but know many Indians from Goa. It was a former Portugese colony so it has a nice mix. The food is very unique with lots of fish etc. Beautiful beaches, wonderful architecture. They have a Catholic tradition along with a Hindu tradition. I believe they even have a Jewish population. It is small and less populated than other states.

Hubby is from Hydrabad and we have been to Mysore and Madrid (Channai) in the south. We never had to worry, but Hubby and daughter came back in November. There has been an increase in kidnappings of westerners as of late. Kidnapping for ransom to fund extremist groups. My daughter is anglo, 21, and is the kind of target they look for. Hubby was so upset as to the changes. There was a lot of partisan conflict at that time. They did not get to go to nearly the places they wanted. But that may have just been regional. India has always been fairly safe if you use common sense.

India is much like China. There are so much variety from region to region. The people for the most part are kind and hospitable.

They should have a wonderful time. Bon Voyage.

Mostly a young crowd with enough money to get and stay there. It's not India, though, unless you do some traveling. It's for tourists.

I have a couple of friends over there right now. They've been going for more than 20 years around this time of year.

A lot of hippies went there in the 60s, and some stuck round. A lot of Israelis go there for a holiday after they complete their required army service.

Lots of booze and dope.

Seriously, I have a Goa T-shirt. Like all of the other posters have said, it's a big tourist attraction. Think Cancun Mexico just without tons of drunken college kids.