Goa is one of India's prime tourist destinations, thanks to its picturesque location on the Mandovi River, between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. The Portuguese, who claimed Goa as the seat of the Catholic Church in the East in the 1500s, controlled the area until 1961, when India invaded to liberate it. The state's Portuguese past is most apparent in its plazas, cathedrals and architecture, and a few Portuguese insist that Goa retains more old world heritage than most of Portugal. A fun way to explore Goa is by renting a bike or scooter. They are easily available, but you must have an International Drivers License, and your passport will generally be kept as a guarantee.
Although it's best known for its 65 mi/105 km of magnificent, palm tree-lined beaches along the Arabian Sea, Goa has other attractions of significance. Among them are the Portuguese Catholic Church of Old Goa, St. Anne's Church (an ornate marvel from the 1600s) and the Basilica of Bom Jesus (most of the mummified body of St. Francis Xavier is exhibited there on occasion). The surrounding countryside is dotted with luxurious old estates built by wealthy Indians (many of whom converted to Catholicism), including Braganza Palace, which is open to the public. Sacegador, which means "take it easy" in Portuguese, become the Goan way of life. A three-hour siesta divides the working day there. Kaju (cashew) and seet (pork) curry are the preferred food for evenings. North Goa has churches, markets and beaches teeming with people. South Goa beaches have few local visitors and are clean. Boat cruises on the Mandovi River are a good way to go around the city to spot some popular sights. The ship Caravela also has an offshore casino. (For those interested in Portuguese India, Diu and Daman are two other former Portuguese outposts.)
If time permits, take the 20-hour boat ride between Goa and Mumbai. Plan to stay two nights if you aren't interested in beaches or up to seven nights if sand and water are important. 350 mi/560 km south of Mumbai.
