Every time we plan a travel for ourselves the first and foremost thing we seem concerned about is the budget. If Goa is the destination on our mind and that too, on a new years eve then being concerned is quite valid. But this time travel to Goa in a bit different way and enjoy a break on a shoestring. If you travel my way, you will find that Goa is a classic destination which is not too expensive once you touch down.

So, be smart don’t mind paying a bit more for the flight bookings in comparison to trains. Since you won’t be spending a large amount of your hard earn fortune once you reach there. Now here are some tips on how to enjoy the perfect Goan vacation despite cost cutting.

Be Smart with Accommodation:

Goa is a place where there is no dearth of accommodations as this pristine city is dotted with numerous luxury resorts as well as backpacker hostels. So, for the ones’ hoping to spend less, make sure to do some search before executing the deal. On a serious note, one does not have to spend a large portion of their hard earned money to get a nice accommodation for staying in Goa. Look out for smart deals and packages on accommodation, as one can find very competitive offers for the same.

Affordable Sightseeing:

Goa is dotted with beautiful and natural free attractions. All this is surely going to make for an affordable sightseeing. Try sticking to things that lie in the close proximity to the place you are staying at. For the people who choose to stay in the north region of the city, they are at a convenient distance from Aguada Fort. It is the best preserved fort built by the Portuguese. Also the liveliest beaches of Goa: Anjuna and Calangute reside in this region.

While the Calangute beach is famed as the Queen of beaches in Goa, Anjuna Beach makes for a sure visit and especially so on Wednesdays. On every Wednesday a weekly flea market is organized on beach, providing for a great opportunity to meet the locals.  The sellers at the beach sell everything from traditional handicrafts, food and jewelry which can be a great pick for souvenirs.

One can also visit Chapora, the ruined forts situated in South Goa which offer great views of the Vagator Beach. Later in the day reach out to visit Palolem Beach where one can relax and rejuvenate by laying down on the silvery sand of the beach enjoy a good sun tan.  On the best free things to do while on the Palolem Beach is to sit back and watch the sun setting, an absolutely breathtaking view.

Getting Around in Goa:

Getting around in Goa is very convenient and is really not a daunting job. The cheapest and the best way to explore Goa are by hiring bicycles, motorcycles and Scooters of rents. Goa is the only state where motorcycles can be used in the licensed form of taxi. These modes of transportation are fun and equally fast and efficiently navigate through traffic. Though take a note that one should settle the fare in advance to avoid any confusion or argument later.

Food and Drinks:

To taste affordable yet mouthwatering food in Goa, follow the locals. This will make for tasting some regional recipes which are utterly delicious. These dishes may not be present on the high-end menus of the westernized restaurants and at the same time will cost much less.  Well the same tip goes for drinks. While talking about liquor it will be more expensive to buy an imported brand, so, this time try tasting the local brews.

Deepam Sharma