You're probably here because you're looking for a Portland Holiday in 2013 - well, Portland Holidays have become part of
Thomson Holidays now. In fact,
Portland Holidays has been owned by Thomson for several years, but since 2011 the Portland brand has been stopped, and all holidays
are now sold through Thomson. All's not lost though - it's still worth having a look at Thomson to see what they can offer you in the
way of a good deal.
Goa
Goa is a truly exotic destination, where endless sunshine peeps through leafy palms
onto fine sands and warm seas. Encompassing a fascinating mix of cultures,
Goa enthralls the senses. Grand colonial buildings, Hindu temples and restored
Christian churches sit beside tiny fishing villages. In India every sight is an
individual and unforgettable experience. From the staggering spectacle of the Taj
Mahal (available on one of our tours) to the vibrant markets bustling with activity,
you'll be mesmerised by this country's undeniable beauty.
Goa is renowned for its seafood and its cuisine is much more varied than Indian fare
available in Britain, spicier too. Hotels offer many international alternatives for
those with Western palates. As well as sightseeing and sampling the local cuisine,
another great way to enjoy the charm of Goa is by strolling around the many shops
and markets. Cotton, silk, precious stones, paintings and wood carvings are
generally exquisitely made and inexpensive.
However you decide to spend your time in this unique country, a friendly atmosphere and
warm welcome awaits you.
Food & Wine in Goa
Goa's delicious cuisine is much more varied and spicy than Indian fare available in
Britain although hotels offer many international alternatives for those with Western
palates. Coconut features in almost all dishes, either in the form of a paste or milk,
or alternatively you can buy your own fresh coconut to enjoy on the beach.
Other ingredients that crop up regularly are Goan chilli and pepper which tend to
be used in meat and fish dishes, such as delectable prawn curry.
Days & Nights in Goa
If you want to experience Goa at nighttime, head to the beach bars where you can
party 'til the sun comes up. Much of the nightlife has a western feel due to the large
amount of Europeans that come here, and you won't be short of people to talk to. The
hotels often feature 'African Nights' where local beer, local music and local dancing
are proudly offered up for your entertainment.
Sights & Sounds in Goa /
Sightseeing: The diverse influences that Goa has been subjected to have created a
host of sightseeing opportunities. Old Goa stands as a testament to the huge Portuguese
presence that once dominated this idyllic part of India before the British came along.
Said to rival the splendour of Lisbon in its prime, the convent of St Francis of Assisi
and the church of St Augustine should not be missed.
Sun & Sand in Goa
Warm the soles of your feet on the long tropical expanses of white sand as you
stroll slowly towards the gentle blue waves of the Indian Ocean. There are so
many fantastic beaches to choose from in Goa that you may have trouble deciding
where to go. Chapora boasts a patchwork of coconut palms and a small village,
more like a chaotic farm than a fishing community. Anjuna beach is the kind of
place where you can engage in mellow contemplation of the world while the sun
sinks into the ocean.
Portland Holidays have 1000's of package holiday resorts around the world. We have provided details
of the most popular locations. However, you can use the search facility at the top of this page to
search for a holiday in any of Portland Holiday's package holiday resorts.
Thomas Cook Holidays have over 100 package holiday resorts around the world. We have provided details of the most popular locations. However, you can use the search facility at the top of this page to search for a holiday in any of Thomas Cook's package holiday resorts.
Thomson Holidays have over 100 package holiday resorts around the world. We have provided details of the most popular locations. However, you can use the search facility at the top of this page to search for a holiday in any of Thomson Holiday's package holiday resorts.
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