The coastal state of Goa is one of the premier holiday destinations in India. For the longest time, Goa has been celebrated as the party capital of India dotted with vibrant clubs, lively beach shacks, and memorable beach parties. However, beyond the buzz of nightlife, there is a serene side of Goa that often goes unnoticed—its natural splendour, scenic landscape, and tranquil surroundings offer much-needed relief from the commotion of daily life and calm the turbulent state of mind. Whether it’s the golden beaches contoured with palm fringes, balmy sea breeze, dense foliage, waterfalls, or lush paddy fields, they all contribute to the eye-pleasing tapestry of Goa.
The idiom “big things come in small packages” perfectly describes the state of Goa. Although tiny in size, Goa offers diverse experiences. It offers a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, and experiencing the culture—ideal for both vacations and staycations.
What is a staycation?
A staycation is essentially taking a break without travelling long distances or far-off lands. You can enjoy downtime in your native place without vacationing abroad and still enjoy the benefits of being in a holiday setting. The word staycation was coined in the early to mid-2000s and is a blended word formed from “stay” and “vacation”. Post-pandemic, the trend of staycation is gaining immense attention and popularity to unwind and relax without having to travel abroad.
Unlike a vacation, where you are expected to travel far from home to a different city, state, or even a country and book flights and accommodations, a staycation lets you pack light and simply enjoy a break closer to home.
Why Choose Goa for Satyaction?
Goa, especially North Goa offers a plethora of experiences from beaches to Goan culture, wellness, and comfortable stays, making it an ideal spot for a staycation. You could go for a wellness retreat or simply stay in a lavish villa, the options are plenty. Since Goa is a hotspot for tourism, the robust infrastructure of hotels, guest houses, holiday homes, and villa rentals in Goa are readily available and enable you to enjoy a relaxed domestic holiday without the typical travel stress.
Plus, numerous cafes, restaurants, and clubs in Goa elevate the staycation experience. Goa offers numerous water sports like parasailing, banana boat rides, kite surfing, paddle boarding, snorkelling, and more for those who like the thrill. You can also explore off-beat cafes, restaurants, and hidden gems of beach shacks that serve you delightful Goan cuisine along with other delicious eats for your gastronomic journey. Let’s unpack these advantages of having a staycation in Goa.
Benefits of Staycation in Goa:
1. Convenience and Cost-Effective:
There is no doubt that staycations are a more budget-friendly and convenient alternative than taking an international trip. You don’t have to spend on expensive ticket flights, visas, hefty hotel bookings, etc. For digital nomads and working professionals, a staycation in Goa offers a revitalising break from the daily hustle to regroup, recharge, and restart. With a range of apartments in Goa and different types of properties, you can easily plan a staycation in Goa for a week. It’s feasible, effortless, and a perfect way to unwind while staying at home away from home.
2. Plethora of Experiences:
Goa offers plenty of experiences for you to unwind and break the cycle of monotony and mundanity. You can take a long walk on the beaches, feel the balmy tropical wind on your skin, party at swanky nightclubs in Goa, and groove to the music at Tito’s Lane. Visit the temples and churches of Goa along with historical forts in Goa. Indulge in a culinary tour or treat yourself to a luxurious spa session at one of Goa’s premier spa and wellness centres.
3. Ease of Planning:
One of the best things about a staycation is how easy it is to plan one. No need for hours of rigorous brainstorming or meticulous planning—all you have to do is pack your stuff and get ready to go. Especially, if you are headed for a staycation in the wholesome Candolim or Calangute, which are packed with everything you need. Staycation allows you to go with the flow and enjoy your downtime without any stress.
4. Wellness Retreats:
If the routine of daily life has left you high and dry, a wellness retreat in Goa is might all you need. Seek respite in Goa’s healing energy, practice group yoga on the beach, get spa therapy, and go for a therapeutic stroll amidst the paddy field. It will get you an instant serotonin boost. with these wellness retreats, you will feel vigour and a zest of life again.
5. Quality Time with Loved Ones:
A staycation allows you to bond with your family and friends and reconnect with them in a holiday-like setting. You can spend your days playing games, exploring beaches, and watching important landmarks in Goa that are sitting on your bucket list forever. Go on a fishing tour, engage in watersports, or enjoy a cooking class with them. Whether you are having a staycation with your family or friends, there is something for everyone to do in Goa.
Staycation in Goa: Top Activities
1. Relax on the Beach
A staycation wouldn’t be complete without spending time on the beaches of North Goa. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of Calangute or the quieter spaces on Candolim beach, Goan beaches are captivating and offer you enough space to relax. Other popular beaches include Baga, Anjuna, Vagator, and Ashvem. Imagine yourself lounging under the shade of a coconut palm, reading a good book, sunbathing, swimming, or trying water sports like kitesurfing, parasailing, and banana boat riding. With so many options, you can easily spend an entire staycation enjoying the beaches.
2. Villa Stay
Staycation in North Goa is a brilliant way to unwind and relax, especially if you are going to choose to stay at a luxury villa. It will be great if you are aware of what kind of villa you wish to stay in: a modern and sophisticated villa or a traditional one with a rustic Indo-Portuguese vibe. There are many exquisite villas in North Goa locations like Candolim, Calangute, and Parra. Here you can enjoy a luxurious stay while enjoying villa amenities like support staff, concierge services, a swimming pool, car parking, and a backyard to enjoy a barbecue.
3. Culinary Exploration
Goa is a foodie’s paradise, and a staycation allows you to explore the culinary delight in Goa without travelling far off. After all, Goa has some of the best seafood and unique Indo-Portuguese cuisine to offer. Whether you choose to eat from a beach shack, a cafe, or a restaurant, there is always something scrumptious to find. For a tried and tested dining experience, visit iconic spots like Thalassa and A Reverie. Make sure to try the traditional Goa delights like fish curry rice, bebinca, or chicken xacuti and prawn balchão.
4. Adventure Sports in Goa:
A staycation doesn’t mean staying indoors in your rented holiday home or villa the entire time—you can enjoy numerous water activities and adventure sports in Goa. You can enjoy snorkelling, and diving at the Grand Island or kayaking in the serene backwaters of Goa. These activities will add excitement and thrill to your staycation.
5. Goan Cultural Tours:
If you’re interested in history and culture, a staycation could involve exploring local Goan heritage. Rent a scooter and visit the Aguada Fort and the Lighthouse, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se Cathedral, and more such iconic landmarks. These historical and cultural spots are just a short drive away and provide a perfect blend of history and local culture.
6. Attend a Music Event:
Goa has an eclectic music scene, with many artists and performers showcasing their euphonious talent. With grand music festivals like Sunburn or SummerSonic taking place during the year-end, you are bound to be entertained. And beyond the big musical festivals and shows, Goa hosts plenty of local music events and beach parties. Enjoy a vibrant beachside concert or a laid-back Jazz session at a local café, there is plenty of music in Goa to keep your spirits up!
Tips for Planning Your Goa Staycation
Best time to visit:
The peak tourist season in Goa runs from October to March when the weather conditions are most ideal but the accommodation costs surges. Although you can enjoy a staycation in Goa in any season, depending on the experience you’re looking for. The weather in Goa during the monsoon (June to September) makes the state a lush paradise. Explore nature’s trails, spice plantations and waterfalls for an enchanting experience. The summer season (March to May) might be hot and humid during the day but the evening coastal breeze provided a pleasant relief for sunset walks and outdoor dining.
Items to Pack:
Here are some essential items to pack for a staycation. First, keep your work essentials like your laptop, chargers, and power bank if you plan to work and enjoy a leisure time. As for clothing, pack light and breezy items like flip-flops, t-shirts, shorts, summer dresses, sunglasses, hats, and sarongs. Don’t forget that sunscreen is a must to protect against the tropical sun.
Transportation:
When it comes to Goa exploration, taxis are available. But the best way to explore Goa is on a bicycle or scooter tour which are easily available for rent. Renting a scooter allows you to navigate Goa’s scenic spots at your own pace. Just remember to have a valid driver’s licence and follow the safety guidelines while driving a rented motor vehicle.