PLANET GOA V11 I1

www.planetgoaonline.com

VOL 11. ISSUE 1

discover | entertainment | wine & dine | shopping | real estate | adventure

₹150 ⁄ UK £7 ⁄ US $10 ⁄ EUROPE €8

STAYCATIONS & WORKCATIONS

A range of Home Stays & Hostels to stay in Goa ....

IFFI 2021 A review

SOMETHING OLD ... A LOT MORE NEW GOA

3 & 4 BHK Luxury Villas in North Goa

Luxury Living in Goa Projects Tres | Mayberry Villas | Irene Altezza | Allurre | Daffodille info@ashraydevelopers.com

+91 77740 01440

www.ashraydevelopers.com

Ashraydevelopersgoa

Ashray Head Office : Office No. 2, 2nd Floor, Landscape Shire, Near Syndicate Bank , Caranzalem, Panjim, Goa, India 403002

Ashraygoa

2

# publisher’s note

T

ON THE COVER

It’s been a long, two-year break….

WO years of you-know-what. Been a very long break and life has undergone a Sea change in almost all our lives across the world….or should I say Planet!

Frankly, I don’t want to talk about it and apart from condolences to all affected and wish their souls RIP, we, at Planet Goa feel very strongly for them and their families but life has to just go on now. We also do thank all our Digital and online readers, advertisers and visitors for supporting us in the interim period and keeping us going.

Goa too, like every other place, has seen a sea-change of the eco-system. Goa has bounced back to normalcy, thanks mainly to what we have been told, that it has been 100 per cent vaccinated. The first stage was clearly the number of people who decided to make Goa their new home, for the very kind of place that Goa is – clean, quiet, peaceful, etc, but also an extremely good quality of life as compared to a lot of other places.

Real Estate picked up first as well as something called Staycations picked up steam and like how! While renting accommodation saw rents climb, it also saw empty homes filling up real fast. The Work-from-home concept picked up all over the country and the younger lot of India’s workforce made the very concept of Hostels gather pace in Goa, both in terms of coming into being, but also then getting filled up with, apart from Staycation-ers, to also Workcation-ers!!

Founder Gautam Mukerjea

New ( and unique ) businesses mushroomed all over the state. The Zomato’s and Swiggy’s made their way here and also expanded their business by venturing into deliveries of things like groceries and medicines, etc, while the Ola’s and Uber’ could not. Startups and techies made their way to Goa and made this their base. Food Businesses and Home Kitchens started up and were seen aggressively promoting their new found passion for food, and also maintained their cleanliness and sanitisation practices which have now acquired the term of ‘following protocols’.

Internet connectivity and services generally improved, though yes, there is still a long way to go to get to perfection. Construction work, especially Infrastructure like roads, bridges, flyovers, etc, all picked up steam, and while bottlenecks for traffic jams and congestions do exist still, overall, I would rank Goa as a better place to drive in than earlier as well as amongst most places in the country. Residential was not left behind and also launched many new projects.

Content Manager Sheryl Gonsalves

Everything now is mostly open and there are all checks being maintained by the Government authorities at most entry points to see that vaccinated people are not denied entry into our state. However, often you do hear people tom-tomming about how they beat the system and travelled on tout-obtained certificates. This is something not to be proud about and cooperation is required from all visiting the state to help maintain cleanliness and follow protocols as laid down by the state.

Basically, be a responsible Holidayer – it’s important!

The publisher makes every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct.

However, he can accept no responsibility for any effects from errors or omissions.

Unsolicited material inlcuding photographs and transparencies - is used in Planet Goa, but it is submitted entirely at the owner’s risk and the publisher accepts no responsibility for its loss or damage. All material published in Planet Goa is copyright and unauthorised reproduction is forbidden.

Enjoy Goa again and enjoy it responsibly!

Cheers

Gautam Mukerjea Founder, Planet-Goa gmukerjea@planetgoaonline.com www.planetgoaonline.com

Art Director Lakshminarayanan G Head Operations Abhishek Chaudhari Operations Manager Zulfaz Shaikh

Planet Media, 5B / 4 UG, Models Status, University Road, Dona Paula, Goa-403 002.

Reg. No. GOAENG00343/05/1/2010-TC

Printed by Gautam Mukerjea, Published by Gautam Mukerjea on behalf of Planet Media and printed at M/s Kala Jyothi Process Pvt.Ltd., S.No: 185, Kondapur, RR Dist 500133 A.P. This magazine is available all across India ( All metros and other towns and cities ) and can be bought from Amazon, Flipkart and www.planetgoaonline.com

4

# in this issue

IN THIS ISSUE

6

YOUR PAGES

Readers’ pictures & Goa recommendations

12

TALK OF THE TOWN

News Snippets from Goa

17

IN GOA

Exploring this new, changed, and yet familiar Goa.

25

HERITAGE, TRADITION & CULTURE The Cross & The Tulsi

32

ADVENTURE TREKS

A 63 year old lady challenges herself to go trekking

36

WELLNESS

Coping with the “Reintegration Anxiety”

40

STAYCATIONS

Different stay options for holidayers

48

MAPS

Explore the heritage sites of Goa

54 IFFI

A festival like no other

58

MUSIC

Tritha Sinha: The Raaga Rock Star

62

GOA'S NEW FOOD SCENE A peek into the transitioned food landscape of Goa

# in this issue

www.planetgoaonline.com

70

GOA AFTER DARK

Night Activities in Goa that doesn’t involve clubbing

74

CYCLING TOURS

Pedal powering through Gorgeous Goa

80

LIFE IN GOA POST COVID

Life in the Sunshine state of Goa post the pandemic

62

82

GOA CARES

Children’s Day Celebration

84

NEW IN TOWN

Say Hello to the Warm and Welcoming WESTIN GOA

88

BEYOND GOA

Zurich – A Class Apart

94

SPOTTED

Celebrities in town!

96

UPCOMING EVENTS

Events to look forward to

74

88

5

6

# your pages

Postcards from GOA

Live Goa. Love Goa. That is the mantra of this wonderful land. In this section we showcase the work of our readers who’ve taken their lenses to capture the sheer beauty of all things Goan.

Making of Jaggery early morning

ROHAN FERNANDES Instagram Handle: @rohanyuri Bio: A Travel and Street photographer based in Goa

# your pages

www.planetgoaonline.com

Smell the sea, and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly.”

JORRYN REUBEN MORAIS Instagram Handle: @_jorryn_05_ Bio: See it, shoot it, love it!

FIROZ SHAIKH Instagram Handle: @mr_mog_ machine Bio: Masters in international relations, Centre for Latin American studies, traveller, hiker, photographer, digital marketing manager

Graceful reflections of Goa.

7

8

# your pages

In your calm is your strength.

(Camurlim village) NIDHI TAR Bio: I am a fine art photographer by profession. My expertise lies in interior, food and product photography.

www.planetgoaonline.com

# your pages

Follow @planetgoamagazine on Instagram to stay in touch with the nicest stories, updates and buzz from around Goa. Tag us using #planetgoamagazine to get featured in the Best Photo Stories of the Month. Here are some of the posts from @planetgoamagazine that our followers gave us a thumbs up to: Venkatesh Kini I was seeing this from 1996 to 2000, when I was in Candolim. Now there are lot of changes; & happy to see it again in this media. (About Fort Aguada) Michael Pinto No, but the sunrise is amazing (About Fort Aguada) Scott Walton Best Sunsets I’ve seen anywhere in the world Merrianne Buda Mathies Love it! Houses with such character would never be allowed to be built in the US. (About Houses of Goa Museum) Keegan Crasto no yeah looks really cool (About Houses of Goa Museum) Sharon Clark I would kill..... (to have Goan bread) Shameeka Correia Fill Sign me up (For village tourism in Goa) Partgho Ganguly My dream home. My colva

9

10

# your pages

things they recommend

what made me settle in goa

Sumeet Bhobe - CFO, COO at Snip Salons & Spas

Naresh Ravindranath – Designer/ developer The first time I came to Goa… Was when I had passed my 10th Grade - just after school

The must-visit beach and reason for it Definitely Morjim! The sand is powder soft and the waves are gentle.

There are also a bunch of lovely restaurants where one can spend hours reading a book or people watching.

What made me want to settle…

Love the vibe of the place, love the people and the chilled out attitude and relaxed atmosphere. The air here instills a certain calm. Besides the local feel you also can get a feel of different cultures and peeps from around the world.

Your secret spot in Goa… The confeteria at Grand Hyatt Goa, Bambolim.

A relaxed vibe, super comfortable seating and sumptuous eats!

If you are in Goa for a day …

I would spend the day trekking at Cabo de Rama fort

Here, I keep myself occupied with…

Design - Men’s clothing, lighting for spaces (homes and commercial spaces) and real estate business

Best place to watch the sunset…

Definitely Glory (previously Chronicles) at Anjuna

My must-visit recommendations in Goa are...

Aldona and Nachinola villages - the quaint houses and narrow roads are so beautiful throughout the year

Where would you want to

get lost in Goa… Fontainhas (The Latin quarter) there’s a treasure trove of cozy home stays and eateries.

A heritage site you wouldn’t miss…

Basilica of Bom Jesus, St. Augustine’s tower in Old Goa, and the Shiva temple in Tambdi Surla.

Your favourite Goan comfort dish…

Fried fish and prawn curry A local restaurant for a traditional Goan culinary fix is....

Antoniós @31 at Fontainhas and Mum’s Kitchen at Miramar Things that you must add to your itinerary for an ideal day in Goa could be....

Leisurely swim in the sea, try out the local fish Thali, take an afternoon siesta, down a few beers watching the sunset, and finally hit the clubs for an amazing night out.

The most scenic place in Goa is...

Cabo de Rama fort and Aguada Fort One quintessential Goan experience, you must have is......

Try the local alcoholic cashew drink Feni!

A place to be at when you can’t go to the usual crowded places…

Home sweet Home!

My favourite dining place in Goa is…

House of Llyods (Saipem), Xeet Kodi (Mapusa), Antonios (Panjim)

I go for a beach bumming day to...

Ashwem, Morjim What I do every time I get a chance...

Have chai and pakodas at a small stall in Guirim (Omkar) - he makes amazing rose flavoured tea and piping hot snacks.

What I would never do in Goa is...

Change the fabric of things - let things be the way they are. The quaintness of the place and the simplicity of the locals is amazing.

My tips to people who want to move here are...

Adapt to the locals ... don’t try to change them... follow the local traditions and customs - the locals are very simple people - once they accept you, they will open up all doors for you (including their homes).

Encourage and buy local produce.

Life in Goa to me is all about...

A relaxed way of life - enjoying the greenery, the beaches, the food, the party places. It’s a celebration of life. Interacting with peeps from different cultures and countries.

Must-do things in Goa – Be in Goa for the different festivals. Take a boat down the rivers. Visit the small bars and cafes. Visit the local markets in Panjim and Mapusa Favourite lockdown snack – Chicken Cafreal @ Florentine A place with fewer people so you can enjoy and stay safe – Backyard cafe by Nikita - Olaulim - Aldona

# your pages

www.planetgoaonline.com

my holiday in goa

my life

in Goa...

Philu Martins – Fashion Designer

Anisha De- Visitor

My best memory growing up Swinging on my Favourite Banyan Tree.

My pandemic weekend activities Karaoke with my family at home.

I was in Goa last in….

For almost 2 months. From 25/8 to 23/10.

My go-to place in Goa 31st January Bakery, Fontainhas.

If there was one thing I could change about Goa, it would be....

Child development strategies because they are the future.

I came here ….

Visiting solo.

New skills/ hobbies I picked up during the lockdown..

Cooking.

I chose to holiday in Goa because…

It’s Fun!

In Goa, I do (for a living)...

Design and make wedding and evening gowns.

For me Goa is…

An assortment of interesting ‘things to do’.

One dish I couldn’t stop devouring was …

Goan fish curry and rice. I prefer kingfish (surmai).

A typical tourist thing I did was…

Visit the Aguada and Chapora forts.

My favourite beach was…

Amongst the ones I visited- Majorda Beach in South Goa. Pristine.

The most breath taking location …

The views from Vagator Hilltop and Chapora fort.

What souvenir did you take from here? …

My memories.

The most memorable moment of my trip was …

Several. Would be tough to pinpoint a singular one.

Things I missed out on this time…

Visiting the night-time flea market.

A place in Goa that calms you down/ makes you happy…

Lounging around on the grass in the Chapora fort premises.

Also taking in the view from Vagator Hilltop.

My favourite 2020 memory When my husband gifted me a diamond ring on Valentine’s day.

The thing I love most about Goa...

Goans of course.

Places/ activities you miss Food and wine festivals.

Favourite restaurant takeaway Mum’s Kitchen.

My favourite season in Goa....

Christmas.

If not Goa, I would live in Florence in Italy. Or Delft in Netherlands.

11

12

# talk of the town

TALK OF THE TOWN What are people talking about on the streets of Goa? Here’s a round up of all the action from the last few days

Zuari Bridge observatory to compete with the Eiffel Tower?

The new Zuari Bridge’s estimated completion date is September 2022. Tenders will shortly be approved for the revolving observatory on top of the bridge. Nitin Gadkari, Union minister for road transport and highways, was proud to announce that this observatory could be a rival for the Eiffel Tower as a worldfamous tourist attraction.

The uniqueness of this observatory is its two towers, having a revolving viewing gallery and a restaurant. The idea of incorporating an art gallery and a walkway is also being toyed with. Tourists will have to use a water route to visit these towers. Small local businesses can sell Goan products here like cashews, handloom items, etc. At the base, there will be a food court, boats, and parking facilities.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Birds are longing for a Goa vacation as well!

It’s not only humans who long to visit Goa… birds too are longing for a Goa vacation.

Even though the state has been facing rainy weather, this has not deterred the birds, including those just passing through Goa. They are stopping here to relax before continuing their long journey.

Mostly spotted are steppe gulls, European rollers, osprey, etc. Species like Jacobin’s cuckoos and Amur falcons’ arrival is awaited. Pacific golden plovers and Eurasian oystercatchers have been observed at the beaches of Morjim and Agacaim.

Migrant birds have picnics on the state’s plateaus to feast on caterpillars and other insects to gain energy for the rest of their

journeys. Some of these admirable avian creatures have to fly for eight days non-stop!

Goa’s plateaus, considered to be wastelands, actually have microhabitats with unique flora and fauna.

The pandemic may have stopped tourists from coming to Goa, but not feathered tourists!

(Image used for representational purpose only)

# round up

www.planetgoaonline.com

13

Entertainment and animation village in Mandrem?

An animation & entertainment village to come up in Goa?!

The idea is still being conceptualised.

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) is developing a master plan for the entire Mandrem area and will be checking its feasibility.

Once this project is approved, Mandrem’s popularity will increase and this coastal village will attract foreign tourists, boost tourism, and also generate job opportunities. People in Goa can use their talents for this entertainment and animation village.

Since this plan is still in the preliminary stage, details relating to the amount of land required, etc, will be dealt with later.

The Mandrem village has beautiful greenery and is a great place for a quiet vacation. However, there are

Snakes in Goa to be rescued through a Ponda man’s app!

Slithery snakes scare some people, but they are very important for the eco-system!

A wildlifer – Charan Desaifrom Ponda, Goa, launched an app for snakes called ‘SAWE’.

The aim of SAWE is to rescue, rehabilitate, and research snakes. It will facilitate faster rescues of snakes and wildlife animals.

The app will be initially used by a few members of the Goa State Wildlife Advisory Board. After drawbacks have been identified, SAWE will be available for public use.

The Board wants identity cards to be issued to all snake rescuers. Additionally, Goa’s forest department needs to put protocols in place for snake rescues.

Apprehensive people have called rescuers not knowing whether the reptiles are dangerous or not. A snake rescuer shared that during the pandemic he saved more than 100 venomous snakes such as kraits, cobras, Russell vipers, and other non-venomous snakes like rat snakes, bronzeback tree snake, wolf snake, and more.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

very few facilities for tourists. This entertainment and animation village will contribute towards the village’s development.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Can Feni (Goa’s heritage drink) Save Goa? Are Goans proud of their “Feni” or not? Japan flaunts sake, Russia shows off their vodka, and Mexico is proud of their tequila.

To give a boost to Goa’s Feni – the state’s heritage drink- the Feni Policy 2021 has been created.

The Goa Cashew Feni Distillers and Bottlers Association (GCFDBA) is all set to make Feni available all over India and abroad.

Increased demand for Feni will surely mean plantation of more cashew trees, leading to a greener Goa. Goa’s Feni policy has listed the standards related to this heritage drink for techniques, quality, hygiene, production, etc. For example, a cane basket should be used to collect cashew fruits and a metal cage-like item utilized to extract juices.

The history of Feni started in the 15th century.

There are 26 different types of Feni. Only Cashew Feni has been GI-tagged. The Feni policy also covers Coconut Feni.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

14

# talk of the town

Take Goa back home with you with this newly released set Wish you could take Goa back home with you? Unfortunately, that’s not possible. However, to make you remember your Goa vacation more vividly, the Goa Post has released a set of 10 postcards.

These postcards display Goa’s wildlife from the famous Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. To take things one step further, there are QR codes on all the postcards. When scanned, more details will be shown about the wildlife.

Surprisingly, the postal history of India has close ties with India’s intricate political history. “As the Portuguese, Dutch, French, Danish and British colonialists gained power in India, their postal systems existed alongside those of independent states,” said the president of the Goa Philatelic and Numismatics Club, Ramesh Kumar.

Another worthy thing done by the Goa Post, is collaborating with the Goa State Legal Services Authority to increase awareness in people of free legal services to disadvantaged sections of society.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Will black rice be the new food trend in Goa? Will black rice be the new food trend in Goa? Farmers in the state are being encouraged to cultivate different types of paddy. The Bardez zonal agriculture office has already started growing black rice on its farm at Duler, Mapusa, using the rice intensification (SRI) method.

Black rice has premium quality and a higher market value compared to normal rice types. Farmers will get a good yield of this rice. 7- 8 kilograms of seeds on one acre of land can get 1015 kg of rice. This will reduce dependence on commonly used types like ‘Jaya’ and ‘Jyoti’.

The price range for normal rice types is between Rs. 80- Rs. 100 per kilogram. However, black rice is priced between Rs. 400- Rs. 450 per kilogram in the market because of its health properties, such as helping in controlling obesity, diabetes, heart diseases, and other illnesses.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Eco-tourism instead of beaches? (Goa)

Sure, beaches are great, but now clear your schedule for eco-tourism!

In Goa, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary are popular ecotourism sites.

Lesser-known beautiful spots are Netravali lake, Arvalem waterfall, Arvalem caves, Cumbarjua canal, Morjim turtle nesting sites, Satpal arboretum, Carambolim lake, Kesarval spring, and Salaulim dam. Galgibaga beach and Agonda beach are ecotourism spots as well.

Local communities of Goa will be participating in ecotourism projects.

This will ensure that people understand the importance of protecting nature and wildlife. Additionally, income can be generated by showcasing Goa’s lush biodiversity and promoting sustainable uses of local materials.

Areas in the state where ecotourism may be developed are protected areas like conservation reserves and community reserves, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. This includes spots that are outside the protected areas which may be mangroves, wetlands, sacred groves, forests, mudflats, and rivers.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

# round up

www.planetgoaonline.com

15

Mankurad mango of Goa may get coveted GI tag

Mankurad mangoes may become available all year round!

Will the Mankurad mango of Goa get its own geographical indication (GI) tag? If it does, Goa will get exclusive commercial rights over this mango.

To give a helping hand to Goa’s efforts to obtain this GI tag, the Goa State Council of Science and Technology will form a mango farmers’ association. ICAR-CCARI’s fruit scientists, mango farmers, and agriculture officials met to form the association.

Farmers and the institute have to file the GI application together. ICAR-CCARI will be giving technical support to the farmers, to ensure expansion of the land being cultivated for Mankurad mangoes’ production.

Hilario, mussahrat and Xavier mangoes haven’t been left out for obtaining GI status.

Increased production, will result in farmers obtaining a premium price for their mangoes. It will also lead to value-added products that can be promoted as Goan products made from local mangoes.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

People are crazy for Goa’s Mankurad mangoes and wish that they could be available all year round as these mangoes have a rich taste, and are juicier and pulpier than other mangoes.

Well… that wish may actually come true!

ICAR-CCARI Goa is working on making local produce, including Mankurad mangoes, available throughout the year by identifying ways of preserving them without compromising on their aroma, texture and flavour.

One of their suggestions is to tetra-pack them.

The institute will also lend a helping hand to mango orchards and even livestock farmers to make traditional Goan food items (Goan sausages, shrimps, etc) available all year round.

In some areas like Delhi and UP, the Mankurad mango isn’t well-known. If these items are available for purchase even during their off-season, it could attract more tourists which will boost Goa’s economy and provide financial help to those involved with the local produce.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Goa is home to 68 species of beautiful orchids!

If you’re a fan of orchids you’ll be pleased to know that the small state of Goa is home to 68 species of diverse orchids. This adds another layer of beauty to this gorgeous state.

Orchids are special because they are mono-symmetrical, which means that both sides of the flower look the same as if there’s a mirror.

“Goa has 68 orchid species belonging to 28 genera of which 42 are epiphytic and 26 are terrestrial, 28 species are endemic of which 23 species are endemic to the Western Ghats,” says Mandar Datar, a botanist.

86% of Goa’s orchid species are in the Western Ghats. 39 orchid species are located in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Sattari. Other orchid locations are Bhagwan Mahavir Dharbandora and Cotigao (Canacona) Sanctuaries.

16

# talk of the town

Goa Airport to get a Goan makeover Right at the Goa airport, visitors are going to get the essence of what this sunny state is all about.

The airport director, Gagan Malik, said people usually don’t know a lot about Goa. The airport is working towards highlighting different aspects of the state.

The arrival lounge and the airport’s compound have artwork that showcases Goa’s heritage sites. A carnival theme has been given to the entrance gate. This involves facemask decorations and colourful lights at night.

Many people feel that Goa is just about letting go or going to the beach. However, it has a rich heritage as well that isn’t highlighted. Tourists are now motivated to click selfies at the airport itself.

It’s like the sightseeing starts from the Goa airport.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

New Tar Bridge for Mapusa, Goa To deal with traffic congestion in Mapusa, a tender has been floated

by GSIDC to construct a new four-lane Tar bridge. This project will cost around Rs 8.57 crore.

The existing bridge was built in 1962 approximately and is near the Milagres Church in Mapusa. People from nearby villages like Moira and Bastora enter here. Vehicles enter Mapusa through the highway from the Tar-Bastora junction.

According to the PWD, around 26,000 vehicles use the Tar bridge daily. During peak hours, the narrow bridge leads to traffic jams. The existing bridge will be destroyed. A temporary structure will be made for crossing over by putting pipes in the water.

The new Tar bridge will have four lanes which are 30 metres long. Once the tender process is done, the bridge will take around 8 months to be fully constructed.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

Tourists in Goa get doorstep courier service Tourists in Goa can now get doorstep foreign parcel delivery service. This means that foreigners staying in Goa hotels can use a courier pick-up service to deliver bulk orders internationally.

With this service, hotel guests don’t have to go to the post office and wait in lines to book their parcels. Instead, the hotel takes care of the paperwork with guidance from postal workers. This is a great solution for tourists in Goa who purchase a lot of things and then are confused about what to do with them.

Almost 150 hotels have tied up with Goa Posts for this service.

To make tourists aware of it, banners with a helpline number have been put up at many hotels across the state. Whoever wants to send an international parcel can call that number. Any other hotel that wants to be part of this postal service is welcome to join them.

(Image used for representational purpose only)

New Mopa Goa Airport is 40% ready Goa is all set for its new airport. The Mopa Goa Airport is 40% ready. Next year, it is likely to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the airport is commissioned, the biggest aircraft can land in Goa. As of now, work on the air traffic control tower and the runway is being done at the same time.

This greenfield Goa airport will be located at the Mopa plateau in Pernem taluka. The project has been split into 4 phases. Construction work in the second phase will only start after 80% of the passenger traffic is handled.

The government is focusing on developing infrastructure in villages and completing projects in urban and coastal places like the second-largest cable-stay bridge and the Mopa Airport.

# in goa

www.planetgoaonline.com

17

&

Something old …. a lot more new

Goa IMAGES - SHOBHIKA JAJU & STOCK

18

# in goa

As Goa reopens for tourists once again, it would be naïve to assume that the past two years haven’t changed anything. It’s a new Goa, one which is bolder, more ready to experiment than ever before and one which is providing a chance for people from across the country to restart their lives when there was little breathing space elsewhere. Shobhika Jaju explores this new, changed, and yet familiar Goa.

A

LL one needs to do to see the changed, new face of the post-pandemic Goa, is take a drive around the North Goa belt. As you cross the overarching “Atal Setu” bridge, you enter a Goa waiting to lure you into all things bright, sparkling and new; lined up are a bunch of restaurants serving all possible cuisines from the country and around the world, and shops, recreation, & entertainment options to loosen those purse strings which have been held tight over the past two years.

To say that Goa is just reopening for the tourists and for the festive season, would be entirely wrong. Instead, Goa is

revamping itself in interesting ways, which were only seen as possibilities before but are happening for sure now. For instance, for those of us who have been calling Goa home since the past decade or more, have for sure noticed the drastic (& even that sounds like an understatement) improvement in the internet connectivity across the state; there are perhaps very few “remote” areas left where there is absolutely no cell network anymore.

Let’s look at some of the key areas where Goa is noticing a significant change as it gears up for a new season and a life beyond the pandemic.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Well, it would suffice to say that in spite of all the efforts by local groups to revive the inland-heritage-village tourism in Goa, it took a pandemic for people to actually look beyond the beaches and start associating Goa with so much more. With countless bloggers, vloggers, Instagrammers and more from this tribe visiting Goa every time the travel restrictions lifted, suddenly everyone across the country, who had only dreamt of the pristine Goa beaches and the beer (among other things associated with the beach), knew a side of Goa which only a few were familiar with. Maybe it was the desire

www.planetgoaonline.com

to showcase a lesser-known side of Goa, or get more hits & likes, or really explore something new, we do have oodles to thank this online tribe for.

Today, an average tourist to Goa is asking for and making space for activities like e-bike tours, temple trails, village visits, treks and swims, island walks, bird watching, mangrove walks, etc, etc, on their visit to Goa, and none of these involve the beach.

The glamour & the escape which the beach life provides certainly cannot be taken away, but it’s heartening to see those not dependent on the beach directly, also getting a chance to make a livelihood. There is countless curated hiking, trekking and groups which organize exploratory trails for tourists to explore this other, lesser-known side of Goa.

# in goa

19

20

# in goa

Goa’s hinterlands have always exuded an ethereal charm and are now finally taking centerstage on tourists’ & locals’ itineraries.

Another emerging aspect of this beyond the beach narrative is Goa being viewed as the destination in the country for wellness tourism.

Well, Goa did actually always have one of the best medical facilities & a highly qualified crème of medical

staff across specializations, but the pandemic life has touted it to be a holistic space for wellness, both physical and mental. While the Ayurvedic treatment centres and spas were always there, a new space of wellness retreats has been slowly cropping up. Wellness retreats are essentially offered at establishments, either a standalone one or one which is part of a hotel or resort property, where programs that

www.planetgoaonline.com

# in goa

21

Villa stays such as these became the go to option for a lot of holidayers to Goa, during the pandemic

focus on the overall health of the individual are offered.

These programs can be for a week or more, and typically offer spa treatments, diet plans, exercise routines, etc, with an aim to retune the body to a consistently healthy lifestyle.

A NEW HOME

One of the most dominant changes noticed during the pandemic was a need by people to shift their home base from choked up metro cities to less populated livable areas, and Goa certainly emerged as one of the most popular remote work destinations.

22

# in goa

Heritage trails covering different architectural aspects of Goa, have picked over the recent months

# in goa

www.planetgoaonline.com

With improved internet connectivity, ease of switching between work hours and leisure time, easy accessibility to quality medical care and all the benefits of urban life in a relaxed atmosphere where the air is not toxic to breathe, everyone in the corporate world descended upon Goa to live the dream life. Goa emerged as a friendly space for children, pets and the elderly with little or no restrictions on the freedom of movement during the pandemic months when even a whiff of fresh air was impossible in most parts of the country.

Over the past few months, Goa certainly proved to be more than welcoming toward the many who chose to call it their home, either permanently or for a short while. Many are even giving up their home cities entirely and getting their documentations done locally, with the intent of settling down here. There is a Goa for every type of traveller and for every kind of budget. Right from apartments, modest to lavish

Air BnB accommodations, villa stays, homestays, longterm hotel stays, every kind of booking was sought after during the peak of the WFH time & still in demand. Even among the incoming tourists, who are purely coming here for leisure with the onset of

the tourist season, there is a preference for private rental stays and less commercial properties.

A WHOLE NEW GASTRONOMIC AFFAIR

Typically, restaurants open and then they close; another one

23

24

# in goa

Goa actually does have a whole new restaurant scene, not repackaged but freshly launched. Name the cuisine and you have it here. Owned, managed and often cooked for by an extremely young group of new age chefs-cumowners.

opens at its place with usually the same staff, same owner and the story continues with a new name. But this time around, things have changed.

Goa actually does have a whole new restaurant scene, not repackaged but freshly launched. Name the cuisine and you have it here. Owned, managed and often cooked for by an extremely young group of new age chefs-cumowners. A quick chat with this bunch often reveals the many passionate reasons for wanting

to relocate to Goa, and start their own restaurants, cafes, bakeries, etc, and the need to walk away from the saturated spaces of the big cities. With so much to explore in the culinary scene of Goa, this new and excited bunch is surely allowing us locals to savour every bite with the hope for more to come.

We sure love this new version of Goa… what about you?!

www.planetgoaonline.com

The

BY PANTALEAO FERNANDES

# heritage tradition and culture

Cross & Tulsi

25

26

# heritage tradition and culture

A

leisurely drive around the countryside and one will notice either a Cross or a Tulsi adorning a prominent place in the compounds of Goan homes.

The Hindus regularly perform a pooja of the Tulsi while the Catholics adorn the cross with marigold flowers, light candles

and pray. However, once a year, a litany at the Cross is in order and a Tulsi cannot be deprived of a Tulsi Lagn.

A cross and a tulsi vrundavan can also be found on Bat Island in the Arabian Sea, just off the Bogmalo coast.

Since the island is uninhabited, these symbols of the Catholic and Hindu religion enjoy each

other’s company in blissful isolation with no human to attend to them. The island is usually out of bounds under the official secrets act of the Indian Navy and no one dares to stray into forbidden territory.

But then, one day in the Hindu month of Kartik, scores of boats from all directions

www.planetgoaonline.com

# heritage tradition and culture

27

28

# heritage tradition and culture

www.planetgoaonline.com

# heritage tradition and culture

Besides a privately owned cross in the family yard, one comes across crosses located at different locales around the villages. In the church yards, large crosses are seen mounted on exquisitely ornamented pedestals. head for the island with two of them carrying special people; a catholic priest and a pujari. Once on the island, the Hindus head to the tulsi vrindavan where the pujari performs the lagna. Prasad is distributed to all present. The latecomers pay their respects and offer a garland of flowers to the tulsi. The Catholics meanwhile organize a mass complete with a choir. After mass, the whole crowd heads to a black rock on which is perched a white cross. A litany is sung with traditional fervour while people keep garlanding the cross and burning candles.

Bursts of firecrackers mark the end of the litany after which refreshments are distributed.

Having taken care of the religious obligation, the folks spread out in all directions.

Besides a privately owned cross in the family yard, one comes across crosses located at different locales around the villages. In the church yards, large crosses are seen mounted on exquisitely ornamented pedestals. At isolated spots or lonely roads, one may

29

30

# heritage tradition and culture

spot a cross to put an end to superstitious beliefs like ghost sightings. A cross may also be erected at the site of an accident, a small marble slab, mentioning the incident and requesting prayers for the departed souls. Dangerous river banks where drowning tend to occur are marked with crosses as a symbol of protection. One even finds sluice gates or culverts which have crosses – erected to keep the places free from evil.

You find people treating them as friends. Young and old, men or women, Catholics or otherwise, they go to the cross, bow down in reverence and whisper secrets. Sometimes

they weep, embracing the cross sending their prayers across in a vale of tears. At times they shower the cross with garlands of flowers and pray that their lives too may be as beautiful and fragrant as their gifts. And at dusk, some hurry to unveil the darkness with dozens of candles. As they light them, grateful lips murmur prayers of thanksgiving for the day just gone by. And hopeful hearts petition for a peaceful night. As the flame melts the wax, they hope that their hearts’ desires reach the heavens and melt the heart of their creator! This makes the wayside crosses little lighthouses providing solace from the blackness of the

# heritage tradition and culture

www.planetgoaonline.com

31

night as well as darkness from their lives. Answered prayers keep the candles ablaze every night…!

In fact, the Bambolim Cross has become a legend. So many flowers are heaped upon it that you can rarely see the cross and is hence fondly known as the ‘Fulancho Khuris’. From a roadside cross, it has now become a full-fledged shrine of the holy cross. Standing beside the National Highway 17, the cross receives salutations from passing motorists. Drivers of interstate buses halt at the cross to pray for a safe journey and pick a garland of flowers from there as a sign of protection from the cross.

Premium

Real Estate

www.pmg-goa.com

VILLAS, LAND and SELECT APARTMENTS

Exclusive Villas Homes in Residential complexes or luxurious stand-alone villas, all at the best locations in Goa.

Land in Coastal Areas Clear title, settlement zone plots, where you can design and build your own dream home.

602 A, Dempo Trade Centre, Patto Plaza, Panjim, Goa 403001 Tel: 0832-2438560 I 2438559.

Cell: 09850069819 / 09823551005 E-mail: pmg.goa@gmail.com l www.pmg-goa.com

Sea-view Apartments Select apartments chosen for their unique design, bespoke interiors or the fabulous views they offer.

Old Goan Houses Quaint old houses in the countryside. Buy one and restore it to Iive the true Goan experience!

25 years of unblemished transactions. Hundreds of satisfied customers.

When you buy property through us, you also buy peace of mind.

32

# adventure trek

OLDER & BOLDER TEXT: SHANGON DAS GUPTA IMAGES: PRAGYA KAPOOR

I

feel chuffed ….. Today I have pushed the envelope a little further and raised the bar a bit higher for myself. I challenged the adage ‘You can’t teach an old dog new tricks’.

Why? At 63, female and solo - I joined a bunch of youngsters, all about 30ish for a half-day trek of about 10 kms in the coastal belt of the State of Goa. Through random internet surfing, I had chanced upon Adventure Breaks who promptly sent me a calendar for the month. Some rapid texting and short calls later, I decided to join a group going on a ‘Four Beaches Jungle hike.’ The poster stated, ‘Off the tourist radar is an unknown forest trail that leads to ocean cliffs from where you hike to four beaches.’

Yes, I was hesitant, shy and awkward, but there was an encouraging tone in the voice of Kim Sabir (the Founder) who said, ‘You can do it!’

So here I was, all set to leave home at 6.30 on a Sunday morning. I clicked my heels, saluted to myself in the mirror and marched out with focus

Shangon is an enthusiastic traveller and is either just back from one trip or planning the next.

Her dream is to visit 5 wonders of the world.

Why not all 7? Coz nothing is perfect. Yet the joy of living must be greater than the fear of dying….

www.planetgoaonline.com

# adventure trek

33

34

# adventure trek

intent. The previous night, I had put on my ready-to-wear trekking clothes, laced up my new trekking shoes, strapped on my backpack and walked briskly around the house – to get a feel of the experience.

I had also filled two water bottles in the fridge alongside ham and cheese sandwiches. I tucked energy bars and oranges into the bag. Then I set my alarm for 5.20 a.m. and went to sleep.

A 2-hour drive took us to the pickup point, which was a place mysteriously called Swiss Fish and Curry Place. (Note to self – must find out why?)

A quick sandwich and cup

of hot robust coffee …. and we were good to go. I looked at the youngsters doing their stretches while my mind was having a mental battle with itself. What was I doing here…… I was 63, irregular in my exercise routine, loving retirement – why was I pushing myself? What was I doing here with these youngsters?

I looked down and saw my smart Merrell trekking shoes which were a recent purchase.

I recalled the words of the rugged shop assistant when I raised my eyebrows at the price. He explained, “Look at it like this. If your shoes are not good, you will never be

able to trek. If your shoes are good, you will always trek.”

Challenged by his sharp advice and the expense I had incurred, I decided to be fair and give trekking a serious try.

So we moved out from the kerbside and headed towards the forest. Walking slowly and treading softly, we covered long stretch of plain, flat ground seamlessly. The path tapered into a stony trail with heavy foliage on both sides. Low lying branches, shrubs with thorny twigs, raspy reeds rubbed us as we tread our way through the track in the wilderness. I thanked myself for the wisdom of the long-

# adventure trek

www.planetgoaonline.com

sleeved linen shirt, full-length trousers, and of course for my shoes.

Led by Nathan (who teaches Math when he is not outdoors), we made frequent shortstops in shady areas and took sips of water. “Small sips only,” said Nathan. “You must stay hydrated.”

Seeing me struggle to maintain my balance over stony areas, Nathan picked up a strong, straight twig and snapped it to suit my height.

“Remember when you use a stick, always place it on a steady surface.” I held on to the mantra, and the stick all through.

We walked through shade and sun, trees and shrubs and looked with dismay at the plastic bottles and trash left behind on the trail. The track curved aimlessly at a downward angle, and we moved a bit faster. The bramble grew thicker and heavier. I didn’t know whether to watch my step or the bramble ahead as we walked through invisible spider webs.

“Always make sure one foot is secure before you lift the other.” Wise words from Nathan again.

The day had become hot, and the sun stronger. Sweat was pouring off the forehead and rolling down the sides of my face to drip off my chin.

Two youngsters had taken off their shirts which they tied to their waist. Others were swearing and muttering below their breath. Bringing up the tail of the group, I huffed and panted and wondered what made them do this crazy stuff.

Why? And why was I doing this? What’s the point?

Pushing our way through the thick bramble, we saw light

coming through a clearing.

Nathan forced his way through the shrubbery, signalling to us to follow him in a single file formation. And as we emerged on the other side, there was a wide-open space. A step forward, and the trees, shrubs and bramble were behind us and there was a sunny expanse in front.

We were standing at land’s end, on a cliff head. Down below us was the dark blue sea, spreading lazily - as far as the eye could see. Black rocks emerged out of the water sporadically, where the gurgling waves rose and hit, making white layers as the waters receded.

Breathtaking! Stunning!

Unbelievable! There was silence - as our mouths opened and jaws dropped in a silent “Wow”. It was that ‘aha’ moment where one receives a message from the divine.

I suddenly knew why trekkers do what they do.

35

Because freedom from fear is the only real freedom. And that freedom is a state of mind.

You are in the moment, senses fully engaged when the mind conquers fear. The courage to overcome fear, inhibition and judgement is the ultimate victory. And I knew that I would trek again.

As one trekker whispered, “Trekking has made me a better person.”

The day lived up to the promise – the wilderness walk in the jungle, the ‘aha’ moment on top of the cliff and the formidable rocky route took us down to ‘four beach’ spot. Yes, it was hot, we were sweaty and the trek was rough and tough in places….. but no complaints.

Would I do it again? Yes, for sure – because I will be fearless, bolder – even though I’ll be older!

Shangon Das Gupta.

36

# wellness

Coping with the

“Reintegration Anxiety” It took a pandemic for people to wake up and pay attention to their mental health. And as the world reopens, Psychologist Shobhika Jaju explores a phenomenon which many people are now struggling with, that is, reintegration anxiety.

IMAGE: STOCK

# wellness

www.planetgoaonline.com

T

HE human mind has a tendency to get conditioned, that is get used to things; people, situations, and the list goes on. Early psychological literature, often talks about the concept of “conditioning”, which was originally given by behaviourist, Pavlov. If you have ever heard about an experiment where a dog would start salivating for food, at the ring of a bell, you know what I am talking about. Look at your own daily schedules; do you feel hungry at almost the same time every day or perhaps feel sleepy at a set bedtime?

Used to our advantage, this tendency to get conditioned in the presence of reinforcement from our environment, is a great tool for inculcating new habits, building resilience, etc.

But unfortunately, because it is an inherent tendency we are talking about, there is also the possibility of us getting conditioned to stimulus around us, unintentionally. And that is precisely the reason, why we are now noticing an increase in the phenomenon of “reintegration anxiety”.

Countless number of psychological studies have reported the spike in generalized and specific anxiety conditions in India, across age groups. Reintegration anxiety, commonly referred to as reentry anxiety, is by itself not a separate diagnostic category in the mental health manuals. It is, however, a type of anxiety which stems from excessive worry about possible negative consequences, that comes with having to

get back to the “normal” life.

It is kind of similar to social anxiety; however, the catch is that people who have never shown any symptoms of anxiety are also now extremely distressed because of the possibility of going back to workplaces, socializing, having guests over, and so on. When the social restrictions were first announced, it led to a lot of anxiety but as we got conditioned to living indoors, a lot of people are showing anxiety symptoms at the prospect of re-socializing and re-engaging with the world.

So, how do you know if you are experiencing the reintegration anxiety? Very simply, think of a social situation that you have to be a part of over the coming days, and ask yourself if you

37

38

# wellness

Well, the good news is that all anxieties can be dealt with in a healthy manner.

Remember, what I said about our minds getting conditioned at the start of this article? While you may have got conditioned to staying indoors, you can very well get reconditioned to socializing and engaging with the world too. are looking forward to it, or are dreading the thought of going out and interacting with people. Are there thoughts about how will people judge you or what will others think about you? Is there any negative thinking about how you have changed over the past many months and thus, you feel less confident heading out? These thoughts accompanied by any physical manifestations of anxiety and the emotion itself, are a sign that, the discomfort which you are experiencing at the mere thought of going out, is more than just discomfort.

Some common ways in which the reintegration anxiety manifests itself includes social withdrawal, tendency to

# wellness

www.planetgoaonline.com

decline all social invitations, absenteeism from work/college/ school, irritability/anger, appetite and sleep disturbances, lack of interest in doing things, etc.

Well, the good news is that all anxieties can be dealt with in a healthy manner.

Remember, what I said about our minds getting conditioned at the start of this article? While you may have got conditioned to staying indoors, you can very well get reconditioned to socializing and engaging with the world too. It’s the initial few times when you are heading out, which will seem like the most difficult to carry on with.

Here is how to cope; In each new situation, start by asking yourself, “What is it that I am afraid of the most?” And then challenge the reasons which your anxiety is presenting to you, for staying indoors and canceling that social commitment. You will be surprised to know that most of the reasons have no logical evidence to support it.

Another good strategy will be to start small. Instead of going to a social gathering of a 100 people as your first social commitment, plan a small outing with just a couple of friends to a café nearby, and slowly challenge your comfort zone. Make a list of things

you are looking forward to, which you couldn’t do during the lockdown restrictions.

Reintroduce these activities slowly, one at a time. Focus on things in your control, to handle the fear of uncertainty which dominates when we are feeling anxious. Living in Goa, we are blessed with enough open & secluded spaces to start venturing out, without feeling the threat of socializing, unless we are absolutely ready.

Most importantly, be compassionate toward yourself and your feelings. Your experiences and feelings are valid, and judging yourself for the same, will only hold you back further.

39

40

# staycations

As people all over the world adjusted to the new normal after Covid hit, so did the state of Goa. In fact, Goa didn’t only adjust- it bloomed with different new options for holidayers. This includes vacation stays. Now, stays in Goa don’t just comprise of budgeted guest houses and hotels, but a lot more options have opened up right from luxury homestays to hostels.

TEXT: SHERYL GONSALVES

D

O you dream of visiting Goa as it is one of the choicest holiday destinations? Are you worried about where you'll stay in Goa? Well, worry no more because Goa offers a wide range of luxury homestays which are suitable for families and friends. Here are a few staying options for you to check out for your next Goa trip or staycation:

Coco Shambhala C

OCO Shambhala is a collection of 4 luxury vacation villas in Goa, for exclusive holidays set in a tropical garden with a free form jungle swimming pool in their midst. The villas are a blend of architecture design and service to excite your senses.

Their villas sit in complete harmony with the local landscape and cultural milieu, to provide the discerning traveller with a romantic retreat; a place of privacy that nurtures a sense of balance, much needed in the hectic lives of today.

Each luxury villa has a stunning treetop living pavilion, a private plunge jet pool, 2 large

bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a kitchen, and a complimentary car and driver. Go and experience “Shambhala” with them in the vibrancy and innate beauty of Goa. The Coco Shambhala X Ayca Spa offers a range of holistic treatments inspired by ancient wellness traditions of Ayurveda and Aromatherapy. Private dining experiences, seasonal gourmet menus, and cooking lessons are the highlights of this villa property. The Coco Shambhala culinary experience celebrates the fresh catch of the day and local organic produce to ensure a truly unique holiday experience.

# staycations

www.planetgoaonline.com

Villa Mykonos G

OA is famous for its beaches; it is what makes us the land of paradise. Villa Mykonos is truly an ode to Goa’s bounty beaches. The Beach Villa offers a breathtaking view of the sea, sunrise, and sunsets.

This beautiful luxury villa is a 2 Bedroom beach property. The bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. There is a living room with a shared dining area and an open kitchen. The soulsoothing view of the beach can be enjoyed from the lounge area by the private pool. Sunbeds ensure an even more relaxing stay.

Villa Mykonos is fully air-conditioned, has a well-equipped kitchen, and Bed n Breakfast service. Cook on call is available at additional charges. A good WiFi connection is present as well. Their concierge services can help arrange local site seeing and cab services on a chargeable basis.

In this pandemic, they take the guests’ safety seriously. A 2 hours sanitization process is carried out prior to check-in. A fog machine is used to sanitize the entire property.

Housekeeping and sanitization are done on a daily basis during the stay.

41

42

# staycations

The Island Pool Villa T

HE Island Pool Villa is for tasting a different Goa – the one slightly away from the beaches, mad crowds, and noisy streets. If you want seclusion, privacy, peace and quiet, and to party by yourselves (if you come from the cities or busy metros) then this is the place for you.

You can still visit the beaches and stuff but you cannot come to Goa for just the beaches!!

This is a spot for people who want to get away from the crowds of Goa and the messy beach areas if you want to spend some private time with your group/family with clean O2. The villa is ideal for groups or families up to 8-10.

The property is situated on Chorao Island which can be accessed via charming ferry boats.

Here you can do exciting activities such as a Crocodile Dundee trip, Night Crawl, Bird sanctuary visits, and so much more!

Besides the cleaning and sanitization of all the high touch points and the entire villa, guests and staff are monitored on a daily basis. A minimum of 24 - 48 hours sanitization and ventilation period after each checkout is ensured to assure everyone’s safety.

# staycations

www.planetgoaonline.com

A

NOTHER type of stay option that is becoming increasingly popular are hostels.

It allows people who have never met before to share different travel experiences with each other, get to know various cultures, and discover new ideas and destinations. Here are some cool hostels to stay at in Goa:

Monkey mind hostel “Being a traveller myself, I always wanted to start a hostel ever since my first look at Roadhouse Hostels. (I had in fact taken the founders of roadhouse to my hostel and they said it wouldn't work there). After working in Oyo for a stint, I just couldn’t resist any more and did the best with what we had at the time to start. It has been a slow time during Covid but the hostel has been doing great now and has never seen such high occupancy,” revealed the owner of Monkey mind hostel.

Usually guests (working people or tourists) who are around 18-35 years old stay here. It is located in a peaceful place near popular South Goa beaches and is just a 10 minute walk away from the Margao railway station. Monkey mind hostel is one of the few city hostels in South Goa. They encourage guests to socialize more and make new friends, so they don’t have any televisions.

Mostly, they cater to solo travellers but families/ couples are welcome as well. The hostel doesn’t have any private rooms but they do have dorms of all types and sizes 3,4,6,8,10 beds along with AC /non AC options. This place is great for those on a budget. There are

two lounge areas where guests can chill. Basic snacks are served but the guests are free to use their shared kitchen or order food from out. For entertainment, the hostel has a carom board and some other board games.

43

44

# staycations

U.r.d.ki Hostel

T

HERE is a hidden meaning behind the name of this backpacking hostel.

The founder revealed: “We tend to amalgamate backpacking with mental peace and hence we focus on enhancement of senses, therefore we call our place U.R.D.Ki (You are the key).”

This hostel is known for their cleanliness, comfortable co-working space, and 300 Mbps high speed internet. The amenities offered include digital locks, individual curtains for beds to ensure privacy, and personal lockers. Facilities available are a library space, private parking, community kitchen, and an entertainment room with PS4, Smart TV, musical instruments and

board games.

It is a cozy place consisting of 2 private rooms that can accommodate 2 or 3 guests, a female only dorm, and three mixed dorms accommodating 4 to 6 people. To make the guests’ Goa vacation memorable, they have live entertainment activities such as Casual jamming sessions and music gigs, Board games night, and Sports screenings. They even organize trails and excursions to the hidden gems of Goa. Staying at a hostel is a good option to meet different people, explore different cultures and feel a sense of community. A hostel helps a person to explore a lot of hidden gems, be it within a person or their environment.

www.planetgoaonline.com

Lost Hostel P

EOPLE love the vibe and ambience of the Lost Hostel. They have several activities which includes bin party, poker sessions, chess tournament, kayaking, table tennis championships, and so on. There is live music and an open mic session every Tuesday. Cocktail parties and happy hours are very often held here.

Guests can also play Table Tennis, Foosball, Carom, Chess, Poker, and Zenga.

The place has AC and non AC mixed dormitories. There are lockers with every bed along with lamps and power circuits. They also have a common kitchen, common washrooms, huge common areas and an in-house bar n cafe.

A lot of cafes are near the hostel too.

What is the best thing about staying in hostels in a state like Goa? Lost Hostel has the answer: “You do different kinds of sh!t every day and you don't have to make plans as such because there's already so much to explore. So just leave the place and enjoy the journey. Destination doesn't matter.”

# staycations

45

46

# staycations

ImagiNation - Artists’ Hostel C

REATIVITY runs wild and free in this hostel. “We are an artist hostel. What people appreciate the most is creative freedom at our hostel. We are designed in a way that creative minds can come and live with us and work or brainstorm on their individual projects,” they reveal.

What’s unique about this place is that alongside being a backpacker hostel, it is also an art incubator. The guests who stay here are usually between 18-40 years of age.

Centrally located, they have an amazing rooftop panoramic view of Arambol, the creative town of Goa. Sunrises and sunsets from the rooftop are magical with an abundance of wind.

The hostel always has a lively buzz, as here you can find musicians jamming and working on their projects or rehearsing for their shows, which keeps the music going on. They have a few concepts: Imagination Listening sessions & Imagination Artist Meet. Frequently, original works of musicians and expressive artists are showcased.

They offer shared accommodation, dormitory and private beds. What you can expect to see and experience here are clean dorms, a breezy balcony with cozy seating, work desks on a quaint little terrace, seating / Jam area / workshops on a big terrace, movie screenings, and free Wi-fi!

Goa is a vibrant state which attracts travellers from across the world. People from various walks of life come here to rejuvenate and having a hostel in such a place creates memories for travellers which leaves them wanting to revisit Goa whenever they need a break.

48

# heritage map

Planet-Goa acknowledges the efforts put together by the entire team of the Goa Heritage Action Group for creating the Heritage Map of Goa and a very special thanks to Ms. Heta Pandit for granting us permission to use the same in the PlanetGoa magazine.

www.planetgoaonline.com

# heritage map 49

50

# heritage map

Panaji – The Capital

1

2

3

4

DIVAR

The island of Divar is famed for Bonderam, the festival held on the river island on the 4th Saturday of the month of August. Bonderam means the festival of flags. Its high point is a mock battle to commemorate the property wars that took place here over a century ago. Its landmark is its Indo Portuguese Architecture.

5

OLD GOA – CIDADE DE GOA, VELHA GOA

The story of old Goa begins at a rather modest shrine of Shri Gomanteshwar up in the hills at a distance from the river.

The city moved to the banks of the river Mandovi (than called the Gomti) at the end of Kadamba rule. Royal life than revolved around the Saptakoteshwar Temple (where the church of Our Lady of Divine Providence stands today)until the daccan sultans made it their capital and called it Ela.The Portuguese Wrested it from the Adil Shah and began building “The Rome of the East” with churches, chapels, markets, houses and a bustling trading post. The city fell to disease and economic ruin as a consequence of religious persecution and the capital moved to Nova Goa or Pangim (Panaji) in the middle of the 19th century.

6 7 8

Divar

SAPTAKOTESHWAR TEMPLE AT NARVA, BICHOLIM

Originally located on the island of Divar in the hamlet of Narva since construction by the Kadamba Queen Kamladevi in 1155 A.D, it was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1541 when the deity was shifted across the river to New Narva Bicholim. Shivaji renovated this temple in 1668.

MAN MADE CAVE, KUNDAIM

This cave may have been a pre-historic shrine in active worship once. A state protected monument today, its survival hangs in a balance on the edge of a highway.

KHANDEPAR CAVES

This cave may have been a pre-historic shrine in active worship once and is now a state protected monument.

SAFA MASJID, PONDA

This mosque was build by Ibrahim Adil Shah of Bijapur.

Adjacent to the mosque is a well constructed masonary tank with small dressing chambers with Mihrab designs.

PANAJI – THE CAPITAL

The only thing that distinguishes Goa from any other city in India is the 7 km long promenade, built on a planned grid system with a unique storm drain system and perhaps the only city in India that has relocated stone by stone from the capital that fell to disease and ruination. The architectural styles vary from the Goan Domestic Indian Art Deco, Indo European, and Indian Baroque to British Colonial. This place has art combined with functionality. Apart from its architectural wealth the city has a deep treasure chest of cultural patterns and traditions.

SANTANA CHURCH, TELAULIM

One of the five models after which all the churches and chapels followed suit, this one perhaps is the most fascinating church of all.

Khandepar Caves

# heritage map

www.planetgoaonline.com

Safa Masjid, Ponda

9 10 11 12 13

14

Shri Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla

SHRI BRAHMANI TEMPLE, TOLDEM, SANGUEM

This temple is dated in the 12th century and has been built in the Hoysala or kadamba temple style of architecture. There are some erotic sculptures on the walls of the temple and some Graeco Persian mythical figures, animals, birds, etc.

15

SHRI MAHADEV TEMPLE, TAMBDI SURLA

This temple standing in the midst of a dense forest may date back in the 12th or 13th century A.D. It was built of black basalt stone masonry with no mortar used for bonding and has monolithic pillars. Facing the east the temple is raised on a plainly moulded plinth.

BHAGWAN MAHAVEER SANCTUARY, MOLEM

Besides being a good birding site the sanctuary also has a cluster of pre-Aryan homes.

16 17

UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS OF CHICALIM Three underground chambers were found at Chicalim with megalithic potsherds.

CAVES AND CAVERNS AT ISSORCEM, HOLLANT, VASCO

One of Goa’s most recent discoveries these caves are obviously man made but vertical to the ground. Cave dwellers probably suspended themselves into their rock homes with vines and then covered the entrance hole with circular discs at night.

MARGAO (MADGOAN)

Once named Mathagram either after the mutt or temple complex located where the main church stands today or after the Madvals or washer men who dominated the village, Margao has a model church and admire some fascinating Goan Houses.

18 19 20

CHANDOR HERITAGE, VILLAGE

Visit Our Lady of Belem church for period furniture and statuary, the twin mansions of the Braganza-pereira families and the heritage home of Sara Fernandes for a look and feel of Goa’s colonial past. You can see Goa’s oldest Fort wall, ruins of the 11th century Shiva temple dating to the Kadamba Periods.

SANGAMESHWAR ISLAND SHRINE, SANGUEM

This shrine is located on a stone slab in the middle of the meeting of the three rivers, the Kushavati, Sanguem and Guleli. The confluence of three rivers has always been Sacred in India.

SANGUEM CAVES

These caves are significant as they function as regular dwellings, unlike the other caves that are Buddhist and Jain colonies meant for offering shelter during the monsoons.

They have architectural, archaeological and historic value and are located in the Sanguem town.

SHRI CHANDRESHWAR BHUTNATH, NEAR PARODA

One of the few temples that still stands on its original ground, the original dates to the Bhoj dynasty 6th-7th century A.D. and rebuilt by the Kadamba dynasty in the 11th century.

PALACIO DE DEAO, QUEPEM

Originally the residence of the Dean, this palace has been recently restored and is open to the public.

SHRI MAHADEO TEMPLE, (CURDI), XELPEM, SALAULIM

This 10th century Shiva temple was shifted from its original home to Curdi and rebuilt at an alternate site when it was threatened by submergence in the Salaulim Dam project. It was shifted stone by stone by the Archaeological survey of India, Mini Circle, and Goa.

51

52

# heritage map

Shri Gopinath Temple, Budbudanche Tollem, Neturli

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

SHRI DAMODAR TEMPLE, ZAMBAULIM

Famed for its annual pink gulal festival, the original deity was moved from Margao to Zambaulim in the 16th century for fear of religious prosecution during Portuguese rule. It is located on the banks of the Kushawati River.

Petroglyphs at Pansaimol, vichundrem, Sanguem

28

BUDDHIST CAVES

Often called Pandava Caves, these are the few vestiges of Goa’s past Buddhist presence when monks would seek sanctity from their austere lives as wandering mendicants and camp in caves for the monsoons. There is an underground cave with a well here too.

29

SHRI VIMLESHWAR TEMPLE, RIVONA, SANGUEM

This temple built by the Rivona comunidade or gaunkari an ancient system of co- operative farming and is a symbol of community participation.

PETROGLYPHS AT PANSAIMOL, VICHUNDREM, SANGUEM

This beautiful site on the banks of the Kushavati River is perhaps one of the early expressions of art and culture in Goa. Rock carving found here are believed to depict symbols of the fertility cult and religious cosmology.

ROCK ART AT KAJUR, QUEPEM

These relatively unknown petro glyphs belongs to the same family as those discovered on the banks of the Kushavati River.

SHRI PAIKA PANN SACRED GROVE, NAIQUINIM, SANGUEM

This temple complex is dedicated to the goddess Mahisasurmardini and is located in a sacred grove. It was built at the height of the Shivite cuit.

SHRI NARAYANDEV DEVASTHAN TEMPLE, VICHUNDREM, SANGUEM The temple is dated to the 11th century and this deity is particularly worshipped by Vaishanavaties. The frame surrounding Shri Narayandev is exquisitely carved showcasing the dashavatars or ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

30 31 32

SHRI GOPINATH TEMPLE, BUDBUDANCHE TOLLEM, NETURLI The original idol of Lord Gopinath (Krishna) dates to 9th – 10th century. It was originally built keeping the concept of devghar or God’s house. Located on a temple tank where water bubbles up to the surface every few seconds, this temple has recently rebuilt.

CABO DA RAMA, CANACONA

Built by the soundekar kings towards the end of the 16th century, this magnificent monument has a moat, a fantastic view of the sea and two freshwater tanks. The ramps were ment for elephants and horses. This was locally called Ramachem Bhursir. Later taken over by the Portuguese in 1764, its name was changed to Cabo de Rama.

COTIGAO WILDLIFE SANTUARY

Kuskem waterfall may be seen in the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Canacona taluka. You can also see the ruins of ancient temples in this tiny village of Kuskem.

SHRI BETAAL TEMPLE, PAINGUINIM, CANACONA

Dedicated to a pre-Aryan deity, this temple displays rare endangered kaavi art.

SHRI PARSHURAM TEMPLE, PAINGUINIM, CANACONA

This temple is dedicated to the legendary Vaishnavite deity of Goa.It displays rare endangered kaavi art.

# own your dream home

www.planetgoa.in

Live the DREAM Living in a tropical haven. Wow! Now wouldn’t that be a treat?!

With a bounty of beauty, having a home in Goa would be a fantasy fulfilled. Here are a few properties to entice your senses and get the home you’ve always dreamt of.

PORVORIM

REIS MAGOS

DONA PAULA

CANDOLIM

UCCASSIM

CANDOLIM

DONA PAULA

CALANGUTE

SIOLIM

Brand new ready to move in 3 BHK flats with unobstructed river view with all modern amenities at Porvorim. Price starting from 1.0 cr.

88 sq mtrs 2 BHK tastefully done up flat at Candolim in one the best societies having all amenities ideal for a holiday home with good rental income. Price 87 lakhs.

5 BHK Independent Bungalow with sea view in Aldeia de goa, Dona Paula, with all the top amenities, comes fully furnished.

Price on request.

Brand new Sea facing bungalow in Reis Magos. Plot size of 750 sq mtrs with swimming pool and servant rooms. Price on request.

Bungalow at Uccassim built tastefully with open space and garden around it, located in green surrounding, plot size 350 sq mtrs built up 175 sq mtrs. Price on request.

8500 sq mtrs part settlement plot at Calangute located in green surrounding, with sanad suitable for villa and resort project.

Semi furnished duplex flat in one the best communities of Dona Paula, 4 BHK pool facing apartment with all amenities. Price on request.

850 sq mtrs plot with three side roads open, Candolim opposite 5 star hotel, along with old and all the necessary approvals for commercial. Price on request.

2000 sq mtrs river touch plot located at Siolim with old house in it. Price on request.

For further details on the above properties, contact Saurabh Khanna on +91-9422442242

53

54

# iffi

A Festival Like No Other …..

Held every year in the state of Goa, IFFI provides a common platform for filmmakers from across the globe. Filmmakers use the platform to showcase their work and appreciate the work of others in the industry. The convergence of different film cultures enables a greater understanding of changing trends and interests world cinema. The annual festival is organized jointly by the Directorate of Film Festivals (Ministry of Information and Broadcasting) and the state Government of Goa (Entertainment Society of Goa).

TEXT: SHANGON DAS GUPTA

THE INAUGURATION Bling, lavish costumes, extravagant sets, gossamer lights and all the razzmatazz!!!!

IFFI 52 is here with aplomb and not a care about the C word or the unseasonal rains.

Changing backdrops provided a fascinating sight as the performers led by Ranvir Singh crossed the 75-metre stage staging the quintessential cricket scene, with Ranvir hitting a six on the last ball, last over into the audience!

Other stunt acts drawing applause from the audience were a quirky motorcycle scene, a romantic jeep scene and the gyrating dance acts led by ‘Jumma chumma de de’.

The entertainment

# iffi

www.planetgoaonline.com

of the performances - there is much to look forward to.

Though screens are getting smaller, the passion for good films is surely increasing. IFFI has started - in hi-style and true spirit of celebration of 52 years!

Day 2

extravaganza by Ranveer Singh, Shraddha Kapoor, Salman Khan, Ritesh and Genelia Deshmukh and a Goan dance performance followed a series of short speeches by the line up of dignitaries.

Anchored by Manish Paul and Karan Johar, and sponsored by Vaseline and Amazon Prime, the evening was a delightful spectacle of resilience, hope and never-say-die spirit.

Particularly touching were the messages from the recipients of the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Awards (Martin Scorsese and Istvan Szabo) which came via video and indeed, straight from the heart. They recalled the phenomenal outstanding work of the cine artist and the learnings of the art of film making that they absorbed into their own work.

It was a grand opening, albeit with a few glitches, but we believe that given the times that the world is in, there is much to be appreciated. The future plans laid down by the leaders, the optimism of the 75 creative minds, the energy

There’s nothing called ‘too early’ for a film festival. By 9 a.m., the lines had started forming for the first show of day 2 at INOX. Everyone was in a rush to get somewhere. “It doesn’t matter which film,” said one youngster. “I just want to see a film.”

“It’s a Festival,” said the next person in the line. “All the films will be great.”

Audiences had congregated from across regions - of course, Mumbai, Kerala, Karnataka, and as far as Delhi and Dubai.

Film enthusiasts from closer areas like Mapusa and Margao stood patiently in the queue.

Comments on films seen earlier and those that they had planned to see were free for general discussion and inputs.

Expectations were high and the mood was upbeat.

Changes in schedule, dark rain clouds, clumsy seating did nothing to spoil the mood - though there were envious glances at those who stood in line for the screening of the highlight films. That the seating capacity had been increased to 100% created more excitement and efforts to get the additional tickets were made available at the counter.

By midday, the television camera was on location and the spot interviews had started.

Small clusters instantly formed as the celebrity spoke into the mike. This attracted more attention and drew greater traction and soon there was a buzz of several beehives!

Coffee and beer alternated through the day as the young, middle-aged and elderly lounged in the food court and discussed films and the challenges in the industry.

At the end of the day, plans were being made to head to Joseph’s Bar - a walking distance from the venue. As well as plans for the next day!

55

56

# iffi

SOMEWHERE MIDFESTIVAL….

How’s the Josh?

High Sir! This sums up the mood on Day 4 of IFFI 52.

It was a day of high energy

as the delegates patiently stood in serpentine lines to watch the films on different screens.

It was a day of seamless transitions between films and screens, giving the young volunteers a few moments to sit in between screenings.

Regular faces became familiar, and familiar faces became friends on Day 4.

Said one delegate to another, “The IFFI festival is about watching good and great international films which we don’t get to see normally.

But along with this, IFFI aids networking and fellowship.”

Nodded the other in agreement, “The chance to meet some of the great minds and discuss their work is a big learning opportunity. I look forward to to these experiences.”

The young Director of Rain, Janno Jurgens of Estonian origin attended the screening of his debut film. “I travelled 6000 miles to be here, just to hear the audience response from different parts of the

globe. It is an intense learning for me too.”

The Red Carpet was also rolled out for the other celebrities of the day - old and debutante who imbibed and reflected the joyous spirit of the festival.

And so the dice rolls on to Day 5 of the 52nd IFFI extravaganza. Every tree on the boulevard bordering the Mandovi river was lit up with technicolour razzmatazz in a effort that held back no stops to create a dreamlike experience not just for the 3000 delegates, but every visitor to the city of Panjim.

AND ON DAY 6….

Sitting outside at the IFFI venue is as interesting as sitting inside the auditorium !

Why? Coz it’s a nonstop fashion show.

The young and the not-soyoung used imaginative ways to wear a bandana - even on their long permed hair which was nonchalantly allowed to stray out. Anti-fit dresses in

# iffi

www.planetgoaonline.com

to be back next year with a new crop of films, and the new innovations at IFFI 53.

So for the moment it’s goodbye IFFI and as we say in Konkani ‘miochay adeus’ until next time. And till then ‘deu boro dis dium or ‘may Goa give you a good day' and see you in IFFI 53! Stay well and stay safe….

creative styles were worn with youthful confidence while linen pants and Crop tops was another favourite. Neon colour t-shirts with cheesy messages (High on Films, New Wave Coming, Ma aur Cinema, Believe in Yourself, Kya Cheeze Hai) added amusement as well as colour to the day.

Masks and tags were mandatory and the white canvas IFFI bag with an umbrella poking out was a statutory add-on.

A troupe of local singers and musicians in beach shirts strummed the guitar and sang melodious tunes through the day adding to the festive feeling. A medley of Portuguese, Konkani and Hindi songs had everyone tapping their feet to the local beats while the serpentine lines formed seamlessly - show to show.

On Day 6 and IFFI is at its peak.

DRAWING THE CURTAINS DOWN….

It will not be wrong to say that Goa loves hosting IFFI. No stops were held back and no holds barred as the small

State went all out to celebrate the annual landmark event.

Banners, posters, hoardings, installations, lights, streamers - IFFI was everywhere. It was in your face ….. so whether one was a local, or a tourist or a film buff….. it didn’t matter.

ESG ensured that everyone in Goa celebrated IFFI. The festival had screenings of different genres of films from debuts to retrospectives, from awards to fellowships, from celebrities to novice, from students to practitioners, from panel discussions to workshops … there was something for everybody. The lifetime achievement awards honoured the greatest filmmakers and the Golden Peacock appreciated the new talent in the industry.

Commitments were made to promote the future of the industry within the State and increase the range of support services for filmmaking.

As the curtains came down on the 9-day event, the mood changed from one of planning the films for the next day to discussions about their return travel, traffics snares to the airport, and of course the spread of the Omicron. In the same breath, plans were made

When Pomegranates Howl (Afghanistan Australia)

Based on a true story, this beautiful and touching film is set in war-stricken Kabul.

Two young boys push a cart in the streets selling pomegranates and balloons to support their families. Catching the eye of an Aussie photographer who is in Kabul on assignment, he takes several photos of the two boys.

The imagination of the boys gets fired up, and one dreams of becoming a film star and the other a singer. Using creative fun games, the duo becomes heroes amongst the local boy community.

A huge bomb explosion occurs. Their dreams are instantly aborted. Martyrdom.

The grieving family refuse to accept the photos offered to them by the photographer. Yet it is used by NatGeo for the cover story.

When Pomegranates Howl is a moving film that captures the innocence of children and the violence of the times.

The back story is equally touching. In solidarity with the situation, the Australian government funded this 80-minute film, subtly ensuring that the lives of the two young boys would never be forgotten (nor the violence forgiven).

Director : Granaz Moussavi

57

58

# music

Tritha Sinha: The Raaga Rock Star Indian classical singer by day; rock diva by night musician Tritha Sinha bridges two completely divergent worlds of music with ease. Samira Sheth is fascinated to learn more about this gifted singer, songwriter and composer now based in Goa.

T

HERE is definitely something in the air in Goa! For some time now, our tiny little state has been attracting the best and brightest creative people from around the world to its shores. At the moment, the internationally recognized musician Tritha Sinha, who has been travelling between France and India for the last 18 years, has made it her home and set up her studio here.

If you see a woman wearing a saree and rocking an electric

guitar on stage in performance in Goa or spinning electronic music with Indian classical vocals mixed in, you know it’s Tritha aka DJ Pagli!

Invited to perform at the Cannes film festival 2019 in France for her award winning film score, Voyage for Change, Tritha is a vocalist, composer and music producer based out of India and Europe. Immersed in the Indian classical music tradition for more than 25 years, she trained in the Agra and Patiala gharana

and then the Bishnupur gharana under Pandit Santanu Bandhopadhyay from whom she learned Khayal. She went on to deepen her understanding of breath and the connection between sound and the body in the 12th century Dhrupad style with the Padmashri Gundecha brothers. This led to an interest in healing and music therapy and Tritha has been teaching and conducting workshops on these for the last ten years. She also makes albums to share the healing vibrations of music and

# music

www.planetgoaonline.com

sound secrets with the world.

“I want to spread good vibrations through music. If people are happy, we will have a more harmonious planet/ earth to live on,” says the hugely talented musician.

With her strong background in the classical tradition, Tritha embarked on a journey into another world of music entirely. Her debut studio album ‘PaGLI’ released on Sony Music in 2014, where she earned her license to break the rules, unlearn and re-interpret what she had learnt in her classical training.

Her next album ‘Raagas in Paris’, released in 2016 under the Silk Road label where she explored Indian classical with psychedelic rock, and performed with her IndoFrench rock band Tritha Electric, comprising her, Paul and Mathias. Soon after, in the same year, she released her next album, ‘Elements d'Existence’ with Martin Dubois based on sound healing and the 5 elements. This summer, she released her path-breaking album ‘Pachamama – A Tribute to Mother Earth’ on July 3rd, 2021, International Plastic Bag Free World Day. Attuned to Mother Earth and nature, Tritha’s music holds strong notes of activism.

She co-founded SPACE (Stop Patriarchy and Choose Equality), a women artist collective based in New Delhi with her partner Ritika Singh that creates music to provoke dialogue about gender justice.

Representing India in over 18 countries and performed at more than 300 concerts, Tritha has also been featured on BBC, Arte and Canal+ as a music activist and sound

59

60

# music

healer. Magnum Photos from France featured her as one of the 100 Women Changing India. She was awarded by the US State Department through the residency Onebeat 2016 as a cultural ambassador using music for social change and community development.

Her original songs carry social messages with themes of women empowerment, corruption in the world and awakening a much needed consciousness for Mother Earth or as she says, her songs are “about what I feel about society as an Indian woman.”

She has also worked with global personalities like dancer Mallika Sarabhai, percussionist Sivamani, director Muzaffar Ali and Eve Ensler, author of ‘Vagina Monologues’. Tritha’s workshops on using music and sound for healing and aligning the human body, mind and heart causing deep and positive transformation of the soul

# music

www.planetgoaonline.com

are gaining a huge following.

She has organised successful holistic festivals such as Divine Union in Mojigao, Goa inviting 30 healers, inspiring speakers and conscious musicians, to join her in doing her bit to change the world through music.

With so much going on there is lots to look forward to from this poster girl for a bridge between the East

and West. She is currently experimenting on looping and relooping music cocooned in her studio in Goa, almost inventing a new genre. For her, “the truest way to express soul connection is really through music.” We end our conversation on an inspiring note as Tritha says of her time spent collaborating with musicians from the West, “We taught each other equal

dialogue. When we listened to each other, harmony started happening. We should all listen to each other more – men and women, performers, artistes and communion and harmony will happen.”

Support this amazing independent artiste by listening to her music on her website www.tritha.com or on Amazon/ Spotify.

61

62

# changed foodscape of goa

Eating out is the New Normal

a peek into the transitioned food landscape of Goa TEXT: NIDHI LALL

T

HE extraordinaire world of Goan food has been unmatched so far. The delectable seafood and curries is a delicious reflection of its history and heritage- that was an influence of the Portuguese dominance fused with local recipes and spices.

There is no match for these contrasting flavours anywhere else in India.

With the advent of the pandemic, the food and hospitality industry took a hit due to the lockdown. But it did give the sector the time to innovate and iterate their serving style and menu that they have served so far.

Post pandemic scenario has witnessed a major transition in the food scene of Goa. With lakhs of tourists thronging to the Goa beaches at the beginning of 2021 after a year-long house arrest, they were welcomed with an entirely new hospitality landscape. Conceptual eateries with innovative menus, international food cuisine restaurants, cafes, food joints and bars have sprung up in every corner of Goa. Not only this, the option of coworking space with some great food, good coffee and drinks have also opened up.

The experts across the food landscape here in Goa, from chefs to restaurateurs, have identified distinct trends that attest to the transition in the way we eat, forever.

THE TRANSITION IN THE WAY WE DINE Keeping all safety protocols, the old and new food venues have made drastic amendments in the look, seating arrangements and other

necessary set-ups within their eateries. For one, the seating arrangements have been made limited to avoid crowds. Servers, chefs in the kitchen, including the host are wearing masks. Digital Menus are the new normal. Scan the QR code and you get the menu on your phone. Many restaurants have even added a new outdoors section because most guests now ask for open-air seating. Many fine-dine restaurants and hotels are offering all-day dining, takeaways, and even home deliveries. Home Chefs is a new trend that picked up during the lockdown period itself and is perhaps here to stay. Safe and homecooked meals by home chefs gave a respite to households burdened with home chores.

“Clean eating” is a definite and clear trend that the hospitality sector experts have identified.

Diners are increasingly asking this question, more frequently than before the pandemic. Now they are opting for, ever before - sustainable, regional, local and healthy - that define as ‘real food’.

The food delivery services by Swiggy and Zomato were working in full-swing delivering meals from not only restaurant kitchens, cafes but also hotel kitchens and home chef kitchens.

The demands poured in from the tourists and locals for home delivery and takeaways that kept their kitchens running till date.

www.planetgoaonline.com

# changed foodscape of goa

63

64

# changed foodscape of goa

WHAT’S NEW

IN TOWN When we say that a major shift has taken place in the Goan food landscape we meant the variety of international flavours that have made a grand entry apart from gourmet from other regions of India. Home styled cooking has majorly taken over the scene.

Home Chefs – The new jewel in the crown In 2020, the Goan food landscape added to its folio - the home chefs - who made a huge impact. Home-based Goan chefs, hailing from diverse backgrounds, started their own ventures in a pandemic-riddled year, concocting dishes of varying kinds. In the process, they acquainted the state’s inhabitants with some unconventional cuisines as well. A few rekindled their memories of age-old recipes and added them into the scope of a menu, while others assimilated dishes from across the world into people’s platters. The home chef chronicles have given the foodies a wide spread of choices. From extensive breakfasts, Bengali fare, and Kashmiri yakhni, to Arabic shawarma, Bolognese, and authentic Goan homemade food, these connoisseurs are laying out an assortment of food from their kitchens.

Some of the most loved ones are worth a mention - Chef’s Flair by Allister Fernandes and Alisia Fernandes, KashMash by Chef Fahd, Nuun – unconventional Bengali cuisine, Patrão's Deli by Pablo Miranda, MumMai by Elvis and Emilia Victor, The Family Legacy by Nusma for: Haleem, biryani, Eddie's Suey My Way For: Burmese Khao Suey. Creating a delicious and creative storm in their kitchens, these home chefs have now become a name in every household.

www.planetgoaonline.com

# changed foodscape of goa

Exquisite cuisine restaurants – a breath of fresh air Here are some new gastronomical eateries that will tingle your taste buds with new flavours.

Tamil table – South Indian cuisine If you loved what you got at Gunpowder, you will definitely enjoy Tamil Table. There’s something to be said about the comfort of a small menu for a hungry diner. At Tamil Table, a tightly curated menu of South Indian fare presents enough options to fuel and fascinate every type of eater. The restaurant, as the name suggests, specializes in Tamil cuisine, by bringing feasts like slow-cooked mutton, Coromandel king prawns and mackerel vadai to the table. All of this pairs beautifully with the house cocktails, which revel in regional flavours. Knocking down the Nannari Highball or Vasantha Neer, surrounded by welcoming, almost life-sized terracotta bommai dolls and seated at a table outfitted with napkins featuring the humble Madras plaids and earthen tableware adorned with banana leaf is transportive, to say the least. At the back is a cavernous bar that can accommodate a small selection of friends for a private do.

This authentic Tamilian rendezvous is operated

by Sacha Mendes, of the famed fashion store – The Sacha’s, along with her chef-husband, Karthikeyan S.

65

66

# changed foodscape of goa

Schandis – Persian food Panjim beholds the passage to Iranian cordon bleu. Mumbai is familiar with Persian styled eateries, through the influence of the centuryold existence of the Persian community. But it’s a first in Goa. Schandis, the superbly authentic Persian cuisine restaurant, serves scrupulously contemporary Iranian food that has rarely ever registered with the Indian palate. It opened just before the country went into the pandemic lockdown.

They have dense, dark Ghormeh Sabzi HerbAnd-Lamb Stew, and impeccably golden Tah dig with scorched rice. Meticulously authentic Iranian food is now available in Goa. The menu at Schandis is exquisite. As the word SH-andis signifies expertise in kebab-making. Persian culinary perfectionism reigns: yoghurts mixed with cucumber and mint, or finely diced shallots, or smoked eggplant; chopped fresh salads braced with lemon juice and olive oil; skewergrilled kebabs (instead of the ubiquitous goat meat, they use lamb, painstakingly sourced from Karnataka).

Hossein and Hediyeh Haghighatgoo, Iran born, got fascinated with the beach and wilderness of Goa and decided to recreate the Tehran neighbourhood right here in the heart of Panjim.

Mezmiz – Middle Eastern Slightly drifted from the hustle-bustle of the heavily trafficked Porvorim-Sangolda road, is located this quintessential Middle Eastern cuisine restaurant. Nestled in a beautifully done-up Portuguese villa, Mezmiz recreates the middleeastern vibe through their amazingly delicious hummus, baba ghanoush, kababs and raan.

Think comfort food and community eating.

That’s what Kush and Nazneen promote in their little hideaway. Everything from their pita to the dips is made in-house, with the freshest ingredients. To add to the fun, they serve spiced red sangria, ave agave (tequila and pomegranate molasses) and homemade ice cream.

# changed foodscape of goa

www.planetgoaonline.com

Roboto Goa - A Japanese & Korean Contemporary Street Style & Izakaya Style restaurant Chefs Maia Laifungbam and Sanchit Behl run this izakaya and ramen house in Baga. This charming vibrant outdoor space with a neat garden spread serves Japanese-influenced fare like soboro donburi, beef tataki, and pork katsudon. They cook up a storm using Japanese recipes fused with local produce. They make their own miso, gluten-free soy, noodles, and gyoza. They ensure minimal kitchen wastage by reusing vegetable scraps. Ingredients like wasabi, yuzu, and Japanese teas are used to create crafty cocktails.

Zwé at Golden Eye, Calangute – Burmese cuisine Bringing the taste of Burma to the Goan susegad landscape. Filling the air with Burmese and Asian aroma, Zwe aims at highlighting Burma's unique style of contrasting flavours, use of fresh and raw ingredients, and wholesome bowls. They serve creative cocktails, salad bowls - especially the samusa salad, asing thoke (Burmese green salad), and lahpet thoke (tea leaf salad) - wok dishes, khow suey and curries. On Saturdays, get entertained with retro music nights while having a hearty and delicious meal.

Silly Souls, Assagao - The cuisine of Southeast Asian countries The cuisine of Southeast Asian countries is served with a small twist. The chef gives a casual and fun dining experience, literally asks you to get as silly as you like. Hence the name - Silly Souls Goa. It has a spacious outdoor space, serves mouthwatering soul bowls, tacos (served from a food truck), ramen, baos, noodles, dim sum, and their signature dish - Momo Jhol. For those gluten-free and vegan eaters, you will not get disappointed.

67

68

# changed foodscape of goa

Tataki – Asian food This new immersive Asian dining in Panjim is novel in more ways than one. Thankfully for us, it's not going to be a seasonal beauty so we're hoping to spend a rainy weekend here on the balcony, overlooking one of Panjim's pretty street corners. The interiors are equally (if not more) charming. So, go, get yourself their oak barrel aged whisky cocktails, some fine Asian fare and you're set. We recommend day drinking (Blush of Rose cocktail FTW) and Goan chorizo fried rice, Udon noodles with pork belly and Vietnamese style beef.

PHOTO BY RAJAT SARKI ON UNSPLASH

Amavi by Sumera, Calangute – fusion food

Meiphung – Baga Creek – North eastern cuisine (Naga food)

With seating spread over 3 levels, this sprawling chic restaurant boasting unique architecture is all about comfort, style and understated elegance. The place is dotted with plants and the brick walls, brown and rust tones in the decor, lend this place a touch of glamour. The brainchild of Chef Sumera Bhalla, her inventive and sophisticated European food, with top-notch quality ingredients and innovative cooking techniques, stand out. The Seafood and Chorizo Paella and Beef Wellington are the highlights.

Overlooking the Baga River, this one’s as much a day place as a night hangout. Having gathered a fair share of love from the locals as well as tourists, this is one place that surprises you with its authentic North Eastern and Thai preparations. It’s really a breath of fresh air when you’re done with the shacks and craving a change of seasoning. Try their Singju, Tankgkhul pork, momos and Pumpkin chicken.

Wash it all down with rice beer.

To sum it all, a new ecosystem has been created where the amalgamation of global and local, old and new cuisines are serving hungrier but more experimental food lovers. The trend has also moved towards conscious eating. The pandemic changed a lot of beliefs. People have become aware of food and nutrition like never before. The trends, henceforth have opened new avenues for even chefs to transit from conventional style to innovative platters. The shift in consumption patterns is here to stay. The industry will thrive no matter what!

Keep our beaches clean

Don't Litter

issued in your interest

70

# goa after dark

GOA After Dark

“I’m fed up. During the day there is a lot to do in Goa. But what is there to do in the night?”

“There are a lot of nightclu…”

“No.!.. Please don’t mention nightclubs! It’s already been talked about too much. What else is there?” …. Have you felt the same way? Don’t worry. Here are some suggestions to have a fabulous time in Goa at night…

TEXT: SHERYL GONSALVES

Beach walks at night Sure, going to the beach, basking in the sunlight, and admiring the glorious sunsets are an experience in itself. But walking on the beach at night is a whole other story. The air is different and there is a strange welcome sense of calmness as you hear the waves gently crash the shore. The stars are the best part. There are countless stars twinkling and shimmering against the vast dark night sky.

# goa after dark

www.planetgoaonline.com

71

Beach shacks After your peaceful beach walk and stargazing, you can spend your night at beach shacks.

Many of them have beautiful night lights, comfy seating, and delicious food. Some of them even have live music for your entertainment. The places which are popular for their beach shacks are Anjuna, Vagator, Baga, Ashvem, Candolim, Colva, Benaulim, and more.

Night markets Goa’s night markets are cooler than they sound. Here you can get jewellery, interesting outfits, souvenirs, and scrumptious snacks. Some markets have live music too.

Here are some night markets you can go to for a good time: Anjuna Flea Market (Every Wednesday – 9 am to 6 pm) Goa Collective Bazaar (Vagator) - It starts from 3 pm and continues till late at night every Friday.

Saturday Night Bazaar - (Arpora) - It starts in the evening and continues till late in the night.

(Please note there may be restrictions or cancellations because of the Covid- 19 pandemic)

Food trucks It’s so satisfying to get great snacks after wandering around the state. Many food trucks in Goa serve really good Goan snacks and dishes like ross omelette, cutlet pao, sausage bread, chicken cafreal, chicken rolls, croquettes, and much more.

There are too many food trucks to name but I shall tell you some well-known ones – Antojitos (Caranzalem Circle), Jerry’s Food Truck (Bambolim), Noronha's Corner (Assagao-Anjuna crossing), The Goan Food Truck (Cansaulim), etc.

However, don’t limit yourselves to just these. There are plenty more food trucks with delicious food to try in various places.

72

# goa after dark

Just ride

Cultural performances

If you have rented a scooter or have your own vehicle, going for a long ride in the night can be quite fun. There are so many things you may discover like local markets, cityscapes, boutiques, quiet places to sit for a while, great food destinations, and so much more.

If you’re in Goa during festival seasons like Christmas and Diwali, riding becomes magical as you’ll get to see houses all lit up, street dances, big cribs, and carol singers.

Goa and the performing arts go hand in hand. This state has a rich culture. Traditional Goan dances include Fugdi and Dhalo. You can also enjoy Tiatr performances (Konkani plays).

Places where you can view delightful cultural shows are Kala Academy, Ravindra Bhavan, Gomant Vidhya Niketan, etc.

Live music at restaurants Goa's traditional dishes are amazing and worth tasting like vindaloo, cafreal, xacutti, etc. But you're not limited to only these. There is a wide variety of cuisine in the state like French, Greek, Japanese, North Indian, South Indian, etc. Along with these amazing dishes, many restaurants also put up live performances which really amps up the vibe.

Overnight camping Camping is one of the best ways to have a different open-air experience and be close to nature. There are many beautiful camping spots in Goa. It is better to reach out to operators that can arrange camping trips for you. This will ensure safety, a good location, and an enjoyable experience.

www.planetgoaonline.com

Cruises Goa is one of the best places for cruises. Here, you can enjoy overnight cruises and dinner cruises. At some cruises, you can experience great food, lovely music, dances, and gorgeous views of the river. It's a pretty good way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

# goa after dark

73

74

# cycling tours

cycle

Girl-on-a

Pedal powering through Gorgeous Goa In his book Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Robert M. Pirsig hit the nail on the head when he said that the view through a car window is just more TV and you are a passive observer. Whereas on a cycle the pleasure is becoming a part of the scene you are traveling through, and it is just beautiful.

TEXT & PICS: MOHUA SEN

# cycling tours

www.planetgoaonline.com

I

STILL remember the first time I cycled in Goa. I moved here to take a sabbatical from the frenetic life of a television professional, and cycling seemed to be a great way to reclaim some of the health and lose some of the fat that I had accrued on the way. It was more than five years ago, but I remember it as clearly as if it was yesterday.

Maybe I took a small tumble, but so what? I was hooked!

The good roads, the glorious blue sea! Maybe I sneaked a beer while I recuperated and rested my sore derriere, but hey – it’s Goa! In retrospect, I am so happy that I overcame my subsequent trepidation and the dire warnings of all around me and got back on

the cycle regularly. As they say, persistence pays. And a few more tumbles and scrapes later I am now part of a vibrant and ever increasing cycling community.

Cycling in Goa is not about the destination, it is all about enjoying the journey. Explore places at the end of that enticing little road, give in to impulse and turn off the beaten path, willing to be surprised by what awaits, feast your eyes on the endlessly gorgeous and varied landscape. Stop at the little tea stall or “gaado” tucked away in some village.

This is a Goa that reveals herself only to those willing to put their butts on the saddle and pedal for the sheer joy of it.

Madgaon in South Goa is

my base and so most of my rides are in and around the Salcette region. Part of moving to Goa and living in Salcette is learning that Salcette is the same as Xaxtii and that the ‘X’ in any word in Goa is pronounced with the ‘sh’ sound. (You know, like our favorite local food Xacutii?)

Part of cycling in Salcette is also discovering that there is a lot of hilly terrain that sneaks up on the novice cyclist. If you’re a novice, be prepared to walk up slopes with your cycle in tow!) Xaxtii means sixtysix and it refers to the original sixty-six settlements established by the community of Saraswat Brahmin families who migrated from North India and settled here. And really, who can blame them for stopping short

75

76

# cycling tours

here? Centuries later and with all the modernization that has taken place, it is still breathtakingly beautiful! When the Portuguese came here, they could not pronounce Xaxtii and thus the word Salcette was born.

Choosing a cycling route to feature for my first story turns out to be difficult. I am spoiled for choice. Should it be some rolling hills, should it be a scenic river ride or should I towards the beaches head? I finally decide to let my cycle decide, and she points me towards the picturesque and historic village of Chandor. It is early on a Sunday morning and as we cycle through the village roads, what really hits you is the soundtrack. The sun is not quite up, and the absence of the electrical and mechanical hum of civilization, the stretches of rolling open terrain combine to create a quiet that allows you to hear the waking sounds of a hundred different birds (the locals are still not really up!).

We come out of a stretch of

houses and automatically our feet slow down on the pedals, as before us over a hill we see the glow of the rising sun appearing and disappearing in through the clouds morning as though he too is still making up his mind on whether he should rise. We turn a corner and stop short! Ahead is a sight that reminds me why I overcome my natural aversion to waking early ….

In that early morning stillness, the distant sound of the church organ and the choir singing floats over the water. This sublime sound follows us all the way, ebbing and swelling as one church choir hands us over to the next.

Now we are in Curtorim, and across this stretch of lake you see the beautiful St. Alex’s Church in the distance.

Interestingly, this lake is not always a lake. During paddy season, it gives way to paddy cultivation. Come November and December, the lake is filled via an irrigation canal and is ready to support an innovative

and somewhat famous floating ‘crib’ – the depiction of the birth of Christ that is a ubiquitous feature across all of Salcette in the Christmas season.

We spot an interesting looking by-road and go back a little way to explore it.

Bummer, it peters out into a mud track across some fields.

We don’t have the correct cycles for off-roading, so we take the photo-op and back to the beaten path we go…

As we cycle through picturesque Macasana, a village that delights the eyes with its quaint traditional houses interspersed with some fancy new bungalows, all nestled in green, we pass the Macasana lake dotted with hundreds of migratory birds.

We cycle past the beautiful Macazana church, where once again the sounds of the faithful’s voices raised in song provide a melodious background track. I stand next to a local bar and restaurant called Senhor Frog, and take

# cycling tours

www.planetgoaonline.com

pictures of the church. Only in Goa could you have a bar called Senhor Frog, and a local Goan friend tells me that the owner is probably called Bebo or Bebe, which in Konkani means frog. It may or may not be true, but it is a fun little tidbit of local language and culture.

Getting to the next village of Chandor, our nostrils are assailed by the aroma of the breakfast of Goan champions – The bhaji pao. A wholesome hot breakfast that is a spicy gravy dish made with dried green peas mixed with a dry potato curry and served with pao, the local Goan bread.

When you cycle through Goa, this is one thing you discover – the best local breakfast places everywhere! In fact sometimes the ride seems to be nothing more than an excuse to reach a favorite breakfast place!

Suitably fortified with the bhaji pao and a cup of tea under our belts, we set off to climb the Chandor monte, a short but stiff climb that is not

for the fainthearted, and leads you to the Chapel of Our Lady of Piety. Constructed on a hill about half a kilometre from and facing the main Chandor Church, the chapel, like many of the churches and chapels in the region were constructed during the early years of Portuguese settlement, and

dates back to the year 1748.

Locals tell me that it used to be a heritage structure that was unfortunately demolished some years back to make way for a larger, more modern building I think to myself that it is a pity. A breather to enjoy the breath-taking 360° view, while the clackety-clack of the wheels

77

78

# cycling tours

of a passing train provides a restful soundtrack and we are off again.

We cycle down the hill and hit the road near the famous and oft-featured heritage Menezes-Braganza home, and home built in the

1600s and still maintained and occupied by the 8th generation of the family today.

The house features in almost every guidebook to South Goa and has often featured in Bollywood movies. What strikes me as we stop to try take a pic is the sheer length of the frontage. There is no way to get the entire house into one frame. The house is divided into two, apparently each half being owned by a different brother, and starkly different in their look and maintenance – the left side is lovingly maintained and is obviously lived in while the right is dilapidated to the point of being derelict. It feels like even the trees on the right side are dead, and makes you reflect on the price of preserving history.

A few hundred meters ahead we get to the main church at Chandor – The Nossa Senhora de Belem Church which is located at a crossroad and is the center of the village.

Chandor is the Portuguese word for Chandrapur, an ancient city which dates back

to the 3rd or 4th Century and was the capital city of successive dynasties till the 11th Century when Muslim invaders forced the ruling Kadambas to flee. The church was built on the ruins of an old temple, and in fact some structures on the left seem to pre-date the church.

At the crossroads we debate whether we should turn right and go through some gorgeous open fields and the chance of spotting a hot air balloon, or just turn back. We have already covered about 16 kilometers at an easy pace, stopping to take photographs, and we figure that with the sun coming up, we should head back home. That’s the wonderful thing about cycling – you can cover reasonable distances and enjoy the journey in 4-D – sight, sound, smell and heart.

Cycling home we realize that so many of the photographs we have taken and the route we have almost sub-consciously taken involves church edifices.

Salcette is about Churches,

# cycling tours

www.planetgoaonline.com

down quite strongly and we make our way home, a little sulkily because from Rachol to home is all uphill, a factor we did not take into account when we made our little detour. As all of us in Goa who cycle know, what goes down must come up!

So we put our heads down and pedal homewards where we reward ourselves with a hearty (second) breakfast and an ice cold beer, secure in the knowledge that tomorrow is another day, another ride and another opportunity to burn off that beer.

and every few hundred meters you are sure to cross either a church, a chapel or a cross (a khuris as the locals call it).

Remember, I said at the very beginning that cycling in Goa is all about the journey and never about the destination! So we make a snap decision and decide to take a little detour to showcase the church where it all began – The Rachol Church.

We cycle about 5 kilometers to the village of Rachol and its picturesque church that boasts of an absolutely spectacular altar.

The Rachol Church is situated on the banks of the Zuari river and is close to the local ferry that takes

you to Shiroda. The story that I first heard from the priest at Rachol Church and subsequently read about is that when the Portuguese helped King Krishnadeva Raya against Adil Shah of Bijapur, he gifted the Fort of Rachol to the Portuguese. The very first Church in South Goa to be constructed by the Portuguese was within this fort in 1556.

The fort unfortunately does not exist anymore except for one arched doorway that leads to the village of Rachol, but the church still stands, beautiful and pristine, a lasting symbol of when Xaxtii began becoming Salcette.

By now the sun is beating

79

80

# life in goa post covid

LIFE IN THE SUNSHINE STATE OF GOA POST THE PANDEMIC

Doors finally opened to Goa for tourists in August 2021. Considering how the entire state depends upon tourism for economic success, the lockdown had been harsh on the revenue-generating channels. The news came as a ray of hope for the hospitality industry and of course leisure travellers. The high court decision announced in August - to allow tourists to enter Goa without an RTPCR report only in case they are fully vaccinated brought the sun back into the sunshine state.

TEXT: NIDHI LALL

THE STATE GOVERNMENT VIEWPOINT The tourism minister shared that the sector was in favour of opening tourism, but people are being cautious after last year's experiences across the country. Visitors who are fully vaccinated are permitted whilst showing their vaccination certificate. The rest need to go through the procedure of RTPCR tests. There are checks

at the borders as the authorities need to keep the situation in control before it flares up into another covid wave.

Once in Goa, the travellers will have to follow all safety protocols. After all, it is for their own safety. All public places, hotels, restaurants/cafes are keeping up strictly with all precautionary measures while they run their businesses.

The river cruises, casinos and several other verticals have opened up in September after a final 'Yes' from the government.

Goa opened up very gradually this year post the lockdown, although it witnessed a heavy flow of tourists during the New Year's and the first half of January 2021. But the authorities are carefully gearing up for the 2021-year end traffic. It has to be strategic and in the interest of all stakeholders.

BREATHER FOR THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR This year witnessed a lot of business tourists, where individuals choose the serene destination to rejuvenate themselves while working remotely. Work from home, the new norm of 2020-2021, gave birth to new conceptual eateries, working spaces, hostels and homestays. These places gave the working lot a beautiful and peaceful surrounding to work, with internet connectivity services, and great food & drinks.

The international travellers, which bring in the better of the revenues (approx. US $29 billion foreign exchange per annum), are still restricted entry. The UK, Germany, Poland, Russia and Ukraine are the primary sources of foreign tourists to Goa. But at least the domestic tourists are packing up and rushing to Goa for a breather from their

# life in goa post covid

www.planetgoaonline.com

year-long house arrests. The visitors were welcomed to a new Goa, where plenty of new hotels and restaurants with new style menus and interiors have sprung up. The smaller hotels are filling up with an occupancy ranging between 1525%, whilst, the bigger ones have an average occupancy of 55-70% (increases over the weekend). Overall, only 5560% of flights are operating as of now.

Goa is predefined as a party destination. Henceforth, the events and party hotspots that attract tourists in large proportion have opened following strict safety protocols. Double vaccination is the only way forward. These party hubs, for anytime-fun and nightlife, is a great medium to relax and let loose especially during these chaotic stressful times.

Goa's beach shacks, another tourist magnet – have been permitted to open on basis that they follow the safety measures. Many shacks, especially in South Goa, rely heavily on foreign tourists. But due to restrictions on charter flights they have minimal customers, mostly domestic. If you visit now, one can witness that not many shacks are functional. Some are still under reconstruction/renovation.

Apart from the regulars, Goa has seen new homestays, co-working spaces, hostels and holiday apartments boom in the latter part of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. These stay-options worked out perfectly keeping in lieu of the new category of tourist – WFH (work from home) and RW (remote working) – who invaded the Goan landscape end of 2020 onwards. Blue

Lotus in Ucassaim promotes co-living and coworking for digital nomads, NomadGao in Assagaon, The Old Quarter in Fontainhas, Clay coworking hostel in a 90-year-old Portuguese house, Greenspace in Vagator, Moustache Hostel – are few names worth a mention for their aesthetic interiors, good internet connectivity and good food.

While the legacy brands have struggled, the state of affairs gave the new bees a fair chance in the sunshine. Also, the surprise factor has not let down anyone yet.

THE NEW NORMAL IS HERE TO STAY Mask is a must no matter where you are. Sanitization, vaccination, social distance, safe and healthy eating – are just a few of the new keywords that have become a new constant.

Another fact about Goa is that the locals adore their land. It disturbs them when their homeland is invaded by mishandled crowd, and damaged by miscreants. The locals abide by the new norms and respect them. They have already reduced stepping out, than before, due to overcrowding in public places.

It upsets them and creates fear of the new covid wave striking back in the safe-zoned Goa! But we do need to understand that the businesses need to start functioning in full capacity to revive the Goan economy.

The ecosystem needs to work in coordination with each other. This calibration can only be done with support from authorities and people themselves, especially the ones visiting from outside.

The Goa state government is

working on strategic advances to adjust to the new normal and support the tourism sector in revival. Given the size and the environmental vulnerability of Goa, it is wiser to prioritise quality tourism over large footfall volumes. Responsible tourism is the only way to keep this beautiful peaceful land clean and safe.

Note: Tourists travelling to Goa can refer to government guidelines through their website - https://www. goa.gov.in/wp-content/ uploads/2020/07/UpdatedComprehensive-Safety-andHygiene-Guide-Tourism.pdf

81

82

# goa cares

Children’s Day

Celebration TEXT: ARMANDO GONSALVES

P

ANJIM and Ponda came together to celebrate Children’s Day with the stunning event held on 14th November earlier this month. I have been working with children for a long time now with various events having been organised by our organisation, the Goa ForGiving trust.

We have done various workshops and events in schools, colleges as well as slums because we believe that, unless we energise the youth of our state and drive them in the right direction, all development that we talk of will be infructuous.

Adarsh Toraskar and I are old friends, a relationship that started with him joining my company in his first job some 15 years ago, when he was a young lad in his teens.

So, when we met up quite by chance a few days prior to the

14th, it sparked upon us that we need to do something for the bright kids of Goa. Quick deliberations followed, and we decided to have an event that would bring kids together.

The event was held at Vithal Rakumai Hall in Ponda with the participation of more than 100 children along with their parents. Games, a painting competition, a magic show by Shweta Patil and many other fun activities were organized, where the kids danced and sang their hearts out. The guests present at the event were Dr. Aaron Soares, Mrs. Vasanti Shenvi, John Desa, Mahindra Jadav, Niraj Dhamaskar, Vasant Kamat and Mansi Shet.

Dr. Aaron Soares, a wellknown doctor from Ponda, who left his family holiday to be with the kids said a few words to the children and their parents present there. He stressed on the importance

of healthy and hygienic food habits, and outdoor activities for kids while cutting down on screen time.

As the organizer, I was asked to speak a few words to the gathering. I quoted Tom Nettles, “The child is the father of the man". Children are born pure, and it is the responsibility of every parent to nurture and instill the right values in every child from a very young age.

# goa cares

www.planetgoaonline.com

It was so delightful to have Amit Palekar, who drove all the way from Panjim with his daughter to be a part of this celebration. My kids Liam and Stellan too enjoyed being among all the lovely kids and danced along with them.

We, at Goa ForGiving Trust honoured Mrs. Vasanti Shenvi and Adarsh Toraskar for their selfless contribution to society. Mrs. Shenvi has been tirelessly working towards women empowerment for the last 35 years, including providing jobs for women; whereas Adarsh Toraskar was honoured for helping people in distress during the Covid 19 crisis, in rebuilding homes of people, working towards the betterment of the underprivileged section of

society, empowering women and a lot more. The awards were presented to the two of them by John Desa, trustee of Goa ForGiving Trust along with two kids.

We plan to have yearlong events for children to inspire and motivate them, as the

future of our country belongs to our kids.

The event was organized by Goa ForGiving in association with the dynamic social activist Adarsh Toraskar, who ably managed the proceedings.

83

84

# new in town

Say Hello to the

Warm and Welcoming

WESTIN GOA

A pandemic, a cyclone and still making it onto the list of top hotels in Goa, The Westin offers a special brand of hospitality to tourists and locals alike since it opened earlier this year finds Samira Sheth

T

HE Westin Goa opened in the midst of a pandemic while we were between lockdowns. Not the ideal scenario for any brand new property, it is truly commendable how the hotel

has found its niche in Goa despite a sea of hotels here and managed to become an attractive destination in itself fairly quickly.

Located in Anjuna, The Westin is not a beachside hotel. It is a short drive away

from Anjuna beach and while that may be a drawback for the guest seeking a seaside venue, the hotel manages to hold its own and create a memorable guest experience, attracting a repeat crowd in the process. There is plenty to

# new in town

www.planetgoaonline.com

do in the vicinity – a vibrant nightlife, lots of restaurants, clubs and bars to visit and of course spend time at the beaches of Anjuna or relatively close Morjim. There is lots to tempt you to spend time at the hotel itself, with four venues to dine in, including the wonderful rooftop bar Drift with its super talented Beverages Manager Rohan Rege. A whiz at whipping up a mean cocktail, either a classic or a new concoction siphoned and infused with fresh herbs – Rohan will keep you busy with his flair for variety and experimentation.

Executive Chef Ravish Mishra, with years of experience under his belt, runs a tight ship with each venue offering gourmet food. An interesting menu with both the exotic and the regular manage to appeal to and satiate even the fussiest or long staying

guest at the property. Chef oversees a dedicated team and is committed to staying on top of all the latest food trends and innovations. Breads and desserts are made in house and tea sommelier Shree is also on hand to help guests embark on a journey through various teas from around India and the world. Coffee time is also taken very seriously and the deli and patisserie Anjuna & Co whip a great brew of pretty much any kind you fancy.

The rooms are plush and most offer forest views and more importantly the signature Heavenly Beds to curl up in.

Art and design elements are peppered through the property including a great selection of coffee table books to browse through in the lobby. Among the usual double rooms, suites and family studios, the hotel offers the pretty pool patio rooms where guests can dip

85

86

# new in town

# new in town

www.planetgoaonline.com

into the pool directly from their room and swim with an element of privacy at their discretion. With their focus on wellness and wellbeing The Westin’s Heavenly Spa is an integral part of the hotel’s philosophy of Sleep Well, Eat

Well and Move Well and offers great treatments to soothe wearied guests escaping to Goa looking for just this haven of relaxation.

To keep guests coming back and draw in locals as well, Marketing & Communications

Excerpts from a leisurely chat with GM Sunil Kumar “We opened the hotel with a contingency plan. We are a brand new hotel in the city and didn’t want the risk of teething problems. First we had the lockdown and then the cyclone hit after we opened! Our internet was down, we had no diesel and there was a lot of damage to the property. A lot of talent left and our key strategy was to get our talent back after the lockdown.

We had about 100 Associates when we were supposed to have over 200!

Every member of the team who was here however, pitched in and everybody did everybody’s job- the Front Office Manager for instance doubled up and

Manager Swastika Ghosal has drawn up an interesting roster of events. The recently started Sunday Brunches accompanied by live music or a flea market showcasing local artists and brands are proving very popular with guests and the different collaborations are bringing in the local community. Sunset sessions with celebrity DJs, Jazz and Salsa are also turning the hotel into a lively hotspot and draw in a good crowd. A grand ballroom, a well equipped gym and a cheery Kids Club are other attractions. All in all, whether you’re here to explore Goa or just relax on a staycation The Westin Goa gives you a happy place to pause and be pampered.

did valet parking as well! The beauty of our pre-opening was the legacy we are creating where we are more like a family than a hotel. In less than 2 weeks after the cyclone we were back and the hotel was as good as new again. In just a few months since opening, we have generated quite a buzz and the hotel is ranked in the top few on Trip Advisor.

“The easiest slip in our industry is consistency and we want to make sure we keep up and maintain the standards of experience we offer our guests.

While we are a premier hotel and not a luxury one, we want every guest to walk out with a feeling of luxury and a customized personalized experience.”

87

88

# beyond goa

ZURICH

A Class Apart TEXT : SHANGON DAS GUPTA

# beyond goa

89

HENRIQUE FERREIRA, UNSPLASH

www.planetgoaonline.com

Shangon is an enthusiastic traveller and is either just back from one trip or planning the next.

Her dream is to visit 5 wonders of the world.

Why not all 7? Coz nothing is perfect. Yet the joy of living must be greater than the fear of dying….

90

# beyond goa

“Gosh!”

I asked incredulously.

“Really?”

My local host in Zurich had just told me a little known fact about the city. “You are walking on the third most expensive street in the world!”

I held my breath and put my foot gingerly on the very ordinary metaled road labelled Bahnhofstrasse. It felt the same! Yet facts state that as recently as a decade ago, (2011), market studies had listed this avenue as Europe’s most expensive street for retail property, and the third most expensive street in the world.

The annual rent for a square metre of property in 2012 was CHF 12,500 or $13,660 per sq. ft – as much as the cost of gold. Ten years later, the ranking had not changed, though the rents certainly had.

‘Wow!’ I thought, ‘The most expensive street in Europe is not London’s Bond Street or Champs‐Elysée in Paris. It’s Bahnhofstrasse … and I am standing on the road the cost of gold.’

Located in the centre of the city, loosely translated Bahnhofstrasse means Railroad Station Street. As the name suggests, it connects the central train hub to the financial centre situated in the heart of Zurich.

Interestingly, no vehicles are allowed on Bahnhofstrasse (pronounced as Bah-nof-strawus). The artistic walkway is restricted only to pedestrian movement, with the exception of two tram lines in the middle.

Not surprisingly, window shopping is the most popular pastime on the 1.4 km. avenue, where over 140 retail brands have marked their space.

# beyond goa

www.planetgoaonline.com

Indeed, this is a unique claim to fame of Zurich.

A leisurely walk down the well-appointed manicured boulevard reinforces why every luxury brand must have a presence there. Since Bahnhofstrasse has the world’s most expensive retail properties, the most exclusive retail houses have to be present here. Classy boutiques, art galleries, department stores with different luxury brands housed in medieval buildings stand tall – the fresco arches looking at me on the metaled street – enticing and inviting me to cross the threshold.

‘Should I? Gulp….. everything looked so elegant, subtle and classy – yet rich, steeped in history and very traditionally Swiss.’ I opted to

walk on.

Luxury watches brands such as Rolex, Mont Blanc and Tissot rubbed shoulders with top-end perfumeries like Chanel and Dior. Leading diamond names of Cartier and Tiffany had their own monogrammed signature colours and signage.

Swarovski too. Logos of top fashion houses like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tiffany, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bvlgari, and Giorgio Armani were among the 140 luxury retail brands – each name spreading itself with ease and serendipity on both sides of the 1.4 km boulevard. Newer market leaders like Apple and Starbucks also had their own spatial signature.

Lavishly groomed trees

encircled by wrought iron and wood benches peppered the street providing shady cover and a delicate fragrance; flower sellers and manori stalls played soft music as pedestrians (friends, work colleagues, lovers, youth, elderly, and perhaps some shoppers) walked leisurely on both sides of the avenue – stopping now and then to admire and savour the artistic display set up in the shop windows. Everything had its own pace, soft and easy.

Nothing rushed, no pushing and jostling, and certainly no hurry. The luxury of time was the core.

The charming old-style railway station with spires and arches at one end was a warm reminder of the history of the city while the other side

91

92

# beyond goa

wrapped itself round the Swiss Banking centre appropriately called Paradeplatz. The headquarters of the two biggest Swiss banks – UBS and Credit Suisse on either side of the square, eyed one another while Sprungli Confectioners (known for its exquisite custom-made chocolates) sweetened their gaze, while the grand Hotel Savoy closed the last link.

Reaching the end of the street, which is soaked with style and luxury, I decided to leave the combination of elegance, tradition and quality of the main street, and walk into one of the several smaller by-lanes. Each of these narrow alleys merged into the cobbled streets of the older part of Zurich Town, Altstadt.

Dotted with street cafes, bistros and artisanal stores, interspersed with churches and monasteries, old Zurich was as inviting and charming as the luxury line-up on Bahnhofstrasse. Shops

# beyond goa

www.planetgoaonline.com

displaying traditional Swiss products - Muesli, Victorinox swiss knives, Birkenstock, linen, lingerie, cheese and chocolates looked tempting beyond human endurance.

The end of the old town reached the Münsterbrücke bridge across River Limmat, a freshwater river that lazily flowed through Zurich. I crossed over to have a closer look at the Grossmünster church, another iconic symbol of Zurich. The twin spires of the Protestant church

built in the 13th century in Romanesque-style are believed to be built on the graves of the patron saints of the city.

The quiet subtle elegance of Bahnhofstrasse, the picturesque, cobbled streets of the Altstadt Old Town, the walk along the banks of the Limmat River with the reflection of the historical buildings shimmering on the waters…... Zurich is indeed a city much more than the financial capital of the world.

It’s a city of style, elegance

and luxury – a class apart.

Once populated by frogs croaking in the city moat, traffic began with the hacks in 1864. Followed by the horsedrawn tramway (Rösslitram) and finally by the electric tram and automobile. Today most of the 'Bahnhofstrasse' is a traffic-free area. It's the most important location in Zurich for finance and business and the main promenade where exclusivity, quality and variety meet. The Bahnhofstrasse is a must-see for every visitor.

93

94

# spotted

CELEBS CHILL IN GOA Goa is a little paradise on earth for everyone, including celebrities. Here are some stars who came to this beautiful state within the past few months...

Hema Malini

Hema Malini received Indian Film Personality of the Year Award at Iffi 2021

Karan Johar & Manish Paul The opening ceremony of Iffi 2021 was hosted by Karan Johar and Manish Paul.

Salman Khan & Ranveer Singh Salman Khan & Ranveer Singh gave show-stopping performances at Iffi 1021 opening ceremony

# spotted

www.planetgoaonline.com

Minissha Lamba

95

Shriya Pilgaonkar

Actress Shriya Pilgaonkar loves the Goa monsoons the most. She was in Goa for another OTT project. Shriya loves eating Goan cuisine in between shoots.

Jasmin Bhasin and Aly Goni

Minissha Lamba made her relationship with Akash Malik public, while in Goa. She relaxed in a beach property and enjoyed with friends.

Mohit Malik and Addite Malik Mohit and Addite took their son for the first time to Goa this year. Addite spent time with her family and visited a Ponda temple.

Jasmin and Aly were in Goa to celebrate Jasmin’s 31st birthday.

96

# upcoming events

Events and Activities COMING UP Here we have some of the most exciting and refreshing events that you need to march into right away.

MID WEEK LANDSCAPE ART CLASSES WITH DAVID FERNANDES

WHERE: Carpe Diem Art Centre – Majorda

SUNBURN

WHAT: The freshest festival in India, Lemonade is back after a brief hiatus!

WHEN: 31st December, 2021 (12:00 pm onwards) WHERE: Riva Beach Resort, Mandrem

OPEN AIR GOA WINTER EDITION WHAT: Electronic dance music festival WHEN: December 27 to 29 2021 WHERE: Vagator, Goa

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

WHAT: Join them this as they usher in a new era of love and WHAT: Create an A4 sized landscape painting on paper during this one and a half hour class.

WHEN: Every Thursday (10:30 am - 12 pm) WHERE: Carpe Diem Art Centre – Majorda

create an unforgettable experience with ripples of sounds.

WHEN: 31st December 2021 WHERE: Origens, Vagator

BEGIN AGAIN TOUR

WHAT: Ben Bohmer Live in Goa (A Day of sLick) WHEN: December 27 (5pm onwards) WHERE: Glory, Goa

LEMONADE GOA 2021 CLAY WITH US!

WHAT: Sign up for any of our ceramic sessions and discover your ceramic skills with Bipasha Sen Gupta!

WHEN: Every Friday and Saturday (3 - 5 pm)

WHAT: Stellar lineup of International and India acts.

WHEN: December 24 - December 27 (6 pm Onwards) WHERE: SinQ Beach Morjim

GOA RIVER MARATHON

WHAT: Goa River Marathon is a 42-Kilomenter, 21-Kilomenter and 10-Kilomenter run in paradise with a route that starts at Chicalim SAG Cricket Ground and runs alongside the pristine blue waters of the Zuari River.

WHEN: 12 Dec 2021 WHERE: Chicalim SAG Cricket Ground https://www.goarivermarathon. com/

IF YOU CAN SPEAK, YOU CAN SING

WHAT: Divine Union presents New Moon Healings. New moon

is a time for new beginnings and clarity of mind and a healed body is a great start for new seeds to cultivate into action. Join us in Dec for a workshop by Tritha from 4 to 6pm and a healing session with Gong Yogi Sanj from 7 to 8.30pm spreading their knowledge of healing through pure sound.

Register here: https://imjo.in/ Pw5Zj6 WHEN: December 4 2021 (4 to 6pm) (7 to 8.30 pm) WHERE: Mojigao

MONGOLIAN DOUBLE THROAT SINGING WHAT: Divine Union presents ‘Mongolian Double Throat Singing’ workshop by Martin Dubois & ‘Healing Musical Siesta Concert Experience’ by Tritha & Martin WHEN: January 2 (4 to 6pm) (7 to 8.30 pm) WHERE: Mojigao

LET’S SING, LET’S HEAL WHAT: Raga Chikitsa Music Therapy by Tritha & Musical story telling (healing session) by Fakir Baul WHEN: February 1 (4 to 6pm) (7 to 8.30 pm) WHERE: Mojigao