Goa is the smallest state in India. It stretches along the Arabian Sea in the south-west of the country. Its capital is the city of Panaji. From the east, the coast is surrounded by the Western Ghats. In general, the division of the state into north and south is very arbitrary. This is one complete administrative unit. But among tourists, there has long been a debate on the topic: “Which is better: North or South Goa?” Let's look into this issue.
In fairness, it should be noted that there is also Central Goa, where, in fact, the capital of the state is located. But this part is not of particular interest to tourists. But the narrow strip of the coast north and south of Panaji is completely at the mercy of foreign holidaymakers. But what category of tourists? This is the whole snag. Choosing South or North Goa you get “in a package” and specific entertainments, and even leisure neighbors. After all, different parts of the state exist, as it were, in parallel universes.
Tourist development began from North Goa. In the 60s of the twentieth century, the first hippies arrived here who fell under the charm of this place. Many of these “pioneers” have long become yuppies, but many have stayed here forever, adhering to the principle of “Make love, not war”. Over the years, rastamans, esotericists of various stripes and the so-called downshifters began to join them - people who, once having arrived in Goa, decided to break off ties with the world of offices and high salaries and live in a tropical paradise for little money. They burn their passports and stay here forever. For them, the question: "What to choose: Southern or Northern Goa?" - not worth it at all.
Rest here is simple and, as they say, "without frills." Hotels are very democratic, and their stardom is not an indicator of success. Family hostels give a head start on the level of services to boutique hotels. If the beach is important to you, then, comparing South or North Goa, you can not give preference to the first. On the "Party Land" the sand is grayish, coarse-grained. And the farther to the north, the more volcanic dust in the beach cover, and in some places the clay. In addition, the whole life of people, both local and vacationers, flows on the coast. Here they sunbathe, hold meetings and bazaars, work cafes, travel agencies. And of course, world-famous discos are also held there. Sea unrest in this part of the state is more common. But it gives an invaluable chance for surfers.
The state south is mastered relatively late. And this means that the hotels there are new, with modern amenities, well-developed infrastructure. The sand on the beaches is such that they can confidently refuel glass watches. One thing is only bad: this part of the state was chosen by wealthy European and American pensioners. Therefore, there is no drive, everything is quiet, dignified, noble. When choosing Goa for vacation - Southern or Northern - consider this circumstance so as not to get bored ... or not
to go crazy with endless parties and the noise of discos.
Most Russian tour operators send their clients to Morjim. Is it South or North Goa? This resort has three kilometers of beautiful beaches. Sail turtles come here to lay eggs, which is why Morjim was declared a reserve. And for the abundance of Russian tourists it is called "Moscow Beach". Geographically, the resort belongs to North Goa, but is completely out of the rhythm of life in this part of the state. No “open air party”, but only the favorite Russian entertainment: restaurants, water scooters, kiting and karaoke. Prices here are the same as in South Goa.