Advice on Goa

[Frankieola]

Can anyone reccommend a hotel/ resort to stay at in Goa and also what part of Goa would be best? I want to go on my holiday with my wife, we are in our mid 30's and would mainly like to relax and get away from it all but would also like to go out and see markets and maybe even go on a late night sdrinking session or clubbing!
I dont know if you are allowed to on here but would also appreciate any suggestions as to who to book with. Many thanks.

[LDC134]

I can't recommend a hotel, sorry, but Palolem (sp?) beach is the most beautiful crescent with bars and accomodation in huts along the beach - we stayed in the huts hence not being able to recommend any accomodation. There are bars and small markets in all areas plus a huge (but very touristy) market in Anjuna. Palolem is less touristy than other parts but overall it is a stunning place.

[Dee Sa]

I would suggest Candolim, its nearer enough to the noisy Calangut [ the outdoor nightclub there goes on until about 4am and can keep you awake if staying near by] but quieter and you will be able to get to the fleamarket etc.I have stayed a the Victor Exotica in Candolimand can recommend it.
Where I like to stay is Bon Appetite[ look it up on the net] owner ia guy called Joe, next to Taj hotel at the very end of Candolim they are on the beach with a good restaurant and behind the restaurant are bungalows with tv, a/c, nice gardens with hammocks to relax in but might be a bit too quiet etc but their sun loungers face the beach.
Whatever you do though dont go "all inclusive" there are loads of nice restaurants & bars to try and not expensive [ starter.dinner & dessert & drinks and you will get change from £20] bottle of Vodka in a supermarket under £5, so why tie yourself done to eating in same place for 2 weeks ?
dont take any tours they are a rip off instead ask your friendly taxi driver how much to take you to wherever you want to go and bring you back [ they dont charge waiting time] haggle a bit first.Dont forget to visit Spice Fields well worth a trip.
There is a lovely beach restaurant in South Goa owned by a guy called Sergio I think its called Zeeboka its in UTORDA [ pronounced OOTORRDA] well worth a visit, ask your taxi driver he will know, because its a bit way out they feed the taxi drivers for free [ they have their own little waiting area] so the taxi waits for you no matter how long you stay, the lobster, crab & shrimp is out of this world , three musicians come and play for you etc its a well kept secret but worth the ride.Another good restaurant is Souza Lobo in Calangut.
If you stay in South Goa it will be relaxing but very quiet.
other people will probably have their own favourites to recommend, its worth paying extra for A/C [ air conditioning] dont forget your roll o

[Dee Sa]

the rest ........dont forget your roll on mozzy repellant from Boots and if you take the malaria tablets you will probably get diarrohea [ we dont take them].
Another good tip is to upgrade on your flight, its a long journey and for the extra comfort and leg room, free drinks & better food its well worth it, but these seats go first so ask your travel agent, its about an extra £100 return.If you need new glasses or your teeth fixed get it done while there its half the price of UK
How do I know much ? I am a Brit & married to a Goan for 25 years, we have a house there but its 45 mins away from the tourist area in Ribandar and when we get bored as we go for two months a year we up sticks and go and stay at Bon Appetit.
hope this helps, once you have been you will probably return.

[Frankieola]

Thanks for all the advice, Much appreciated!