Lush, sun-soaked Goa is a beach lover’s paradise – with a string of golden beaches fringed by swaying coconut palms against an emerald backdrop of rice fields interlaced with waterways. Colonized in the 16th century by Portuguese who landed on its shores as seafaring spice traders, Goa retains many a reminder of their presence in its colorful old markets and stone churches. Its warm hearted fun loving people need little prompting to break into song, music and dance. Home of Alphonse mangoes, coconuts and cashewnuts, not least of Goa’s attractions is its sumptuous sea food!