The Indian state of Goa is perceived by many as a paradise on earth. It is warm and inexpensive, and this is exactly what is needed by the masses of downshifters of all stripes who come here from many different countries. In many other aspects, this state compares favorably with other parts of India, although there is also an opinion that this place is already too Europeanized, and there is a lack of local flavor, which is also a fact. In any case, it is better to look at this wonderful place with your own eyes – it’s worth it.
Most of India was under English rule for a long time, but the state of Goa previously belonged to Portugal. Therefore, there are enough Catholics along with Hindus, and Catholic churches have been preserved. It is noticeably cleaner here than in most other states of this vast country. Prices here are really low. Some expats have enough $ 500 per month. The water temperature on the coast of Goa year round is kept in the region of 28-30 degrees. Unlike the rest of India, it is quite possible to order beef in the restaurant. Yes, again, because there are many Catholics here who don’t consider a cow as a sacred animal. Among all the Indian states, Goa is the smallest in terms of area. The difference between the northern and southern parts of Goa is pronounced. The north is a paradise for party-goers and downshifters, and the south is full of respectable hotels, and here mostly older and richer people have a rest. The total length of the beaches in Goa is about 100 kilometers. Nearly 30% of the state is covered with impassable tropical jungle. Officially, Goa has more than 7,000 licensed bars. In fact, this number is higher – not everyone has a license. It is here that “Copy Lyuvak” coffee is produced – the most expensive variety in the world. It is made from coffee beans that have passed through the digestive tract of local animals. Bargaining in Goa can and should be a part of local life. Moreover, the prices for tourists are always too high initially, sometimes five times. There are very, very, very many insects. You can escape from them in your own home only if you rent a room on the floor above at some expensive hotel. Here is the village of Morjim, which bears the unofficial title of “Russian”. There are more expats from ex-USSR countries than locals. A similar situation has developed in recent years in the Vietnamese village of surfers, Mui Ne. Due to the abundance of Russian tourists, many cafes and restaurants in Goa offer dishes of Russian cuisine, but in most cases they are prepared by local chefs, let’s say, mediocre. Nobody goes on foot here – everyone rides a motorbike. Those who are poorer – on bicycles. As, however, and in all India. Despite the humid tropical climate, it is very rare to find such a dangerous disease like malaria.
