Goa – A photographer’s paradise

India has several beaches all around its coastal line. However, only one place in particular has practically become the epicenter of our thought process when we think of beaches in India. Yes, it’s Goa.

I decided to treat myself with a trip of solitude and head towards Goa. Although I was very apprehensive about my visit to Goa because of the overcrowded beaches and the loud night life which I have never fancied, I still convinced myself to do everything possible to avoid the latter and decided to go.

I landed in Goa on a bright sunny afternoon and after driving through the coastline and small towns, paved my way to a small old Guest house in the North Goa near Sinquerim. The place, Marbella Guest House, as I entered was very rustic and had a very ancient Portuguese touch to it and was my introduction to life in Goa for the next whole week. 

One of the room's in Marbella Guest House

After a nice hot shower and a nap, I decided to take a walk by the beach in the evening. I strolled through the small streets which possessed very understated and classic houses built over the years that just describe the untold stories. As I take time to evaluate the place and people who have come from all over the world to experience the beauty of this place, I realize that this is going to be a great adventure! The key to settle in to a new place is to understand your hold and grab on the freshness and let the thoughts float freely.

The next morning I wake up to the peacock cries, have a very English bed-time breakfast and decide to explore Goa on my two-wheeler. Wearing shorts, slippers, something dull as I begin my expedition, I immediately fell in love with the laid back life. Savoring on some sumptuous Goan cuisine be it at the local roadside neighborhood eateries or at a fine dining resto, this place does not disappoint the food lovers.

One of the best breakfast's I have ever had

I was told about Morjim beach by a friend. On the outskirts, untouched by the crowd, is Morjim beach. I decide to sit at a shack and start observing faces. I spent hours studying them as they passed by and try to guess what they did for a living. This was mostly a subconscious process.

Morjim Beach - unexplored and undisturbed by the crowd

Then the famous Calangute beach with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops on both sides, it moved at a snails speed. This was certainly the most happening street of Goa. Around here are the flea markets. And the season of Goa carnival, makes this place all the more colorful, people fully charged up to create their floats to display at the carnival. The one sand castle with Shrek, was a delight to eyes.

Shrek - my Hero ;)

River Mandovi is home to floating casinos and its jetty to ferries. The city of Panjim and Old Goa, house many ancient churches, convent, museums, art galleries, government buildings and bungalows. The heritage of this place is magnificent.

Goa is a solo sojourn; me time. I know its a phrase heard more often than not, but yet again I recommend this much hyped destination for a solo trip during non-hyped seasons. Go Goa and rediscover yourself, rekindle your soul.