1 minute read
Duel Action
Fasten your seat belts as we take you on a 360-degree ride through two destinations. There’s Goa, India, in one corner and Pattaya, Thailand, in another.
Goa
Advertisement
Goa is famous for its beaches, churches and vibrant night life. Visit such popular and revered churches as Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Chapel Of Our Lady Of The Mount and the Se Cathedral. Fort Aguada offers breathtaking views.
Pattaya
Goa's unique cuisine is influenced by various cultures, including Konkani and Portuguese. Musttries are Goan fish curry, pork vindaloo, shark ambot tik (sour and hot), prawns xeque xeque and chicken xacuti. Do not miss the sweet treats patolea and bebinca, and the famous local liquor feni
The largest wooden building in Thailand, the Sanctuary of Truth is the most magnificent structure of the city. A unique take on classic Thai temple architecture, the temple boasts wood statues and a wood-carved piece that tells the philosophy of life.
Pad Thai is a local food preparation that is found in almost every nook and corner of Pattaya. It is a simple dish comprising rice noodles, eggs, vegetables, fish and shrimp, and condiments. Delicacies like pla pao (Thai grilled fish), som tam (green papaya salad) and satay (grilled meat) are also popular here.
Head to Calangute beach for memorable parasailing experiences. You can also try white water rafting on the Mandovi river. Hit the high and low waves with a surfboard at Mandrem Beach. For scuba diving and snorkeling, head to Grandé (Grand) Island. You can also spot dolphins.
Shoppers' delight
Shop for clothes, trinkets and crafts at the Anjuna flea market. Visit the Arambol flea market to experience tasty local fare, and buy handmade products, home decor items like hammocks and pretty souvenirs. Pick an indigenous Kunbi saree, which is representative of the state's rich heritage and culture.
The best way to discover Thai culture is to stroll through its local markets. Hop onto a boat and collect traditional Thai souvenirs, including local fabric, rattan furniture, silk and paper umbrellas, and woven bags at the Pattaya Floating Market. Do drop by Pattaya Night Bazaar and Central Pattaya.
For Adventure Junkies
Water sports are a must-do for all adventure lovers in Pattaya. From windsurfing and water skiing to snorkeling, the city offers a wide range of adventure activities. Also enjoy bungee jumping, skydiving, go-karting, Muay Thai (Thai boxing) and paintball.
The Streets
It is quite important to take note of the beautiful streets of Goa. While taking a walk around the streets, you will spot a plethora of colourful graffiti, murals and street art, which make for eyecatching photographs!
Pattaya's streets are a kaleidoscope of culture, food and shopping. From handmade artefacts, trinkets and imported items to clothes and local food, explore these lanes and by lanes on foot. An interesting stop can be Thepprasit Road.