Goa, India

Originally called Oddavell, the village was renamed after Dona Paula who was a woman of charity and who worked to help the villagers improve their condition. Today, it is home to the International Center Goa, National Institution of Oceanography and the Goa University. But what attracts thousands of tourists here annually, is the stunning sea stretch that includes Dona Paula, Miramar and Panjim. The stretch is usually crowded during the tourist season, but is quiet and peaceful during the monsoons. One of the most scenic spots at this beach is the Cabo Raj Bhavan Hotel. Dona Paula is also home to the historic and famous British war-graves cemetery. However, while it does see a lot of tourists, Dona Paula has very few hotels in the area. Dona Paula is named after Paula Amaral Antonio de Souto Maior who was a historical figure and daughter to the Portuguese Viceroy of Jaffnapatnam.