Located on the western coast of India, the land of magic, mystery and monuments, lies the tiny little laid-back state of 'Goa' with its swaying palms, verdant fields, and mesmerizing beaches.

With barely 45 minutes flying time from Mumbai, perhaps no other state offers so much of charm combined with beauty. Its characteristic white washed chapels and churches of Portuguese architecture, quaint houses with flower decked balconies, and small pubs and cafes make it the place one would yearn to return to again and again. Being one of the smallest and youngest states in India , it is also rated as one of the best states to live in as the cost of living is low, English is widely spoken/understood, it has a peaceful social climate and the culture, genuine warmth and hospitality of its people is simply amazing. And with real estate booming in Goa, it presents a ripe time in purchasing a villa/apartment or property in Goa.

Goa’s rich and diverse culture is also home for many a festival. Be it the traditional ‘Ganesh’ festival or the festival of lights, ‘Diwali’, to the festivals of ‘Christmas’, ‘New Year’ and ‘Easter’, all of which are celebrated with pomp and fervor. Among other festivals celebrated in Goa is the world famous ‘Carnival’ a festival of merriment, fun and joy.

Yet who can ignore Goa’s heritage churches and temples? It does not stop at churches and temples renowned for worship and pilgrimage only, but even forts and heritage homes dating back to the Portuguese era.

Goa is well connected by air, road and rail. National Highway 17 connects Mumbai to Goa by road and the Konkan Railway route has opened up the Mumbai-Goa corridor significantly. Domestic flights, International flights and Charter flights during the season, all provide a memorable travel to Goa.

Besides its sprawling beaches there is much more to see in Goa, such as the spice plantations, and the nature walks, camps in the jungles, treks and rafting offered by the resorts in the spice villages. One can also enjoy a peaceful holiday in the backwood camps in the foothills of the Western Ghats, or have a perfect get away by getting on the only off shore floating casino in India which sets sail every evening from Panaji.

Its hospitality and lifestyle, its churches, temples, forts and monuments, its unique mouthwatering food, its art, culture, festivals, and music all resonate its invitation to a traveler. Besides the sun, sand and sea, and the cool refreshing breeze across your face, the warmth of the people of Goa makes Goa a paradise to live in. As such the temperature in Goa hovers between 20-30 degrees day in and day out throughout the year. It is connected to the other states and to the rest of the world by frequent domestic and international flights, including cheap charter flights during the season. There is a high flow of foreign tourists into Goa starting from October and ending in May. Having an abundance of marine life, it translates but naturally into a variety of enticing and delectable seafood.

If you are visiting Goa , go for the small romantic places. A few miles from the main town of Panaji are the beaches of Colva and Sernabatim. The soft, golden sand invites you to walk bare feet while the sea breeze caresses you. The air gets cooler when it starts drizzling and raindrops make their own little design in the soft sand. Let the magic seep in at the palm fringed Benaulim beach while you enjoy a hot cup of coffee or rich Goan port, relaxing under an umbrella and hearing the beats of the rain. These umbrellas are a part of the restaurants that dot the beaches.