GOA- A TROPICAL GETAWAY

I recently visited Goa, India for a couple of days and had an absolutely wonderful time that I will never forget! Goa is a beautiful state in western India that is known for its picturesque beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. While each group prepares a Goa trip and forgets about it the next day, my friends and I were keen to explore the famous places to visit in Goa. The weather was perfect, the people were friendly, the scenery was beautiful and the food was delicious. I highly recommend a visit to this amazing destination to anyone looking for a wonderful vacation.

DAY 1: BEACHES AND SUNSETS

On my first day in Goa, I visited the famous Baga Beach and soaked up the sun while enjoying the cool breeze. I took a dip in the clear waters of the Arabian Sea and then went for a walk along the beach. In the evening, I watched the sunset at Anjuna Beach, which was a breathtaking sight. The orange and pink hues of the sky were reflected in the water and it was a truly magical moment.

After spending the morning at Baga Beach, we headed to Palolem Beach, which is located in South Goa. It was quieter and more serene compared to Baga, with crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. I spent some time sunbathing and reading a book before going for a swim in the sea. The water was warm and inviting, and it was the perfect way to cool off on a hot day.

As the sun started to set, I headed to Anjuna Beach, which is known for its stunning sunsets. The beach was lined with colorful shacks and bars, and there was live music playing. I ordered a cocktail and watched as the sun went down over the sea, casting an orange glow over the sky. It was a truly magical moment.

After the sun had set, I headed to Calangute Beach to experience the nightlife that Goa is famous for. The beach was bustling with activity, with people dancing to the latest music and enjoying the party atmosphere. I joined in the fun and danced the night away, making new friends and having a great time.

Overall, my day exploring the beaches of Goa was an amazing experience. The stunning coastline, crystal clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere make Goa a truly unique and unforgettable destination. If you’re planning a trip to India, I highly recommend making a stop in Goa to experience the beauty and culture of this amazing state.

 

DAY 2: FORTS AND HISTORY

 

On the second day of my trip, I decided to explore some of the famous forts to get a glimpse of its rich past. I visited the historic Fort Aguada, which is a 17th-century Portuguese fort, built on a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Goa and is known for its stunning views of the sea.

As I walked around the fort, I could see the remains of the old ammunition rooms and storage areas. I also learned that the fort served as a crucial defense against Dutch and Maratha invaders. The fort is also home to a lighthouse that still operates today.

Another fort that I visited during my trip was Chapora Fort, which is located on a hill and offers stunning views of the nearby Vagator Beach. It was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century but was later taken over by the Marathas. The fort is now in ruins, but its charm and beauty still attract tourists from all over the world.

While not a fort, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Goa. This famous church in Goa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 16th century, this is one of the oldest churches in India. It is known for its baroque architecture and is also home to the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a revered Christian missionary who worked in Goa.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience exploring the fascinating history and culture of the state. The forts and other historic landmarks are great places to visit in Goa as they provide a glimpse into the past and the diverse cultural heritage of Goa.

DAY 3: ADVENTURE SPORTS AND NIGHTLIFE

The third day was an action-packed day of water adventure sports in Goa. I decided to spend a day trying out some of these thrilling activities, and it was definitely one of the highlights of my trip.

The first activity on my list was jet skiing, which is a popular water sport in Goa. I rented a jet ski and headed out into the sea, where I was able to race along the waves at high speed. It was an incredible feeling, and I loved the rush of adrenaline that came with it.

Next up was parasailing, which was another thrilling experience. I was strapped into a harness and lifted high into the sky by a speedboat. From up in the air, I had a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful coastline and the Arabian Sea. It was an unforgettable experience.

After the excitement of parasailing, I decided to try out the banana boat ride, which is a fun and lighthearted activity. The banana boat is a raft shaped like a banana that is pulled behind a speedboat. The ride is bumpy and fast, and it’s easy to lose your balance and fall into the water. It was a lot of fun, and I couldn’t stop laughing throughout the ride.

Finally, I did scuba diving, which was an entirely different experience. I was able to explore the underwater world and see the beautiful marine life that inhabits the Arabian Sea. It was a serene and peaceful experience, and I was able to witness the beauty of the underwater world up close.

On a whole, my day spent trying out water adventure sports in Goa was an incredible experience. Each activity provided a different type of thrill, and I loved the rush of adrenaline that came with each one. If you’re looking for an exciting day in Goa, then trying out some of these water sports is definitely a must-do activity.

In the evening, I explored the nightlife of Goa at the LPK Waterfront Club, one of the popular clubs. It was an unforgettable experience, and here’s why:

The first thing that struck me when I entered the club was its unique ambiance and decor. The club is designed to resemble a Goan village, with narrow streets and bridges. The entire space is lit up by colorful lights, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

Once inside the club, the lively music and an energetic crowd was very refreshing. The DJ played a mix of electronic music, and people were dancing and having a good time. The club also had live performances by musicians and dancers, which added to the overall entertainment.

The club has a wide range of drinks and food options available, with something to suit everyone’s taste. I tried out some of their signature cocktails, which were delicious and refreshing. It also has a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines, from Indian to Italian.

Therefore, my experience at the LPK Waterfront Club was a memorable one, and one of the best places to visit in Goa for anyone looking for a fun night out in the state. With its unique ambiance, lively music, and delicious food and drinks, the LPK Waterfront Club is definitely worth a visit for a night out with friends or loved ones.

DAY 4: LOCAL MARKETS AND CUISINE

On my last day in Goa, I visited some local markets and tried the delicious Goan cuisine. And here’s a rundown of my experience.

The local markets of Goa are the gems of the state. Spending a day exploring these markets of Goa can be a delightful experience. I woke up early in the morning and headed straight to the Anjuna Flea Market, a Goa shopping market famous for its bohemian vibe and hippie culture.

The market is located in the Anjuna Beach area, and it’s open every Wednesday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. As soon as I entered the market, I was greeted with a bustling crowd of locals and tourists browsing through the various stalls. Here, we tried some of the local snacks, my friends ate sorpotel and vindaloo, and I tried the classic Goan dish Xacuti, which is a spicy curry made with coconut, red chilies, and spices. The market had everything from colorful sarongs, bags, and jewelry to handmade crafts and vintage items.

I spent hours browsing through the different stalls, bargaining with the vendors, and admiring the unique products. The highlight of the market was the live music performances by local artists, which added to the lively atmosphere.

After exploring the Anjuna Flea Market, I headed to Panjim Market, which is the largest and oldest market in Goa. It is located in the heart of Panaji, the capital city of Goa, and it’s open every day. The market is divided into different sections, such as the fish market, vegetable market, and spice market.

I spent some time browsing through the various sections, trying out some local snacks, and interacting with the friendly locals. The market is famous for its cashew nuts, Goan sausages, and spices. I also found local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs here. The market was vibrant and colorful, and I was able to find some unique souvenirs to take back home.

After exploring the local markets, it was time to try some of the traditional Goan cuisine. Goa is known for its delicious and spicy non-vegetarian cuisine, but as a vegetarian i was looking for some veg options and I must say the vegetarian Goa food is equally delicious and flavorful.

Goan cuisine is highly influenced by Portuguese, Hindu, and Islamic cuisines. Apart from its seafood and fish-based thali, Goan cuisine has some of the most delicious vegetarian dishes, which are basically slow-cooked in coconut curry.

We started our dinner with some Goan snacks. I ate traditional snacks like Khatkhate, which is a mix of boiled vegetables in a coconut curry. And for the main course I ate the famous Goan dal, which is called Varan, served with rice. They were all spicy, flavorful, and a true representation of traditional Goan cuisine.

In short, the local markets of Goa are a treasure of unique products, local handicrafts, and delicious street food. Furthermore, vegetarian food is not limited to just one or two dishes. From traditional snacks to main course dishes and sweets, there is something for everyone. So, next time you’re in Goa, I recommend you to try some of the local vegetarian cuisine and explore the diverse flavors and spices of the region.

DAY 5: HINDU TEMPLES

Goa is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, but it also has a rich cultural heritage, and the temples of Goa are a testament to that. The fifth day was mesmerizing as I explored the magnificent temples in the state.

My day began with a visit to the Shri Manguesh Temple, located in Priol, Ponda. Built in the 18th century, this temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and known for its unique and elegant architecture.

The next temple on my list was the Shanta Durga Temple, located in Kavlem, Ponda. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Shanta Durga, who is considered to be the peaceful form of goddess Durga. The highlight of the temple is the stunning golden dome.

After a quick lunch break, I headed to the famous Mangeshi Temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on a hillock surrounded by lush greenery. The intricate carvings on the pillars and walls of the temple are a treat for the eyes.

My final stop for the day was the famous Mahalaxmi Temple, located in Bandode, Ponda. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Mahalaxmi, who is believed to be the goddess of wealth and prosperity. The temple is located on the banks of the river Mandovi and has a serene atmosphere.

All in all, my day exploring the temples in Goa was a truly enriching experience. Each temple had its unique charm and beauty, and I was awestruck by the intricate carvings and beautiful architecture of these ancient structures.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, my trip to Goa was an unforgettable experience. From the beautiful beaches and mesmerizing sunsets to the delicious food and rich culture, Goa has something to offer for everyone. I was able to relax and unwind while also exploring amazing places to visit in Goa.

I enjoyed trying new activities like water sports. The hospitality of the locals made my trip even more special. Overall, I would highly recommend Goa as a travel destination to anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience.