A hippie with his hair tied in a bun and tint in his glasses enjoying chilled beer against the seashore, impervious to the world around him - this would be Goa if it was to be personified. From the hip and happening beaches of North Goa effortlessly strewn alongside the Western coastline to the peace of the South, Goa is for anyone seeking some much-needed respite. It might be the nation's smallest state, but without a shred of doubt, it is the most sought-after destination for the perfect beach holiday.
If you are planning to bring in new years in Goa, make sure to check out Asia's largest music and dance festival, Sunburn:
If you are planning to bring in new years in Goa, make sure to check out Asia's largest music and dance festival, Sunburn:
Because of the very laidback vibe of Goa, what to wear in Goa can range from a free-flowing maxi dress for the beach to a stylish bodycon for the music festivals. Be it a casual day of beach tripping or sun-bathing at Palolem or an evening of indulgence in Baga's electrifying nightlife, here's what to wear in Goa and not feel out of place.
Dresses for Women
1. Cover-up Dresses
Again, these can be layered over swimwear when you are ready to leave the sand. Light and airy, these are perfectly in rhythm with the humidity of Goa's climate. You don't have to tie them up like sarongs, and they come in different styles to choose from - kaftans, ponchos or kimonos.
2. Bikinis/Monokinis
If you plan on getting into the water, a good swimsuit is essential. And Goa is one of the fewest places in the country that is liberal concerning stylish beach outfits. Been working hard at the gym? Here is your chance to redeem those strenuous hours and flaunt your gains.If, however, bikinis make you feel uncomfortable, high-waisted bikinis and tankinis are great options too. You shouldn't have to feel like a misfit in your jeans among all the bikini-clad women and let your insecurities double. Just pick the one that suits your body type the best. Make sure that you wear bikinis only in the beach/pool areas and not in general public places unless you want to be a walking showpiece. Goa keeps modernity strictly limited to its beaches.
3. Sarongs
We know bikinis are not exactly everybody's picnic. A sarong is something ideal especially for them curvy bods out there. These wraparounds go with the beachy vibe and can be easily thrown over your swimwear. You could even turn a sarong into a dress, wrapping style and comfort together. They come in a large variety of vibrant colours, accentuating the overall vacation mood and can be tied up in different ways.
Sarongs are readily available in any Goan beach market. If you can bargain right, they'll be a total steal.4. Cotton Shorts
When on a beach holiday, it is always wise to carry fabrics that dry up easily. Denim shorts not only take their sweet time while drying, but they can also be quite intolerable in the heat. Not to mention the numerous pockets that will have sand pouring out of them for weeks.5. Spaghettis/Tank tops
Leave your formal looking shirts and dull T-shirts at home. Save space in your bags by packing basic halter-neck spaghettis and racer-back tanks that you are unable to wear normally. The best part is that they can be paired with almost anything.6. Loose-fitting trousers
Now, there are some of you who are either less inclined to wearing shorts or simply don't want to get tan lines on your legs. Harem pants, wide-leg pants, linen cargos, palazzos, culottes and gipsy pants are your best friends.7. Sundresses
What is more vacation-like than a floral printed sundress accessorised with a sunhat and a pair of Havaianas flip-flops So this is great when you are out for an evening stroll, sightseeing or just grabbing brunch.Evening Wear
Obviously, you won't want to dance at a beach party in a sarong. When the sun goes down, you will need a change in your outfit while still maintaining the comfort level. Here's how:8. Long skirts
Skirts that are flowy will ensure that you have the best time dancing your worries away while still feeling the air. No room for sophisticated tight mini-skirts here.9. Maxi dresses
Be it enjoying a trance party at Curlies or simply stopping by a bar for a couple of drinks; you can never go wrong with a tropical printed maxi dress. Go for off-shoulders and side-slit maxis to spice things up.
10. Printed jumpsuits/playsuits
If dresses are not your thing, try long jumpsuits or playsuits. Jumpsuits, especially printed ones, add to the fun quotient and can also double as beachwear.10. Sequined shorts
Let's admit it. Shorts are comfortable. And these days, they come in various styles to choose from - lace shorts, high-waisted shorts, sequined and embellished shorts. Pair them with a neon top before you go party hopping.Accessories
Along with the right clothing, it is of utmost importance that you accessorise right. Remember, less is always more, and you just need one statement accessory to turn heads.11. Straw hats
Available in plenty in any Goan flea market, straw hats not only protect you from the raging sun but also add that extra oomph to your look.12. Scarves
The humidity in the air wreaks havoc on your hair. A pretty looking scarf not only protects you from that but also enhances your outfit. Bandanas can also be tied up around the head.13. Flip-flops
A staple for any beach holiday. Leave the bulky shoes and stilettos at home. You can also invest in a good pair of Crocs or open-toe sandals.14. Sunglasses
As the sun comes up, so should your sunnies. Nowadays, reflective mirror finish glasses are a rage. They protect both your eyes and your style quotient. Don't be afraid of experimenting with the frames - Goa welcomes quirkiness.15. Chunky jewellery
Lightweight and trendy. Large bead necklaces, shell bracelets, anklets, waist chains, funky toe-rings and dangle earrings are perfect for beaching. Go boho! Keep your metal accessories away from saltwater though.16. Tote bags
And finally, a bright-coloured tote to stock all your essentials in - beach towels, sunscreen, gloss and a book maybe. A beach bag made of waterproof material is indispensable.What To Wear In Goa For Guys
Sons of beaches, we didn't forget you. Everyone is going to have their toes in the sand so you might as well look hot while doing it! Apart from the basics like swimming trunks, sunglasses and flip-flops, here's what else to pack:1. Tanks
Tanks are unisex, and they are not just for your gym sessions. Sleeveless t-shirts with funky logos and prints are so much in sync with the beach than boring polo necks.2. Linen shirts
It's time to put your feet up and de-stress. It's okay if you don't like getting tanned in those sleeveless tanks. Loose-fitting shirts are a boon. But, pack nothing more than cotton or linen shirts. Probably in beautiful shades of blue. You can also go back to the 90's and opt for the fundamental Hawaiian shirt. Nothing is jauntier or spells "on vacation" louder than that! Just kick back with a shrimp cocktail in hand, and you are Jim Carrey from Ace Ventura.3. Shorts
Ditch that idea immediately if you were planning on wearing trousers throughout the holiday. Differentiate swim trunks from shorts. Whether you are hanging by the pool, or just taking a walk on the seashore, you need shorts that go up to the knee. Probably more than one pair. And these days, even shorts come in tropical prints. Make sure you get them in fabrics that dry quickly.
4. Chinos
Both chinos and trousers were made for soldiers, but the former comes with a maximum of two or three pockets as opposed to the latter which have a large number of pockets. Trousers are always more fitting on formal occasions. So when you are out partying in Goa, consider the more comfy/informal alternative - chinos. A sure-fire way to get the fairer sex's attention.5. Cotton espadrilles
Flip-flops and crocs are kings in sandy settings but what about those tan lines that don't go for weeks? Espadrilles are the ultimate beach shoes which combine fashion and ease. Open-toe sandals and boat shoes work as well.6. Fedora hats
Timeless, elegant and a must for summer, fedora hats are made of felt or straw. Sported by men and women alike, these babies not only protect you from the scorching heat but also add confidence to the air around you.7. Tote bags
Yes, that's right. A tote bag can also be one of the men's accessories given that they do not carry it with its handles in the crook of their elbows like the ladies. Go for one that has a rugged look. If it's still too girly for you, go for messenger bags.What Not Wear In Goa
While we are addressing the dilemma of what to wear in Goa, let's also rule out complete no-no's that will only hog necessary luggage space:Jeans
Remember, you are in Goa to unwind. You cannot do that if your clothing is tight and doesn't let you breathe. Loosen up!Synthetic fabrics
Anything involving polyester, nylon or leather are best kept away from the sultry weather. Instead, carry Egyptian cotton, fine silk or linen.Underwear as swimwear
Do not confuse your lingerie set with a swimsuit. It not only is inappropriate but also looks very tacky.Ill-fitted Swimwear
Goa beaches may be bikini-friendly, but nobody wants to see parts you didn't plan on showing. Make sure things are tucked in at the right places and stay away from sheer tops/bottoms if you fancy a dip in the water.Heels/Closed Footwear
Your feet deserve a break too. Unless you want to unleash hell on them, do not bring your pumps or pencil heels along. If it is imperative, settle for low-rise wedges.Similarly, closed footwear like sneakers is neither vacation-like nor beach-friendly. The only thing more annoying than walking in sand is walking with sand filled inside your shoes. Just carry running shoes if you are going to go for morning jogs.
Expensive jewellery
All the gold, silver and shimmery bling are to be skipped. There is a high risk of losing them in the sand, and they do not exactly match the carefree vibe of the place. Leave the Casio watch safe at home and carry silicone strap watches if you must.Heavy make-up
Goan water and climate ruin overly done make-ups. Keep it minimalistic and simple. Hair tied up in a bun, coral pink for the lips and lightly lined eyes - enough.Hair dryer
The salty wind and water are going to make your hair frizzy and dry. Do yourself a favour and don't worsen it by carrying hair dryers or hair gels. Go natural for once. Windswept wet hair looks amazing.Some extra tips that might come handy:
1. Skin-care: Sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 40 is a must. Other skin-care essentials are aloe vera gel and calamine lotion. You might also want to carry a good moisturiser.
2. Colours to include: Whites and creams for the day, blues and blacks for the night are ideal.
3. Patterns to include: Stripes, nautical stripes, colour blocks, polka dots and floral/tropical prints never go out of style.
4. Pack light but always carry an extra pair of slippers.
5. Goa is infamous for its dark orange dust. So be careful with your tighty whities!
6. Winter wardrobe: Long sleeved tops, light pashmina shawls and jersey material jackets are best for winter in Goa.
Just put comfort as high as you put good-looks, and you are all set for a quintessential vacation in India's most happening beach capital!