Goa as a land of soft sand and blue sea is a commonplace in travel literature. Indeed, there are few places in the world that can match the sheer beauty of the state and the generous nature of the state and the generous nature of its inhabitants. Over the centuries, countless travellers have been charmed by the lush landscapes, the deep and wide rivers and the 105 kms of beaches for which Goa is famed.

Goa: A Travel Guide attempts to capture the esssence of the culture that surrounds this beauty –the leisurely pace of life around the beaches, punctuated by long and luxorious meals; treks and boating expeditions that lead into Goa's forests, or out to the dolphins dancing in the Arabian Sea; long drives to discover painstakingly preserved heritage homes; walks along the lanes of Old Goa and its grand churches and cathedrals; and journeys to the ancient temples of Ponda and beyond.

Chapters on history, literature and architecutre explain the genesis and evolution of the complex Goan inheritance – a land that was known both for the tireless commerce of its ports and the laid –back nature of its inhabitants.

The volume's exhaustly illustrated sections on the forts, religious and secular architecture, natural beauty, museum, aesthetics and culinary delights of Goa will be as enticing and informative for the tourist as afor the armchair traveller.

Finally, the Guide's detailed accounts and listings of adventure sports, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, hotels and restaurants will ensure that the reader gets the best out of the their travels, whether their stay extends to two days or two months.