A testament to the wealth that passed through the port of Goa in the early-17th century is the splendid crop of must see Colonial Mansions, Baroque churches and vast Cathedrals and administration buildings that sit just inland from the modern day capital, Panjim. Among the huge crop of sites to visit the most revered of several UNESCO World Heritage sites, however, are the wizened remains of the Basque Jesuit missionary, St Francis Xavier, displayed in a glass-sided casket inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

The other major attraction of Old Goa is the Fontainhas, India's only Latin Quarter, with its quaint houses and cottages built in colonial architecture and painted in bright fluorescents and pastels, reminiscent of home. Established in the early 1800's by a wealty Portuguese planter it quickly transformed into a desirable residential area for Portuguese administrative officers and rulers. In 1984, UNESCO recognized Fontainhas as a Heritage Zone.

When planning your visit to the Old Town we suggest arriving early, before breakfasts to watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the domes and belfries of the deserted city from the terrace of Our Lady of the Mount. Later enjoy a local breakfast in town to charge your batteries for a full day of sightseeing.