The collection of people attracted to the beach settlement of Anjuna in North Goa may seem eclectic at first glance, but there are common (if loose) organic and spiritual threads woven between the hippies, artists, mild crazies and supposed ex-materialists who congregate here. It's famous throughout Goa for its Wednesday flea market, and has retained an undeniable if somewhat shabby charm. This is a good place to stick around for a while, make some friends and engage in mellow contemplation while the sun goes down. Full moon, when the infamous parties take place, is a particularly good time to be here if you want to indulge in bacchanalian delights. The main beach isn't the best, so it's worth the walk to the small, protected sliver of sand at South Anjuna where the area's long-term house-renters tend to gather.
Calangute
Once upon a time, Calangute was the it beach for hippies, where pujas, ganja, drug-addled musicians and other lost artistic souls predominated, a beach of the truly half-baked that modern Leonardo di Caprioan versions couldn't hold a psychedelic candle to. But for those who still seek the occasional naked group frolic, Calangute has undergone a metamorphosis. The locals, who used to rent out rooms in their houses for a pittance, have moved on to more profitable things. Calangute is now the centre of Goa 's rapidly expanding package-tourist market.
Palolem
This impossibly beautiful crescent cove in the far south of Goa is so languid and balmy that even the water has only enough energy to lap half-heartedly onto the beach. There's nothing to do here but soak up the rays and go for long walks paddling in the shallows, so bring a friend, some factor 15 and a good book. It's possible to rent rooms in villagers' houses by asking politely at the restaurants lining the beach.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
This small wildlife sanctuary in the lush foothills of the Western Ghats is a good place to see sambar and wild boar, and a fine place to escape from the beach culture of coastal Goa . It boasts a botanical garden, a fenced deer park and a zoo that is better than most. The sanctuary has accommodation in chalets and dorms, and is located 50km (30mi) southeast of Panaji. |