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Winter sun destination that Brits are starting to flock to – with affordable TUI holidays and white sand beaches
Package holidays are around £500
A HOLIDAY destination perfect for winter sun is seeing more Brits return - and there are some affordable TUI deals too.
Goa in India remains around 34C even in the winter months, making it an ideal place to get some last minute heat outside of the UK.
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And while tourist numbers have dropped since Covid - from 8.5million in 2019 to 1.5million last year - UK holidaymakers are becoming more common across the region.
Orlando Nunes, General Manager of Trail Blazer Tours India, told: "The British have started coming and are enjoying their stay and we expect a substantial increase next season."
Another local said it was "nice to see our old friends from the UK come back," adding that they are "more receptive" than other tourists.
It's one of the most affordable long-haul destinations for Brits right now, with seven-night holiday packages for just £631pp, or all-inclusive from £839pp.
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It comes after TUI relaunched the flights last year, with Mopa's airport saying they were "thrilled" to partner with TUI.
Some cheaper, more basic options include seven-night packages with First Choice from £566pp, or £439pp with LoveHolidays.
Direct fights operate from both London Gatwick and Manchester, taking around nine hours, so there is even a bit of choice.
While a fly and flop holiday is an option, there is a huge amount to do in Goa which is a much more laid-back part of India to explore.
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Long sandy beaches cover the coastline, often lined with lush green jungles.
This is where you can find dolphins, if heading to places like Cavelossim.
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Other popular activities with tourists include taking yoga classes, cooking classes or tours to nearby temples or surf spots.
Fish curries are a popular dish, as is 'feni' a local spirit made from cashew apples or coconut palm.
Local Joanna Lobo shared her foodie advice on places to gowhile in Goa - one of which being its growing bar scene.
She told : "Goa’s bar scene has been making waves recently, aided in part by Bar Tesouro (under old owners) winning awards and bringing attention to the state.
"Today, you will find quality alcohol and a good cocktail across the state."
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She also said the restaurant scene is "one of the most exciting in the country".
She added: "A slew of big chains, small entrepreneurs and passionate locals have ensured there is an array of choices for anyone seeking to engage their taste buds."
A huge attraction is the Se Cathedral of St Catherine, the largest church in all of Asia.
And expect huge Portuguese architecture as well, especially in old Goa.
For some other winter sun, TUI launched holiday to Senegal with the first direct UK flights in 10 years.
The Sun was on the first flight in 2022 - here's our verdict.
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And here are some new TUI hotels launching in winter sun destinations.
British Airways has launched flights between London Gatwick and Bangkok - another 2025 holiday hotspot.
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