A TUI travel agent has revealed he has visited Goa 11 times since 2000 and plans to return, citing the island's hot winters, cheap beer and beaches as key attractions.
Gary Collett, who works at TUI's Romford store, has been a travel agent for 30 years. He first visited Goa, in Western India, in 2000 and said he is "still finding reasons to go back", whether that is the beaches, weather and culture, or the fact that you can "eat like a king without spending a fortune".
Goa enjoys hot and sunny winter weather, with temperatures ranging between 32C and 34C from November to March. The destination also offers golden sandy beaches, markets and local beer at around 90p, making it increasingly popular with holidaymakers seeking to escape British winters.
Why Gary keeps returning to Goa
Gary explained: "I'm still finding reasons to go back. The beaches and weather might draw you in, but it's the people, food and culture that really stay with you. A lot of first-time visitors don't realise how much history there is either, particularly Goa's Portuguese influence, which you see in everything from its architecture and churches to its food. My advice is to get out and explore beyond your hotel."
He also highlighted the difference between the north and south of the region. "North and South Goa offer quite different holidays," he warned. "So think about the atmosphere you want rather than simply choosing a hotel. I personally love North Goa because there's so much going on. It works really well for families, couples, solo travellers and groups who want beaches alongside restaurants, markets, nightlife and plenty to explore. Candolim is the area I keep coming back to because you can relax on the beach but still be close to livelier spots such as Baga."
Top spots and food tips
Gary recommended Arambol Sweet Water Lake in North Goa as a standout attraction. He added: "Arambol Sweet Water Lake in North Goa is really special. It's a freshwater lagoon tucked behind the coast, surrounded by coconut groves and green hills, with the Arabian Sea just a short walk away. You can swim in the freshwater, explore the surrounding trails and then head straight back to the beach, so it's a brilliant change of scene from a typical day on the coast."
For those seeking quiet, he suggested the south. "If your priority is switching off, I'd look south. South Goa is much quieter and more scenic, so I particularly recommend it for couples, honeymooners and special-occasion trips."
On food and drink, Gary said beach shacks offer some of the best value. He explained: "From my own experience, you can get a two-course meal and a drink for around £7 to £10 per person, while a local beer can cost around 90p to £1 and an imported beer around £2.50. Of course, prices vary depending on where you eat and drink." He also recommended Goan fish curry and choriz pao, available at many street food stalls.
Holiday options and availability
TUI has recently increased its capacity to Goa, adding flights from Manchester and extra departures from London Gatwick. Seven-night Goa holidays from £482 per person were available in January. Loveholidays offers Goa packages from £839 per person including Manchester flights, while TravelBag lists luxury Goa holidays from £1,061 per person.
