Birdsong
North Goa
Birdsong is located in the village of Moira, just east of the market town of Mapusa. The village is largely untouched by tourism, and resolutely Goan, although in recent years many well-heeled urban ‘refugees’ have set up home here. Apparently Moira is famous for its large bananas.
How to get there:
Birdsong organizes pick-ups from Goa’s airport (Dabolim) and various train-stations (of which Thivim is by far the nearest). If you’re coming in a private car, Shambhu, the caretaker, will give you detailed directions on how to reach the villa.
By air:
Goa airport aka Dabolim is very well served all year round by domestic flights (Indigo/GoAir, Jet, Air India, SpiceJet), as well as international charter flights during the holiday season.
By train:
Goa’s main station is Madgaon (in Margao) and is well served by trains coming south from Mumbai and north from Kerala. For Birdsong, try to alight at Thivim or Pernem rather than Madgaon.
Take a taxi from the station or even easier ask Birdsong to collect you.
By taxi / road:
Moira is located 2km directly east of the town of Mapusa. Head towards Mapusa on Goa’s main highway (NH-66) and follow signs for Aldona or Moira.
Distances & travel times:
airport: 40km / 1 hr
railway stations:
Madgaon: 50km / 1 hr 20 mins
Thivim: 8km / 15 mins
Pernem: 20km / 30 mins
When to go:
Birdsong makes for a fabulous stay at any time of year.
Goa’s holiday season starts in mid-October and finishes around April. The best weather is from November to February, but for a quieter time (and a bit less heat) try visiting in October. April can be extremely hot; May and June are not recommended.
The off-season in Goa – July and August in particular – is becoming an increasingly popular time to visit, when the state’s lush vegetation bursts into life and Goans are preoccupied more with agriculture than the tourist trade.
Note: Christmas and New Year experience huge demand in Goa, so book as early as possible (meaning even a year in advance for the best properties).
Getting around:
The staff can organize taxis or you could rent a scooter; both are the best modes of transport to explore Goa. Note that tourists in Goa should drive only tourist-licensed bikes
Public transport is not the best option though a local bus service does exist.