Goa is a former Portuguese colony and one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. Its main drawcard is its glorious coastline – a swathe of white sand lined by palm trees on one edge and the glittering waters of the Arabian Sea on the other. If you manage to drag yourself away from the beach, you’ll discover fine temples, fabulous old churches and picturesque laneways lined with colourful colonial houses.

See

• Basilica of Bom Jesus – This World Heritage–listed church is India’s finest example of baroque architecture. It contains a three-tiered tomb housing the remains of St Francis Xavier, the co-founder of the Jesuit Order who was entrusted with spreading Christianity to Portugal’s colonies in Asia.
• Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount – Perched on a hilltop, this 16th-century laterite church enjoys marvellous views over the colonial capital. The interior boasts altars dedicated to Our Lady of the Mount, St Vincent and St Lawrence.
• Fort Aguada – Overlooking the Arabian Sea at the end of a long peninsula, Fort Aguada was constructed in 1612 to protect the Portuguese colony. A freshwater spring within the fort provided water to the occupants as well as passing ships.
• Archaeological Museum – Occupying an old monastery behind the Church of St Francis of Assisi, the Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of temple sculptures, portraits, coins, bronze statues and armour.

Experience

• Dona Paula – Nestled on the side of a rocky headland between two estuaries, Dona Paula is a former fishing village that has become one of Goa’s most desirable resorts. The beach offers a wide variety of water sports including windsurfing, water-skiing and snorkelling.
• Goan Food – A highlight of any trip to Goa is the local cuisine, which fuses coconut milk and chilli with subtle Portuguese influences. Must-try menu items include fish curry, vindaloo and cashew nut halva.