Believe it or not, travelling during Covid times has somehow become the new normal. Unfortunately, we’re one of those who happened to miss the travel adventures during this period.
Post first wave in India, we felt very much trapped in our residential premises. Life had become monotonous doing the mundane “ROUTINE” with ample restrictions. During November’20, the Covid cases in India were declining and this buzzed our wanderlust souls.
We didn’t want to travel by air, as we were too petrified to take any risk. Commuting by road was the only safest alternative and Goa is a timeless option.
We packed some breakfast and snacks option with us and fueled our car and left for our destination around 5am. There was no congestion on the roads, and we witnessed a mesmerizing sunrise.
No sooner did we reach Kolhapur at 12 noon than we pulled ourselves for a quick lunch. We took the route of Amboli Ghat and reached Arambol Beach by 6pm and were welcomed by an alluring sunset. The long drive drained us and hence, we wound-up early with a dinner at an adjacent shack.
We rose early and went for a stroll at the beach. Early in the morning the sun peeks up over the waves, and the thin rays glisten over the sparkling waves of the ocean. With a calm rhythm, the tide foams up on the shell laden beach and the waves pound endlessly on the old, worn jetty. A cool breeze blew gently which added to the serenity of an early morning walk along the shore.
At the end of Arambol Beach, lies the Sweet water lake which is a secret-in-paradise. This will be a short 15-20 mins walk and once you reach, the view gives a stupendous peacefulness.
Next, we headed for breakfast to this beautiful café named Garden of Dreams. This place is surreal and serves amazing food including vegan options. The place is a little tough to find so make sure you ask a few locals about it before setting off to find it.
We spent 2 nights in North Goa, as we wanted to explore the other Southern side more this time. We visited the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, which is situated on the top of the hill. We rode to Parra road, which is best known for its scenic road lined with coconut trees, often serves as a backdrop in several Bollywood films, viz. 'Dear Zindagi'. We had a mouth-watering lunch at Viva Panjim. Their Goan Prawn curry is to die for. After Goa's Fontainhas Latin Quarter is a main attraction in Panjim. You can spot all kinds of hues like green, mustard yellow, and blue, along with red-colored tiled roofs, artistic doors, and overhead balconies.
On the third day, we left for South Goa. We were staying at Novotel Goa Dona Sylvia Resort. Trust us, this was the best decision we ever made. The stay was so wonderful, and beach was just a stone-throw from our room. Cavelossim Beach is one of the most quiet and peaceful beaches in Goa.
Further, we explored the unexplored Kakolem Beach. It is secluded and not many know about this gem, including the locals. But those who have been here, rave about its beauty and can't get the view out of minds. The view is fantastic. Getting there is a bit of a task and you cannot truly trust Maps. What makes Kakolem a little unique among the other beaches in South Goa is that there is a waterfall, falling almost the entire way down to the beach! As we parked our car and walked down the stony steps cut into the cliff, the forest on all sides, and no humans at all, it was as if we were stepping into an enchanted forest that nobody knew about.
Cola Beach is a relaxing paradise hidden from the prying eyes of tourists. Encircled by the ocean, palms and forested cliffs, Cola Beach is also home to an emerald lagoon. We had a good swim in the lagoon and enjoyed the views of the ocean as we floated. One can also opt for a kayaking trip down the lagoon or take a quick dip in the sea.
Another remarkable place in South Goa is Cabo-de-Rama fort and sunset viewpoint. The cliffs present a grand view of the Sea. An open sweeping view of the blue pristine waters, palm trees swaying in the wind and a mesmerizing view sum up this beauty.
Another noteworthy places to visit in South Goa is Palolem Beach, Butterfly Beach, Galgibaga Beach, Benaulim Beach, Agonda Beach, Colva Beach etc.
This list is far from conclusive. We've only mentioned about our most extraordinary experiences. Goa is such a place which shall rejuvenate one’s mind no matter what. That’s the vibe it has for all!
Hope this helps. Don't hesitate in reaching out to us in case you’ve any doubts.
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