litha0621

Hi all,
I was looking to plan out my stay in Goa for around 4 days in December. After reading Fodors and other guide books, I get the impression that Palolem is one of the most beautiful beaches that is still somewhat secluded. I'll be traveling with my 10-yr. old daughter, so we're not interested in staying at the party beaches. I've emailed a few places in Palolem; however, I've only received replies back from 2 places: Bhakti Kutir & Dream Catcher. Both seem to be rustic, eco-friendly. But they are charging 4,000 and 5,000 Rs per night. This is way more than I'd be willing to pay per night for a place that has compost toilets and no A/C...but is this the average price to stay in places in Goa??
I'd appreciate any other recommendations as well. For example, should we scrap Palolem and go to another beach in Goa instead? I'm looking to spend around $50-$70 per night.
Thank you!!

vp_singh

It is very difficult to pick up good accomodation in Goa between the 20th December to 5th January. The problem becomes acute from 23 December to 1st January. Most hotels sell 3/4/5 day packages & make a neat packet of money.
Take an early decision.
Enjoy yourself!

TracyB

Hi..if u can't find a cheap hotel in Palolem and are interested in staying near Candolim in North Goa, then try this place...

http://www.melodiouswaves.com/

It's a nice quiet clean hotel and we had no problem making a booking in December..Nothing fancy, but a really pleasant place to stay with a nice grass courtyard where breakfast is served. It is less than 50.00 a night. I shoulda booked it again when we are visiting Goa nxt month!!!

davyd

I visited many hotels in Goa and in Palolem I've found nice one - Grand Intercontinental but I have no idea how much they charge in the busiest time of the year. Youcan check their website for details.

Bhakti Kutir was very rustic - it's basically just bed with mosquito net but some find it lovely. I especially recommend it for people who would like some yoga exercises or better ayurvedic massage or treatment from Vijay.

Few beachfront "resorts" were ooutdated and quite dirty. There is lovely budget lodge Virgin Beach Resort right 50 m from bus stand with prices like 600 Rs for a double (small) room with TV, balcony and solar heated shower, everything in room was very clean and freshly painted. The guesthouse' owners found one nice old gentleman as manager who runs it with quiet efficiency. Tel 0832-2643451.

Majority of tourists in Palolem will end in beach bamboo huts - very rustic indeed without water and electricity and with basic common facilities like toilet and shower. And they will pay around 1000-1500 Rs per night, some like Ciaran charge still more.

Have a happy holiday!

inquest

You've not mentioned when in December.Prices peak(more than double) between the 23rd & 31st.Palolem is by no means quiet(use to be a few years ago).Its packed with young revellers.Though a nice cove,ideal for swimming.The Intercontinental Grand is a fantastic property,very,very expensive.Its not in Palolem but close by.If you are still keen,Thursdaysd,(she had excellent taste)here,has booked in what seems to be a nice place:http://www.villageguesthousegoa.com/
Candolim is a good beach,lot more to do.
Some resorts to check out is Goan Heritage,Shanu's,Coqueiral,Sonasta Inn,Casa Bianca,Marquis Beach resort.Google foe them.

thursdaysd

Thanks for the kind words, inquest! I'll be at Palolem, if all goes well, the beginning of December. Last time I visited Goa, in 2001, I stayed at the north end of Vagator, which was pretty quiet at the beginning of December (but who knows how much it's changed). I stayed at Sterling Vagator - flaky AC, but otherwise fine and mostly Indian guests. I also stayed at the Panjim Inn, in Panjim, which I highly recommend if you don't insist on the beach.

inquest

Ah!Thursday,you are truly remarkable.Sure you'll enjoy Goa.I'll be up in Candolim around the 3rd week of Dec, for a few days too.My friends insist on the beach,otherwise would have tried out Panjim Inn for a change.Will be going to Panjim for a mighty meal at the Ritz Classic.Authentic Goan.Yum !!
I've been following your incredible journey in your reports.Do take care of yourself.Happy travelling.

thursdaysd

Are you in India, inquest? I got to Lucknow yesterday (only an hour and 20 minutes late, thanks Indian Railways) from Nepal, fly to Hyderabad tomorrow. Hope the traffic's better further south!!!

inquest

I get into Mumbai on the 18th of Dec.....shall continue this coversation in your Asian adventure trip report..thread