More about Goa:
Portuguese rule, which began in 1510, ended in December 1961 and initially there were moves to assimilate Goa into neighbouring Indian states. But instead it retained its boundaries and became India’s 25th state in May 1987.

° Its official languages are Konkani, Hindi and English.

° Its currency is the Indian Rupee.

° Its clocks are 5hrs+30mins ahead of GMT.

° Electrical system: 220v/110v continental round pin

There are many charter flights between Europe and Goa and flight times are around 10 or 11 hours. There are also regular domestic flights between Goa and Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and several other major Indian cities. In January 1998 the Konkan Railway opened, linking Goa with Mumbai to the north (10 hours) and Mangalore to the south (15 hours).

Climate: Goa has a warm, humid climate with mild temperatures in winter. The Monsoon months are June to October.

Shopping: Popular souvenir purchases include carved furniture, shells, earthenware, bamboo goods, papier-mache craftwork and brassware. Most of Goa’s foods are too perishable to travel – except of course the cashew nuts for which the region is renowned. These are widely available in a range of flavours.