Oh Yes! There’s not much explanation needed as you all know that Goa has been an antidote for many yearners seeking that one quick and instant rejuvenation from their mundane and frenzied lifestyle. Throughout the year, Goa is swarming with tourists and as a matter of fact, Goa thrives on tourism.

Although there are an array of resorts and hotels sprawling in Goa, there is equally a huge demand for homestays. The homestays in Goa give you that elegant Goan-Portuguese feel and are more like the quaint little houses with coconut trees delivering that home-like feel. Enjoy the pleasures of old wooden furniture, enormous backyards, high-ceilinged living rooms while you sip on your favourite drink lazing on the old rocking chair.

The homestays are located along the countryside away from the city’s hustle bustle and tourist spots. The idea of living in a homestay at the countryside and travelling to the beach will let you get the best of both worlds. Areas like Parra, Saligaon and Assagaon are mainly where the homestays are present. Apart from being affordable, homestays are also convenient and functional in their own ways. The best way to explore the city is the local way, i.e., get to know the town from its inhabitants. Your vacation will be fun filled and you will cherish each moment as you get to know every minute detail from the locals along with some great tips on the Do’s and Dont’s (there are hardly any). So next time, do join a family and explore all corners of Goa!

Not only this, the best way to explore the city is to speak to the locals as they have the latest and real-time information about all the hotspots ranging from party hubs to great food and sightseeing options.

Goa takes you into a complete different world of exquisite pleasure comprising pristine beaches, East-meets-West cuisine with an enthralling canvas of colonial mansions boasting of rich heritage. There a numerous way to spend your time in Goa. Like most of them you can either chill by the beach. Colva is the supreme activity hub and the most popular beach of South Goa filled with shops, hotels, resorts, bistros, beach shacks while Benaulim, Utorda and Palolem are other exciting beaches one can visit. North Goa has Ashwem, Baga, Calangute and Candolim beaches which are for sure worth a visit.

You can either lounge amidst the nature or go on an adventure spree enjoying water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling, which will leave you with adrenaline rush soaring high. While you are in Goa, you can also take a cruise into the other side of Goa and experience the lush green spice plantations, canoes and churches. You can also visit Dudhsagar waterfall and enjoy your day amidst the milky waters and wind up your day on a Mandovi dinner cruise filled with entertainment and a delicious spread of fusion cuisine. North and South Goa have a plethora of sightseeing options, so if you are on a long vacation you can spend a day or two exploring the wonders of this city.

Unwind to the swaying palms and enjoy the Portuguese rhythms of Goa’s irresistible charms.

However, when I explored the real Goa, the one that speaks of the enduring traditions and customs of this former Portuguese colony, I was delighted. And all the credit goes to my dear hosts for they introduced me to numerous wonders which I could not have experienced had I opted for the usual hotels in Goa. I chose a home stay for my Goa tour near the quiet Olaulim River.

The beautiful cottage was surrounded by paddy fields and tiny hillocks, that gave me a blissful experience every day. I was taken around the village on long relaxed walks, at times cycling alongside my host-cum-guide, on their shopping trips. The beauty of the quiet town was splendid and mesmerizing. The gentle breeze beckoned without disturbing my meditative trance. The architectural marvels stood tall in the form of temples, mansions and chapels. My eyes feasted to the hilt and when it was time for my stomach to have its share, I was served excellent Goan cuisine by the hostess. Cooked in the traditional style on wood-fire, with locally grown spices, it was a soul-stirring delicacy. And to add to the flavors of the sumptuous meal, they accompanied it with fresh fruits and wine.

Coming to the adventure days, the canoe rides were exciting and beautiful at the same time. Alongside the river, around the hills, hornbills, storks, egrets, storks and other avian species were crooning and cavorting. They were magnetic in their myriad colors and characteristics! Set to capture the spectacle, I took out one whole day just for the lovely birds. Armed with my binoculars, camera and of course, my sweet host, I was out in the forests, capturing the fantasy. The day over, now it was time for some shopping and for this, what better than the Anjuna’s Wednesday Flea Market.

Completely worth the haggling and jostling, since it was too crowded, I managed to crack some cool deals. Left with some more time, I was thinking of some other plan when the Star’s shop caught my eyes. It offered to teach you magic tricks in two minutes. Gave it a shot and yes, I have learnt an amusing trick.

As the time to pack my bag beckons me, I wonder how much unaware I was about the riches of this mystical place. Well, this trip to Goa was nothing short of a dream , courtesy the lovely homestay and its hosts and will always be etched in my mind. And I also promised myself that I will come back to Goa again to let my mind, body and soul drift in the mystical powers of this place.

The next time you are in Goa, try a homestay. Visit Goa Homestays for some suggestions.