Café Chocolatti, Candolim

Situated inside the property of a residential villa, Cafe Chocolatti is a stylish cafe that stands as an addition of the cafe owner’s house. Helping the perfect entertainment for your sweet tooth, the cafe is encircled by the refreshing gardens that is snuggled in the middle of the hustling streets of Goa and still provides a perfect breathing space to the tourists. The restaurant actually serves Burmese cuisine but ties on affects from the cuisine of China, India, Laos and Thailand.

Location: 409A, Fort Aguada Road, Candolim, Goa
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9 am to 7 pm

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,000 (tax excluded) 

Mum’s Kitchen

Doubtlessly one of the perfect restaurants in Goa for original Goan cuisine. The menu’s extensive and attractive.  Most of the frequently customers here are locals, so the kitchen doesn’t hold back on the spice. The service here is very quick but tries booking the table before visiting because there is surely waiting here to collect a table.  Mum’s Kitchen is the perfect beach huts that give you a taste of French luxury.

Location: 854, Martins Building, Dayanand Bandodkar Street, Panaji, Goa  

Cuisine: Goan, Seafood

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,700

The Rice Mill, Morjim

Established within an old rice mill dating back to the year of 1955, the Rice Mill is a cozy, yellow-walled, vibrant, and a happy cafe that is all about positive vibes. Tucked away in the rural area of the Morjim, the earthy appearance of this cafe is what attracts the travelers to experience its minimalistic beauty.

Location: H. No. 384, Near Bank of Baroda, Varchawada, Morjim, Pernem, Goa
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9.30 am to 11 pm
Cuisine: Continental, and Goan
Average Meal For Two: Starts from INR 1,000 (tax excluded)

Venite Bar Restaurant

This bar & restaurant is on the first floor of an ancient house and you are pleased with husks at the entry gate. This is run by a family and especially popular for its original local Goan- Portuguese cuisine. The seafood here is also unbalanced. Breakfast options contain choices of eggs and sauces with mashed potatoes and potato chips. They remain closed on Sundays. Check out the markets nearby too. Find the good seafood in Goa at this lovely restaurant.

Location: 31^st January Road, Panaji, Goa

Cuisine: Goan, Seafood, Continental

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,000

Thalassa

Settled on a hilltop, have a view the splendid Arabian Sea and attractive small Vagator beach lies the perfect Restaurant in Goa providing intense Greek food - Thalassa. Not just a Greek taverna in Goa, but a place where the comfortable and pure happiness of Greek friendliness merge automatically with the laid back, free and peaceful atmosphere and vibe of Goa. It brags of having the best sunset view in all of Goa. With an imaginative touch and an energetic atmosphere, Thalassa is the place to be for those in chasing of some calm and quiet.

Location: Small Vagator, Ozran, Vagator, Goa 403509

Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 500

Pousada by the Beach

Whatever the time of day, nothing could be more enjoyable than taking in heart stopping views in Goa at a Beach Sea Front Restaurant while suggesting an appetizing meal. The Pousada Beach Sea Front Restaurant caters to both senses. The Pousada Beach Sea Front Restaurant, this a little portion of Goa and a good location on the Arabian Sea to enjoy a marshy meal or snack on their personal courtyard or just right for sunbathing and relaxing on the beach. This is the beach where you leave your problems behind and get away from the world. You must try the most popular food of Goa at this beautiful restaurant.

 Location:  Gaura Vaddo, Calangute Beach, Calangute, Goa

Cuisine: Goan, Seafood, Continental, Portuguese, Konkan

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,500

The Space Goa

Situated on the area of Agonda beach, the Space Goa, is calm, composed, and a scenic cafe that serves the finest of organic produce. The cafe being an essential part of the institution, the Space Goa constitutes of a wellness centre, an occupation shop, and an ayurvedic treatment centre that inspires the travelers to take up an integrated attitude towards life. Given the paucity of places in Panaji where you can get wholesome breakfast, Bodega tops the list with its all-day-breakfast menu.

 Location: 261, Devabag, Palolem, Canacona, Palolem, Goa

Cuisine: Goan, Seafood

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,500

Blue Planet Café

A tempered, relaxed, and a refreshing open-air cafe, the Blue Planet Cafe is believed to be one of the perfect cafes in Goa for the true vegetarians. Set in the middle of the rich forests, and surrounded by the hills, treat yourself to some mouth watering cheesecakes while treating your eyes to the huge countryside of green leaves all around. Situated in an easy-to-find spot, the helping staff, and the lovely atmosphere go hand in hand with the fascinating dishes that make your day just perfect.

Location: Agonda, Canacona, Near Palolem, Goa

Cuisine: Vegetarian

Average Meal for Two: Starts from INR 1,200

Antares

The brainchild of Sarah Todd (ex-contestant of Masterchef Australia), 'Antares' sure lives up to its name as the brightest star in the constellation of Scorpio. Located on the cliffs of the Vagator Beach, this Restaurant cum Beach Club serves as one of the most aesthetically pleasing places in Goa. With a wide range of cuisine spanning from Goan to French, Antares is a must-visit for all those of you who wish to engage in the actual Goan culture- good food and the perfect ambience.

Timings: 12 noon - 12 midnight
Location: Small Vagator Beach, Ozran, Vagator, Goa
Cost for Two: INR 1800 (approx)

Cuban Club

Cuban Club is one of the most happening nightclubs. It is located on top of Arpora Hill and offers a spectacular view. It is much preferred by people for its neon-lit and multi-level dance floors and the open-air bar. It even has an outdoor area with a big pool in the centre and a reserved area for only ladies. The cover charge to this club is a little expensive but it includes unlimited drinks. It is a perfect place to visit with your friends, drink up and shake leg to a wide variety of music.

Timings - 9:30 pm to 4:00 am
Location - 82, Sim Waddo, Arpora Hill, Anjuna
Cost for two - 2,500 approx.

THE OCEAN PARK RESORT

Every time you visit The Ocean Park Resort, you get a feel of highest level of luxury, comfort and class, which makes your holiday experience a memorable one.

The Ocean Park Resort has 42 Executive rooms, which are equal to the rooms of any 5 star resorts in Goa, and 8 Studio rooms which are as good as any International standard 5 star resorts in the world.

Maintaining the highest standards yet having the friendliest nature the staff of The Ocean Park Resort, will always ensure that our guests are always satisfied, making their dream holiday come true.

Address : 266, Holiday St, Gauravaddo, Calangute, Goa 403515

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 4,000 to 6,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

DE GRAND REVIERA RESORT

De Grand Riviera is an excellent choice for travellers visiting Calangute, offering a luxury environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay.

As your “home away from home,” the hotel rooms offer a minibar and air conditioning, and getting online is easy, with free wifi available.

Guests have access to 24 hour front desk, room service, and 24 hour security while staying at De Grand Riviera. In addition, De Grand Riviera offers a pool and breakfast, which will help make your Calangute trip additionally gratifying. And, as an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests.

If you like Asian restaurants, De Grand Riviera is conveniently located near Pousada by the Beach, Fat Fish Restaurant and Bar, and Cafe Lazy Days.

Address : E-5, Dr Afonso Rd, Calangute, Goa 403516

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 4,000 to 6,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

Grand Hyatt Goa

Experience complete luxury trip at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, where you can relax in splendid rooms overlooking the Bambolim Bay. There are also both outdoor as well as indoor pools where you can soak up the hot Goan sun. The kids will also have a gala time here as they will take part in creative learning experiences at Camp Hyatt. There is also an aerial runway so you can fun the magical view of this hotel from up above that makes it one of the top luxury hotels and resorts in Goa.

Address: Goa University Road, Bambolim, Goa 403206

Key attractions: Camp Hyatt for kids, Shamana spa, indoor lap pool, Calangute, Baga, Candolim beaches nearby.

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 10,000 to 12,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

NAZRI RESORT

Flanked by the Arabian Sea on one side, Nazri Resort offers 4 star facility spreading over 2 acres of lush greenery, right from the white expanse of Baga Beach.The Resort has 110 luxurious rooms. Deluxe rooms have bath tubs. There`s AC Coffee Shop attached to the lobby - C Lounge, Multi Cuisine AC Restaurant with extended service by the pool side. The large swimming pool facing the green fields and the salt water lakes with variety of species of migrating birds is an eye catching sight.

Address : Calangute - Baga Rd, Saunta Vaddo, Baga, Goa 403516

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 10,000 to 12,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

GRAND VATIKA RESORT

Grand Vatika Resort is dedicated and endeavours towards “Bringing Smile on your face..” by offering a relaxed and peaceful stay in imported Natural Wooden Chalets situated at the top of hill in fresh air and dense natural green surroundings.

Grand Vatika Chalets are designed to reassure comfort and Luxury experience with a feel of Goan culture. Here you will experience the warmth, peaceful and comfy ambience of a family.

Our resort is very much in the vicinity (approx. 5 min. drive) of main “Arambol Beach”. The main bus stand, market, ATMs are just at a distance of 2 min. drive from our resort.

We have friendly staff members who will serve and assist you with a smile. We assure that you will have a comfortable and memorable stay at our resort.

Address : Madhalawala, Pernem Road, Arambol, Goa 403524

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 3,000 to 5,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

MARQUIS BEACH RESORT

See why so many travellers make Marquis Beach Resort their hotel of choice when visiting Candolim. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers a family-friendly setting with an array of amenities designed for travellers like you.

Marquis Beach Resort is a family-friendly hotel offering a flat screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning in the rooms, and it is easy to stay connected during your stay as free wifi is offered to guests

Address : Dando, Candolim, Goa 403515

DETAILS:

• Costs Rs 8,000 to 10,000/-
• 1 double bed.
• Entertainment-LED TV, WIFI, etc.
• Buffet Breakfast & Buffet Dinner.

THE BEACHES

The beaches of Goa will always be on the top in the list of any tourist. There you can choose from the North to the South. Select carefully because you it cannot be possible to visit them all. North Goa beaches are busier with a lot of activities, parties, and the shopping. The beaches in the south are more quiet and peaceful. There is also more nature in the South. Relax on the beach at a shack, enjoy food and drinks, get a massage and go for a swim.

Top Beaches in Goa – Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Palolem, Candolim, Colva, Cavelossim, Benaulim, Vagator, Majorda, Chapora.

WATER SPORTS

There is different water sports activities to choose from, almost throughout Goa. There is windsurfing, speed boat parasailing, and banana boat rides, waterskiing, water scooters, dinghy sailing, boogie boarding and more. Of course, there is also swimming facility at the beaches. But remember, there are many stones in Goa beaches. Also, watch out for indication. There you’ll find lifeguards at the most popular beaches, but not all. You can also enjoy deep sea fishing in Goa.

Best time for water sports – Try early morning for parasailing or windsurfing as the morning breeze is light and calm.

Visit the Casino’s

Gambling is no more a sport. Gambling is common in Goa with both on shore and off shore casinos, few of them of international standard. Most of the on shore casinos can be found on boats anchored in the Mandovi River. Deltin Royale and Casino pride are the best among offshore casinos. Casino pride being the cheaper of the two.

 PARAGLIDING

Paragliding is the most enjoyable adventure sport for the thrill seekers. You can also enjoy paragliding in north Goa at Arambo beach. There are smaller period trips as well. You can take off after some basic instructions and the safety check and fly smoothly up in the sky. You will get helped by your instructor. The flight will actually start from a bluff between the Arambol and the Harmal beaches. Enjoy the wonderful views of the sea, cliffs, beach, and the countryside of Goa.

Best time for paragliding – Anytime of the day when the wind may pick up except late afternoon. Avoid the June, July, and August monsoons months.

Ink a tattoo

Tattoos are about creative expression, about individuality or belonging, about ritual, rebellion or immortalizing memories. One can get a Heena Tattoo or a permanent tattoo done here. It is a home for some of the best tattoo studios in the country.

WHITEWATER RAFTING

If you want to enjoy more then you must try whitewater rafting. Here you will get more excitement and adventure. Take on the protest and ride over the rapids. It is clear to allow you an adrenalin rush. There is whitewater rafting in Goa at many places –Mhadei River, Valpoi River, and the Mandovi River. The cost will be between 1,500-2,000 INR per person, which includes basic lessons, lifejackets, safety briefing, and the rafting gear.

Best time for whitewater rafting – June to September is the best time when the rapids are the wildest.

SNORKELING, SCUBA DIVING

If you visit Goa then go Head to Grande Island near the Vasco da Gama for a day of snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving! Equipment is also available on lease. There is basic coaching as well. Explore the many famous dive sites and ship crash, or just graze the surface to see colorful seagoing life. You can finish the day with a picnic. Scuba diving is also available at Bogmalo Beach in South Goa.

Best time for snorkeling, scuba diving – Between November and April.

SPICE PLANTATION

Witness the odor of spices, and learn how they are grown at the spice plantations in Goa. See some strange spices that became India’s first exports. See Peri Peri, cardamom which is one of the best world’s hottest chilies, and more. You will also see some strange birds. A spice plantation is a photographer’s satisfaction. You must ride an elephant or splash water with them, for giving them a bath. Before leaving, you should enjoy a traditional Goan lunch that is cooked with farm spices.

KAYAKING

Kayaking in the stream of Goa could be an experience of a lifetime. Smoothly float through the restraint waters as you get close to the birds, bats, and the occasional dolphins. This stable experience will give you beautiful memories. You can see the churches, villages, and the daily life of the Goanese people as well.

Spice Plantation Tour

A trip to any Goan spice plantation is very refreshing and rejuvenating to all the senses. One can learn how local spices and herbs are grown organically during the tour of Sahakari spice plantation. On this private eco-tour, enjoy a Crocodile adventure as you cruise along the Cumbarjua Canal. Also enjoy a once in a lifetime experience of riding an elephant you’ll even get to assist in giving it a bath.

Cashew Nuts

Goa is one of the most popular places to buy “Cashew Nuts”. It is available in all flavors, salty, colored, spicy, cover with chick flour etc. So buy most famous and fresh cashews nuts from Goa as much as you can carry. It is the best place to shop cashews nuts would be around the main Panaji City but you can also try on the industries for the wholesale prices. The Royal Kajuwala in Panaji, Saima Agro Industry in Usgao, Ajanta Industries in Ponda and and Zantyes Cashew Nuts in Panaji are some different places that you could look at.

Where to buy: You can buy all different varieties of cashews from the the local markets of Panjim, Mapusa or Margao where you can bargain your heart out.

Spices

Yes, Kerala is not only the one place to get spices. Goa on the Malabar Cost of India is also the land which grows all varieties of “Spices”. So, if you are in Goa don’t forget to analyze some of the spice farms which offer guided tours and range of aromatic spices from Cardamom, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Cloves to the fresh cream on the cake which is little reasonable that you don’t get anywhere.

Where to buy: You can get these spices from the Mapusa Market and Anjuna Flea Markets.

Feni or Cashew Feni

 “Feni” is a mixture of coconut and cashew. It is more famous alcohol in the country. It is one of the most popular things to buy in Goa. It is ever stimulating, long counter life and it is used in cocktails or mixed with cola, tonic water and lemonade. A bottle of Feni is easily available at reasonable price at any liquor shop. So if you want to buy some drink and gift to your drunkard friend or host the next party at home then must buy a bottle of Feni and let enjoy everyone with a sip of the Goan spirit.

Where to buy: Most of the Cashew, Dry fruits shop and the wine shops sell feni.

Handicrafts

If you go to Goa then you must buy some handicrafts items from there otherwise your trip to Goa is incomplete. Goa which increase for its quality silk, beautiful carpets, papier-mâché work, bronze work sell many interesting jewelry , sea some show pieces and the creative artwork of the locals at the beach markets which make great sign . So, go and buy beautiful handicrafts items but be sure you bargain skill should be well; as these beach markets normally charge unreasonable price from the common.

Where to buy: If you want to buy quality handicrafts then head to GHRSSIDC Arts complex in Rua De Ourem in Panjim or Goa’s Handicrafts Emporia.

Wooden Furniture (Wooden Carvings)  

“Wooden Carvings” is one of the best things in Goa. If you visit go then must buy from there. To add more beauty for your home, you can select any beautiful and ancient pieces from the large range of furniture that is decorated with beautiful brass work and wood furniture available from up market showrooms, roadside vendors, to beach markets. Goa's rich tradition in wood-furniture is seen in traditional houses there. The Portuguese effect is shown in the Western-style furniture made export. The designs are Oriental that is used in wooden furniture.

Painted Tiles

Goa is specializes in “Painted Tiles” and use the traditional and the modern two different techniques that are one of the most famous items to shop in Goa. There are two reasons that fascinate everyone to buy these really beautiful blue painted tiles. So you must buy these beautiful tiles from Goa, and whenever you miss Goa look at these cartoons from Mario Miranda and recall the memories of the land, Sun, sand, and the beaches without travelling. Today you can find these blue tiles with pictures and the sketches about Goa and the other reason these tiles is drawing by the world famous Goa artist who can captured all moments of life in Goa and decorated in great way.

Le Souk

Le Souk by Amarya is the place to head to if you’re looking for high-end items in Goa. This open-air bazaar has tented stores where you can find some of the best national and international designers. Nappa Dori, Shades of India and Jonas G are worth checking out.

Location: Ashwem

MMC Market

Also called Gandhi market, this is one of the most bustling areas in South Goa that’s popular with locals as well as tourists. They have apparel as well as handmade soaps, household time and lots of spices.

Location: Margao

Colva Beach

For the best of beach side shopping, pay a visit to Colva beach where you can find a lot of clothes as well as knick knacks you can take back home with. The rates can fluctuate so makes sure to bargain.

Location: Colva Beach

Palolem Market

This bazaar is a great place to chill at on a Saturday night. Here you can find a lot of beach related items as well as stalls selling clothes, souvenirs as well as food and lots more.

Location: Palolem