Goa is a small state of India and was a Portuguese colony for many years, so it has a unique blend of Indian and European cultures. It covers only about 3701 square kilometers in size with a population of around 1.5 million. It is a charming district with lots of beaches and its cosmopolitan culture attracts as many as 2 million visitors every year.

Many of these visitors come from other parts of India to enjoy the Goa beaches. But about a quarter million people come from other parts of the world to the Goa beaches. These people play a major role due to their spending power, and for that reason are welcomed with open arms by most residents of Goa. Many stay in Goa vacation rental accommodations while visiting the area.

In short, Goa is at present most famous for its electronic music parties and the thousands of visitors both from India and abroad who flock to the Goa beaches. It has not always been this way. From the year 1510 to as recently as 1961, Goa was a colony established by the Portuguese. So it is not surprising that there are many remnants of Portuguese culture and architecture still surviving today.

Goa is the smallest and one of the most interesting and diverse states located along the West coast of India popularly known as Konkan. Goa is essentially divided into two districts namely North Goa and South Goa. Visitors who take Goa hoidays can go from one beach to another and spend time visiting old Goa.

The truth is, Goa has some of the best beaches in the world. Because of the coastal features, Goa beaches are divided into two major groups, those that lie in North Goa and those that lie in South Goa.

Vagator and Chapora are among the most popular and are located in Bardez Taluka. They are approximately 22 km from Panaji, the capital city of Goa.

This beach area is crescent shaped and has gorgeous shining white sand as well as glowing lava rocks which are black in color. In this area you can see the historic Portuguese fort of Chapora which is nearly 500 years old.

Visitors can also find many Goa apartment rentals at attractive rates along these beaches. These short term rental accommodations make it easy for visitors to experience Goan culture at its finest and most intimate.

Perhaps the most prominent and impressive of Goa's beaches is the Anjuna beach which is located in between the sea and a mountain. It features sparkling black rocks protruding into the sea. Anjuna is the scene of regular all night parties which boast of rhythmic music and friendly crowds. Calangute and Baga are two other famous beaches which are considered the Queens of beaches here.

All the beaches of Goa are exotic to the extreme. With the beautiful weather, striking sunsets, friendly local people and fascinating culture, visitors from more northerly winter climates are so enchanted by the beauty of Goa that they come back again and again.