WITH its mouthwatering cuisine, rich Portuguese heritage and miles of palm tree-lined beaches it's easy to see why travellers flock to the relaxed Indian state of Goa.
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It's no secret that most Goans love their food and the region's unique cuisine - a fusion of Indian and Portuguese flavours centred around rice, fish, coconut and spices (think Goan fish curry) - is just one of the drawcards when visiting the coastal state.
Another is its rich history and culture. Conquered by the Portuguese in the early 16th century and returned to Indian rule only in 1961, there is evidence of European influence throughout Goa, from the magnificent white churches and architecture to food and place names (the capital Vasco da Gama is named after the Portuguese explorer).
While the hippies caught on in the 1960s, with many still attracted by the party scene and laid-back tropical vibe, there is still plenty to do for the more serious traveller.
Take, for example, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Goa - a collection of preserved and ruined churches, convents and colonial buildings and a must-see for any visitor.
A fascinating step back in time, Old Goa was referred to as the "Rome of the East" and was once considered the most affluent and opulent city in Asia.
From the 16th to the 18th centuries Old Goa's population, under the Portuguese, exceeded that of Lisbon or London. But cholera and malaria outbreaks forced the city to be abandoned in 1760 and in 1843 the capital was moved to Panaji (Panjim).
Some of the most imposing churches and cathedrals are still in use and well preserved, while other historical buildings have become museums or simply ruins.
You can still sense the grandeur of the city as you meander along old streets and between towering churches and cathedrals and majestic convents.
A highlight of Old Goa is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of the most stunning churches in India. Regarded as the best example of Baroque architecture in the country, the basilica was completed in 1605 and is one of the most popular attractions in Goa.
The church contains the tomb and remains of St Francis Xavier - a missionary across Asia (India, Japan, China) who died in 1552. He is regarded as the patron saint of Goa and once every decade in December the body is taken down for veneration and public viewing. On December 3 crowds flock to the basilica to celebrate the Feast of St Francis Xavier.
Head to the Church of Our Lady of the Mount for panoramic views over Old Goa and the Mandovi River.
Also worth seeing are the Se Cathedral, the largest church in Asia. Built from 1563, one of its most famous features is its large bell, known as the Golden Bell.
And all that remains in the crumbling ruins of the Church of St Augustine is a 46-metre high tower which was once the belfry. Meanwhile, examine artefacts and learn about stories of the area's golden age at the Archaeological Museum.
While the city no longer bustles with crowds and traders, with a little imagination you can picture the thriving city that used to be at the site.
Early morning and evening are the best times to visit.
- Readers can explore the wonders of Old Goa and Mumbai on the Mysteries of India, Sri Lanka and Arabia fully-escorted cruise with The Senior and Travelrite International.
Travelling on the Celebrity Constellation, the cruise will visit Singapore, Phuket, Sri Lanka's capital Colombo, Cochin, Goa and Mumbai in India, Muscat in Oman, and Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE.
The 20-day tour departs Australia on April 6, 2018.
The fully inclusive tour includes flights from Australia to Singapore, return from Abu Dhabi, your trip on the luxurious Celebrity Constellation, accommodation on land and sightseeing tours.
You'll also see Sri Lanka's famous Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage; the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, in Dubai; and the Grand Mosque in Muscat.
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