Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Today Goa enjoys one of India's highest per-capita incomes and comparatively high
health and literacy rates, with tourism, iron-ore mining (though this is mired in political
controversy and claims of corruption), agriculture and fishing forming the basis of its eco-
nomy. The legacy of the Portuguese can still be found almost everywhere, in the state's
scores of old mansions, its cuisine, its churches and even in its language.
Climate
The annual monsoon used to scour Goa's beaches clean between June and the end of
September reliably, but things have gone a little haywire in recent years, and sometimes
the monsoon can start slowly and end as late as November. The official tourist season
stretches from mid-October to early April, with December to February the most pleasant
(and busiest) time to visit - clear blue skies, warm days and crisp nights when you'll
rarely need airconditioning. Temperatures and humidity increase after February. Out of
season, between late April and September, you'll find most coastal resorts deserted,
though towns such as Panaji, Mapusa and Margao chug on as usual, and Calangute and
Baga still draw domestic tourists.
Activities
In season Goa has a whole host of options for yoga and alternative therapies, water sports,
paragliding and wildlife-watching. Many outfits change annually, so we've only listed the
longer-established operations; for the full gamut of options, head to your beach of choice
and ask around or scan the noticeboards.
Yoga & Alternative Therapies
Every imaginable form of yoga, meditation, reiki, ayurvedic massage and other spiritually
orientated health regime is practised, taught and relished in Goa, though they usually op-
erate only in the winter season (October or November to March). Palolem and Patnem, in
the south of the state, and Arambol, Mandrem, Anjuna and Calangute in the north all have
courses in ayurveda, yoga, reiki and the like. Mandrem and Arambol have reputable yoga
centres, and Calangute has an excellent ayurveda clinic.
Wildlife-Watching
Although many travellers stick to the beach, Goa is a nature lover's paradise, perfect for
wildlife-watching, with an abundance of brilliant birdlife and a fine (but well concealed)
