Colva or Mandrem?

Granola

I will be arriving in Goa the week before Christmas for a 5-day stay. I've given up on the idea of booking a beach hut for Palolem. I just can't seem to get ahold of anyone to book there.

Through Hostelworld.com, I've found two places with availability in the cheaper price range. One is called The Ben Beach resort in Colva Beach, and the other is called Riva Beach resort in Mandrem.

I've checked a map of Goa (http://www.mapsofindia.com/maps/goa/goa-beaches-map.htm) and it appears that Colva is much farther south (is this a good thing?) and closer to the airport which might make things more convenient for such a short stay.

I'm looking for beautiful beaches, peacefulness, good food and would love to observe that strange hippie-vibe that Goa is famous for. Any ideas on whether I have a better chance of finding these things in Colva or Mandrem?

Thanks in advance.

GoanCanuck

Mandrem would be suitable for you. Very laid back place with very few tourists. Colva is more touristy with no hippies!