Goa isn’t just a popular tourist destination for no good reason. It’s a gorgeous Indian state with a heady mix of stunning beaches, majestic places of worship, fun festivals, party places and places to just relax and unwind. It’s no wonder that it has increasingly become one of the top most choices for destination weddings both for Indians and foreigners. Who wouldn’t want a beautiful wedding in a sun-kissed place along the Arabian Sea, with all possible entertainment and comfort options available?
Goa was under the Portugese colonial rule for hundreds of years right up until 1961. Therefore what you find is a beautiful mix of Indian and Portuguese influences both evident in the culture, the delicious food and the architectural styles in the state. With it’s big cities like Panjim, Vasco Da Gama and Margao as well as loads of smaller pretty villages, towns and beach side resorts, Goa is a gorgeous option for any wedding. With it’s East meets West sensibilities you could easy have any type of wedding you desire here. Planning a wedding here is easier when left to professional wedding planners unless you are okay with the often easygoing sensibility of the much famed Goan ‘susegad’. Although most places are efficient and quick when it comes to you planning your wedding with them, it’s best to get some help with you are a typical type A personality!
If you do decide that Goa is your dream wedding destination make sure you take advantage of the beauty that is in abundance here – the beaches and the weather! Pretty much warm throughout the year, Goa is fabulous for outdoor weddings by the sea. Imagine exchanging your wedding vows or going through your sacred rituals right by the glorious sea under swaying palms and bright sunlight…bliss! Beautifully decorated tents on the shore itself both for the ceremony or an evening do are lovely and can be super conducive to creating a romantic ambiance. There are plenty of beach, garden and indoor venues that offer comprehensive services for weddings like the catering and decorating, as well as make provisions for live bands, live entertainment and dancing space. Some hotels also offer access to clean, private beaches, perfect for a wedding. Rates run from budget to extravagant – so there’s something for everyone. If you are planning a function on the beach make sure you ask your wedding planner for what permits and state permissions may be required.
Beaches like Baga, Calangute, Anjuna, Candolim, Agonda etc. are great choices for weddings depending on how secluded or buzzing you want the destination to be. Do look at all the possible options in North and South Goa and you will find differing sensibilities in terms of the energy and the sheer number of people in these areas as well as the Indian vs. international feel of the place. The numerous ‘shacks’ that are restaurants and bars are great for letting your hair down with your guests and they offer various kinds of cuisines. There’s plenty of sightseeing and shopping around, to keep them busy in their spare time too.
