Candolim and calangute are both good ..Candolim is not as busy maybe that would be a good place to go on for your first visit .......the phoneix park hotel in is a good spot close to everything I would say thats a good place for you ....colleen..............

I agree with colleen, Candolim is good for first timers, it's more relaxed and not as busy as Calangute. It depends when you are thinking of going the Phoenix Park has a lot of building work going on at the moment and I know a lot of the tour operators have been moving people to other hotels, but it should be finished by the middle of December. Other hotels I would recommend are The Highland Beach, The Sunset Beach (we've stayed there 5 times) and the Silver Sands superior rooms. Have a look in the hotel reviews section, it will give you a good idea on what to expect. Remember even the 3 star hotels are basic in Goa.

Hope this helps - Debs

Candolim perhaps but most certainly NOT the Phoenix Park Great location but nothing else going for it.
Julie B & B all the time. Goa is so cheap to eat out, it would be a waste of money going AI.
Good luck

thanks irish colleen and debnpete we are looking to go nov next year but wanted to book early as we never been didnt know what to expect been looking at photos on here would you book b+b or all inclusive thanks julie

Definitely Bed and Breakfast, as Gemma says there are loads of restaurants and bars, you really don't want to be stuck in your hotel all inclusive. Food and drink is so cheap and most restaurants have an extensive range of food on offer, most menus have Chinese, Indian, continental, steaks, seafood etc. you will be spoilt for choice.

Debs

Have a look at the Marquis Hotel in Sinquerim, it's at the quiet end of Baga/Calangute/Candolim stretch.
However, you're only a short taxi ride from the mayhem of Calangute & Baga.

Marquis.

Sinquerim Beach.


p.s. The River Princess is just out of the frame to the left.

Agree with DebnPete you should never go AI to Goa as a big part of the holiday is trying the great food in the various restaurants. It's also a great way to meet the locals and pick up local information.

Also it depends what you are looking for but if you want more to do in the evenings then consider Calangute or Baga (I will be back there for the 6th time in December). I would recommend either Molly Malones (no pool) the Mira & Aldeia Bello I have stayed at them all and they are all good for their type.

Also there are plenty trips you can book from Goa but book them from local travel agents and you will save a fortune.

Whatever you do you'll have a great time and I'm slightly envious as the first time you go to Goa is an amazing experience.

many thanks to everyone who sent replys going to go through the forum and hotel reviews but def going to book but think it will be calangute as we like plenty going on hope i dont make mistake going there also can you walk to baga via sea front if so how far is it approx we used to walking everywhere in spain

Baga & Calangue are virtually one place now and the sea front runs along beside both. Remember it will not be like Spain for walking around in, there are no pavements, and you will be dodging the traffic at times but don't let that put you off, you will not make a mistake in going there.

Also you will pay no more than 100r (just over a pound) for a taxi to go anywhere in Baga or Calangute.

Max love that picture of Sinquerim Beach!
You will get lots of good advise from everyone in here Julie.
I believe Polly50 stayed at the Mira in Calangute earlier in the year and spoke very highly of it.

Hi,
well maybe someone can give you an adress for private rental. I preferred this 2 times. I personaly think its cheaper and you really have what you want. Cause, as all others said, going out to eat is not expensive. You dont need a hotel, chech out for an apartment.

Greets,
goajam

Hi we staying in a private apartment in the HIGHLAND
Candolim if you want the phone no PM me.
Ann

Having been to North Goa several times over the last few years this year we booked a flight only and booked a guest house near the beach in Candolim, avoiding a package deal we will probably save about £400..
there is plenty of flights on offer (if you can get one about £350ish you will do well and accomadation about £100 per week per room which includes aircon, balcony, seperate sitting room etc..be adventurous.

Steve

Max13biker, what a beautiful photo - seeing that really cheered me up what with all the visa hassle. Have you stayed at the Marquis Hotel and what brochures is it in please? We are staying in candolim but would be interesed next year, is it a lot quieter there?
Many thanks, christine

StevieH which guesthouse are you staying in and when are you going, we are going to Pretty Petals from the 7th to 21st March.

Debs

Hi Deb n Pete

We are going on the 15th Jan and staying at the Antonio guest house

Steve n Jane