How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip to Goa: Your Ultimate Guide

How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip to Goa: Your Ultimate Guide

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 29, 2024

Goa, with its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and relaxed vibe, is a dream destination for many. While often known for luxury, Goa can also be explored on a budget without compromising on fun or comfort. Here's your guide to planning an affordable yet unforgettable Goa trip, complete with where to stay, eat, and explore.

1. Travel Smart

To save on travel, plan your trip during the shoulder season—just before or after the peak times of December to February. Flights and trains are cheaper, and the weather remains pleasant. Plus, you'll avoid the crowds, allowing you to enjoy the beaches more peacefully.

2. Choose Affordable Accommodation

While Goa has plenty of luxurious resorts, budget accommodation options are also widely available. Boho By The Beach is a fantastic choice for those seeking both comfort and affordability. This stylish, budget-friendly resort offers a beachside ambiance, cozy rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for a great stay without splurging.

3. Dine Local and Savvy

Goa’s food scene is diverse and affordable if you know where to go. Skip the expensive restaurants and explore local eateries and street food for authentic Goan cuisine at a fraction of the cost. A trendy yet budget-friendly option is The Boho Box, a charming eatery offering a range of delicious dishes without overspending. From breakfast to dinner, it's perfect for a flavorful, budget-conscious meal.

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4. Rent a Scooter for Sightseeing

Scooters are the most fun and economical way to explore Goa. Rentals are affordable, and riding a scooter lets you discover the state’s beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, and hidden spots at your own pace. From the vibrant beaches of North Goa like Baga and Anjuna to the peaceful stretches of South Goa such as Palolem, a scooter gives you the freedom to enjoy Goa without relying on costly taxis.

5. Enjoy Free or Low-Cost Activities

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Goa that won’t break the bank. Spend your days lounging on the beach, visiting historic churches and temples, or exploring nature trails. Many landmarks, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral, are free to enter, offering a glimpse into Goa’s rich history.

For more relaxation, consider attending yoga sessions or live music nights hosted at Boho By The Beach, where you can unwind and soak in Goa’s bohemian spirit without spending too much.

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6. Shop at Local Markets

Goa’s vibrant flea markets, such as Anjuna Flea Market and Mapusa Market, are perfect for budget shopping. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, clothing, or jewelry, these local markets offer unique finds at great prices while giving you a chance to experience the lively local culture.

Goa offers something for everyone, and with a little planning, you can enjoy all the beauty and excitement of this coastal paradise on a budget. By choosing affordable accommodations, local dining spots, and free activities, you’ll create lasting memories without overspending. Whether it’s relaxing on a hidden beach or exploring colorful markets, a budget-friendly Goa trip promises just as much magic as a luxury one. Happy travels!


Ring in 2026 with Grand Celebrations at ZANA Luxury Resorts & Country Inn Hotels

Ring in 2026 with Grand Celebrations at ZANA Luxury Resorts & Country Inn Hotels

By Hariharan U

Published on December 19, 2025

As the countdown to 2026 begins, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts invite travellers to celebrate the New Year in style with thoughtfully curated packages across some of India’s most picturesque destinations. From lakeside luxury and hill retreats to wildlife escapes, these celebrations promise a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and indulgence.

ZANA Luxury Resorts – Jim Corbett: Guests at ZANA Luxury Suites & Cottages and ZANA In The Wild can enjoy an energetic New Year under the stars with DJ entertainment, fireworks, lucky draws, and a live performance by acclaimed percussionist Nishant Gugnani. A dedicated kids’ zone and special buffet ensure fun for all ages.

ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur: Celebrate amid the shimmering lakes of Udaipur with a serene yet festive lakeside gala dinner. Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts, leisurely hi-teas, and even bring their own alcohol for a personalised experience.

ZANA By The Ganges, Rishikesh: This newest luxury address offers a soulful start to 2026 with a lively gala dinner, live singing, and tranquil views of the Ganges and Himalayas—perfect for those seeking festive celebrations with a touch of serenity.

ZANA Forest Resort, Ranthambore: Spread across 11 acres, the resort blends luxury cottages, green spaces, and a festive gala dinner, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful yet memorable New Year.

Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal: Surrounded by hills and crisp mountain air, guests can enjoy a DJ, fireworks, Kumaoni folk dance, live singing, bonfire, and a lavish gala dinner, providing a joyous and family-friendly way to welcome 2026.

Country Inn Premier, Mussoorie: Step into the New Year with panoramic hill station views, warm hospitality, a lively DJ, and gala dinner, creating a relaxed yet festive celebration in Mussoorie.

Country Inn Riverside Resort, Jim Corbett: Adjacent to ZANA In The Wild, this property offers a nature-centric celebration with fireworks, bonfire, DJ entertainment, lucky draws, and live percussion performances, ensuring a memorable New Year getaway.

Across all locations, guests can enjoy live music, curated gastronomic experiences, and immersive entertainment designed to create unforgettable memories. With these New Year packages, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels offer the perfect blend of celebration, comfort, and scenic beauty.


PRISM Offers Full Refunds for Guests Affected by Flight Disruptions

PRISM Offers Full Refunds for Guests Affected by Flight Disruptions

By Hariharan U

Published on December 10, 2025

PRISM, the parent company of OYO, has announced a full refund policy for guests who could not check into their hotels between December 5 and 15, 2025 due to the widespread flight disruptions across India. With more than 1,400 flights cancelled over the weekend and multiple delays crossing four hours, thousands of travel plans were affected at the peak of the wedding and holiday season.

Under this policy, guests who booked through the OYO or CheckIn apps will receive automatic refunds once they submit valid proof of cancellation or delay. PRISM is also coordinating closely with its hotel partners to ensure the process is smooth and does not burden small and mid-sized properties that depend heavily on seasonal business.

Sharing more details, Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, PRISM Asia, said, “Our early estimates indicate that significant bookings across our hotel network may be affected by the ongoing flight disruptions. Coinciding with the peak wedding and holiday season, both leisure and business travel plans are being impacted. Our decision to offer full refunds is guided by empathy and a sense of responsibility to ensure our guests are not financially burdened by circumstances entirely beyond their control.”

PRISM today operates 13,000+ hotels under brands such as Townhouse, Sunday and Palette across India. To support the increased volume of queries, the group has also expanded its customer service team to help guests with refund requests and clarity on documentation. The company will continue to monitor the situation and extend the refund window if required.

Guests can access detailed policy information or raise requests through the CheckIn policy page or contact the dedicated support helpline.


Thomas Cook India and SOTC Reveal 7 Christmas Getaways Across India

Thomas Cook India and SOTC Reveal 7 Christmas Getaways Across India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 8, 2025

Christmas in India brings together beaches, hills, colonial heritage, and cultural celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere that feels unique to every region. Showcasing this diversity, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have highlighted seven destinations that capture the country’s holiday spirit and inspire travellers to plan memorable year-end trips.

Goa remains one of India’s most popular festive escapes, glowing with lights, carols, and its signature Christmas flavours. Churches such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception host soulful midnight masses that attract visitors from across the country. Travellers can explore lively Christmas markets, enjoy beachfront music sessions, or savour traditional Goan feasts.

In Kerala, Christmas blends coastal charm with serene celebrations. Cities such as Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram come alive with star lanterns, nativity displays, and warm community gatherings. A backwater cruise on Christmas Eve, a Kathakali show in Kochi, and the beautifully lit streets of Fort Kochi offer a relaxed yet festive holiday experience.

Puducherry brings together French elegance and coastal simplicity for a peaceful Christmas getaway. White Town turns into a picture-perfect festive setting lined with cafés, heritage buildings, and soft illumination. Visitors can attend midnight mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, enjoy French-Indian festive menus, or spend quiet evenings by the sea.

For travellers seeking a hill destination, Meghalaya offers a vibrant yet serene celebration. Shillong shines with decorated churches, choir performances, and lively music nights that reflect the state’s strong musical culture. Christmas fairs, colourful lights at Police Bazaar, and outings to Umiam Lake make it an inviting winter retreat.

A culturally rich experience awaits visitors in Nagaland, where community feasts, gospel performances, and beautifully decorated churches define the celebrations. Kohima and Dimapur showcase the state’s strong sense of togetherness, while travellers visiting in early December can also experience the energy of the Hornbill Festival.

Kolkata brings timeless charm to Christmas with its Anglo-Indian traditions and festive street scenes. Park Street turns into a hub of lights, music, and food, drawing crowds throughout the season. Midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral, treats from heritage bakeries, and the warm celebrations of Bow Barracks add to the nostalgic experience.

Those dreaming of a winter escape can head to Shimla, where pine trees, colonial architecture, and the possibility of snow create a classic Christmas mood. The Ridge and Mall Road glow with decorations, while Christ Church offers a peaceful setting for Christmas services. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, warm cafés, and short trips to Kufri for snow-filled adventures.

Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel’s curated selection offers travellers a chance to choose a Christmas holiday that suits their festive mood, be it relaxed, cultural, adventurous, or nostalgic.

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