I went to Goa for the first time from 26 Jan to 9 Feb, and loved it! I was going to say loved every minute of it, but that's not completly true - the airport was a bit of a nightmare with the 'porters' coming at you from all sides, trying to take your trolley a few yards to the coach, but a 'no thank you' and a smile seemed to do the trick! Has anyone named Diabolim airport "Diabolical" as that's what it felt like after a long flight! The return journey wasn't too bad, we got there early and had to queue outside until they decided to open the doors, but when we got to the check in, we had to wait for it to open. Then queue for immigration and security! I know it's similar to other places (Thailand springs to mind), but they could help themselves a bit and keep queues (and some tempers) down.

We stayed at the Oceanique hotel in Colva (see separate hotel review), which was near the beach, lovely soft sand and great shacks, especially the Silver Spoon (say hi to Martin if you go). They have a beach party most Sundays - good fun.

We went to Margao a few times as we'd been to an Optician there and ordered glasses and contact lenses - there's a crowded market which is good for a wander and a few tailor's shops. Worth a visit but a bit scruffy (but to me it adds to the charm).

The only downside was the 'shop' owners who were always pestering you to 'come and see my shop' everytime you passed. I got wise to saying 'maybe later' as they would remember you when you came past again, so in the end I would just smile and say 'no thanks'. If they had left me alone to browse, I probably would have bought a few things.

I'm now looking forward to next winter so I can return to Goa! I never thought I'd say I would look forward to winter!

Thanks to this forum I had loads of info and where to go (and not to go), so keep up the good work!!