CANDOLIM-Ft AGUADA
Area: Goa
Country: India


Location:
Halfway down the W coast of India, in the N part of the state of Goa. 8 miles NW of Panjim; 28 miles NW of Dabolim airport.

Telephone code from UK:
91 832

Position:
At the lower section of a long, W-facing beach terminating at Fort Aguada, near the mouth of the Mandovi River.

Description:
A straggling, almost ribbon-like resort area, some 2 miles from the small village of Candolim, and extending S to Fort Aguada. The resort has no real "centre"; small hotels, bars, shops, restaurants and other amenities are spread along its whole length. Lots of greenery, with a fairly relaxed atmosphere.

Suitability:
Appeals to couples and families, but attracts mainly middle-aged package holidaymakers from Britain and parts of Europe during high season (October to April). Few sights in vicinity and more sedate nightlife.

Accommodation:
Good variety and availability, but mainly small 2- and 3-star hotels; one large, well-equipped 5-star to the S at Fort Aguada. Most accommodation is of a decent standard and has gardens, outdoor pools and sun terraces. As this is mainly a package-holiday destination, accommodation tends to be more expensive for the peak season (October_April), although some budget accommodation is available.

Shopping:
Enough to keep the average holidaymaker amused. Small shops and stalls lining the main Fort Aguada road, plus a number of beach vendors; these tend to sell local (or otherwise) handiwork, including beachwear and clothes (including sarongs). One large jewellery shop.

Beach:
Candolim and Sinquerim beaches occupy the more S reaches of a magnificent, long, broad stretch of white sand beginning at Baga, 4 miles N. Most visitors have to make a short but hot slog on foot to get to the beaches, which are backed by dunes and scrub and lined with sun loungers and a good supply of beach-hut-style bars/snack bars. The sea is often rough, with a powerful undertow.

Entertainments:
Few sights, less nightlife, but both only a cheap taxi ride away at Calangute or a longer trip to the vivid scene at Baga. Many of the hotels offer a variety of evening entertainment (including live music and dancing) during peak season, October_April.

Eating:
Opportunities are limited and well scattered. Mostly Goan cuisine, but also Indian, Continental, Chinese, Thai and Italian fare. Abundant fresh seafood.

Public-transport:
Frequent buses along the main road between Panjim and Calangute. Plentiful taxis offering competitive fares. Car and scooter/motorbike hire readily available. Can also hire a car and driver by the day.

Local-excursions:
Local forts at Aguada and Magos. Many hotels offer excursions of varying lengths, including day trips to the nearby beaches of Calangute, Baga and Anjuna. Dolphin boat trips. Shanti jungle (one night). Paradise Beach in Palolem. Full day: Mumbai (Bombay). See also Calangute.