Of course, Goa is a popular New Year eve destination, so if you haven't booked your tickets and accommodation by now, chances are slim that you'll be able to make it there on a last-minute whim. There are those, however, who don't think much of driving down to the beach town on December 31 itself. Carpooling ensures that you don't pay too much to tank up the car -- the cost is split and once there, you can head straight for the beach -- Baga, Arambol or Vagatol if you're in North Goa, Benaulim, Palolem or Cavelossim if you're in the South.

There's a party taking place at every beach shack and the seaside is alive with music, dancing and food. After eating, drinking and making merry, you can head back home the next morning without spending at all on accommodation!

If you've planned your trip a little in advance, however, depending upon the budget you're looking at, you may want to purchase tickets to a New Year's do at a five-star hotel or nightclub. Prices range from reasonable to steep, going up to as much as Rs 5,000 per head or more.

North Goa is packed to the rafters with holiday-makers towards the end of December, so if a beach crowded with thousands isn't your scene, you may prefer the South, where things are a little more serene. Be prepared to pay a wee bit extra in South Goa, though -- it's preferred by foreign tourists and the well-off, so even beach shacks, many of which are owned by Russians, tend to up the prices on their menus.

It's a small price to pay, however, if you consider that the beaches of North Goa are also the hunting grounds of pickpockets and rowdies -- on New Year's Eve, especially, you need to be on your guard at all times. Avoid mixing with anti-social elements and stick to your own group of friends. Don't go wandering around by yourself and don't accept drinks from strangers. Other than these minor factors, the choice between North and South is yours.

In all other respects -- the pleasant weather, the charm of the seaside at night and the brightly lit shacks and hotels -- Goa wins over many other New Year's destinations in India. Whether you want to party it up or tone it down, there is something for everyone who wants to celebrate in this beloved beach town.