You haven’t visited Goa if you haven’t eaten a fish thali. Our favorite spots to get a fish thali are The Ritz Classic, Kokum Curry, Vishal’s Goan Food, Workshop Restaurant, and Vinayak Family Restaurant. For drinks, we love Joseph’s Bar, Antonio@31, Cajy Bar, and Miski for that taverna vibe, For The Record for cocktails and Bar de Goa for karaoke. If you want to get a little crazy after 1 AM take a taxi to Chapora Lane or hit up Don Robs.

Goa gained independence from the Portuguese in 1961, fourteen years after India freed herself from the yoke of the British. There’s some stunning colonial-era architecture and gorgeous hidden waterfalls. Here are some places to visit and things to do:

Visit the Tomb of Saint Francis at Basilica of Bom Jesus

Take in the sunset at the top of Fort Aguada

Go kayaking at Cola Beach

Surf at Arambol Beach

Experience traditional food and drink at Floating Feni - The Table in the Water Experience

Drink like a local, take Panjim’s Taverna Tour