Goa is one of the most popular vacation destinations in India. The beautiful beaches, the tropical climate and the almost western-like feel makes Goa easy to handles for newcomers and a lovely place to plan an affordable holiday.
Compared to other parts of India (and most of Asia), getting to Goa and staying here might seem expensive. But when you compared the prices to the European hotspots, Goa is still a cheap destination (plus you really cannot go to the beach in October in Europe and hope to catch a lovely tan, right?).
Vacation packages
Particularly if you travel outside the high season, there’s not much need to find all inclusive vacation packages for your Goa getaway. However, if you plan to travel from November to March or during the monsoon season (when some hotels are closed), it’s better to opt for a worry-free package which includes the flight, accommodation and everything you need within the resort.
If you decide to visit Goa during the low season, you can easily book the flights and accommodation independently. While Goa is served by an airport, it receives mostly domestic flights, so you are better of flying to Mumbai instead. Cheap flights to India aren’t very hard to find. Once you’ve landed in Mumbai, take a connecting flight (on a low-cost carrier) to Goa.
Cheap hotels in Goa are easy to find regardless of when you plan to spend the vacation here. And they get even cheaper during the off season. You can easily find a lovely guesthouse or even resort which is located close to the beach and staying there won’t break your budget.
Events and Festivals in Goa in October
The State of Goa is home to many events year-round, which celebrate public holidays, Hindu celebrations and even Christian events.
The Festival of Nine Nights (Navratri) is celebrated in late September and is a Hindu celebration. It includes praying, fasting and traditional folk dances.
Fama de Menino Jesus is celebrated in the Colva area in early October. A parade is held in which a statue of baby Jesus is worshiped.
Dussehra (or Dharotsav) is a Hindu festival which starts on the first day of the Hindu month of Ashvina. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The highlight of the festival is he burning of the effigy of the demon king, Ravana. The festival is mostly celebrated at the work place; employees decorate the tools and machineries with flowers.
The Festival of Lights (Diwali) is another very important festival which celebrates the victory of Good over Evil. At the home of the worshipers, lamps are lit in the morning and evening.
Places to stay
If you plan to visit Goa during one of the major festivals, make sure to book the accommodation in advice. October is still a low-season month though so there should be a lot of affordable places to choose from.
Anjunapalms Guesthouse : is located 10 minutes away from Anjuna Beach, in a typical Goan village. Airport and train transfers are available for a fee. The deluxe private ensuite room is equipped with AC, TV and wi-fi. Rates start at $4.40 per person per night in a twin private room.
Tropicano Beach Resort : is a small beach resort located close to Candolim beach (just 5 minutes walk). All rooms have ensuite bathroom and some are equipped with refrigerators. Rates start at $5.50 per person per night in a double bed private room.
Green Leaf House : is located close to Candolim beach, as well as to restaurants and bars. All rooms have private bathroom, small kitchen (not equipped) and a private terrace. Rates start at $4.40 per person per night in a twin private room.
La Ben Resort : is located along the South Goa shore, close to the beach. All rooms have private bathrooms (European-style) and lockers. The resort also offers a roof top bar and a restaurant. Breakfast is included in the room price. Rates start at $15 per person per night in a double room.
Agonda Beach Huts : is located on Agonda beach in South Goa. All huts are equipped with private bathroom and have running water. Room rates start at $8.80 per person per night in a double room with bathroom ensuite.
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