Mecca of trance music, beaches, sun beds, shacks, hawkers, flea markets, bikers, hikers, spice plantations, spicy vindaloo, intoxicating feni and unlimited fun. Blessed with clean beaches, coconut palms and sunshine – Goa spells many things to different people. Goa appeals the international tourist because of its Portuguese – European influence in its lifestyle and architecture. The Portuguese set colony in Goa for over 500 years; this explains the deep-rooted European influences in Goa. Goa is also the home for many ancient Hindu temples that stand along with an overwhelming number of churches along this coastal destination. Colonial styled ancestral manors, villas, mansions have become hotels and some others offer private accommodation for tourists. Visit Old Goa, Noth Goa and South Goa – its sights, sounds and smell truly epitomises "sossegarde" meaning 'Take it easy'.