India

Sick of snow, snow and yet more snow, and longing for hot days lying about on warm golden sands? With most of the northern hemisphere seemingly covered by the white stuff these days, skip the Mediterranean and grab yourself a cheap flight to Calangute. This seaside town in Goa has a laidback atmosphere, and boasts a justifiably famous stretch of beach. If you do get bored with the beach, then hire some bikes and explore the surrounding countryside, or take a walk through the town and enjoy the huge range of fresh seafood on offer.

Stay
10 Calangute – Located near four beautiful beaches, this boutique hotel offers visitors some respite from the noise and activity of downtown Calangute. All ten rooms are named after Goa’s famed beaches, and the offbeat décor gives the hotel a lighthearted mood. Check out the wall-sized mural of Bambi lounging by the pond in the reception area. The rooms are spacious and comfortable furnished, with ceiling fans to help beat the heat. If you manage to resist the lure of the nearby beaches, the wooden deck and swimming pool make great spots to soak up the sun and indulge in some cocktails. Room rates start at about £70.

Eat
Souza-Lobo Restaurant – Managed by the third generation of Lobos, this beachfront restaurant makes great use of the abundant, fresh seafood available on its doorsteps. The menu features authentic Goan cuisine – spicy curries, fried seafood, and rice dishes to help counter all that spiciness. A live band provides music every night, and if you’re lucky, there may be a dance troupe performing too.

See
Kerkar Art Complex – Calangute boasts a vibrant cultural scene, and the Kerkar Art Complex is a great spot to soak it all in. Local artists exhibit their crafts in the gallery, and workshops and exhibitions are also held within the complex. On Thursday and Friday nights, the complex also hosts music and dance performances by local groups.