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thelandlady
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10-06-2008 02:00 PM
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Joined: 09 Jun 2007
Posts: 31
My Profile
| hi, we are looking at booking a holiday to goa for the first time, hoping to go at the 2nd week in december for 3-4 weeks, we are in our 50s where would the best area and hotel to go. also where can we get a good deal, flying from manchester. thanks
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Virago 750
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12-06-2008 01:36 PM
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Joined: 13 Dec 2007
Posts: 12
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| Hi, I can't advise you on flights as we always use Gatwick but would definately recommend the Marinha Dourada Hotel in Arpora (near Baga Beach). We stayed there last December and we are going back there next February. Read my review. We had a great time (we are 48 and 53).
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My Latest Review: Dec 2007 Marinha Dourada Hotel, Arpora (10/10)
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iaintwoeyes
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12-06-2008 08:27 PM
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Joined: 11 Jan 2006
Posts: 2247
My Profile
| I agree with Virago. Went to the Marinha Dourada at Easter and enjoyed it so much, going back next Easter. Its probably one of the best hotels in Northern Goa.
First you need to decide whether you want the quiet south or the busier north. Both have +'s and -'s.
Most of the big name hotels (Holiday Inn, Ramada etc) are based in the south. They are usually AI and you'll be looked after very well as they are mostly 4* or 5*.
The north is much busier with lots going on. Eating out is the big thing in the north, so you only need to go B&B. Lots and lots of restaurants to choose from. Prices are amazing!!!! Less than £10pp for a three course meal with drinks at a top place.
The beaches in the north can be quiet busy but you choose where you want to go on a daily basis. Busy, go to Baga, Calangute or Candolim (also known as BCC OR CCB) or if you prefer quiet then book a taxi for the day (about £9-£10 and he stays with you all day) to take you to the beautiful quiet beaches in the north. I was just amazed at Ashvem Beach and the warmth of the water. People say, its like a warm bath and I used to laugh but no more cos it is!!!!
The MD is away from the busy areas but remains close enough to walk or take a 100-200rps taxi ride. They do provide a free bus from 9am-6pm to and from Baga beach.
The hotel is set next to two salt water lakes which have huge fish in, which along with the sea eagles soaring high above, make fascinating viewing.
Have a look at my photos here on Holiday Watchdog.
Marinha Dourada Photographs
The agents that use the MD from memory are Thomson, Cosmos, Thomas Cook and First Choice. I've booked with Thomson and I've just noticed the price has just come down by £50pp since I bookeed..arrghhh
I flew with Monarch last year against everyones advice. Never again, It was the worst experience of flying I've ever had. I am going with First Choice Airlines next year who have a really good reputation. Cost me a little more but then I will be spending 20 hours in their company.
Let us know how you get on and if we can help with anything else....just ask!
Oh more photos, other than those on HW, can be found by following this link
www.pbase.com/iaintwoeyes/goa_2008
Iain
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My Latest Review: Jun 2008 Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield (7/10)
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Dramaqueen
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15-06-2008 07:39 PM
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Joined: 27 May 2008
Posts: 4
| Marinha Dourada is definitely the best hotel in North Goa.
I find the deals are cheaper fly out of Gatwick as opposed to Manchester. Will be about £50 per per more expenisve from Manchester, but will be worthwhile when you arrive in Goa.
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iaintwoeyes
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15-06-2008 07:55 PM
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Joined: 11 Jan 2006
Posts: 2247
My Profile
| Trouble is travelling to Gatwick from Cumbria would add more than £50 and the time involved would be at least 6 hours extra....no thanks.
Manchester is my only option
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My Latest Review: Jun 2008 Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield (7/10)
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del949
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22-06-2008 09:34 PM
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Joined: 04 Jul 2004
Posts: 18
My Profile
| just looked through your pics of MD, arpora. Liked the one with Mama on baga beach.
We were told that she no longer worked on the beach last year.
pleased to see that it's not true!
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My Latest Review: Sep 2003 Seketur Hotel, Calis Beach (7/10)
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