5 Great Things: Goa

Goa is often seen as a tourist trap, and in many ways this reputation is warranted.  European hippies, rich Russians, and young Indians all flock here to smoke weed, drink beer, and have fun without anyone ever finding out. Part Las Vegas, Part Miami, Part Cuba? On my recent trip there, I found the markets tiring, with everyone and their brother trying to sell me a drum or a boat ride. Not ever considering that I might not want their goods, just that they hadn’t found the right price.

Despite these complaints, there are some very significant reasons why Goa has become a tourist destination, not the least of which is the fabulous weather and beautiful beaches.

My 5 Great Things about Goa are:

1. A Culture of Relaxation – this barely needs to be said, but from the minute we got off the plane I just wanted to lie down next to the pool or on the beach – or in a nice fluffy bed – and chill. This is an abnormal feeling when you live in a city of 15 million people. Naps just happen. They’re not planned at all, you just suddenly realize you’re waking up and feeling refreshed, ready for another swim.

2. Scooters – I have never been a scooter person and when it was suggested that we rent some for a couple days, I balked a bit. Why would we want to do this? Then I got on the scooter and was weaving through the winding roads of Goa, under canopies of trees and loving the air across my face. Freedom never felt so good.

3. Variety – My preconceived notion of Goa was that it was a giant beach with nothing else to do but sit and watch the water with a Bacardi Breezer in your hand. However, there is quite a bit of variety to Goa. From Panjim’s village/city feel and the flea markets of Anjuna, to the old churches and temples and the spice plantations, Goa is more than a resort… it’s a Museum.

4. Goan Cuisine – It was obvious that we had some bad luck in the food department. This was partly due to our vegetarianism – as Goa is THE place for seafood – and partly due to our pretty terrible choices in restaurants. The one “Goan” meal that we had was really fabulous. Spicey, flavorful, and a very unique taste experience. Sanna’s are a must for any Idli lover, eaten with a wonderful gravy and various chutneys.

5. Bebinca – a wonderful layer cake made with coconut milk. Heaven. We got one freshly made from Durango’s. Eat it hot with some Ice Cream and forget about anything else.

Are these 5 things enough to get me back to Goa anytime soon? Probably not, but I’m glad I made it there and had a nice stay. There are too many wonderful places to visit in India to keep going back to the same place too often.