When planning a relaxing vacation, the usual idea would be to go to a beach.

During vacation season, beaches are generally full.  In Palolem, India though, there is still some space for privacy.  The bonus that tourists would get from visiting this area though is that there are a lot of other places to visit.  So if one gets bored of the sand and the surf, then there are other options to take.

History of Palolem

Not much is documented regarding the Palolem beach.  This is one reason why it is still in a pristine condition up until today.  The first resort was erected on this beach in 1989.  Today, one can go there without any prior reservations because of the number of huts that are for rent in the area.  It is still recommended that reservations be made as there are times when all places are still full.

Travel to Palolem

There are a number of ways to get to Palolem, although the area is not as convenient such as the beaches in the northern part of the state.  A plane or a train could take one to Margao, and a fixed price taxi would then be able to take the tourist to Palolem.  For the more adventurous, such as the backpackers who wish to travel cheaply through a foreign land, buses are available and can stop at an area nearer the beach.  Buses are comfortable but are usually not air-conditioned, and that could make the travel somewhat dusty.

Tourism in Palolem

The beach itself is a place to spend time in.  A long walk on the beach, from one corner to the other, would already be a huge portion of the tour.  If you time your walk during the low tide, you will be able to walk directly to butterfly island.  Some rocks poke out of the water at certain times of the day, and these may be used to get to the island.  On the island are trails that may be hiked, but care must be taken as some have been injured in this area.

Boats may be rented to go on to butterfly beach, or to the further on honeymoon beach, one secluded beach after the other.  If the beach itself is not an attraction, then a tour with a boat crew can be taken for dolphin watching.  The best time to do this would be during the sunset.  Scuba diving and kayaking are also choices for those who are used to the water, and even those who wish to try it for the first time.

The legendary silent party rages under the starry sky at Neptune's Point.  This party has so many people dancing, but no one but the party goers actually hear the music.  Once a participant enters, he is given wireless headphones with different channels to choose from.  The tourists and party people dance the night away without anyone else hearing the bang of the drums.

Offering both seclusion and companionship, Palolem definitely has the thing to tickle any tourist’s funny bone.  A day in Palolem will never be enough, as the rest, relaxation and recreation that is offered only on this beach will need to be repeated again and again and again.