South Goa lifestyle

Look for outstanding spices, precious stones and fabrics in the shops. In the north and south of the country you'll find stalls selling locally produced goods, and there's also the famous Anjuna market where you can pick up some excellent souvenirs. It's also worth visiting Panjim to get branded clothing for a fraction of what you would pay at home.

Although there's a large selection of bars and restaurants serving every type of cuisine you could imagine, you can't visit Goa without trying some of the local specialties. Chicken Xacuti is something you'll find on most menus, which is a spicy dish served with rice. The seafood is also wonderful: giant tiger prawns and kingfish are often served straight from the tandoori oven. As far as drinks are concerned, Feni is the local spirit made from cashew nuts and coconut, and Kingfisher is India's most famous beer.

North Goa is where the night-life happens. There are several clubs, and many hotels also have weekly live music. There's a floating casino docked at Panjim, and carnivals are held in the town throughout the year. The south is much more tranquil, although the beach shacks will stay open until the last person leaves - and you'll always meet a local that will have a story or two to keep you entertained!