The Goa Diary

The planning for the Goa trip occurred accidentally. Three friends discussing about busy work life over tea, suddenly comes up with planning a much needed vacation. Within five minutes the plan was fixed and we were scheduled to leave next month. On 11th of August we reached Dabolim airport around 8.00 pm, and in a hurry booked a taxi to Palolem, south Goa. We reached Palolem beach around 10 pm. As soon as I stepped into the beach, I felt a feeling of satisfaction. After a short walk down the beach amidst complete silence,we checked in Cupid's Castle dropped our bags and headed to the beach for dinner. It was a tiring day and we dozed off.

The next morning I woke up early, and took a stroll along the beach. The waves lapping on the shore, the strong breeze, birds chirping together seemed to play a tune of their own. Far from the madding city crowd I stood on a place so calm and tranquil. The fishing boats were visible in the distance returning with their catch.

Our first destination was Cabo De Rama Fort. The fort once claimed by the Portuguese and witnessed many battles now stand with a rickety structure and rusted canons. The view from the fort was simply breathtaking. The overcast sky and the endless sea with the quietness seemed cast a spell and I was left spellbound.

By the time we left the fort it started to rain heavily, and the journey turned out to be more exciting. We traveled across south Goa, in and around of Palolem and visited Agonda beach, Candolim beach, Turtle beach. The monsoons seemed to magically add to the charm and elegance of the blue and brown contrast of the sea and sand. The greenery and cliffs surrounding the beaches were a much needed treat to my tired eyes and mind.

On our way back from Candolim, we had our lunch at a local eatery and tried the local cuisine. The food was spicy and tasted awesome specially the fish curry. We returned to Palolem by evening, decided to have some beer and laze around the beach. Local boys were playing football and we decided to join in for a game. These small things giving us the unknown joy and happiness that we seek, to me are the best part of travelling.

The next day, we were set to travel to north Goa. Tulsi Das ji was waiting for us and we left. Travelling with Tulsi Das ji, was a pleasure. The man in his mid forties, kept us entertaining with stories of Goa. We left Palolem and headed towards Chapora fort. It was a long ride and we reached Chapora fort by 11am. To my dislike I found the fort to be a bit crowded, but nevertheless the view was mesmerizing. The fort stood still surrounded by greenery and overlooking the Vagator beach.

Our next destination was Basilica of Bom Jesus in old Goa. The basilica has its history dating back to 1605 and holds the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. The architectural design and structure of the Basilica represents the Renaissance architecture and design and is fronted by a combination of Corinthian, Ionic and Doric design.

We continued our journey and reached Aguada fort. On your way we visited the beaches of Baga and Calangute. Aguada fort is Portuguese fort of the seventeenth century that was used as a point of reference for ships coming from the European nations. The fort has a four storey lighthouse which was built in around 1864. It was considered to be a major stronghold of the Portuguese.

By the time we left the fort it was nearly evening and we headed towards our final destination for the the day Dona Paula. I tried jet skiing which to some extent subdued my disappointment of missing out the water sports which remain shut during the monsoons. By the time were back in Palolem it was nearly 8.30 pm, freshened up and headed to the beach.

We spent the night lazing around on the beach, amidst the serene and quiet environment, soothing our tired minds and souls.

The next day was our last in Goa. Thus we decided to spend the whole day on Palolem, just to soak in the feeling of satisfaction, for one last time. Soon it was sunset and after having a game of football with the local kids, I walked down the beach admiring the golden glow of the setting sun. A fisherman approached me, identified himself as Guru and asked me whether I would have a backwater ride. To my surprise the backwater ride in Palolem turned out to be amazing. The backwater gives you a clear view of the cliff over the beach and you could also witness seagull and eagle feedings. From Guru I learned the daily chores of fishermen and how they struggle each day to meet their ends. I bid farewell to Guru, and stood enthralled watching the sunset over the horizon. I promised myself that I will visit Goa again.