The Europeans arrived in Goa in 1498, led by Vasco Da Gama, who had landed in what is today known as Old Goa. The journey took almost a year & was accompanied by several hardships, including turbulent weather, hostile natives & many dangerous diseases. Thankfully, the times have changed. The duration between planning a trip & relaxing at Vagator Beach, with a coconut drink in hand is just a click away. Yes, Flying to Goa has never been so easy before. As more & more European & American tourists plan their Goa holidays, many operators are offering extremely cheap flights to Goa to cash in on the tourism boom.
Goa is a natural paradise in India & one of its most popular tourist destinations. The region was long under Portuguese authority, & the Portuguese culture is prevalent in Goanese culture even today. The small state is bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west, & has some of the best beaches in the world. The most famous beaches of Goa include the Vagator, Baga, Dona Paula, Miramar, Palolem, & Calangute. Some of the best hotels & beach resorts are situated on or close to these beaches. The beaches attract numerous foreign tourists & one will come across many old couples & groups having a good time around the beaches. The laidback life style of the city is just perfect for an ideal leisurely vacation. Panjim is the commercial center of Goa as well as the state capital.Goa is also a major center of Christian pilgrimage in India. There are many famous & important churches all over Goa, the most prominent of them being the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which preserves the body of St Francis Xavier. Besides the churches, Goa has some beautiful forts and temples. The Aguada Fort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1126420
