Getting
to Goa
There
are frequent flights to Goa from all major international and national cities
like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore and Pune with the exception of the latter city
which has only two direct flights to Goa in a day. The most economical option
is in the form of various trains that make a halt at two of Goa’s major railway
stations – Margao and Tivim. The third option is to avail of the AC / non AC
Kadamba and private buses that are well connected to Mumbai, Pune and
Bangalore. Be prepared to shell out as much as Rs 4000 one way for a Volvo
journey, which, during the off-season, can be bought for as much as Rs 600. The
last and perhaps the best option is to drive in with your own / rented car
which can be also used to move around in the sunny state.
Moving
around
One
of the most convenient commuting options in Goa is the bikes that are available
on rent. Although non-geared bikes like Activa and Dio are available for as
much as Rs 200 per day during any other time of the year, the rates go up to Rs
600-1000 during the peak season in December. One can also move around in Goa by
hiring a self-driven car or a taxi. Pre-paid taxis are the best bet as there is
every possibility that you may be fleeced by the private taxi operators who
charge anything upwards of Rs 1,000 for a day.
Getting
to the venues
If
you’re travelling by train, then the best option is to alight at Tivim station.
To make your way towards Candolim or Vagator, you can choose any of the options
listed above. If you’re flying in to Goa, then the best means of transport that
will take you to the northern part of the state is to hire a taxi. For those
making their way to Goa by bus, you can choose to alight at Mapusa which is
closer to the northern beach belt.
Where
to stay
The
entire northern beach belt that houses Candolim and Vagator offers a host of
accommodation options ranging from beach huts, tourist hostels, hotel rooms to
even independent apartments and bungalows. While you may be able to secure a
roof over your head in a beach hut for as much as Rs 1,000-1,200 per night,
hotel rooms come with a wider price range from Rs 1,500 – Rs 8,000 depending
upon the location, quality and the range of facilities that the hotel provides.
