An insider’s guide to the best of Goa
India’s so-called first lady of boutique hotels Priya Paul offers her tips on what to see and do in Goa
Goa is a unique place, which offers something for everybody. From the white sand beaches in Agonda to the cliffs at Vagator; from the hustle and bustle of Candolim to the relative peace at Mandrem; and from the crazy vibes at the beach to the serene villages.
Of course, Goa is a huge state so its highlights are quite spread out. Assagoan has recently become well-known for conceptual art galleries and cafes. And the Museum of Goa is India’s largest privately owned art gallery and is home to some very interesting workshops.
During high season, the night market is a great place to be. There are a lot of small and not so “touristy” places around the city which offer a great vibe. Sometimes there are curated music events that happen at villas and hostels and offbeat places which you only come to know about if you are really connected to the local scene.
The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
For all first time visitors to Goa I recommend three must-visit restaurants: Bhatti Village for superb Goan food, Bomras’ for outstanding Burmese, and the Lazy Goose by the River Nerul for an elegant evening out.
If shopping is your thing, there are always new boutique shops opening. I love Studio Josmo and Arpora Studio by Shireen Mody. Or for something a bit more unusual, Ecoposro is India’s first zero waste store. Rangeela is an older, more famous destination, but has recently relocated to a bigger place in Assagaon, so definitely worth rediscovering.
And of course, the perfect place to stay is THE Park Baga River, although given I own it I might be a touch biased.
For more information, see theparkhotels.com.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
-
What are Donald Trump’s options in Iran?Today's Big Question Military strikes? Regime overthrow? Cyberattacks? Sanctions? How can the US help Iranian protesters?
-
EU-Mercosur mega trade deal: 25 years in the makingThe Explainer Despite opposition from France and Ireland among others, the ‘significant’ agreement with the South American bloc is set to finally go ahead
-
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali: a calm retreat in the heart of SeminyakThe Week Recommends Tradition meets modernity at this serene beachfront resort
-
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Bali: a calm retreat in the heart of SeminyakThe Week Recommends Tradition meets modernity at this serene beachfront resort
-
Six sensational hotels to discover in 2026The Week Recommends From a rainforest lodge to a fashionable address in Manhattan – here are six hotels that travel journalists recommend for this year
-
8 restaurants that are exactly what you need this winterThe Week Recommends Old standards and exciting newcomers alike
-
Four Seasons Seoul: a fascinating blend of old and new in South KoreaThe Week Recommends Located right in the heart of the action, this classy hotel is the perfect base to explore the capital
-
Upper House Hong Kong: a serene sanctuary in the bustle of the cityThe Week Recommends Panoramic harbour views and super-stylish interiors elevate this luxury hotel to another level
-
Step into a fairy tale at San Ysidro RanchThe Week Recommends This historic Californian hideaway is pure magic
-
The Old Bell Hotel: whimsy and charm in historic WiltshireThe Week Recommends Giraffes, monkeys and bold, bright colours add a playful touch to this 800-year-old inn
-
Grove of Narberth: comfort and style in the Welsh countrysideThe Week Recommends This boutique Georgian manor in Pembrokeshire is the perfect rural retreat