It was a heavy monsoon rain in Goa, my first time visiting this beautiful coastal state. I was a newbie, navigating the Goan roads on a scooter, constantly glancing at my map to find my way.
As luck would have it, I ended up losing my way, and my panic started to rise as I found myself in the midst of a busy route. Desperate to find a nearby beach where I could relax, I decided to take a U-turn. That's when something magical happened.
Under the pouring rain, with my nerves on edge, I spotted a sign that read "Footloose Hostel, Ozran Rd." This place was close to the famous Hilltop in Goa, and little did I know, it would become my sanctuary.
As I entered Footloose Hostel, I was relieved to see only a handful of people there due to the ongoing pandemic. That evening marked the beginning of an unforgettable chapter in my journey. I didn't leave Footloose on that day, or the next, or the day after that. It became my home away from home.
The atmosphere at Footloose was incredibly welcoming. While I hesitate to give it a rating because it's more than just a hostel to me, I must say that it's a hidden gem nestled among the more prominent names in Goa. With a three-sided sea view and its proximity to the famous bars, clubs, tourist attractions, Goan beaches, and cafes of Anjuna-Vagator, Footloose offers a unique experience.
The hostel offers bunk beds, and what sets it apart is the limited number of rooms, which ensures an exclusive and peaceful stay away from the usual Goa chaos. The attached washrooms are clean and well-equipped, complete with 24/7 hot water—a feature that's often overlooked by travel bloggers. As a digital nomad, I appreciate having all the basic necessities, and Footloose delivers on that front. You'll find everything you need here, including a rooftop café and bar, and Shama, our beloved chef, who makes the best chicken biryani!
The staff at Footloose have become more than just hosts; they're friends. From acquaintances to buddies, I found a second family here. Hemant Da, who manages and co-owns the hostel, is a pure-hearted soul from Uttarakhand—an instant connection for me. And then there's Akhilesh, the caretaker, a sweet lad whose helpfulness and genuine nature make you feel right at home.
Before I wrap this up, let me introduce you to the house pets—Plack, Bink, and Pickle. You'll quickly figure out who's who; they add an extra layer of charm to this wonderful place.
As we all await the return of normal travel, I wish you health, wealth, and the freedom to explore the world once again.
Stay safe and happy travels! 😊
Instagram:- instagram.com/footloosehostel/
