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India’s smallest state, Goa is the perfect place for a vacation without having to travel abroad. It has a unique culture that’s all of its own, made up of its Indian and Portuguese heritage. Whether you’re looking for sand and sea to splash around in, a totally different cuisine to enjoy, or you want to experience the stunning architecture of this region, Goa has something to offer to almost every type of traveler. If you’re considering traveling to Goa, then we’ve pulled together some tips to help you make the most of your time there.
Enjoy Stunning Portuguese Architecture
Many Portuguese people lived in Goa, all the way from the 1600s up until just half a century ago. This Portuguese-Indian fusion of culture gave rise to an unusual architectural style, the likes of which can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. Unlike in countries colonized by Britain for example, the Portuguese who came to settle in Goa had largely run out of money by the turn of the 19th century. This lead to building projects being finished by native Goans, using traditional Indian building techniques and materials. Whilst many places colonized by Britain are literally colonial in style, Goa has a slew of buildings that were built by Goans with just a stylistic influence from the Portuguese. As you walk around the streets, take time to notice the differing architectural styles, this wonderful melange of architectural influence even takes place to this day. South Goa gets a ballroom so grand, that it has only recently been completed, but is a stunning example of East meets West architecture, that is absolutely worth visiting.
Make The Most of Goa’s Relaxed Gaming Laws
There are different laws in Goa, regarding iGaming, than there are in most of the rest of India. This tiny state has legalized gambling of some forms, so if you’ve always wanted to try placing a bet on a sports match, or playing a game of poker, then this is your chance to enjoy it totally legally. Online betting is legal and safe in Goa, but if you want to be extra secure then SBO.net has put together a list of betting sites that are independently tested and verified to be safe. As well as reviewing for security, they also collate information on sign-up deals that are available, as well as deposit options and special features like mobile sites, or 24-hour helplines. The other form of gaming that Goa has legalized is the brick-and-mortar casino, well, not exactly. Casinos are allowed to be built in Goa if they are attached to a 5-star hotel. However, floating casinos, in the form of enormous cruise ships, are allowed to moor in the river that traverses the state. For a truly unique gambling experience, boarding a casino ship is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Try Traditional Goan Cuisine
Goan cuisine is also a mixture of Portuguese and Indian elements. The most important part of any Goan meal is generally fish. Being situated on the coast, there is ample opportunity for fishing and the waters of the surrounding oceans are rich with delicious catches. Nobody should leave the state without trying a Goan fish curry, served with just slightly sticky rice. The curry is incredibly rich, flavored with unctuous coconut milk, as well as the totally unique flavor of dried mango. Any fish can be used, but kingfish is particularly popular and generally easy to find. If you’re not a seafood lover, then Chicken Xacuti could be a good dish for you to try instead of fish curry. The dish has obvious Portuguese influence, using hot chilies and poppy seeds to give the stewed meat an intense fiery flavor. As well as these ingredients, you’ll find chicken, of course, alongside potatoes, onions, and coconut. Make sure to look for restaurants serving chicken thighs rather than breast, the bone in the meat and the extra fat gives far more flavor to the dish and is what any Goan would be ordering. Once you’ve finished your main course, look for a street vendor selling Patolea. This is a wonderfully sweet dessert, made with Goan red rice, stuffed into tamarind leaves along with ground coconut, cardamom, and jaggery. The whole thing is folded and steamed until it becomes sticky and deliciously sweet. The perfect end to a spicy Goan meal.
Feature Image Credit: Photo by alexey turenkov on Unsplash
Image Credits: Photo by Lampos Aritonang on Unsplash
source https://nrinews24x7.com/travel-tips-for-exploring-everything-unique-about-goa/
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