GOA BEACHES – WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
Northern Goa has proven to be the most popular destination for Russian tourists, although I would also consider the southern part of the state. But let's start with the northernmost.
Arambol – there are a lot of Russians and Russian-speaking people here. Yoga, retreats, meditation, enlightenment – it's all here. The beach is nice, but like many northern Goa beaches, Arambol has gray sand. Inside the town, there are many shops and cafes, as well as trash.
Mandrem, Ashvem, and Morjim – all within walking distance south of Arambol. I liked the first two for their picturesque views and great hotels on the beachfront, where mostly tourists from European countries, particularly Germany (according to my notes), vacation. Morjim didn't impress me – it felt like I was in the middle of nowhere, even though there are many Russian tourists here too. All three are small villages.
Vagator and Anjuna are located very close, I couldn't even tell where the line was. Vagator Beach is deserted, followed immediately by the classic Vagator with cafes and sun loungers, and then further on is picturesque Ozran Beach, a small bay with virtually no waves. This beach is equally accessible from Vagator and Anjuna. I didn't like Anjuna Beach at all. Inside the villages, there's all the necessary amenities: cafes, restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and pharmacies.
Baga is a nice place, quite cozy, I think. Lots of Indians vacation here.
Calangute - there are even more Indians here than in Baga, and it has everything; it's almost a metropolis compared to all of the above. 😂. Souvenir prices are low, there's a wide selection of everything, and there are markets right there. Overall, the beach is a good spot between Baga and Calangute.
Candolim is quieter, but Indians love it too. European retirees also love it; we saw a lot of them. Women aren't common, but they do sunbathe topless. We liked the beach from the central beach to the left, towards Sinquerim Beach and the fort, where you can walk along the shore for some great photos. The sand here is beautiful, golden, not gray.
Among the southern beaches, we visited Colva, Majorda, and Utorda. The first was fine, the other two were a bit dull.
Unlike the northern beaches, the sand here is whiter. I can't say we noticed a huge difference otherwise.
#Goa #India