be missed. Conveniently located just a few kilometres south-west of Goa’s capital Panjim, Dona Paula is as authentic as India is. The town boasts a rich history and its natural wonders are second to none; the town was built on the convergence of Goa’s two main rivers and the Arabian Sea, is flanked by enormous palm trees and often called the Lovers’ Paradise for very good reasons. Dona Paula’s popularity is fast rising, thanks to it being the set of a few Bollywood flicks in recent years; so do yourself a favour and come experience some authentic Indian bliss on your next holiday, before it all disappears. Book your holiday rental apartment or villa in Dona Paula and, if you really can’t just lay on the beach and soak up the rays like a normal person, take advantage of Dona Paula’s more active side. Following are the best places to head to if you need to burn some energy! Dona Paula Sports Club The sports club is the ...

There are plenty of reasons why Candolim is rising in popularity as one of Goa’s most superlative holiday destinations. Unlike other nearby towns however, the atmosphere and setting here is geared towards the more discerning visitor; as Candolim prefers to forego the backpacking scene, and concentrate instead on a more elegant setting.  The beaches of Candolim are spotless (especially now that the River Princess wreck has been removed) and the relaxing environment is ideal for families, older couples or anyone interested in a more subdued vacation. Mind you, all night beach parties are but a taxi ride away, so party goers can still revel to their heart’s content nearby. When scouring Beach Road for the best tour operator in town, keep in mind that while they may all offer the same type of trip, some are a little more professional than others. John's Boat Tours are considered one of the very best and while they may charge a little more for their day-trip excursions, they really do provide a better than average service. With John, you can explore nearby spice plantations, local villages, temples and go on a variety of fantastic boat trips. Want to know which ones are rated the best? ...

Nothing screams ‘endurance and stamina’ quite like a day-outing in an Indian open air market. As far as fortitude and resilience goes, the Tour de France has nothing on the Tour de Goa! Yet rewards abound for those who brave the enticing and hectic markets, and a day out spent bartering for gorgeous, unique and sometimes even useless souvenirs is an Indian holiday experience never to be missed. For a little reprieve between outings, choose a holiday apartment in Siolim, the most delightful and peaceful of all riverside villages in Northern Goa. Blissfully unaffected by the mass-tourism which seems to have infected all nearby villages, Siolim is an absolutely delightful vacation base for all your Goan expeditions. Close to all major hubs, yet far enough not to be annoyed by them, Siolim offers the serene visitor an abundance of hikes to enjoy and plenty of temples to admire. When staying in Siolim don’t miss the chance to spend a day in one, or all, of the following markets. Remember to put on your poker face; barter till you drop, and fill your bags with more knick-knacks then you’ll ever know what to do with. Siolim Wednesday Markets When we said Siolim is ...