THE TEAM FROM SERENITY HOLIDAYS VISIT GOA FOR THE FIRST TIME.

Landing after a nine-hour flight the first thing I noticed was the smell. Oh the gorgeous, fragrant smell of Goa – It’s hard to explain, it’s like walking into your favourite restaurant with an empty stomach.
Our trip began in south Goa, Colva, where the sandy beaches merge and stretch for more than 25 kilometres. There was ampleamount to see in Colva; the bright coloured colonial Portuguese houses, local market stands and never-ending white sand beaches.
The windy roads were lined with sky-high palm trees backing onto rice fields and lavish forests and the local community felt vibrant and full of atmosphere.
VIEW THE FULL GOA EXPERIENCE BROCHURE BY CLICKING THIS LINK
Whilst in the south we spent a day exploring and taking in what the area had to offer.
Our day started with an early morning jeep safari and walk up to the famous Dudhsagar waterfall. We were lucky enough to spot a train passing over the waterfalls – a special place to take a dip and relax for a few hours.
In the afternoon our tour guide took us to a local spice farm and a tour around the Kingfisher beer factory. It was extraordinary to learn where the spices are grown and what they are used for. In true Goan style our day was topped with a refreshing Kingfisher at the factory. On our way back to the hotel we had the pleasure to visit the Shantadurga Temple – a tough aspect to grasp in our hectic western way of life. My favourite part of Colva was the beach; one evening we sat at a candlelit table provided by one of the beach shacks.
An arm’s length away from the ocean we spent a few hours with our feet in the sand relaxing, watching the locals play in the water, sipping an aperitif after a ‘hard’ day’s work!
Our journey to the north coast of Goa presented us with the ‘livelier’ part of the country. Calungute and Baga are notorious for a party atmosphere and I was dubious to visit after spending a lovely few days in the south.
However the north coast of Goa has much more to offer than just a party atmosphere.
As well as being shown a diverse selection of hotels, the local tour guides spoilt us with knowledge and things to do. They took us to the colourful Panjim market where localsbarter for their weekly groceries; we were also taken to the Saturday night flea market in Arpora which was incredible! I have never experienced anything like it – there was so much to see and buy – not to mention the flame throwers and local entertainment.
One of our last nights was spent on the ‘Laid Back Waters’ house boat. We cruised down Chapora River in our own private traditional Indian house boat. We witnessed a spectacular sunset; passing fisherman inspecting their catch of the day and local children sitting on the sand banks waving energetically at us to try catch our eyes. We were treated to a banquet of Indian food and after star gazing we headed to our bedrooms to only hear the sound of the water delicately slapping the side of the boat.
The perfect way to end the week.
Reflecting on the trip I have realised just how much I had fallen in love with Goa. We were given the finest introduction to India; bright coloured buildings, heavenly food, friendly locals and never ending beaches. It’s a
wonder we ever came back!
Offers from Manchester and Gatwick Airport from £699 per person
So whether you’re looking for a romantic hideaway, a holiday on a budget or an all-inclusive hotel we can ensure you get the holiday you deserve – with the convenience of flying from your local airport. Call Malvern World Travel to book on 01684 562406 or email [email protected]
Winter 2015/16 Flights•
Twice weekly Friday & Sunday direct Gatwick flights with Thomas Cook
• Twice weekly Tuesday & Thursday direct Manchester flights with Thomas Cook
• Premium Class available
• Exits seats available
NEW India E-Visa introduced•
It’s the news we’ve all been waiting for. The India e-visa system has opened up to UK passport holders. This means that Brits will be able to apply and pay for a visa online instead of having to book an appointment at the visa processing agency. The cost of the visa has reduced significantly from £89.44 to £39. E-visas can be applied for up to four days before departure. Travellers can expect to receive their visa via email within four days of applying. This is fantastic news for anyone considering a holiday to Goa.
Medication
• Although not compulsory for entry from the EU, certain vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Yellow Fever are usually advised.
Other inoculations and anti-malarial tablets may also be recommended for high risk travellers.
Please ensure you consult your GP or health clinic prior to travel, who will advise on recommended inoculations. Children and pregnant women may require special vaccination procedures.
We advise that you take medicines to treat dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, along with mosquito repellent and high factor sun creams.
Up to date advice can also be found from the World Health Organisation at www.who.int/ith and the Department of Health leaflet (Ref T7.1) ‘Health Advice to Travellers’ is available from your GP, travel agent or can be downloaded at www.dh.gov.uk
A list of medication you could take with you:
• Dioralytes/rehydration salts
• Antiseptic cream
• Mosquito repellent
• High factor sun creams
• Cream for insect bites
VIEW THE FULL GOA EXPERIENCE wintersun 2015/2016 BROCHURE BY CLICKING THIS LINK