Fish and rice are the staple Goan food and the main
occupation is tourism – over a million people visit the beaches
of Goa each year. Goa combines old Portuguese architecture, and a distinct
Portuguese flavour to the lifestyle, with a history that abounds with
Indian mythology. Christmas, New Year, the Mardi Gras-like carnival,
the Holi (Shimgo) parades, all add to the year round festivities. Thousands
of people gather to view the body of St. Francis Xavier once every five
years at the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Portuguese, Gomantak and other cuisines
have all blended into the local cuisine and sorpotals, bebincas washed
down with cashew fenis are a must with every visitor.
