GOA – You Beauty!
Palolem Beach, Goa
Growing up in India, Goa was always mentioned to me as a place of utmost happiness. People were excited as they described Goa’s picturesque sunny beaches, happening shacks by the sea, famous for their seafood, and the wonderful historic places to visit.
Goa has been a prized possession for every urban Indian mind. The Portuguese people had recognized Goa as their own when they landed there in the early 16th century. Till today people of Goa take immense pride in their Portuguese heritage and the architecture of the local houses and places exhibits the same.
There is hardly any traveler in India who has never been to this beautiful Union territory by the Arabian sea.
Goa is the place to chill with friends, to romance with your loved ones, and a must-visit for reunions with buddies.
I have been fortunate to visit many countries around the world, but when people heard that I had never been to Goa, they gave me that unexplainable weird look and trust me, that surely increased my curiosity about the place. So, while planning for a trip this time Goa was the only place to come to my mind. Not only me, but my friends were excited that finally, I was visiting ‘Goa’.
Landing at the airport, I found myself surrounded by people having such relaxing looks on their faces. Trust me, living in a metro city in India, I am aware of the difference between a stressful look and a relaxing look. Took a cab and started off my journey. I stayed at a hotel in Candolim. The natural green scenery on way looked pleasant, small hills, green fields, Mandovi river – everything reminded me of a very favorite poem of mine ‘In Thy Nature’ by Stephanie Mcgrath which has this beautiful line – “In thy nature is beauty, in thy nature is earth, in thy nature I find my worth”.
Chapora Fort and sea
The next few days were total bliss. The walk by the beach, eating out at shacks and visiting the beautiful monuments that Goa has, I must say Goa, ‘You are indeed special’.
I am listing down my favourite places which I consider is a must-visit for everyone visiting Goa.
The first one will be Chapora fort for sure. After a short and sweet climb up the hill, the view from the top is breathtaking. The spectacular view of the sea and beach on one side and the Chapora river on the other is to die for. I found the place extremely romantic and a photographer’s heaven. The first time I saw this fort was in the famous Bollywood movie “Dil Chahta hai” and since then it was a must-visit in my bucket list.
Nearby Vagator beach is also lovely for enjoying the sea breeze and when I visited it was less crowded, hence thumbs up for that.
Miramar beach is perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
I have become fond of the walkway beside the Mandovi river and the enchanting view that the place offers.
Panaji is also a must-visit place and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is one of the most beautiful churches that I have ever seen.
Dona Paola, Goa
At night, we went to Baga beach for dinner and visited ‘St Anthony's’. I loved the place for the unobstructed view of the sea with a cocktail, lip-smacking seafood, music, and is an absolute place to hang out in Goa. People were chilling with beer, fish and without a care in the world.
For a tour to old Goa and history, a visit to ‘Basilica of Bom Jesus’ is recommended. A UNESCO world heritage site, the basilica holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.
‘Dona Paula’ viewpoint is an excellent place to explore for the widespread view of the sea and the surrounding areas that the place offers.
Fort Aguada with a lighthouse is also a wonderful historical monument to visit.
As everyone knows, Goa is known as foodie’s paradise. The sheer variety of seafood and drinks that one gets here is mind-blowing. There are two absolute visit places to eat in my list – Curlies and Souza Lobo.
Curlies is on Anjuna beach. I went there just before the sunset and the view of the sunset from the place is fantastic. I thoroughly enjoyed my tasty snacks with hookah and vodka as the sun slowly disappeared into the sea.
Souza Lobo in Calangute is another gem of a restaurant. The seafood dishes there is sure to die for. The view of the beach and sea from the restaurant is one to remember.
Palolem beach in south Goa is known for tranquillity and is one of the most beautiful beaches to visit. If you are not staying in South Goa, then a plan for a whole day trip to Palolem beach is perfect.
Margao holds the old-world charm and I was amazed by the beautiful houses of the local people there. It’s much cleaner and well maintained than other places.
Personally, I found south Goa to be more peaceful than north Goa.
Goa is perfect for relaxation and carefree travel. Hiring a car or bike and driving across the countryside is refreshing. As a woman, living in another part of India, I was impressed with the carefree ambiance of Goa. Women here can roam around without being ogled at or judged by the opposite sex. It’s a huge relief for us. I realized why Goa is loved so much by all and now I am a part of that clan.
