GOA! Part of the Hippie Trail of the world, Goa is on every travelers’ list for the sense of peace and euphoria that it offers. The ultimate party lovers paradise, the haven where parties only start, but end only when you walk out – where on one side you can find peace and tranquility, and on the other, all the noise and fun.

Music wafts with the ocean breeze, and takes center-stage in the celebrations that define and make Goa. If you want to enjoy Goa for all it is, this guide to Goa will take you around in the best way possible. Let’s think the way a hippie would, and the next time people ask you about your travels to Goa, a slight smile will quietly escape the corner of your lips, followed by the phrase – “It was nice!”

Enjoy Goa like the Goa of Stories – Always glimmering with clubs, rave parties and dance joints illuminating the night sky with endless euphoria.

1. Arambol: A Hippie’s Paradise

Arambol beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Goa. It houses a number of hidden gems, and we’re not talking beach shacks. Arambol has graduated to a Hippie’s favourite, and not without reason. Further down the main beach, lies the sweet lake, the jungle valley, and hot springs with therapeutic minerals (perfect for a mud bath).

Cafes in Arambol: Arambol has a couple of both famous and some fairly lesser known cafes, all of which serve great food. Our pick from Arambol is, The La Muellas Cafe, which is set in a giant treehouse! Yes, you read that right.

Drum Circles in Arambol: Music comes inherently after a whiff of the “fresh air” that is in abundance in Goa. Hippies and locals sit together at the beach, and involve themselves in some serious drumming and dancing. The hippie scene in Goa sees a number of people who are crazy about music, and a lot of them come together at Arambol to enjoy this passion together.

Hot Water Springs and Mud Baths at Arambol, Goa: A mud bath at the stream above the sweet water lake at Arambol, is said to be good for your skin. You can follow it up with a bath in the fresh, warm water of the Sweet Lake, which is fed by natural hot water springs, and step out with glowing, youthful skin!

Relax in Hammocks at Arambol: Your next hammock holiday isn’t so hard to find, now. Step into Arambol Hammocks, and get it arranged!

2. Local Food of Goa

Goa, being the free soul’s favourite haunt, is also one of the most food-rich states in the country. From great seafood to even better dessert and fried food options, Goa is one of those places where you can treat your tummy to a multitude of delicious food. The awesome Beach Shack Guide to Goa has you covered! Our choicest Picks for Food lovers - Curlies, Anjuna Brittos, Baga La Plage, Ashwem

Local Specialties of Goa

Squids: They say beaches and seafood are synonymous. And they also say hippies are adventurous. That rhymed! Squids are pretty awesome in Goa, and if you’re brave enough, go eat some of those things! They’re pretty great here.

Shark : Yes! You read that right. Fishermen here are pretty brave, so there is no reason you shouldn’t be! I hear Shark meat is a delicacy here, and they make it really well, so eat your fill! And, keep an open mind

Feni : Goa’s very own home-brewed local alcohol, made out of coconut sap or cashews, is a delight. Just, not too easy to stomach. While Goan locals and Freshness enthusiasts would tell you that the feni is pretty aromatic, many others would scoff at that suggestion! But its definitely something to try.

Kokum : Tangy and fresh, kokum is that great fruit, the juice of which added whether to alcohol or drunk straight from the bottle early in the morning, is always great! Take some back home, and add it to curries for that extra zing.

Sorpotel : Meat (pork, beef or chicken) slow cooked to perfection, tossed around in a gravy of rich sauces and vinegar, this Goa specialty isn’t for the missing if you enjoy your meats!

3. Planning to stay in Goa

If you are one who likes all things bohemian and don’t care about what the world sees in you, and rather have an urge for discovering what all is possible in this realm; Goa calls out to you my friend. There are tons of hostel stays here in Goa, where you’ll find many fellow backpackers and amazing places to crash for a day or two. Apart from being highly affordable and very unique, you also make lots of friends, who you’ll share your intense penchant for travel with. Here’s where you can plonk your bags!

Zostel Goa:

A chain of backpackers hostels throughout India, this one is proving to be a runaway success among travel frenzied youths and backpackers. Affordably priced as well, Zostel offers a varied experience to hippie travellers.

Address: House No.3/15, Dr Alfonso Road,Tivai Vaddo, near the spice rack, Calangute, Goa 403516

Phone: 077268 64942 Jungle by TheHostelCrowd

Address: 486,, Vagator Beach Rd, Vagator, Goa 403509