Beach hopping!

You are touristy or non-touristy in your travel methodology, you got to explore the beaches in there. Keep a day for North Goa and another day for South. Candolim, Baga, Calungute, Anjuna, Vagator, Arambol, mmiramar are unavoidable. You got to check out these beaches to sink in that Goa feeling. Agonda, Benaulim, Palolem are peaceful comparatively. Most of these beaches are old hang-out spots of travelers and are famous for old clubs, shacks, bars, wild parties and authentic food. If you don’t want to do any of this, just find a hammock and soak in the sun. Just remember, no work because it all about having a family trip in Goa.

With family in tow, you definitely need to take them partying in Goa. It may not be possible if you have kids with you but how about taking them to a place where there is rock band music, good food and lots of sea breeze. Yes, shacks can be great fun. Have your own table and order what you want.

You can’t do without going to the churches. They are so beautiful.

If the beaches make the heart of Goa, the churches are its soul. From Gothic to Neo-Roman to Tuscan, Baroque and Corinthian architecture styles, there is whole lot of heritage that must be seen and appreciated. Basilica of Bom Jesus, a catholic church is the UNESCO heritage site. It is here where people queue up to see the casket of St. Francis Xavier, wherein lies his 400 years old preserved body. Se Cathedral, located in Velha in Old Goa is another very impressive church. It is famous for its golden bell, all over the world. There is another one in Velha, St. Cajetan, which closely reminds of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. I like visiting churches and in Goa, I always find some new ones.

Lady of Immaculate Conception is my favorite one. This one in Panjim is not only a white beauty, but pristine and peaceful. I love the Gothic façade of Mae De Deus too. This one is in North Goa and has intricate interiors. And when you are talking about churches, it isn’t fair to forget about Church of St Francis of Assisi and the Church of Cross Miracles. They are really popular among the locals.

Cruising or catamaran sailing is my favorite

Cruising on Mandovi River or catamaran sailing on Chapora River is my idea of a perfect offbeat holiday. Sailing is super fun in Goa. I have done it myself and can vouch for it. Clearly, it was a day of enjoying the waters of Goa in the middle of water. Lots of cool breeze all over your face, direct sun and the experience of sailing triples the fun automatically. If you want to experience cruising, you can do that too on Mandovi River. Keep a whole day for it or maybe book a sunset cruise. Enjoy your dinner, make merry with your family and toast to the good times.

Visit the museum and walk around portuguese colony

This is not just for the children, even the elders will enjoy. Big foot museum in Loutolim is my favorite. It is one of the most engaging and interactive place to be at and learn about Goa’s history and culture. Next comes Goa state museum. It has lots of art, exhibits, history of printing, sculpture, religion, anthropological and cultural facts to offer to the people. Both, Museum of Christian art and Indian Naval Aviation Museum are unique and interesting. Some of the old houses of Goa are amazing and must be seen from inside. They have such ornate interiors and the collections give us a peek into the life of the owners. Fontainhas is a colourful neighborhood where one can walk around and experience an Old Portuguese colony.

How about some parasailing and scuba diving in Goa?

Water babies love Goa for all kind of water activities that you can do there. There is no pressure to do something but if you really want to learn something and experiment, this is just the right place. You will always have those memories, that you did your first scuba diving in Goa. The adventure seeking members of the family should definitely not miss this. Keep these activities on the itinerary and if possible, take them all for banana boat rides, parasailing or scuba diving. If one of the family members is keen on learning scuba diving, you may opt for scuba certification classes under trained divers. Goa tourism has also started with Hot Air Balloon flights too.

Relax, go cycling and do some yoga in the beach resorts or villas

It is a family trip in Goa. Just chill! Family activities are very important when the whole bunch is there. Everyone should make an effort to eat together at the breakfast. The sightseeing can always be choice. Some can take off days and relax. But on some of the days, everyone should be involved. I would suggest to plan cycling day and maybe 3 yoga days too. Holidays should not just be about indulging in food and drinks, it can also be about reminding everyone that healthy lifestyle is important too.