Susegaad in Goa

Goa - the very name evokes laziness, sunny skies, colourful beaches, vibrant artwork, peppy music, dance, laughter - a ticket to Bohemia! 

Needless to say, a visit to this paradise demands a travel write-up. But I won't talk about the usual Goa tourist attractions. I like to think of myself as a traveller rather than a tourist. 

We stayed in North Goa this time, and checked out some nearby beaches and villages.

So, let's talk about a bus ride from Candolim to Calangute. A football ground passes by. Some locals arguing in Konkani. The bus is choc-a-bloc with ordinary Goans going about their daily business.

We pass fancy restaurants, malls, churches, small eateries, some "pure-veg" restaurants (yes, they exist in Goa!). 

The bus drops us at Calangute bus stand, and we walk around a kilometer to the crazily crowded beach.

Calangute and Baga have become what locals describe as fish markets. Punjabi songs blaring, hordes of tourist, shops peddling everything under the sun, selfie-obsessed crowds, ugh.   

Still we found our cozy haven in a Barista rooftop, where we got the most amazing cappuccino. 

Then there's Harvelem - the waterfalls tucked away in Goa's interiors, surrounded by lush greenery.

Situated near Sanklim, Harvelem Falls is ideal for a quiet day soaking in the sounds of water gushing by. 

Sinquerim beach, situated near Candolim, is one of the best beaches of Goa. Clean and relatively less populated, one can sit quietly on the sands gazing out at the sea.

The lower fort of Aguada offers exceptional views of the sea and beach from its ramparts. Gazing into the sunset, sitting on the fort parapet is a different experience altogether.

The beach shacks and restaurants come alive in evenings, and particularly, in the weekend with live music, energetic dancing and impromptu jigs.

The atmosphere is electric - sizzling barbecues. wafting smell of grills and meats, a carnival-like fervour, and some out-of-the-world live performances. What's best is everyone is serious about having a great time!

Goan fish thalis (mackarel/kingfish/pomfret) are the best option if you want to sample local cuisine.

With sides of local vegetables, sol kadi, small fish scramble, mussels salad, shrimp curry, and a rawa-coated fried fish, along with a roti and rice, its a very satisfying meal. 

There's this place in a quiet lane called Vishal's, where you get authentic Goan food. 

And if you want some less spicier stuff, check out Azura in Candolim beach promenade. The thali is simply awesome!

Look anywhere and you find murals or quirky caricatures grinning back at you. Mario Miranda's legacy lives on in Goa.

It's almost as if his canvas plays itself out on the roads, in the markets, at the shacks and in the vaddos or the town squares. 

Last stop was an absolutely different beach experience at Mandrem.

Located near the newly built MOPA airport, we saw it on our way back. It has white sands, even surface, and is ideal for long walks and picnics by the sea. Cabbanas and chairs are available on hire. It is ideal for sea gazing in peace- no disco lights or jarring microphones here.

Go. Goa, Gone, but not done yet! Will be back!

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