Homecoming: Goa Family Escape for Canadian NRIs

Your journey begins at Goa International Airport (Dabolim, GOI), where you'll be greeted by a professional chauffeur for a seamless private transfer to the luxurious Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Goa. Nestled along the golden sands of Benaulim Beach, this exquisite family beach resort will serve as your home away from home. As you settle into your elegantly designed suite, enjoy the stunning views of lush gardens or the sparkling Arabian Sea. After a leisurely afternoon to unwind and refresh, step out to explore the resort's expansive grounds or simply relax by the infinity pool. Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Lobster Village, the resort's signature beachfront restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood and Goan delicacies under the stars, complemented by the soothing sound of the waves. Conclude your first day with some quality family time or a peaceful stroll along the pristine beach, allowing the warm, tropical breeze to set the tone for the days ahead. Highlights: - Private luxury transfer from Goa International Airport - Check-in at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Goa - Gourmet beachfront dinner at Lobster Village

Wake up to a refreshing breakfast at Taj Exotica Resort, featuring a variety of international and Indian dishes. Your day begins with a drive to Panaji, Goa's charming capital city, followed by a guided visit to Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Start at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, famous for housing the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier and its stunning Baroque architecture. Continue to Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, celebrated for its ornate interiors and serene ambiance. Pause for lunch at Mum's Kitchen in Panaji, renowned for its authentic Goan cuisine, featuring classics like fish curry and bebinca. Spend your afternoon exploring the Fontainhas Latin Quarter, with its Portuguese-style villas and vibrant streets, before returning to Taj Exotica for a relaxing evening by the pool. Highlights: - Breakfast at Taj Exotica Resort - Visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral - Lunch at Mum's Kitchen

Start your day with a luxurious breakfast at the Lobster Village restaurant in the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, where lush greenery and serene views set the perfect tone for the day ahead. After a leisurely meal, your private chauffeur will drive you along Goa's scenic coastline to the vibrant village of Anjuna, famed for its eclectic flea market. Here, you'll have the morning to immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere as you browse through an array of stalls featuring handcrafted jewelry, colorful sarongs, antique collectibles, and locally made souvenirs. Be sure to engage with the friendly vendors, many of whom share fascinating stories about their craftsmanship and heritage. For lunch, head to Britto's Shack, located on the golden sands of Baga Beach, where you can savor freshly caught seafood, including their signature Goan prawn curry, accompanied by a refreshing tropical cocktail. Following your meal, return to Anjuna Beach for a relaxing afternoon. Lounge under the shade of a beach cabana, take a refreshing dip in the Arabian Sea, or simply stroll along the shoreline. As the day winds down, witness a spectacular sunset as the horizon is painted in hues of orange and pink, often accompanied by impromptu performances by local musicians. In the evening, your chauffeur will whisk you back to the Taj Exotica, where you can indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Eugenia, the resort's signature restaurant, known for its innovative fusion of Indian and Western cuisines, offering a perfect end to your day.

After a delightful breakfast at the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, a picturesque beachfront haven in Benaulim, prepare for an adventurous family day at lively Baga Beach. Your private chauffeur will transport you in the comfort of a luxury SUV to this bustling hotspot, renowned for its vibrant energy and diverse attractions. Start your morning with thrilling water sports tailored for all ages-experience the exhilaration of parasailing over the azure waters, race across the waves on jet skis, or enjoy the laughter-filled banana boat rides that are perfect for families. After working up an appetite, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Fiesta, a European-inspired fine dining gem nestled under a charming canopy of bougainvillea, where expertly grilled seafood, tender meats, and refreshing cocktails await. Post-lunch, unwind by the beach or explore the local boutiques and souvenir shops that line Baga's vibrant streets. As the sun sets, your driver will escort you back to the serene Taj Exotica Resort, where your evening promises relaxation and luxury. Opt for a private family movie night in your plush suite, complete with gourmet snacks and drinks, or rejuvenate with a specially curated family wellness treatment at the resort's world-class Jiva Spa.

After a sumptuous breakfast at the renowned Lobster Shack, the signature beachfront restaurant at the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, indulge in a few final moments of serenity. Whether you choose to stroll through the resort's lushly landscaped gardens, enjoy a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, or sip on a perfectly brewed coffee at the elegant Alegria caf, these last moments are designed to leave you with lasting memories of your luxurious Goan retreat. Once you've checked out, your dedicated chauffeur will meet you for your private transfer to Goa International Airport (GOI). The approximately 50-minute journey through Goa's picturesque scenery offers one last look at the tropical paradise that has hosted your unforgettable escape. En route, you'll pass vibrant villages and stunning coastal views, a fitting farewell to this enchanting destination. Arriving at the airport well ahead of your flight, your chauffeur will assist with luggage and ensure a seamless transition to your onward journey. As you leave behind the warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and pristine beaches of Goa, you'll carry home the essence of its charm and tranquility. Highlights: - Breakfast at Lobster Shack, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa - Leisurely relaxation at the resort before departure - Private transfer with scenic views of Goa's lush landscapes

Ayodhya is one of the most sacred cities in Hinduism — the birthplace of Ram and a living site of pilgrimage, temple-building, and continuous devotion. Your guide provides the Ramayana context and the historical layers of the city as you walk its main streets and temple ghats. The Ram Janmabhoomi complex, the Sarayu riverfront, the ancient temples. Ayodhya today is a city in transformation — your guide helps you understand what you are seeing and why it matters.

Road or rail to Varanasi. Varanasi — also called Kashi — has been continuously inhabited for at least 3,000 years, possibly longer. Your hotel is near the river. Evening: Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat — seven priests, brass lamps, conch shells, fire, incense, and a city gathered at the Ganges at dusk. Your guide explains the ritual structure and the mythology behind every gesture.

The private boat goes out before first light. The ghats emerge slowly from the dark — lanterns on the water, sadhus at prayer, the smoke of the cremation fires at Manikarnika. Your guide is quiet unless asked. Late morning: the lanes of the old city — the Kashi Vishwanath temple complex, the ghee and flower markets, the weaving quarters. Afternoon rest. Optional evening: Ganga Aarti again, or a private sitar performance at a haveli on the ghats.

Sarnath, 13 km from Varanasi, is where the Buddha gave his first discourse after enlightenment — the Deer Park, the Dhamek Stupa, the Sarnath Museum and its Lion Capital. The proximity of Varanasi and Sarnath is no accident: this stretch of the Ganges valley is where both Hindu and Buddhist thought reached their earliest classical forms. Your guide draws the connections without conflating the traditions. Afternoon at leisure in Varanasi.

A final dawn hour at the river — a cup of chai on the steps of a ghat, the morning unfolding as it has for millennia. Breakfast at your hotel. Private vehicle to Varanasi Airport. Your concierge handles check-out and departure logistics. India does not let go easily. The departure is calm, warm, and unhurried — because that is how every day of this journey has been designed.

We recommend booking at least 3–4 months in advance for peak season travel (October–March). For off-peak travel, 6–8 weeks is generally sufficient. Bespoke itineraries need a minimum 8 weeks for full confirmation.