Goa is a hot spot this year. More revellers are heading to its beaches than to any other Indian destination. This year's rave parties are reportedly going to be the wildest in the last four decades. It is going to be difficult to find a space for you towel. So why not head to Goa… but not to the beach? Goa Velha with its majestic monuments and air of deserted pomp would be a fascinating the place to welcome January 1, 2000.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus will be the site of midnight services that will probably add an interesting spiritual flavour to the neighbourhood. The Mandovi meanders past Goa Velha and a ferry ride across the river brings one to the mangrove islands of Chorao and Divar, where life still has a very untouristy, pungent Goan flavour. Panjim is a short drive away and the cobbled streets of Fountainhas, the pretty Portuguese quarter and the church square will be abuzz with cheer around the clock.