Semana De Cultura Festival

India is a mingling of diverse cultures, all special in their own way. Goa too has its own rich art and culture which is a blend of Indian and western nuances. Even though the Indian armed forces liberated Goa in 1961, the fusion between the culture of the colonist and colonizer is still evident in Goa's food, music, dance, architecture, laws and even language.  Goa has assimilated the essence of both regions where people coexist in harmony and joy. Its playful ambience has not spilled over its art and culture.

Goa is known for cheerful celebrations and plethora of fun festivals. It is the bridge between the east and the west. Semana de Cultura was set up in 2008 as an NGO to promote Goan culture. Goan culture has Portuguese culture ingrained in it. Literally translated as Indo-Portuguese Week cultural week the festival was initiated to celebrate the unique Goan fusion culture and Goan identity honed over 451 years of Portuguese rule.

It is a blend which has taught Goans to live in unity and harmony, irrespective of their caste, creed and social status. Through this event, people share and enjoy the essence of our diverse culture and keep the unique Goan identity alive. Places like Fort Tiracol, one of the best beach in Goa Festivals like these are especially relevant in these times when swift demographic changes are threatening to drive the uniqueness of Goan culture to extinction.

The festival goes on through November and goes till December, the best time to be there, in one of the best. Relish Goa’s archaic past with authentic Portuguese food, music and films. Going to Goa’s beautiful churches is a must as well when looking at Goan Tourist places to visit.

Sink in the Sunset

Watching the sunset is probably the most romantic, relaxing and rejuvenating experience all at once. The sheer sight of seeing the sun melt into the far-fetched sky from a spectacular destination is a treat to the eyes. Be it from a mountaintop, next to the ocean, or at the top of a skyscraper, the transition to dusk can be best experienced with your loved ones. Here is a curated list of top destinations to witness a sunset from:

Taj Mahal, India
Honeyed tones of golden, orange and pink enhance the warm glow of this lover’s tribute at sunset. With the striking white marble and a riot of colors, it is one of the best ways to unwind into the night.

Vivekananda Rock, India
The perpetual beauty of the mighty figure and the soft glowing sunset kissing the sky is the best sight in the southernmost part of the country.

Konark Temple, India
What can be better than watching the sunset at the very own sun temple of the country? The archaic look of the place adds to the old-world charm and beauty.

Goa, India
From sandy beaches to rocky cliffs, Goa has some of the best spots to take in the sinking sun each evening. Goa is one of the most talked about tourist places to visit and it offers best beach resorts in and around the state that will add to the holiday experience in Goa.

Jammu and Kashmir, India
Dotingly known as the ‘Paradise on Earth’, this state is an exquisite masterpiece of nature that offers the best of everything. Experience the sunset over the snowcapped mountains and lose yourself in cups of warm ginger tea and apple pies.

Book your next holiday in any of the leisure hotels in Goa or a bespoke cottage in Kashmir and experience the sultry sunset and forget the stressful events and take in the happiness.