Globalista

Goa has transformed itself. In the last five years it’s gone from being seen as a lazy hippie hangout (and rather vulgar) to an energized smart zone with a flurry of new boutique hotels, lovely villas and stylish stores – all set against the backdrop of its pristine beaches. OK, we admit the dreadlocked travellers are still here, but sophisticated society stalwarts (Lady Hamlyn included) and chic youngsters are joining in the fun. The good news about this former Portuguese colony on the southwest coast of India is that you can now avoid the charter-flight customers and commercialism, and find blissful peace and plenty of winter sun. Goa has become the high-end party state of India, a place to go with friends or to enjoy as the perfect beach add-on at the end of a more cultural exploration of the country. You can drive the whole coastline in less than three hours, but it’s advisable to choose between North and South Goa and stick to your decision. A rough guide is that the northern part is where you go to party, while the southern part is for relaxing. Goa isn’t the idyllic lost paradise it once was, but with a little planning and the right connections, it can be quite wonderful.

Globalista’s Pick of the Press

27 June 2009 - The Independent - The complete guide to: Goa
01 February 2009 - The Guardian - Chilled out in a Goa for grownups

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