South or North Goa - what to choose for a holiday?

Goa is the smallest state of India. It stretches along the Arabian Sea in the south-west of the country. Its capital is the city of Panaji. From the east, the coast is surrounded by the Western Ghats mountain range . In general, the division of the state into the north and south is very conditional. This is one whole administrative unit. But among the tourists for a long time there has been a debate on the topic: "Which is better: North or South Goa?" Let's look at this issue.

For the sake of justice, it should be noted that there is also Central Goa, where, in fact, the capital of the state is located. But this part does not represent a special interest for tourists. But a narrow strip of coast to the north and south of Panaji is completely given to foreign tourists. But to tourists of what category? This is the whole trouble. Choosing the South or North Goa you get "in the package" and specific entertainment, and even neighbors on vacation. After all, different parts of the state exist as if in parallel universes.

Tourism development began from North Goa. In the 60-ies of the twentieth century, the first hippies arrived here, who fell under the charm of this place. Many of these "pioneers" have long become yuppies, but many have stayed here forever, fully adhering to the principle of "Make love, not war." Over the years, they were joined by rastamans, esotericists of different stripes and so-called downshifters - people who once arrived in Goa decided to break ties with the world of offices and high salaries and live in a tropical paradise for little money. They burn their passports and stay here forever. For them, the question: "What to choose: South or North Goa?" - It's not worth it at all.

Rest here is simple and, as they say, "without the bells and whistles." The hotels are very democratic, and their star rating is not an indicator of success. Family-owned boarding houses give a head start on the level of services for boutique hotels. If the beach is important to you, then, comparing the South or North Goa, you can not give preference to the first. On "Pati Land" the sand is grayish, coarse-grained. And the farther to the north, the more in the beach cover of volcanic dust, and sometimes clay. In addition, the whole life of people - both local and holiday - is taking place on the coast. Here sunbathe, hold meetings and bazaars, work cafes, travel agencies. And of course, the world-famous discotheques are also there. The excitement of the sea in this part of the state is observed more often. But this gives an invaluable chance for surfers.

The south of the state is mastered relatively late. And this means that the hotels there are new, with modern amenities, developed infrastructure. The sand on the beaches is such that they can surely be filled with a glass clock. The only bad thing: this part of the state was chosen by wealthy European and American pensioners. Therefore there is no drive, everything is quiet, orderly, noble. Choosing to relax Goa - South or North - consider this circumstance, so as not to get bored ... or do not go crazy from the endless parties and disco noise.

Most Russian tour operators send their customers to Morjim. What is it - South or North Goa? This resort has three kilometers of beautiful beaches. Here they sail to lay eggs of the turtle, why Morjim is declared a reserve. And for the abundance of Russian tourists, he is called "Moscow Beach". Territorially the resort belongs to North Goa, but completely out of the rhythm of life in this part of the state. No "open air party", but only favorite by Russian entertainment: restaurants, water scooters, kiting and karaoke. Prices here are the same as in South Goa.