Goa & Kerala
Wander around the Baroque churches and Portugese-style villas in
Goa or get away from the main tourist trail and visit the sleepy
villages of Ponda Taluka. If you fancy a few days away from the
coast head in land to visit a wildlife reserve.
A trip to Kerala isn't complete without a trip down the Backwaters
and a day spent wandering around the historic town of Cochin. Also
try driving along the coast to the Southern most point of India
- gazing out across the sea to Sri Lankia.
Aside from enjoying the sunshine, the beach and the facilities
within the local resort, neither Goa nor Kerala are particularly
geared up for children. However, they might enjoy a visit to the
local flea market or a ride by boat along the Backwaters.
Goa in particular has a range of water sports available including
paracending and windsurfing. But if you are after something a bit
more unusual then try a course in the Martial Art of Kalaripayat
or turn your hand to learning about Ayurvedic massage.
Goa's Portuguese influence has created a cuisine combining Asian
and Western influences including Mediterranean favourites such as
Chorizo sausage. Many dishes contain coconut and draw from the wealth
of fish in the local sea including shark, tiger prawns, lobster
and swordfish. These can be requested pan-fried, barbecued or baked
in a traditional tandoori oven.
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Where to dance the night away
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All night techno parties occur regularly in places like Anjuna
beach. In addition, major resort hotels having evening entertainment.
For something a little more traditional search out a local festival,
which tend to happen all year round.
There are festivals year-round in Southern India and some of the
most colourful include the Pooram Festival in Kerala. Snake boat
races (held in both August and January) and the Great Elephant March-
which lasts for several days.
The area is well-known for its Sandalwood carvings and also produces
a wide range of jewelry from simple beaded necklaces to beautiful
worked and moulded gold and silver. Locally produced Kanchipuram
silks are valued across India and come in beautiful colours. In
addition, items from Northern India such as Kashmiri rugs, have
found their way south.
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Language: India has 18 official languages including English
- which is spoken in most tourist areas.
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Currency: Rupees
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Visas: Tourist Visas required - valid for up to 6 months
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Time: GMT + 5
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Climate: Temperatures late 20's to early 30's. Rainy season
June to Sept
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UK Tourist Office: 7 Cork Street, London W1 2AB. Tel. 0171
437 3677
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Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Polio & Typhoid recommended, as
is Meningitis. Many areas of India are affected by Malaria.
Call us on 0845 299 4450 for further details
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