Goa booklet goa susegad

SUSEGAD GOA MARCH 2014

Rest. Relax. Rejuvenate.

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The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors and omissions contained in

Contents

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advised to seek specialist advice before acting

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Finding Serenity in a Spa

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Gateway to Heaven

Over the years Goa has been defined for its variety of massages. A hands-on treatment which includes gentle stroking and kneading of muscles has even proved to be therapeutic for many. Cyril D’cunha lists the massages suitable for each body type.

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For many ‘massage’ is a dirty word. It is immediately associated with erotica, placed in the wildly sensuous and promiscuous domain and unfortunately, linked to prostitution. So much so that many of the parlours, several of them the fl y-by-night variety, and so-called spas in Goa, have been the target of police raids and arrest of young girls brought from neighbouring places to ply this nefarious activity. The same has been the case with the wandering ‘masseurs’ who have found clientele even among the wellto-do, particularly foreigners and even a few domestic tourists, who provide this facility on the several beaches of Goa, armed with just a few peculiar oils. Quite a few of them have been seen plying

their trade at Anjuna, Ashvem and Vagator in the north for a long time. It, of course, started during the era of the hippies in the late 60’s, who took these massages when lying on the beaches nude, much to the amusement and in many cases, collaboration of the locals, as well as the hordes of domestic tourists, some of whom even took photographs, much to the disgust of the ‘whites’. These masseurs came mostly from the south India, and many of them did quite well.

The truth is that a massage is not only a great stress-buster but also relieves pain when done scientifi cally by qualifi ed practitioners and immensely benefi cial to the body, such as reducing muscle tension, increasing blood fl ow and

increasing a sense of wellbeing safely. Several leading hotels in the state and licensed parlours and spas provide this experience, easing out the stressed body. This could range from a foot massage with herb burns, scrubs, hot stones or just a head, shoulder or back massage, to name

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a few, in the luxury of posh surroundings and a variety of aromatic oils. But all this comes with a high price-tag, and could cost anywhere between Rs. 2,000 upwards, going up to Rs. 10,000, says Lucia D’Souza of Panaji..

Depending upon the massage technique, one can

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instantly feel the reduction in anxiety levels and an improvement in mood state causing relaxation. It is something that has been used for rehabilitation and relaxation for thousands of years around the world.

Massage is the mechanical manipulation of body tissues with rhythmical pressure and stroking for the purpose of promoting health and wellbeing, and classic western or Swedish massage is the most common form currently in use, especially for athletes.

According to experts, superfi cial skin friction increases local heating, and consequently, causes hyperaemia - increase in blood circulation- within the massaged area. Changes in hormonal levels after massage have been reported mostly in specifi c conditions such as patients with low back pain, HIV positive patients and depressed adolescent mothers, as well as a reduction of saliva cortisol (stress hormones) in dance students. Older people with chronic back pain have also found the ‘back rub’ massage benefi cial.

If you should visit Calangute, Baga or Tito’s lane in north Goa, or Sangolda, the Sukho Thai spas there provide you with a perfect Zen experience. Then there is the Tatva Elements Salon & Spa in Margao, south Goa, for a de-stressing experience by experts. Also the Shamana spa at the Grand Hyatt in Bambolim, close to Panaji, or Alila Diwa Goa have a menu of massages, salts and wraps for tired and aching bodies.

Most spas also use herbs, aromatic and ayurvedic oils for

panchakarma and ayurvedic massages, especially facial massages. Tara Narayan, a writer, agrees.

Since massage therapy is a type of soft tissue manipulation which includes rubbing, kneading, pressing, tapping and vibration on the muscles, it is advised to make sure that you are getting the treatment you need from a properly trained masseurs.

What works for one, may not necessarily work for another, whether it is deep tissue massage, maternity massage, medical massage, sports massage or Swedish massage. Before your massage session, a shower to help you relax is suggested.

Also refrain from eating 1-2 hours before massage. If at any time pressure used is too much or too little, let your therapist know, and remember, your private areas are never involved during massage. After the session, take your time getting off the table to avoid any dizziness and drink plenty of water because toxins are released and the body needs to fl ush them out.

With the law enforcement authorities coming forcefully at the untrained ‘gypsy’ masseurs, their numbers of late have dwindled considerably in the coastal areas. Some miss their presence as they charged only a fraction of the amount charged by licensed establishments. Others argue that it is good riddance to bad rubbish, especially in view of the spate of robberies and even attacks on innocent people who visit the beaches, which take place with regularity.

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Sound of Music The ‘susegad’ Goans have music streaming through their blood. Music is not only encouraged from a young age, it is also celebrated whenever possible. Every Goan lane and house will be blasting music day and night thereby proving the widespread love for this form of art. The music scene in this state goes back a long way. Sigmund de Souza reveals what makes Goans sing and dance.

Goa, the land of gurgling brooks, gushing streams, slow flowing rivers, and shade providing mango and coconut groves, has always held out a mystical charm to travellers from all corners of the globe.

Coupled with the rhythmic pounding of the waves on

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the seashore and the balmy landward breeze all day long, Goans also follow a very easy paced daily routine.

So, naturally, nature’s melody finds its way into the Goan way of life. Lessons of life are passed on through the Mando, Dulpod, Fuggdi,

Dekhni, and other folk music forms by using metaphors that draw comparisons between nature and men.

Historical records reveal that music in one form or another existed in Goa from time immemorial. But it was the arrival of the Portuguese

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in what was previously a tiny island state that brought about the first fusion of Indian and Western music through the sheer course of destiny. And since then Western music and dance, particularly Latin oriented, has always been a part of Goa’s cultural heritage.

Grand street dances, with a line-up of the best bands in the land, are a direct legacy of this unique cultural blend. Goans are musically gifted. And unlike other parts of India, the passion for music is shared equally between the aristocratic Goans and the common Goans.

It is not unusual for highly qualified Goan professionals like doctors, architects, and engineers to embrace music as a side profession.

But there are also some Goans who give up these lucrative professions altogether to dedicate themselves fulltime to serving the cause of music. Shining examples are those of India’s original rock star Remo Fernandes and the late Dr. Eloy Gomes. The Goan music gene is held in high esteem and celebrated in this

land of song and dance.

Goa must be having the highest number of professional and semi-professional musicians among the population than any other state of the country, yet there has never been a survey done by the State government on how many are dependent on or involved in this occupation.

There are no facilities such as pension for musicians in this state, nor was music taught in schools since the Indian takeover in 1961. Only in recent times grants are provided by the state government to local schools for purchase of music instruments.

Yet music continues to be a very important part of a Goan’s life. What better stress relief therapy than an evening of dance and song to just the strumming of an acoustic guitar and a ghumot.

Every important milestone in a Goan’s life is celebrated to the music of a beat group, be it a Twenty-first Birthday Party, a Wedding Reception, a Village Church Feast or Silver Jubilee marriage commemoration.

Music, musicians, and bands

are synonymous with whatever is Goan.

During the mid-60’s the first hippies began to role into Goa. Most of them made Calangute their abode in paradise. They shared everything from food and shelter to life partners.

Since pot was not illegal in India at the time they could freely indulge in it and live a carefree lifestyle which they could afford with their meagre resources.

And many of them were excellent musicians. What began every evening as small bonfire gatherings gradually grew to full size live music concerts, complete with strobe lighting, huge audio gear and well-choreographed onstage performances. Remembered to this day are the Amsterdam Balloon Company concerts.

The Goan youth were stunned by what they saw. Till then confined to mostly Portuguese, Konkani, and country music, suddenly they were exposed to heavy metal. They soon began to indulge in the music of Pink Floyd, Deep Purple, Def Leppard, the Scorpions, and so on.

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Goan guitar players like Remo Fernandes, Herman Abreu, and Chris Correia were greatly influenced by this era and its music.

Eventually, Goa gave birth to a new subgenre of music called ‘Goa Trance’ or ‘Rave’.

Basically this music used a heavy bass beat coupled with different types of vocal loops, synthesizer licks, tribal drum patterns, psychedelic rock and electronic body music (EBM).

The style is mostly credited to some former hippies who continued to live on in Goa way into the 80’s. The famous Goa rave parties, held in the midst of coconut groves mostly around Anjuna village in Bardez, showcased this brand of music that was extremely popular with young tourists and Goan youth.

Though elsewhere in the state, Goan folk, Portuguese and Spanish music was, of course, more popular than anything else. During the 70’s, 80’s and most of the

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90’s Goa had some amazing troubadours (solo musicians) like Dr. Eloy Gomes, Lucio Miranda, Caetano Abreu, Nandino Lobato Faria, Alexandre Rosario, August Braganza and Dilip Chico who ruled the roost. And of course, the most flamboyant of them all was Remo Fernandes. The one place that showcased all these guys in action was the Haystack in Arpora, which opened in 1984 and continued till the mid 90’s.

The top bands of the 80’s were the Symphony, Links, Big City Band, Syndicate and Music Man. Today too Goa has some really awesome beat groups. Among them are the Archies, A 26, Tidal Wave, Syndicate, Crimson Tide, L’Ace, Status Four, and many more.

Most of these bands are in high demand for Goan weddings and beat shows. Their bookings run well into 2016.

Among the most eagerly awaited annual public dances, where most of the top bands

are in attendance, are the Clube Nacional New Year’s Eve Ball, the Mandovi’s Scintilla, Festa de Leques of Sinquetim, Panjim’s Red and Black Dance, Adeus Carnival in Varca, and the Milagres Feast Dance in Mapusa. If you are a lover of ballroom dancing then you have got to be in Goa around Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Carnival, Easter, Independence Day and Repubilc Day. The rise of Titos in BagaCalangute in the mid-nineties saw dance parties shift to more permanent venues.

Titos became the place to hang out and listen to some trance, although there is still a nice mix of live music and electronic music being played at the venue to date. It also became the first place a tourist visiting Goa would come to in order to meet other friends and make acquaintances.

The Titos management eventually started expanding their business and brand. The opening of Café Mambo, Café del Mar, Cape town Café and Titos South Goa, have ensured that this Goan family business has blossomed into one of the great success stories of the Goan tourism industry.

The success of Titos as a party venue, soon caught the fancy of businessmen from outside Goa. There were Tito like venues being opened in different parts of the North Goan coast. The owners were sometimes Goan and mostly non-Goan Indians from Mumbai and Delhi. Club Sinq, an ultramodern beach club in Candolim is one such example. Club Cubana in Vagator, 9 Bar and Primrose in Vagator, and Club LPK in Saipem-Candolim are some of the most popular trance music dance venues in Goa.

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In 2007, Percept, a Mumbai based event management group, partnered with TV celebrity Nikhil Chinapa to organize its first International Dance Music Festival in Goa titled Sunburn. International DJs Carl Cox, Above & Beyond, and Axwell were the headline acts that year. John 00 Fleming, Pete Gooding, DJ Pearl, Jalebee Cartel, Super 8 & Tab also performed at the event. The festival was hosted by Nikhil Chinapa and Rohit Barker. The line-up announcement and early bird passes commenced during the end of October.

Sunburn went on to be branded as Asia’s biggest Electronic Dance Music Festival. After six years of phenomenal success the organisers of the festival had a fall out. Nikhil Chinapa retained the Candolim venue and organised the first edition of Supersonic Electronic Dance Music Festival, Goa, this year, around the same time that Percept organised the 7th edition of Sunburn at a brand new venue atop the Vagator hill near Anjuna, during the last week of December.

A few years ago, another former hippie, a German named Ingo Grill, started a new concept on the lines of

the famous Wednesday flea market in Anjuna. He called it the Saturday Night Bazaar and it was located on the banks of the Baga river in Arpora.

He later shifted the concept to Arpora Village. Today there are two Saturday Night Bazaars, one is called Mackies Saturday Night Bazaar, on the Baga river, and the other is called Clive’s Saturday Night Bazaar at Arpora. Both have an impressive array of local and international musicians performing there every weekend well into the wee hours of the morning.

So no matter what your music orientation; trance, rave, rock, pop, or folk, you will always find your brand to relax too in this

tourist paradise they call Goa. In fact the rise of Goa as India’s numero uno travel destination saw the shift of many bands and musicians from previous music centres in India like Delhi and Mumbai to Goa. Unwind to the sound of the waves crashing into the shore during the day and let your day end on a high with some amazing foot stomping music in some part or the other of Goa..

The writer of this article Sigmund de Souza is himself an accomplished Goan singersongwriter and folk musician. He recently released his maiden solo music album, comprising eight original songs, titled – “Hello This Is Goa”

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The honk-honk of the poder, or village baker, as he cycles around selling an assortment of oven fresh breads. The delectable eight-layered slice of indulgent heaven that is known as bebinca. The inescapable cashew-laden aroma of feni wafting from the local taverna. There are many things that are as inextricably linked to Goa as its sunbleached beaches and laidback “susegad” lifestyle.

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fter more than 30 years as an icon of hospitality in the sunshine state, Cidade de Goa has also quietly carved out a niche among discerning travellers as yet another quintessentially Goan experience. Rising like a quaint, ochre-splashed Portuguese hamlet nestled along an azure bay just 10 minutes from the capital Panjim, this sprawling 40 acre beachfront haven is reminiscent of Goa from a bygone era.

CIDADE:

A GREAT GOAN GETAWAY making it an ideal spot to escape the everyday and rediscover romance as a couple or enjoy time as a family. Along with its impeccable facilities, Cidade’s convenient, yet secluded, location also marks it out as a prime wedding destination and conference venue.

IN THE MOOD FOR GOOD FOOD? For the gourmet, Cidade’s array of wining and dining choices is sure to satiate the most exacting palate. At Alfama, the award-winning fine dining restaurant, a subtly nuanced style of food celebrates Goa’s rich culinary diversity.

In an ambience of intimate balcaos and vibrant murals that recall Lisbon’s old quarter, classic local and global elements such as Vindaloo, Peri Peri, Cafreal and Goan Vinegar are combined to take you on a gastronomic voyage through your senses.

At the open-air Barbeque restaurant, the hushed lapping of waves along the shore is interspersed with the mesmerising hiss of your food cooked over smouldering coals. With its unique feature enabling you to choose from a huge display of fresh seafood, meats and vegetables and have

GOAN THROUGH AND TRUE! Everywhere, cluster-style courtyards intermingle with overhanging balcaos and painted facades, infusing the resort with playful hints of its Iberian lineage. Yet amid this old-world ambience is a cocoon of exceptional modern hospitality and luxury indulgences, right from the cuisine choices and beach activities to the entertainment and more.

In short, whatever you are looking for in Goa, Cidade encapsulates it all. Right on your doorstep, the beach beckons invitingly,

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it prepared to your liking, it makes grilling truly thrilling.

A Mediterranean aura greets you at Café Azul which specialises in wood-fired pizzas as well as Goan fare while Laranja is renowned for multi-cuisine buffets and à la carte seafood specialities. Great for relaxing and lounging at leisure, Doçaria is open round the clock and offers a selection of sweet and savoury bites, fresh bakes, speciality coffees, coolers and more.

Cidade’s chilled-out bars add a wellrounded touch to the gourmet experience with the choicest wines and spirits. From its expansive view overlooking the Arabian Sea, Taverna is abuzz with live entertainment and livelier conversations while Bar Latino’s poolside location makes it perfect to have a relaxing sip while you dip. Truly, the Goan spirit is alive and well at Cidade.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE… GOA IN A RESORT Excitement reverberates across the bay as revellers power across the sea on the jetskis, soar high on parasails and enjoy a range of watersports. Besides beach games and indoor activities, you can even feel the adrenalin rush of the latest in gaming entertainment at Goldfinger, the 24 hour casino, or indulge in age-old healing treatments at Pavitra – Ayurveda Spa and an array of soothing body massages at Clube Saúde. There’s so much to keep your kids occupied too, including board games, daily movie screenings, sandcastle building contests and an array of fun events.

Throughout the resort, the emphasis is on the traditional Goan values of friendly service and warm, welcoming hospitality. It’s no wonder that Cidade is still earning widespread acclaim as an incomparable icon of Goan heritage.

AT ALFAMA, THE AWARD-WINNING FINE DINING RESTAURANT, A SUBTLY NUANCED STYLE OF FOOD CELEBRATES GOA’S RICH CULINARY DIVERSITY. IN AN AMBIENCE OF INTIMATE BALCAOS AND VIBRANT MURALS THAT RECALL LISBON’S OLD QUARTER, CLASSIC LOCAL AND GLOBAL ELEMENTS SUCH AS VINDALOO, PERI PERI, CAFREAL AND GOAN VINEGAR ARE COMBINED TO TAKE YOU ON A GASTRONOMIC VOYAGE THROUGH YOUR SENSES.

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Finding Serenity in a Spa Goa’s stature as a premier destination as far as lifestyle is concerned is unquestionable.

The quantum of high quality spas which have gradually mushroomed all over the state is one of the barometers of the giant strides the state is taking as far as going tony is concerned.

Diana Braganza gives you a sumptuous list of top of the line spas you can visit in Goa.

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Shamana Spa (Grand Hyatt, Goa) The Shamana Spa at Grand Hyatt Goa offers a peaceful and serene retreat for the ultimate in wellness and relaxation. It offers traditional South-East Asian treatments, and that too

with a contemporary touch.

The facilities here, which include a fitness centre, pools– both indoor and outdoor, classy whirlpools, their steam, sauna and well appointed plunge pools all literally supersede the five-star grade

and are spread over a patch of 1,200 sq ft. plus.

One of the highlights is the shimmering reflecting pool and the almost transcendental effect it has on the visual experience at the Shamana Spa.

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times. Their chocolate body wraps are divine.

The spa is complete with a Jacuzzi and sauna/steam rooms and offers a range of services comprising of makeup and grooming, facials, hair treatment and gorgeous styling, manicures, pedicures and lots more.

Sereno Spa (Park Hyatt)

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Here’s a list of exotically named packages which are on offer at the Shamana Spa namely Rebalancing Discovery Journey, Nourishing Rejuvenating Journey (Royal Suite), Purifying Recovery Journey (Royal Suite), Thai Balancing Package, Bali Purifying Package, Indian Rejuvenating Package among others.

Jacuzzis stationed outdoors, vanity stations as well as specially secured areas where patrons seeking a pedicure and a manicure can lounge while they are chiselled into shape. And if in the middle of your treatment, should you require a dose of refreshment in the form of herbal teas or freshly squeezed juices all you need to do is ask for it.

Spa Alila (Alila Diwa)

Club Saúde (Cidade de Goa)

As soft Portuguese music surrounds you and the green fields beckon, treatment at the Spa Alila begins even as you ready yourself for it. They really believe in going the whole hog– putting both the mind and the body at ease.

Two out of the four cosy treatment rooms at the Spa Alila specially cater to couples.

In fact, couples seek out these rooms in order to corner some intimacy as they are put through the luxurious routine of the treatment.

They also have private

Club Saude at the venerable Cidade de Goa resort is an oasis of serenity and rejuvenation cocooned with an ambience of subtle fragrances and sights of Goa within the resort.

Here, qualified masseurs work gently to release the stress, strains and anxieties from deep within you using the soothing techniques and essences of aromatherapy, foot massages, Balinese and Swedish massages to renew both, the mind and the body.

They even tickle the soul most

Sereno Spa at the Park Hyatt is as comprehensive as they come. The best of Ayurvedic and Yogic traditions fine-tuned to offer a complete health and wellness package.

Even the manner in which the decor has been styled, warms you up even before the treatment begins. One does not know when the warm brown shades of the interior ends and the glow of the sunlight which slips through the large glass windows begin.

The Spa promises a transformational experience, integrating timeless therapeutic methods with the contemporary spa principles of aromatherapy and energy healing. The award winning spa, is spread over 36,000 sq. ft. and offers a variety of spa treatments, massage therapies, fitness and yoga activities, drawing on the mystical traditions and philosophies of old-world India.

Indus Valley Ayurvedic Centre It’s modelled after the Indus Valley Civilisation. Walking into the IVAC is almost like walking back in time, with the diffused lighting and pastel wall shades which make the spa’s blissful ambience hark back to one of India’s most ancient civilisations.

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The IVAC Goa operation started recently, but its Karnataka centre is steeped in fame.

Its treatments and wellness packages are custom-designed, with both, accommodation and diet plans, where patrons can take their pick from a new dimension of facilities.

All the therapists have to endure a gruelling selection and are trained at the IVAC in Mysore. It is to the credit of the IVAC staffers that it is rated as ‘one of the finest spas in the world’ by Harper’s Magazine.

Neomis It is one of the earliest spa and wellness centre chains in Goa going back to 1997. Today, they operate five centres in major towns and beach villages all across Goa managed by the Barneto couple, Neomi and Mario. They offer hair, beauty, spa & wellness for families and are sought after for their bridal packages.

Snip Run by the trio of Archana and Sumit Bhobe and Bhavna Bhatia, Snip, like Neomis is another homegrown Spa salon which first started in Panaji and is now blossoming into a

franchise operation.

According to Archana, it was started in 1999 to fill up the vacuum caused by the sheer lack of quality hairstyling options in Goa. Snip’s repertoire includes foot reflexology, pedicure, manicure as well as spa and massage, where highly-trained therapists administer natural, rejuvenating treatments. And with an oriental-themed interior, aromatic candles, Indonesian music, it’s almost like buying a ticket down to the South East.

Jiva Spa Jiva is the Taj Group’s awardwinning, completely Indian and all-natural Spas. The Jiva Spa at the Vivanta By Taj, Panaji is home to a range of old, traditional Indian healing, wellness and beauty secrets.

The spa offers a range of services which includes beauty treatment, royal beauty cures, scrubs and wraps and a whole range of spa indulgence offerings.

Jiva also offers yoga and spa retreats as well as bridal programmes to prep you up for the big day,

The Beach House Tailor-made treatment is the Beach House credo. Housed

by a reclusive beach at Sernabatim, the Beach House, promoted by Sanda Retreats has nine luxuriously designed rooms which offer a mixture of medical and holistic therapies for an overhaul of the body and the mind.

Every treatment is tailormade based on the kind of programme you opt for – from Total Body Rebalance Retreat, Juice Fasting Detox Retreat and Weight Management Retreat to Rejuvenate and Revitalise, Ayurvedic Indian Detox Retreat, Yoga and Spa Retreat and the Yoga Foundation Course. A stay here comes with a complete diet and treatment plan, which is configured after a thorough physiological, psychological and physical examination called a ‘360 degree screening process’.

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Come discover, Luxury is not always Pricey!

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Recharge yourself at Adamo

Around the Globe Come fall in love with an experience that is synonymous with sublime joy and sheer bliss. One of the fastest growing hospitality companies in India, Adamo Hospitality, the hospitality arm of the Ajmera Group of Companies, is charting a new niche in the world of unlimited leisure and pure pleasure.

Adamo, which derives its name from the original Latin word - “to fall in love with…” - provides scenic getaways for global travellers in India, with our magnificent range of holiday destinations in Goa and Matheran (Maharashtra). Its properties also include the heavenly “Vaikunth” hotel for Vaishnava devotees who travel to popular pilgrimage destination, Nathdwara, near Udaipur in Rajasthan. Vaikunth by Ajmera is part of the Group’s CSR initiative of ‘giving back’ to society and ‘serving the ’samaj’.

Adamo properties – currently at Calangute, Goa and Matheran – are prime holiday resorts and exceed expectations with their impeccable styling. Adamo now adorns another gem in Dubai called White Feathers, which is marketed by Adamo Hospitality.

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The Adamo experience – for patrons – is one of rejuvenation and complete satisfaction, where family, friends and associates are treated to a new world of luxury. And thanks to growing customer patronage, Adamo Hospitality is planning to open new properties in Mumbai and Panchgani.

With the idyllic setting of Calangute as its backdrop, Adamo The Bellus (Naiko Vaddo, Calangute, Bardez, Goa) creates sheer magic for vacationers in a beautiful setting with 150 luxurious rooms to suit all Goan holiday moods! Enjoy the golden sand beaches of Goa (just 300 m away) with music, parties, sumptuous special menus as well as irresistible attractions such as the beautifully landscaped 4-acre property, the longest swimming pool in Calangute, La Soin spa, Zaia Bar, Jacuzzi, pool table, chef sessions, beachside sports and games. It’s a sureshot recipe for making time stand still even as you go with the flow from silence to sound; from fun to frolic; from relaxation to revelry!

Around the world, there is a growing interest in changing the way we take care of ourselves – not just our bodies but also our minds, spirit and society. The La – Soin Spa located at the front of the hotel gives you a signature wellness experience and specializes in various treatments such as Ayurveda, Swedish and Indonesian therapies which help banish all your aches and pains and make you walk away energized.

Experience the pleasure of being pampered as you relax, unwind and rejuvenate.

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Secrets to De-stress

Comes a time when we feel the need to charge our batteries. Unfortunately, not many have learnt to relax or slow down for some time and let yourself be purged from tensions and anxiety. Whether old or young, rich or poor, there is nothing like taking a welldeserved break from busy schedules, especially during a week-end.

R.V Prabhugaonkar gives you the options to use in your free time to restore your mind.

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One way to entertain yourself, whether you are a local or a domestic or foreign tourist, is to hit the beach – and Goa has a surfeit of them – just taking in the sand, surf and sea, just gamboling and having fun.

You are spoilt for choice, with nearly 110 km of lush sandy stretches along the state’s coastline at your disposal, whether it be at Palolem in the south, or Calangute, Sinquerim or Miramar in the north, and especially take in the glorious sunset The. soothing roar and dancing waves is a delight to behold.

Goa has in a special way been known to the world for its exquisite cuisine, warmth of the people and of course the fi ery ‘feni’ and ‘urrack’.

Incidentally, the hundreds of hotels and restaurants dotting the state, not only serve Goan food but it has now found ready clientele for cuisines from other states as well as continental fare, served with a variety of liquors of your choice. It may be uncharted territory for many, but who cares. They are out to relax and try something different.

On the other side are those who would want to try the Goan ‘kanji’, a rice gruel which has been the food of many a local for centuries, had with slices of pickled raw mango.

Another favourite outing for locals and tourists is a visit to the zoos located in the wildlife sanctuaries such as Bondla, Cotigao and Netravali, which are well served as far as transport, accommodation and restaurants are concerned.

A stream of people, whether individuals, families, schoolchildren or tourists are seen in these sanctuaries, where prior

booking for accommodation is a must, unless you do not want to stay there. On view are a variety of wild animals, including such favourites like the tiger, crocodiles, sambars, reptiles such as the python and the king cobra, elephants, etc. All under the watchful eyes of the state governmentappointed offi cials through its Conservator of Forests.

Hunting of wild animals is banned in Goa, though unfortunately, several wild

animals have fallen to the traps laid and been killed, either by the farmer or poachers, who especially look for the commonly available wild boar, whose meat is a delicacy and in big demand. They even use sticks of geletine or dynamite to kill them. Recently, two full grown tigers were caught in the traps and subsequently died of the wounds. Frogs, too, are caught and sold for their meat, known as ‘jumping chicken’.

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Weekends and holidays are a favourite time for dining out or taking a drive to the gushing waterfalls, like Dudhsagar, which is another great tourist spot. Regular trips by hired jeeps to the waterfalls are available from places close to them. Sadly, many enter these cool waters in an inebriated state and are drowned. Many of these visitors also show no respect to the surroundings, littering the place with all sorts of trash.

Of late, the craze for gambling is fast catching up

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both among the elders and youth and the mushrooming casino is where they spend their time as a getaway from the humdrum of city life. At a cost of course. Both on land and offshore, these casinos are a cash cow for the state government that is earning in crores from licensing fees, but of late, the casinos are feeling the ire of the local public at large, who realise that their proliferation is not healthy for the youth although it has been noticed that hundreds of them work for these casinos and make a living.

The Winter is the season that witnesses maximum tourist footfalls. It is in this season that all the fun happens in the state. Some of the biggest celebrations take place during this time, like Christmas and New Year attracting thousands of foreigners and domestic tourists. Then follows the Carnival and Shigmo, which is holiday time for all, some even taking a holiday to enjoy the festivities. The Goa government has for long

been making efforts to attract tourists during the monsoons.

This concept, however, has not made much of an impact.

Locals, generally, do not venture out much due to the heavy showers.

Many Goans have found that a drive to neighbouring places serves as a good getaway. They double this up with a spot of marketing in places like Belgaum, Kholapur, Hubli, Bangalore and Mumbai as goods there are much cheaper than in Goa, thereby combining leisure with a little profit.

Undoubtedly, the favourite place to spend for the Goan, just chit-chatting and gossiping is on the ‘balcao’, a seating arrangement at the entrance of the house. Some prefer a drink of ‘feni’ or ‘urrack’ to pass their time just sitting with family or friends, others like senior citizens, just sit in silence, perhaps recounting what has been happening or is about to happen. Parents also take time off from their workplaces to be with their children and take them for an outing either to the spring (zor) or to the gardens, where they can bathe or just play a variety of games. This is not just a ‘time out’ for the kids, but also an opportunity to get them fresh for a week of study ahead. Watching movies on the big screen is another offering for the family in some of the modern theatres. Health camps and yoga exercise is also popular among the health conscious.

All this goes to point out that the sobriquet of ‘sossegado’ attached to Goans is not at all plain laziness, but a meaningful way of spending their leisure time.

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That’s not all, The Shamana Spa offers an unforgettable recreational experience for everyone. Whether you’re an adventurer, a shopaholic, a relaxation addict or just fancy a walk by the scape to a luxury spa oasis overlooking sands Bambolim bay, we’ve got the Bambolim Bay on the shores of North just the right activity for you and Goa. The Shamana Spa at Grand Hyatt Goa your family. For business guests, offers a peaceful and serene retreat for the a perfect way for all colleagues ultimate in wellness and relaxation. Embracto bond over adrenaline-pumping ing the mythical concept of the “monastery of physical activities and brain the Indo-Portuguese Palace”, Shamana Spa offers South teasers that enhance interperEast Asian treatments with a contemporary approach. sonal relationships, team building, communication skills “Shamana” is a Sanskrit word for balance. and lateral thinking. Aquazorbing, Bumper Boats, Bouncy The essence of Shamana Spa is to create Castle, Trampoline Ball Pit, Virtual Games, Air Hockey, a perfect balance between well-being and Pool Table and many more activities can be organized at lifestyle through a serene environment Shamana spa. with an international range of products, With so much to offer to all its guests, the Shamana some exclusively available at the spa.

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Easy Escapes The most common assumption for many cosmopolitan city dwellers is that life in Goa is one big party. The locals beg to differ. Every once in a while there comes a siren call for getting away from the usual life and exploring other visual treats.

Gavin D’Cunha finds out places that will give you more than what you expect in and around Goa. Here are the reasons for you to take up that weekend getaway at a drop of a hat.

Goa has for decades been given a one-dimensional tag of being a place full of beaches and nothing else. Of late, this position is sought to be corrected by also projecting several other attractions, especially the hinterland where actually the rich culture of this former Portuguese colony lies, like historic forts, UNESCO-

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recognized monuments and most importantly what was hitherto neglected, leveraging the comfort, peace and hospitable people traditionally known for their warmth and friendliness.

Tourists and even some of the locals who rarely venture out of their comfort zones in the villages are now being exposed

to these spots steeped in history which is the real Goa. Such spots in the interior are the ideal places for an easy escape to unwind and enjoy peace and quietness. Take Sanguem in south Goa for instance, which has large forest wealth and where one can enjoy the verdant fields in all their glory, especially the

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agriculturally rich Netravali village. The area also houses caves, including Buddhist, and further south the Salaulim dam with guest accommodation.

Despite pressure from the Portuguese, the Hindu community continued their worship in several temples that dot the area. Sanguem taluka, by and large is well served with hotels with reasonable tariffs and for those inclined to take in the religious experience, there is nothing like it.

For Christians, a visit to Old Goa is a must, where they can spend time not only in contemplation and prayer, but also taking in some important chapters in Goa’s history, simultaneously witnessing some World Heritage monuments, like the Basilica of Bom Jesus (Good Jesus) housing the relics of St. Francis

Xavier, the St. Augustine tower, the great Se Cathedral, the chapel of the Lady of the Mount, which is now known for staging the popular Monte Music Festival, and many others.

Goa with its inland waterways are criss-crossed by ferries, carrying not only people but also vehicles, providing an easy way to reach different points in Goa from where road transport is available to travel to the interiors.

Chorla ghat area has also become a favourite scenic spot with scores of private cars and other public transport making their way to enjoy an other-worldly experience.

Surrounded by forest area, this ghat bordering Goa and nestled in the Mhadei Sanctuary on the road to Belgaum, is breathtaking during the monsoons and the brave can be

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seen venturing to take a dip in the cascading waterfalls. If you have worked up a hunger, there is the Wildernest, an eco-resort, which serves you great food.

On the road to Belgaum and around 45 km from Panaji, is Pascoal’s Spice Village known for its organic farming and accommodation availability during the tourist season. If you are looking for an escape from busy city life, this is the

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place to go. They not only serve exquisite Goan dishes, including fish preparations, but also for vegans who can order from an array of dishes served on plantain leaf. If you are inclined for some crocodile watching you could also do that. Cumbharjua canals are where these crocodiles stay in a natural environment where mangroves abound. You could also sight a number of rare birds.

For those who seek to discover how a Goan live, there are many homestays who cater to guests. Arco Iris and Olaulim Backyards, which is in the village of Olaulim in north Goa, also has the luxury of a swimming pool and some great Goan food. In fact, Arco Iris is located in a centuries-old restored home in the south Goa village of Curtorim and provides a close look at Goan village life.

For staying in south Goa, you also have the Mascarenhas

Ancestral Home in Loutolim with an exquisite botanical garden, the Garca Branca Garden of Eden, where they provide a comfortable stay.

The ever-popular Dudhsagar Falls is tailor-made for adventurists and trekkers, and off the port city of Vasco you have Pigeon Island which is a site for scuba divers. If you are still not breathless, then do a spot of kayaking in the foamy waters of the state, or just join the wildlife camp called “The Woods” near Valpoi, in north east Goa. While you sleep in tents or on the ‘machans’ atop trees, you can wake up and take part in rappelling, horse riding and even rock climbing. If you still want something different, then head for the Calangute-Baga stretch and go parasailing, jet-skiing, or hire a banana or speed boat, and if you are lucky you may even sight a few dolphins on the way.

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