travel goa inaugral issue

PARTY IT UP!

20pages of where & how

Beach BasicsFashion & LifestyleYoga HideawayNuances of Goan CuisineExclusiveCartoons by Rishad Miranda

Vendor | Travellers | Locals www.goa24x7.com

THE EASY LOOK-UP TO ALL YOUR QUERIES

The New Year is here; the season is in its element and with it comes the promise of newer and better things. With that promise, we introduce you to our passion project - Travel Goa.

When I started frequenting Goa, my friends from other cities started approaching me for information on restaurants and places to visit or stay at. They asked about the best liquor to drink in Goa, the best ‘!"#$%&'’ beaches and of course about the latest to do. Slowly I began to realise that Goa means so many different things to people and that their sense of attachment is what keeps bringing them back here. Cut to - getting together with some friends and laying down the foundation for Travel Goa.

Travel Goa is not the Sistine Chapel it’s not the Mona Lisa, Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar or the Eiffel Tower. It’s a dish on a menu that epitomises and fuses the best

!"#!$%&#$'()*(+$,'$!&$-'$#'$(!'$.#!/&*'0$1!$('$#$234./&5-6!$&7$!",$3,#/'$&7$!&(8$'!#/!,5$by the Portuguese of the 1600’s, which led to the hippies of the 70s and is imbibed in the uniqueness of the individuals that we encounter in our travels be it at a market place, bar, beach or a restaurant. Travel Goa seeks to unify all our experiences and pass on to our readers the brilliance of the ever-changing landscape of our great and beautiful motherland that is India. In the serenity of Pondicherry, the landscapes of Rishikesh, the elegance of Jaipur, the feistiness of Bangalore, the uniqueness of Kochi and the underestimated brilliance of Mumbai, India exhibits an unparalleled multitude of emotions that for me comes together in Goa.

Our cover story this month is on the LPK Water Front. LPK Water Front is an architectural marvel; a work of passion and a landmark of sorts that makes Goa '!#*5$&-!$(*!,/*#!(&*#8830$17$3&-$8&9,$.#/!(,':$3&-$;(88$+$*5$#88$!",$(*7&/<#!(&*$3&-$*,,5$to party it up in style this season. Of course Goa is a travellers paradise but Travel Goa is not just for travellers, it is also for the effervescent, vibrant and vivacious Goan, who I assure you will discover Goa in a manner that they probably never did before, through this magazine. We also have an astrologer’s corner and a Do-it-Yourself section that is brilliant (even if I say so myself!) and will add variety to your lives every month.

From Baga to Valpoi, from Colva to Velsao we seek to bring to you the places that will #88&;$3&-$',/,*(!3$#*5$8,!$3&-$+$)-/,$&-!$!",$'(<.8,$#*';,/$&7$!",$=-,'!(&*$!"#!$(/>'$-'$all “what does Goa really mean to me?”.

Through this journey, I assure you that you shall get something new month after month. That is my commitment. I am hoping you will come and explore, as such, live it up with me and the wonderful team of Travel Goa.

Shweta BajaEditorial Director

Director David Dsouza

Strategy Director Raj Singh

Editorial Director Shweta Bajaj

Publisher Dharmesh Saglani

Design Head

Nivedita Majumdar

Copywiter Melba Mergulhão-Carvalho Antão

Correspondent Sara Pires

PhotographerMelba Fernandes

Marketing ConsultantShail Sharma

Head Offi ce605, City Centre, 6th$?$&&/:Patto Plaza, Panjim, Goa 403001

Delhi BureauA-20, Sector 3, Noida 201301

To subscribe email [email protected]

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

Travel Goa is edited by Shweta Bajaj and published by Dharmesh Saglani. Travel Goa is printed for Shweta Bajaj by Kala Jyothi Process Pvt. Ltd., 1-1-60/5, RTC Cross Road, Musheerabad, Hyderabad 500020

Mail your resumes to [email protected] www.goa24x7.com

NOW HIRING FOR SALES & MARKETING AT Shael is a social media whiz who has changed the fortunes of many multinationals. He runs a marketing communication and PR consulting company. Shael writes a blog and loves to travel.

Rishad Miranda, lovingly called Maoshe is a true blue Goan. Maoshe lives in Goa and is a cartoonist. He is carrying his father Mario Miranda’s legacy forward.

Shannon is a Goan and has been living in Goa for the past two decades. She is passionate about photography, food and biking. She says, while whizzing past you on ",/$@&3#8$A*+$,85:$!"#!$her exploration of Goa will never stop!

Regi is no stranger to the restaurant business in Goa. Over the last 13 years he has managed kitchens of many well known restaurants. Currently he runs Calamari in Candolim and Regi’s Kitchen at the ever popular Capetown in Tito’s lane, Baga.

SHAEL SHARMA

RISHAD MIRANDA

REGINALDO DSOUZA

SHANNON SMITH ANDERSON

We’d like to thank

DECEMBER’11 JANUARY’12

CULTURE & DIVERSITY Bird Diversity in Verdant Goa P63

Travel Goa | Volume 1 | Issue 1 | December - January

THE INAUGURAL ISSUE

Travel Goa Feature LPK Water Front P8

Travel Goa Feature Sunburn P18

Travel Goa Feature Sailing the West Coast P38

Goa Drives Hyundai Eon P78

Fashion & Lifestyle The Indian Story P69

Stay in Style P13

Living Goa Yoga Hideaway P58

COMING UP Tito’s New Year party P25

TRAVEL GOA INTERVIEW Swapnil Naik P26

WINE & DINE P28

MEAL IS READY Nuances of Goan Cuisine P34

MUST KNOW Beach Basics P44

TRAVEL GOA FEATURE Goa-India’s Party Capital P48

LIVING GOA Calangute Beach P56

EXPLORER Biking it - Delhi to Manali P84

GOA & MORE Backpacking in Gokarna P90

GOA FUNNIES! By Rishad Miranda P96

ASTROLOGER’S CORNER P100

DO-IT-YOURSELF P102

CALENDER P104

Sushumna is a hidden yoga school in North Goa. It’s unique, serene and perfect for a holiday for body and soul.

An architectural marvel made in GoaStory by Shweta Bajaj

On one of her many drives in Goa, Shweta Bajaj came across the LPK Water Front. She writes on how this architectural marvel is not just unique to Goa, but to the world and has the capability of putting Goa on the world architectural map.

On one of my drives through Goa, I noticed this big hoarding telling me about the most unique wedding destination. B!$+/'!$)8#*6,$(!$8&&>,5$#'$(7$(!$;#'$C-'!$#*$,*!(6(*)$.&'!,/$#*5$1$6&-85$*,9,/$(<#)(*,$!"#!$!"('$.(,6,$&7$#/6"(!,6!-/,$could be right in the heart of North Goa! After a couple of conversations with friends from Goa, I met the man behind it – Nandan Kudchadkar, who says he has only turned his father – late Laxmikant Kudchadkar’s dream into reality.

LPK Water Front was the vision of late Laxmikant Kudchadkar who died in 2009. His son Nandan took it upon himself !&$,D,6-!,$!",$9('(&*$!"#!$"('$7#!",/$"#50$E#*5#*F'$&2',''(&*$;(!"$!",$./&C,6!$<#)*(+,5$#7!,/$"('$7#!",/F'$5,<(',0$GHI$$Water Front is an architectural marvel that is unique. It took 15 years for it to be completed and be what it is today. My +/'!$8&&>$#!$!",$GHI$J#!,/$K/&*!$!&85$<,$!"('$"#5$!&$2,$6&*6,(9,5$&7$23$'&<,&*,$;"&$;#'$,66,*!/(6$#*5$.#''(&*#!,0$L3$<,,!(*)$;(!"$E#*5#*$6&*+/<,5$!"('0$M,$('$#$<#*$;(!"$.#''(&*$#*5$(*6(5,*!#883$('$#8'&$!",$<#*$2,"(*5$N#8(OO$P$the Goan museum.

As I entered the gates of the LPK Water Front, I knew I was in for a bizarre journey. Set on the banks of the Nerul River and built around lakes, the 26 acre Water Front is a fantasy brought to life. LPK Water Front houses the world’s largest sculpted woman. Plants and shrubs hide almost all the architecture and are an inherent part of the sculptures and there is no signage. As you meander through you see doors but you can’t see what’s on the other side; pass through and enter another fantasy converted into reality.

Q",$'6-8.!-/,'$#/,$;"#!$3&-$*&!(6,$+/'!$P$!",3$"#9,$#88$2,,*$"#*5$6/#7!,5$23$1!#8(#*$#/!('!'$'.,6(#883$?&;*$5&;*$!&$%&#0$Q",$?&/#$#*5$7#-*#$('$!",$*,D!R$H8#*!'$#*5$?&;,/':$<&'!$&7$!",<$;"(!,:$#88$"#*5.(6>,50$Q",$&!",/$!"(*)$!"#!$caught my attention was how the natural and man-made surrounding had been integrated into one. They are not alien to each other and nothing seems out of place.

www.goa24x7.com

Left & Bottom:"The breathtaking sculptures at LPK Water Front

www.goa24x7.com

Travel Goa Feature

10 | Travel GOA | Dec - Jan

The Division

GHI$('$5(9(5,5$(*!&$+9,$',6!(&*'$P$!",$G&9,$Q,<.8,:$!",$(*5&&/$S6-8.!-/#8$Hall, the Passion Deck, the Love Restaurant and the Sundeck. Each venue is more unique than the other and the best thing is that the mood of the place changes completely from from dawn to dusk. It’s surreal and the attention to 5,!#(8$('$#<#O(*)0$S6-8.!-/,':$8()"!(*):$.8#*!':$8#>,':$?&;,/':$7&&5$P$"#'$!&$2,$seen to be believed.

LPK is a venue for lavish weddings and celebrations. The only thing Nandan is not open to is ticketed shows. Delicate attention is given to planning, decoration, the menu and the music to make a special occasion even more <,<&/#28,0$K&/$(*'!#*6,:$!",$(*5&&/$5#*6,$?&&/$('$<#5,$&7$<-5$;"(6"$absorbs the sound, ensuring there is no echo, resulting in probably one of the best acoustics.

But, Nandan says he also wants to open this place to outsiders who just wish to see LPK Water Front. He plans to organise walks and give an opportunity to people to explore the nature in and around LPK in the beautiful village of Nerul. He has already organised a couple of photography workshops. Nandan says he will also organise what he calls – sculptural walkthroughs – with an aim to create a bond between man and nature. Also very soon #/!,7#6!'$7/&<$N#8(OO$;(88$+*5$!",(/$;#3$(*!&$GHI$J#!,/$K/&*!0$

A WORK OF ART THAT CAN ONLY BE CREATED BY PASSION THAT IS UNBOUND.

The world’s largest sculpted woman

Left Page:"The Love Restaurant | Right Page:"One of the many scupltures at LPK Water Front

Stay in Style

Marbela Beach Resort – a boutique resort ranked second of the four resorts in Morjim, North Goa, is a sophisticated hideout away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort nestles between a cluster of coconut groves and the Arabian Sea which gently laps the white sands of Morjim beach as guests soak in the serene ambience while sipping tall drinks, eating delectable starters and listening to lilting strains of music.

You wouldn’t think this boutique resort is just three years old judging by the expertise with which it is run - the hallmark is ‘total discretion’ (so sought #7!,/$23$"()"$,*5$)-,'!'T:$'"(,85(*)$!",$"()"$./&+8,$68(,*!,8,$&7$!",$;,'!:$6&/.&/#!,'$#*5$!",$1*5(#*$+8<$7/#!,/*(!3$;"&$?3$(*$7/&<$U,8"(:$L-<2#(:$H-*,:$Bengaluru and other places. Guests unwind and rejuvenate from the rigours &7$!",(/$C,!4',!$;&/85:$2&#/5/&&<$(*!/()-,'$#*5$!",$)8#/(*)$#/6"$8()"!'$&7$+8<4making, respectively. At the end of your holiday in the sun, sand and sea, you know you are leaving behind quietude and tranquillity – and it becomes 5(7+6-8!$!&$8,#9,$L#/2,8#$#*5$/,!-/*$!&$!",$;&/85$&7$*&(',$#*5$/-'"0

Marbela Beach Resort

A sophisticated hideout by the sea

THE RESORT NESTLES BETWEEN A CLUSTER OF COCONUT GROVES AND THE ARABIAN SEA.

Bottom: "The beautiful beachside restaurant

By Melba Mergulhão-Carvalho Antão

www.goa24x7.com

Partly inspired by the lost gardens of Heligan in the UK, it’s a place that will leave you spellbound. Allow yourself to get mesmerised and drowned in beauty so unexpected you might have to pinch yourself to realise it’s not a dream. A work of art that can only be created by passion that is unbound.

As the sun sets, the sculptures at LPK Water Front create a different mood

To know more visit www.lpkwaterfronts.com

www.goa24x7.com

Stay in Style

Most people in search of a relaxing holiday in Goa avoid staying in the big bustling Calangute in North Goa. But Pousada Tauma at Porba F$883, Calangute, is a hidden gem for seekers of peace and tranquillity. Q",$2&-!(=-,$/,'&/!$"#'$2,,*$#;#/5,5$#$N,/!(+6#!,$&7$AD6,88,*6,$7/&<$TripAdvisor and is owned by Neville Souza Proença. The resort is referred to as ‘a distant paradise’ with theme suites in an intimate atmosphere, a large ';(<<(*)$.&&8:$/,'!#-/#*!:$)3<:$'.#$#*5$#*$,*&/<&-'$+'"$.&*5$(*$!",$",#/!$of the resort’s garden. The resort also has a beach restaurant - G34)$8$, ;(!"$#$<#)*(+6,*!$9(,;$&7$!",$B/#2(#*$S,#0$

Pousada Tauma

A hidden paradise

POUSADA TAUMA - A DISTANT PARADISE - IS PERFECT FOR THAT ROMANTIC HOLIDAY YOU HAVE BEEN PLANNING FOREVER!

Bottom: One of the many beautifully appointed common areas in Pousada Tauma

By Sara Pires

Stay in Style

Beachside restaurant

The restaurant is tastefully designed – white lounging seats that blend with the white sands of Morjim. Personalised service is extended right upto the sun-beds near the water. The beach lounge is decorated in soft, muted colours while music plays in the background – in fact, the whole resort has a beach vibe with the sound of waves wafting around you.

All the dishes are light, full of ?#9&-/:$2,#-!(7-883$./,',*!,5$#*5$reasonably priced. A well-stocked bar alongside the restaurant is manned all day for drinks and cocktails. The manager, Avinash Desai informs us, “The food is

#8;#3'$7/,'"$#*5$!",$)-,'!'F$+/'!$choice is Goan cuisine with plenty &7$7/,'":$8&6#8$',#7&&5$7/&<$>(*)+'":$king prawns to giant lobsters.” The favourite order is the wood-oven .(OO#$;"(6"$),!'$#$/-'!(6$?#9&-/$and aroma from the cinders, not forgetting the barbeque and tandoori delights which are in constant demand.

Living space

The resort has 14 sea-facing tents which actually are air-conditioned luxury rooms that appear to be simple white tents from the outside but, are really a haven of luxury on the inside - bright and clean, complete with a beautiful bathroom #*5$#$"&!$/#(*4'"&;,/:$5()(!#8$?#!$

Top:"A breathtaking view of the sea from the restaurant.

screen TV, a mini bar, a luxuriant king-size bed, a safe and other #<,*(!(,'0$B55$!&$!"#!$#*$,7+6(,*!$room service and you have a completely blissful experience.

Spa & Yoga

There’s a well equipped spa with a wide range of ayurvedic treatments. Trained therapists work wonders on your body, mind and soul providing massages, facials, healing treatments, manicures, pedicures #*5$/,?,D&8&)3$&*$!",$2,#6"'(5,$with an ocean view, or in the privacy of the spa. As expected in the land of yoga, Marbela Beach offers yoga classes for beginners as well as regular practitioners.

www.marbelabeach.com | +91 91 5888 1180


Stay in Style

Strategically placed around the pool are 12 luxury suites each themed in a unique style - The Shell, The Coral, The Aquamarine, The Castle, The Grasslands, The Bamboo, The Palm, The Plateau, The Hillock, The Valley, The Mountain and The Garden suite – each of these has a private dining area, wardrobe, mini-bar and a patio with a private, detached garden or terrace. My favourite is the Castle suite! As you enter the suite, you step into the sitting room which takes you into a hallway with a staircase leading to the two bedrooms and then to the patio. Just plain stunning!

The beautiful pool is the focal point of the resort; soothing and refreshing, it is located just a few steps away from the suites. There is a waterfall that creates a natural forest ambience while you sip drinks available at the pool 2#/0$Q",$'&-*5$&7$/-**(*)$;#!,/$!"#!$?&;'$(*!&$!",$.&&8$('$#*$,8(D(/$;"(6"$gives the resort an aura of tranquillity that is addictive and makes it hard to pack your bags on the last day of your holiday.

The resort also has a spa which specialises in $:4#=-8'* massages with various oils and herbal mixtures. There are packages that include (5$#$, (5$#$"H G'B5'*5'+, I$=$#$1'B5', G38'1'B5', J8=$#0$%$ and K$0#$=$)0'"treatments. Although ayurvedic cuisine is available on request, it would be a pity to eat boiled vegetables when you could be feasting in the Copper Bowl restaurant that serves lobster ,$)$+$, prawn 7$+*5$3, chicken L$*40', tiger prawns, squid in chili or 7-7'%*$ cake made with layers of coconut milk, egg 3&8>$?#<2V,5$(*$7,*($4$=-(*!,'',*!(#8$5('",'$&7$%&#*$6-('(*,0

Pousada, is an ideal place on the Arabian Sea front to enjoy a coastal repast on a private patio or just frolic and sunbathe on the beach. It’s uniqueness 8(,'$(*$(!'$#/6"(!,6!-/#8$'!38,$&7$!/#5(!(&*#8$'!&*,$+*('"0$Q",$*#!-/#8$+'"$.&*5$adds to the resort’s natural environment providing visitors with another /,8#D(*)$6&/*,/0$Q",$!;(!!,/(*)$&7$2(/5'$#*5$#$9#/(,!3$&7$?&/#$#*5$7#-*#$enhance this other-world charm that makes your stay exquisite. Pousada Q#-<#$('$<&/,$&7$#$<#)*(+6,*!$./(9#!,$9(88#$!"#*$#$/,'&/!$6&*'(5,/(*)$!",$serene atmosphere and the homely environment that it offers its visitors.

www.pousada-tauma.com

Tariffs: ` 10, 000 – ` 27, 000 per night

+91 91 5888 1180


Asia’s biggest electronic dance music 7,'!(9#8$4$S-*2-/*$4$,*!,/'$(!'$+$7!"$3,#/$and it does so by getting bigger, better and hotter!

Got ‘burnt’ yet?

It’s the biggest music festival in India and as it enters its 5th year, things are getting only bigger. Sunburn’s 5th birthday will be celebrated in style! The venue is spread across 20 acres with the capacity to hold more than 100,000 people. More than 90 artists are expected to perform. World No. 5 DJ group Above and Beyond, Gabriel and Dresden, Israeli Hipsters, Infected Mushroom along with regulars Axwell and John 00 Fleming will set the stage &*$+/,0$B55(*)$!&$!",$(<./,''(9,$8(*,$-.$('$!",$8,),*5$#*5$WWN$@#5(&$X*,F'$main stay, Pete Tong. Sunburn Goa 2011 will have as many as 7 stages including two separate label stages for Toolroom Knights and Defected in the House. There will also be a stage dedicated to live performances and one for the underground freaks. Adding to the Sunburn experience will be 3D video mapping and


THIS TIME SUNBURN IS RAISING THE HEAT TO HIGHER ECHELONS TO MAKE SURE FANS, FOLLOWERS AND FIRST TIMERS ALL LEAVE SUNBURN GOA 2011...SUNBURNT!

Travel Goa Feature

choreographed dancers and of 6&-/',$!",$7#2-8&-'$?,#$<#/>,!:$multi-cuisine food stalls, activities and games.

This time Sunburn is raising the heat to higher echelons to make sure 7#*':$7&88&;,/'$#*5$+/'!$!(<,/'$#88$leave Sunburn Goa 2011...Sunburnt!

Right:"In the spirit

Top: High on music

www.goa24x7.com

Experience ALL the stages.Seven different stages this year. Each one different from the other in ways you can’t even imagine! Adding to a stellar line up are two new label stages: The Toolroom Knights Stage and the Defected in the House Stage. Go experiment!

Meet new peopleHug a random person when Above & Beyond plays ‘Sun and Moon’ - listening to them live on a beach will be legendary!

Chill out at the sponsor loungesWatch the setting sun while chilling at the ‘sponsor lounges’ peppered all over the venue. With people swaying around you and the constant din of excitement, spectacular beats and strobe lights, heaven will not seem far away.

Get inked (not literally) with the ‘Leave No Trace’ stamp on your wrist – an initiative by Sunburn and United. Driving waste management and restoring Candolim beach to its former glory is what Sunburn and United are vying for this year. Show your support by discarding your alcohol glasses and trash in appropriate bins. A little gesture by you will go a long way. Leave no trace!

Rock climbing & volleyballSatiate your love for adventure by mixing the best of both worlds. Go rock-climbing or lunge for that volleyball on the sands of Candolim beach as your favourite artist hits the stage. The feeling will be nothing short of epic!

Meander through the fl ea market.Take back a quirky souvenir to remind you of the 3 days of mania from !",$,D!,*'(9,$?$,#$<#/>,!0$Q",$?$,#$<#/>,!$6&<./(','$#$9#/(,!3$&7$!"(*)'$!"#!$3&-$;&-85$+$*5$#!$#$/,)-8#/$%&#*$?$,#$<#/>,!0$Q",$,D.,/(,*6,$&7$'(7!(*)$!"/&-)"$items with your favourite music playing in the background seals the deal.

Gorge on yummy food at the food stallsThere are going to be twice as many food stalls this year! From pizzas to sushi, you name it and you can have it. You will be able to satiate your appetite for music and food together. Doesn’t that sound like bliss?

The Mechanical BullChallenge your inner rodeo and entertain yourself with the mechanical bull at the venue. How long will you be able to hold on for? Better yet, take a video of your friend on it and watch them scream. This one is going to be a sure shot laugh-a-thon!

Adorn yourselfBuy yourself some bling at the venue. Glow sticks, chains, wigs – adorn yourself with the works! This will surely zone you into party mode instantly!

Get Sunburnt (Well, duh!)The experience will be ingrained in your mind forever. These 3 days are dedicated to you and your love for music. We’re all going to be there to have a good time and exemplify what Sunburn stands for.

10 reasons to be at Sunburn Goa 2011

Let the mayhem begin...

Over 100 international and Indian artists performing on the sunny sands of Goa

27 DecemberGabriel & DresdenNic FanciulliJunior Jack & Kid Creme,Jerome Isma-aeJalebee CartelMa FaizaATFCSimon DunmoreShovell (live)Spartaque,Anil Chawla & Dale AndersonLiquid SoulLaughing BuddhaBrute Force 28 DecemberAbove & BeyondPete TongSkazi (Dj set)TocadiscoNorman DorayMichael WoodsProk & FitchPearlPerfect StrangerRae (Dj+ live PA) + Shovell (live),Style of EyeMark StorieNawed KhanJanux 29 DecemberAxwellMarkus SchulzInfected MushroomFunkagendaMarco VMoguaiAlbin MyersJohn 00 FlemingNikhil Chinapa + Shovell (LIVE), Mad MaxxClement D’SouzaLost StoriesKaran Third EyeX.P. Voodoo

And many more…

The Sunburn Chopper Taking merchandising to another level, Sunburn has launched the Sunburn Chopper. It is an exclusive <#6"(*,:$"#*5$6/#7!,5$!&$/,?,6!$style, attitude and class of the sunburn festival.

The massive 300mm rear tyre is the largest ever to hit Indian roads. Front and rear custom cnc cut alloy wheels add a distinct style quotient to the bike making it stand out bold. Designed by Vardenchi, the 300 swing arm with hidden shocks and belt drive showcase state-of-the-art engineering prowess.

Vardenchi Motorcycles are the pioneers of motorcycle customisation in India. The Sunburn Chopper is a <&5(+,5$@&3#8$A*+,85$YZ[66$#*5$although the heart of the machine is intact, it looks nothing like one.

One look and you know that there is nothing ordinary about this chopper. The Sunburn Chopper is priced at ` 8 Lakhs.

Bottom:"Shailendra Singh

Top: Shailendra Singh, joint MD, Percept Limited and Neha Dhupia and at the launch of the Sunburn Chopper

www.goa24x7.com

Coming Up

It’s the mother of all New Year parties in Goa. Come 31st December and you can party till the wee hours at Tito’s. But 31st and partying is what everyone does - what is so special about this particular party? Well you can see something, which India has never seen before and will probably not see for many years to come!

The world renowned Ukrainian )/&-.:$H/&<&4H/&<(*:$('$?3(*)$5&;*$specially to entertain you this New Year’s eve with video mapping and 3D entertainment. Video mapping was done by Tito’s last year but this year Promo-Promin offers 3D video mapping. This is the future of entertainment that Tito’s will bring to make sure that you enter 2012 with a bang. Our very own DJ Ajit will creat special music to synchronise with the Ukrainian group. Result - a night to remember. There will be a signature event that is specially being created for the 31st night called A'#*3M8-M"E3$. It will be a combination of live entertainment, especially composed music and lighting that will blow you away. Also taking your breath away will be +/,$5#*6,/':$C-))8,/':$<#)(6(#*':$dancers, Marshall art specialists and aerial acrobats.

Get ready to enter the year 2012 in style!

Early bird tickets: ` 2500 per couple Regular tickets: ` 5000 per couple

New Year’s Eve

At Tito’s...where else?

By Shweta Bajaj

Top: 2010 New Year’s Eve bash at Tito’s


Travel Goa Feature

Our priority is to improve security systems. We will install CCTV cameras at various locations including non-beach and beach areas. There is also a drive to recruit more people for this. We actually received 32,000 applications of which we shortlisted 3000 and are now in the process of selecting. Secondly we are going to get in projects that will help us increase the length of stay of tourists in Goa and those that would attract high-end tourists. For this we are building a golf course for which we have (5,*!(+,5$#$./(9#!,$.#/!30$Q"('$;(88$2,$(*$Q#,/(6&80$J,$have also called for expression of interest for ropeway, entertainment, amphibian aircrafts, appointment of a consultant for lighting of beaches and tourist interest places. So a lot is being done.

The primary reason for it is that New Zealand has been granted visa on arrival. The other reason we are looking at these two regions is because of our talks with Singapore Airlines as they had expressed the possibility &7$'!#/!(*)$#$5(/,6!$?()"!$!&$%&#0$Q",(/$(5,#$;#'$!"#!$Singapore being the transit point for Australia and New Zealand, it would make travelling to India easier. The travel agents agreed and now we are in talks with the Indian tourism board to organise a familiarisation trip by inviting Australian and New Zealand travel agents to Goa. We are also looking at the US market as Goa is a place of interest especially as a wedding destination.

Mr. Naik the season is here. What’s your plan this year for Goa?

The number of tourists have been going up every year except for a dip in 2008. Last year we received a record breaking 2.6 million tourists. This year we are looking at a minimum 10 - 15 percent increase. Statistically, we have no doubt that this target is attainable if not beatable.

The number of tourists visiting Goa has been encouraging so far. What numbers are you looking at for this tourist season?

This is a very good initiative as it is something Goa needed. We wanted to set up a call centre anyway but a private investor doing the groundwork and understanding the importance of this initiative made us believe in this project. The problem is that there are many vendors such as security people in Goa, but no one is sure as to how to reach them. This initiative helps not only the government, but also the industry as a whole.

Goa is not only about beaches. We want to start getting ./,<(-<$!&-/('!'$#'$;,88$#'$(*6/,#'(*)$!&-/('!$?&;$through the year. We believe that our water park and golf course projects will help with this. Goa’s major problem is that most of its tourist activity is along the coastline and is only active for a few months. We want to spread the activity all around Goa and all through the year.

Our aim at Goa24x7 is to be a one-stop shop for tourists in Goa. Whether safety or entertainment, our call centre will be their gateway to all necessary information. You have supported this initiative; tell us the reason for your belief.

Goa has diversity that not many states offer in India and this can be used to its advantage. Are there any plans for that?

That sounds extensive. You are also trying to attract tourists from Australia and New Zealand. Are there any specific reasons for that?

Swapnil NaikPhotography and interview by Shweta Bajaj

Goa is where the world comes to have a good time and that’s when security becomes a major concern as people’s guards are down. Travel goa spoke with director of goa tourism swapnil naik to understand what his department is planning for to make your holiday even more pleasurable.

Making Goa an All Year Destination

We have pulled our resources to promote monsoon tourism and promote cultural places. We have also subsidised the construction of hotels in non-crowded areas for example the Dudhsagar waterfalls. This is being done to promote the varied hues and shades of Goa through the year.

For tourism it’s important that Goa becomes a year around destination and that is happening at a steady pace, but what efforts are being taken by the Goa Tourism Department to speed up the process to reach its target?

As beautiful and popular a tourist destination might be, there is a constant need to give the traveller new experiences. What’s your plan to constantly re-invent Goa?

You are right. Nowadays tourists are not content with a singular experience during their visit. They want varied experiences and Goa undoubtedly has a lot of variety. We know that a lot of tourists also like to visit Hampi in Karnataka, so we are tying up with the Deccan Odyssey – Karnataka’s luxury train service as well as a similar train service in Maharashtra. We are attempting to tie these two states through rail routes to make a triangle, ;"(6"$;(88$)/,#!83$2,*,+!$%&#0

Top: Mr. Swapnil Naik, Director, Goa Tourism

MR. NAIK, IT’S BEEN A PLEASURE AND WE HOPE OUR ASSOCIATION CONTINUES IN MAKING GOA WHAT WE ALL ENVISION IT TO BE.


Travel Goa Interview

Q",$9,/3$*#<,$Q,#$N#7V$('$(*!/()-(*)0$1!$5,+*(!,83$'!(/'$&*,F'$curiosity and I was lucky enough to get a chance to check it out. A strong aroma of freshly baked cakes and pastries permeates the air as you enter and that is more than enough temptation to spend a while in this cosy place.

Q",$6#7V$('$',!$(*$#*$&85$H&/!-)-,',$house and that adds to its charm. A high ceiling and heavy beams give (!$#$*(6,$/-'!(6$8&&>$!"&-)"$!",$5V6&/$is modern. I was greeted warmly by Vandana Naik who runs the place in partnership with Vivek Dempo. I "#5$!&$+*5$&-!$"&;$!",$*#<,$\Q,#$N#7VF$6#<,$#2&-!$#*5$]#*5#*#$!&85$me that it was Vivek’s brainchild. He had purchased the Brooke Bond

THE VARIETY IS NOTHING SHORT OF EXCELLENCE.

Wine & Dine

Tea bungalow and from there came !",$*#<,$\Q,#$N#7VF$7&/$!",(/$.&.-8#/$outlet in Fontainhas, Panjim.

I checked out the menu and although everything was enticing, especially the B.E.A.T. (bacon, egg, avocado, tomato) sandwich, I settled for the A5'630+- chicken and turkey sandwiches. Every bite was 7-8+88(*)0$17$3&-$#/,$#$7#*$&7$L,D(6#*$food then the A5'630+- sandwich is a must. The servings are substantial and offer good value for money.

I walked over to the cake counter and the variety was nothing short of excellence. Everything is fresh and prepared on the spot. If you are alone, there is a bookshelf with several books for a lazy afternoon

By Charmaine D’SouzaPhotography by Melba Fernandes

whilst munching a delectable sandwich.

The trademark of this place is the red velvet cupcakes which are usually sold out. Vandana admitted with a proud smile that she had sold 200 cupcakes in one day a week back. Her foodosophy is “eat the best you can and no matter what you eat make sure it’s tasty!”

I can tell you that one delicious trip !&$!"('$7#(/3!#8,$6#7V$('$2&-*5$!&$keep you going back for more.

Top:"A family enjoying Sunday 2/-*6"$#!$!",$Q,#$N#7V$

28 | Travel GOA | Dec - Jan www.goa24x7.com

Tea Café

A regal treatZamu’s - which is a combination of two brothers’ names ‘Zal’ and ‘Murad’ - was started by Darius Cursetji and his wife Guleen in 1988 and has been around for 23 years, which says a lot for its quality and ability to draw the crowds year after year. Zamu’s was started with the idea of concentrating solely on sizzlers, but after trying out Parsi dishes which received fantastic client response, the proprietors decided to include Parsi specialities on their menu.

Today, there are four young partners running Zamu’s – they are Murad Cursetji, Neharika Diveya, Shakunt Agarwal and Pratik Chamadia. Shakunt enthusiastically proclaims !"#!$\7/(,*5'"(.F$+/'!$2/&-)"!$the foursome together and the ‘business’ interest followed. The place is charming and the minute 3&-$'!,.$(*$3&-F/,$+88,5$;(!"$#$',*',$of relaxation while the thatched roof and well-spaced tables keep your dinner-table conversations private and quiet. Shakunt points out, “People come to Zamu’s because of its trusted food quality and especially to take back their parcelled favourites. It was these die-hard Zamu’s fans who suggested that we open a branch in Goa and voilà; we are here!”

An intriguing choice on the menu is the 3-step sizzler programme: First, choose your meat - chicken, beef, pork or any sea-food. Second, choose 3 sides from potatoes to different varieties of rice. Third, pick a sauce of your choice - barbecue, Asian barbecue, honey mustard, honey and red pepper, chilli garlic and many more. Then enjoy a piping hot sizzler of your choice!

The *4##'-) and 7'#:$%') are not what one would conventionally expect as both are served with a difference but you will have to make a trip to ^#<-F'$!&$+*5$!"#!$&-!0$J"(8,$5(*(*)$at Zamu’s do not forget to have the hand-tossed ice cream that’s #9#(8#28,$(*$!;&$?#9&-/':$#./(6&!$ and mango.

So if you’re looking for a change in food, location or crowd then giveZamu’s a look up, where contentment is guaranteed.

Zamu’s - Manga, near Sun Village, Arpora, GoaMeal for two: ` 1,500

Zamu’s

Sizzling in Goa!

By Charmaine D’Souza

Everyone needs to be pampered after a tough week of chores and hectic career demands. Some like to relax in the lush landscape of Goa, soak in the sun and enjoy delicious food. But most E3-%1$#) want a simple breakfast of bread and eggs followed by a traditional noon meal. A few chilled beers and a stroll on the beach where the sand plays with our toes completes the evening. We share a close connection to the earth and feel restless if we are away too long from her loving embrace. But that’s what VIVO the 24-hour restaurant of the Alila Diwa Goa resort, offers – an idyllic escape from tedious routine!

S(!-#!,5$#<(5'!$.#553$+,85'$#*5$*,'!8,5$#8&*)$!",$6&#'!8(*,$&7$!",$L#C&/5#$beach, the Alila Diwa Goa resort is about 20 minutes drive from the Dabolim airport. The resort has an earthy ambience – you feel you are returning home after taking a long trip to a far off land! Of course, in case you are hungry, VIVO has a buffet with a large variety of delicacies. Situated at the .&&8'(5,$!&$)(9,$3&-$#$8,('-/,83$7,,8:$(!$"#'$+9,$8(9,$>(!6",*'$;(!"$#$',.#/#!,$vegetarian kitchen.

VIVO

AMIDST PADDY FIELDS AND NESTLED ALONG THE COASTLINE OF THE MAJORDA BEACH, THE ALILA DIWA GOA RESORT IS ABOUT 20 MINUTES DRIVE FROM THE DABOLIM AIRPORT.

Wine & Dine

Royal breakfast

_&-$6#*$"#9,$3&-/$+88$'(!!(*)$6&<7&/!#283$(*'(5,$!",$,D!,*'(9,$/,'!#-/#*!$or enjoy your meal beside the pool. True to the )4)-&$8 lifestyle that Goa is famous for, breakfast is served till 11 a.m. The popular eggs-n-bread is offered in a variety of ways with the choice left entirely to you. Choose from exotic vegetables and bacon and add it to the eggs – sometimes baby potatoes, tomatoes and baked button mushrooms are tasty accompaniments. An array of bread is served in dainty cane baskets while smoked pork sausages, chicken sausages and smoked salmon can be relished too.

Diet watchers can enjoy fresh juices or sliced seasonal fruits along with cereal served with warm or cold skimmed milk. If you want a heavy breakfast have the delicious"6$#$05$) with ,$01$"8$5' and a glass of sweet +$))' prepared before your eyes or make your own sandwiches from scratch with your choice of bread and a selection of vegetarian and non vegetarian +88(*)'0$Q",$8-)' chicken 0'11$ stuffed into Goa’s traditional coal-oven baked

By Bindiya Arondekar

6$3 - lightly toasted and served with mint mayo makes for a yummilicious Indian burger! Enjoy a piping hot pizza with a topping of your choice made in the live kitchen. At the end of it all, sip a foamy cappuccino while you stare dreamily into the scenic surroundings.

Exotic meals

An assortment of salads, soups and )53#7$) provide a good start to lunch or dinner. The pan Asian live kitchen dishes out piping hot food of the orient while Indian favourites are available at the @$)3' kitchen. Also, there are many 0$%833# specialities

to choose from. But, the winning combination, is the steamed 7$),$0' /(6,$',/9,5$;(!"$+'"$&/$./#;*$*4##: tempered with ginger and *4##: leaves. The signature dessert is a show-stopper and leaves you craving for the subtle blend of textures of the nutty cracker, silky smooth ice cream and the fondant that oozes pure delight.

Family Sunday brunch

Last but not least, the exotic family S-*5#3$2/-*6"$('$#$7-*4+88,5$experience with foot tapping music, use of the pool and drinks galore for adults. The children are taken

care of by a professional baby-sitting service while the parents let down their hair and have a blast. A special children’s buffet - coastal, Mediterranean and pan Asian - is prepared so that the kids are comfortable in their own little world.

All in all, VIVO provides a sophisticated resort experience in a home-away-from-home ambience in the bosom of nature in Majorda that infuses you with the N3'-"8-"='=#-. But that’s not surprising at all - after all, the word ‘vivo’ in Portuguese means to be truly alive!

VIVOAlila Diwa Goa,Adao Waddo, Majorda+91 832 274 6800/01

For Sunday brunch registration and queries Call: +91 9049997533

Open 24 Hrs.


Come Alive!

Conveniently situated in the heart of Vasco-da-Gama city is a 4-star business hotel The HQ’s, in which Ori is the pan Asian restaurant.

You might linger on the detailed menu for quite some time, especially if you are new to oriental cuisine and want to get adventurous with it. Help is close at hand – from the courteous staff - if you get lost in the menu and its mesmerizing details. Complimentary items on the table are prawn crackers served with sweet chilli dip and pickled vegetables. Also, on the menu is a wide selection of wines which are a perfect accent to a good meal. You could also try the green tea to rid your body off its toxins or relax your mind with the jasmine tea.

For starters gorge on the tempura prawns served with"9$)$7'"sauce and soy 5(.0$B$;#/*(*)$7&/$!"&',$&7$3&-$;"&$;(88$"#9,$!",(/$+/'!$!#'!,$&7$9$)$7' - it is dangerously pungent! Choose from deep fried strips of calamari, rice paper rolls, Chinese peking duck and spring rolls with pickled plum dip or the heavenly Thai beef. The (',"O4,$&/$N"(*,',$5-<.8(*)'$+88,5$;(!"$'<&>,5$chicken, is a must especially with sweet chilli dip. The platter of neatly stacked O4#4,'"Sushi served with 9$)$7' and light soy sauces succeed in kindling your senses. The pick of the day would be Chef Raj’s original Spiced H#/6,8$A#'!$4$.#'!/3$.#/6,8'$+88,5$;(!"$'.(63$9,),!#28,'0

No pan Asian cuisine is complete without a healthy dose of soups and '#8#5'0$Q",$K('",/<#*F'$'&-.$('$#$)(*),/$#*5$!-/<,/(6$?#9&-/,5$6&6&*-!$broth with prawns, squid and mussels. Plenty of options are available for those who have intolerance to seafood including the familiar D3,"P4, with vegetable or chicken pieces and the popular sweet corn soup.

WHEN YOU ARE IN THE HARBOUR TOWN, LET YOURSELF BE SEDUCED BY ORIENTAL CUISINES THAT LEAVE YOUR TASTE BUDS TINGLING FOR MORE...

Ori

An oriental delight

By Bindiya Arondekar

The mains are served with a portion of jasmine rice, steamed or fried. A spicy kick of the red Thai *4##: married with the subtle and delicate ?#9&-/$&7$!",$/(6,$<()"!$),!$3&-$speechless for a few moments. There is a separate section for sea-food and meats – wok-fried crab, szechwan jumbo prawns tossed in onion and hints of pepper, honey glazed duck, the traditional Indonesian @-%8$%& (lamb or beef curry) and stir fry beef and pork with exquisite sauces. Looking for some noodle fun, try the K--"E3#-%& – stir fried vermicelli rice noodles tossed with egg, chicken, shrimps and bean sprouts or go ahead with the vegetarian G$8"K-- noodles.

The extensive dessert menu will ignite your sweet cravings. Perfectly poached lychee resting in vodka, topped with a dollop of vanilla ice-cream is a sweet ending to a delicious meal. Chocolate lovers can have an absolute treat with the rich chocolate pudding. Also offered are banana, apple and pineapple 7/(!!,/'$;(!"$6(**#<&*$?#9&-/,5$honey and ice-cream, )$&3 pudding, date pancakes or @4N$1 - a fruit salad sprinkled with subtle hints of cinnamon.

Whether serving Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Thai and Malay cuisine, Ori truly lives up to the spirit of the East and offers the best in a tantalising menu that leaves your taste buds tingling for more – as you simultaneously unwind, lose yourself in the soft ambiance and relish authentic &/(,*!#8$?#9&-/'0

The HQ, Ori restaurantSwatantra Path, Vasco-da-Gama, GoaTel.: +91 832 250 0015 / 16 / 17 / 18

Lunch: 12.30pm to 3.00pmDinner: 7.00pm to 11.00

Meal for two: ` 800


Wine & Dine

www.goa24x7.com

Would you go into any restaurant and order sweet chicken 0'11$? Would you go to an Italian restaurant and ask for a",$)$+$$+88,5$/('&!!&`$A9,*$(7$3&-$5(5:$;&-85$3&-$),!$!",$,D#6!$?#9&-/$&7$!",$&/()(*#8$/#;$#))/,''(9,$+/,$'!#/!,/$of the former or experience the delicacy of the latter? I emphatically state, aU,+*(!,83$*&!Rb

Every cuisine has to be respected for its unique taste, use of ingredients #*5$./,',*!#!(&*0$Q",/,$('$*&$5&-2!$!"#!$!",$9#/(,5$?#9&-/'$&7$%&#*$6-('(*,$have been underrated primarily because of the shortage of authentic Goan cuisine outside Goa. This shortage may give Goan cuisine exclusivity but it also creates ignorance amongst weekend visitors who don’t make the effort to understand Goan cuisine that has to be enjoyed and respected for its individuality and most of all Goa’s )4)-&$83 aspect - inadvertently a very '()*(+6#*!$7,#!-/,$&7$%&#*$6-8!-/,0

A popular Konkani proverb $8',"N-=?",$&'#"8-="c+/'!$,#!:$!",*$./#3T$!3.(+,'$the attitude of Goans to prayer and food. Both are integral parts of our culture #*5$/,?,6!$#$.#/#88,8$5,9&!(&*$!&$8(7,0

The Nuances of Goan Cuisine

GUESTS WHO ARE UNAWARE OF THE NUANCES OF GOAN COOKING ASSUME THAT GOAN FOOD CAN BE ADJUSTED TO SUIT INDIVIDUAL PALATES AND PREFERENCES AND STILL RETAIN ITS ORIGINAL FLAVOUR.

The Meal is Ready

Goan cuisine varies and is broadly divided into Catholic and O$#$)9$0 or Hindu cuisine. The more popular Catholic cuisine has traces of Portuguese (*?-,*6,'$;"(6"$('$9,/3$9('(28,$(*$!",$'.(63$7#/,$&7$$,730"0'1, ='%8$+33 and *$2#-$+$#<&*)$&!",/'$#*5$<&'!83$*&*49,),!#/(#*$;(!"$'!/&*)$?#9&-/'$&7$!",$locally distilled alcoholic brew Q-%' and vinegar.

The O$#$)9$0$&/$M(*5-'$6-('(*,$('$.,'6&49,),!#/(#*$;"(6"$(*68-5,'$+'"$#*5$is considered non-vegetarian by the Goan O$#$)9$0) or Hindus. Legend has it that when the Saraswati River dried up, the O$#$)9$0)"who could not 7#/<$;,/,$.,/<(!!,5$!&$,#!$',#7&&5$#*5$+'"0$Q"('$6-('(*,$;"(6"$('$8,''$'.(63$(because of the use of jaggery, lime and variations of grated and ground coconut) and boasts of its own favourites like 1$015$0-,, 03%8$1$&7$+'"$&/$veggies, ,33%&$*5'"&$00' and 75$%&#$"533,$% (a different version of the more popular mackerel *4##: of the Catholics) alongside a host of various +3%*5-) (pickles) and 6$6$8).

Goa presents a stiff challenge to restaurateurs as the genial climate brings in hoards of visitors with different expectations of food and fun. Unfortunately

By Reginaldo Dsouza


for many visitors and tourists, Goan cuisine is limited to just )3#630-+:$+'"$*4##:, L$*40', *$2#-$+, ='%8$+33 and the varied preparations of prawn #-*5-$83 (mistakenly called prawn ,$)$+$ by tourists). Visitors cannot savour the (*!/(*'(6$?#9&-/'$&7$!",$)$,$#$*5'"1388':$!",$&9,/.&;,/(*)$?#9&-/$&7$$2-'N3$8$, the afore mentioned sweet-ish 1$015$0-,, the sumptuous beef and !&*)-,$./,.#/#!(&*'$&/$!",$'-.,/(&/$6&-'(*$&7$!",$%&#*$+'""*4##: - the regal caldin dish of seafood and local vegetables.

Some of our guests who are unaware of the nuances of Goan cooking assume that Goan food can be adjusted to suit individual palates and ./,7,/,*6,'$#*5$'!(88$/,!#(*$(!'$&/()(*#8$?#9&-/0

Comments like “Oh, I asked the cook to make a non-spicy $,730"0'1; it tasted ok but it didn’t taste like the $,730"0'1$1$"#5$#!$d_^F'$"&-',b$?#22,/)#'!$me as there is no ‘non spicy’ $,730"0'1 or for that matter, there is no ‘thin L$*40' gravy’. C,73"0'1 translates to a sour-spicy *4##: - $,730 (sour) and 0'1 c'.(63T0$17$3&-/$.#8,!!,$6#**&!$"#*58,$!",$+/,$&7$!",$&/()(*#8$$,730"0'1"then 3&-$"#9,$'(<.83$*&!$!#'!,5$!",$#-!",*!(6$?#9&-/$&7$!",$5('"0$Q",$8,''$'.(63$)$,7$#$*5'$+'"$6-//3$;&-85$2,$!",$*,D!$6"&(6,$!&$!",$+,/3$'&-/$#*5$'.(63$$,730"0'1. Requesting the cook to amend the taste of the $,730"0'1 compels

Regi is an accomplished restaurateur in Baga-Candolim with over 13 years experience in managing successful restaurants and catering for Goa’s elite. He currently manages Regi’s Kitchen at Capetown Bar in Baga and Calamari shack in Sinquerim.

Bottom: Food with a view

him to dilute the ‘sting’ of $,730"0'1 with tomato ketchup or tomato puree to give it a semblance of the original colour which makes the curry quite ‘yucky’. Another common practice is to use synthetic vinegar for the original home brewed vinegar which, unfortunately, reduces the authenticity of typical Goan dishes. The same is true when home-made ,$)$+$)"for *4##'-), L$*40'):$5/3$+'":$+3%*5-) and *$2#-$+ are replaced by poor substitutes and ready to eat packets which restaurants are forced to use when chefs lack expertise in Goan cuisine, but are compelled to try their hand at every dish solely for commercial returns.

We want our visitors to enjoy our cuisine in its authentic form so that they have a true Goan experience. Just ask your gracious host to explain the dishes you don’t understand and detail your preferences and choices to get the best they have to offer, and in turn, partake in the best that Goa offers. Don’t return home with an imitation version of Goa and its cuisine – buddy, you deserve the best and we want to give you the best in true Goan hospitality!

Top & Bottom: Guests at the ever popular Calamari

The Meal is Ready


Baga, Goa0832 227 6090, 227 7587

www.cavala.com

Sailing through the majestic Indian Ocean is a wonderful experience, writes Shael Sharma who sailed from Goa to Mumbai.

A Sail Down the Indian West CoastPhotography and story by Shael Sharma

As an amateur sailor with a few years on the water behind me, mostly in and around Bombay Harbour, some in the harbours off the Isle of Wight, UK, Marseilles, France and Thailand, it was always a dream to sail longer distances on the oceans.

The opportunity to get on a longer blue water sail came my way almost by accident on a dream of a 45 footer Grand Soleil motor sailor making its way back to Mumbai, from Colombo via Goa. Now this was a more luxurious and advanced boat than any I’d been on before. The typical sailboats in Bombay Harbour are century old Sea Birds, some Lightnings, Lasers, this that and the other, but very few Grand Soleil or others in its class. This beauty had a spectacular wooden deck, motorised sails, hot and cold running water, twin volvo-penta oil burners to push you ahead in dead wind conditions that happen often on long sails when the wind drops to a crawl. It really was a revelation with its autopilot and other bells and whistles.


THE RIGOUR OF THE WATCH, THE FALLING MERCURY AND THE MOONLIGHT ON THE OPEN SEA WERE A REVELATION.

India can be a tough place to sail in with its bureaucratic red-tape and 2(O#//,$/,)-8#!(&*'0$S&$"#9(*)$8(9,5$5&;*$#$9,/3$,#/83$<&/*(*)$?$()"!$!&$%&#$and the requisite paper work with the passport and such out of the way, it was on a beautiful sunset that I was delivered to the mooring in Coco Beach 2,3&*5$K&/!$B)-#5#$&*$#$'<#88$(*?$#!#28,0$1*$!",$)8(*!$&7$!",$5-'>:$1$6&-85$',,$Vijay Mallya’s luxury yacht, The Indian Empress, anchored right next to us. It was surreal, like a painting in white, gold and mahogany.

Getting out of the mooring and heading to sea was a sequence of port permissions and manifesto details; eventually we were in compliance with every piece of red tape that could be thrown at us. With everything securely stowed, and a guided tour of facilities, quaint sailor dos and don’ts later from the Captain, we retrieved anchor and set off. Indian coasts are typically polluted with noisy barges laden with ore or coal and other assorted cargo !/#7+$6$!"#!$.&',$#$6"#88,*),$!&$2&!"$*#9()#!(&*$#*5$/()"!$&7$;#3$!&$'<#88,/$boats on sail, but since we decided to make it out to open sea initially on engine power, it was less than perilous. By this time light had started to fade #*5$!",$6/,;$;#'$',!!(*)$-.$#$/&'!,/$7&/$;#!6"0$e*<#/>,5$+$'"(*)$!/#;8,/'$and nets traverse most coastal passages and can mean broken rudders and entangled hulls, so the crew has to be vigilant 24x7. The rigour of the watch, the falling mercury and the moonlight on the open sea were a revelation.

Left:"Two of the many trailers along the way

Bottom: Finding our way

Top: Steering the way

The Unconventional Traveller

I was awake before dawn, getting thrown around most of the night !/3(*)$!&$+$*5$<3$',#$8,)'f$!",$<&/*(*)$;#'$*(..3$#'$!",$;(*5$+$88,5$the sails. As light grew, the colour of the sea was unlike anything one can see from the coast. From dark silver it turned to a beautiful blue. The faint pink of the sun turned to orange, providing amazing horizons with a solitary sea gull. Once the sun was up, the glare became acute and everything was a squint. The wind was important during the day, as navigation was hardly a challenge with radar, a depth sounder and a modern chart plotter. We made good speeds mostly as day turned into dusk. The morning and the evenings were the most memorable ;(!"$+$'"$9('(28,$(*$68,#/$;#!,/:$

“THE FAINT PINK OF THE SUN TURNED TO ORANGE, PROVIDING AMAZING HORIZONS WITH A SOLITARY SEA GULL.”

drifting golden yellow sea weed meandering a relief in the expanse of the blue sea.

X*$!",$"&/(O&*$;,/,$+$'"(*)$!/#;8,/':$dozens of them sweeping the bosom of the sea, the coast in the distance was dotted by power plants belching grey smoke through their chimneys that touched the sky. There were stretches with earthen browns and greens and sometimes only the never ending ocean.

As most road, rail or air journeys between two cities, the sail was no different - the slowest while leaving anchorage at Coco Beach and while entering Bombay Harbour. A myriad security restrictions, police, customs and other port formalities

later, (which included climbing up a vertical iron ladder and a walk through the still awake slums of N&8#2#T:$1$+$*#883$6#88,5$7&/$#$28#6>$and yellow taxi that took me home.

The experience left me thrilled despite the cumbersome bits. A priceless sense of calm, freedom and elation has lingered on as lasting memories of my Goa-Mumbai sail. As the sailing season opens, with boats hitting the moorings after the monsoon, the sea beckons me yet again.

Bottom:"Ending the journey at Bombay Harbour

The Unconventional Traveller


Beach Basics

Must Carry

Beach bag

You can’t do without this. Quite plain, simple and dirt resistant - keeping in mind the sand. The bag should accommodate all your beach essentials and be easy to carry around. This doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Fashionable yet practical beach bags make for a great style statement.

Footwear

Depending on your preference, one can stroll on the beaches with or without 7&&!;,#/0$K8(.4?&.'$#/,$#$7#9&-/(!,$&7$2,#6"$8&9,/'0$S*,#>,/':$68&',5$'"&,'$and heels are a strict no!

Sunscreen lotion

1!$6#**&!$2,$'!/,'',5$,*&-)"$"&;$(<.&/!#*!$(!$('$!"#!$'-*'6/,,*$2,$!",$+/'!$item packed for a beach vacation. The sun, although feels lovely on your body can have harmful effects too, so apply sunscreen liberally to avoid skin problems.

Beach wear

Girls, whatever you carry to the beach should be beach appropriate, the same goes for what you wear - whether a two-piece bikini, shorts, tees, skirts or sundresses. Beach shorts are perfect for guys.

No-Nos for women - jeans or anything with embellishments No-Nos for men - trousers, jeans, collared shirts or tights. Also, boxers are meant for your bedroom so keep them there!

Swimsuits

Though the ‘appropriate-ness’ of swimwear for women has been controversial at times, it has never lost its demand. There are a number styles, shapes and colours of swimsuits one can choose from. The three basic types are:

BikiniQ&$6#//3$&77$#$2(>(*($3&-$"#9,$!&$,(!",/$"#9,$#$.,/7,6!$2&53$&/$2,$'-.,/$6&*+5,*!$about your body type. You could either buy an off-the-rack bikini set or go in for a quirky look with a separate bikini top and bottom.

TankiniTankini is a modern addition to swimwear that consists of a short, sleeveless top and bikini bottoms. It is less revealing than a bikini and great for women who are a bit shy. A two-piece set is more practical than a swimsuit.

One-piece swimsuitConservative women often chose a one-piece suit that covers the midsection of !",$2&530$M,#93$;&<,*$6#*$&.!$7&/$#$&*,4.(,6,$';(<'-(!$;"(6"$6#*$2,$?#!!,/(*)$(7$chosen with care.

Beach toys

If your beach trip includes children, make sure to carry some beach toys along. Not only will they enjoy playing on the wet sand, they will also use their creative minds and keep themselves busy building sand castles.

Hats

When shopping for hats, go for one with a broad rim that also shades your eyes and part of your face. Whether you are spending time reading your favourite novel or watching surfers catch waves, a hat on the beach is a must have.

Cameras

Cameras are indispensable to a holiday. Whatever kind of camera you carry, do remember to protect it from sand and sea. It does no good to record memories if they are lost due to a negligance that could have been avoided.

Sunglasses

Every beach bum needs his or her sun shades to protect the eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun to avoid eye strain. If thats not the priority, shades also come in handy to conceal those bloodshot eyes from the night before!

Towels

A beach towel is larger than a bath towel. Although it is often used for drying up after being in the water, its chief purpose is to provide a surface to lie on and to reserve your spot in the sand.

By Sara Pires

Its summer time again! So bring out those giant towels, beer coolers and beach wear to get that tan that you’ve been wanting. However, the extreme Indian summer can be dangerous to your skin, so be cautious so that your day on the beach doesn’t end up with a visit to the doctor. Here are a few beach basics for that happy day of sun and sand...

Must Know


Goa Parties

A9,/3$<&*!"$!"('$.#),$;(88$+88$3&-$(*$&*$the best parties hosted in Goa. Whether you were there for it or not this is sure to make you feel like an insider!

From all-nighters with the best DJs to chilled out scenes at a beach shack to music lovers enjoying jazz concerts – Travel Goa gives you details on the latest happenings in the party capital of the country.

Tito’s sparkling wine lauch

Tito’s organised a launch its very own sparkling wine at Mambo. DJ Ajit pumped out the latest tunes and that coupled with the heady concoction of the wine ensured a super night for the guests and a party that rocked till wee hours!

Soulmate rock show

One of the best bands of the country – Soulmate made its Goa debut at Tito’s. Rock lovers hoarded the place and head-banged through the night. The ever-popular vocalist of the Shillong based band – Tips – had everyone mesmerised with her voice.

Femina Tito’s calendar launch

The Femina Miss India 2012 calendar was launched at Tito’s. The calendar was unveiled by Marc Robinson the Creative Director of Femina Miss India and David and Ricardo D’Souza of Tito’s. Adding to the glamour of the night was Femina Miss India International 2011 Ankita Shorey, HKL1$g[hh$+*#8('!'$U#3#*#$A/#.#:$Priyanka Mathur and Aprajita Sharma.

Party Time

This is how we party!

Bottom: Enjoying the night away at the Tito’s sparkling wine launch

Top & Top Right: Soulmate live at Tito’s

Bottom & Bottom Right: David and Ricardo D’Souza with the models at the Femina calender lauch


Hip-Hop, Salsa, Jive, Zumba or just shaking and shimmying to the latest beats – if you want to party you know where to head - Goa. Take a look at some of the hot spots for a night to remember!

Goa: India’s Party CapitalStory by Shweta Bajaj

Capetown – The party starter

Entering Capetown allows you to be greeted by a familiar friend - a well stocked bar advertising happy hour specials! Make your way into the lobby of this multi-varied entertainment station! Upon entering you can go left to a private area, right to an open air dining and drinking area or straight into the sound proof clubbing area that belts out the latest in commercial dance music and on occasions plays host !&$'&<,$&7$!",$+$*,'!$2#*5'$(*$!",$country. For a more laid back night out, you could move to the lounge #/,#$&*$!",$+$/'!$?$&&/$#*5$,*C&3$!",$night with just your own crowd. If you are in the mood for a classy experience, you could head to the recently launched VIP area, which (like all things exclusive) comes at a cost in the form of a reasonable cover charge.

Tito’s

When in Goa, everyone has to make a trip to the untiring Tito’s lane and for good reason – Tito’s, is one of the most popular discothèques in Goa. Popular DJs from all over India and abroad come in here with the aim &7$',!!(*)$+$/,$!&$!",$6&*'&8,$;(!"$their beats! (I have been witness to that more than a few times). On most occasions, the music is varied; however, every now and then Tito’s &/)#*(','$),*/,$'.,6(+$6$'.,6(#8$nights as well. The music is given a thorough match by professional bartenders serving you the most interesting concoctions through the night. Comfy sofas invite you to sit and take a breather in the middle of crazy dancing spurts. New Year’s Eve celebrations here are a rage with tonnes of people queued at the entrance gates. Tickets for the big event go on sale two months in advance. Entry is restricted to couples only and there is a strict ‘no stag’ policy. Buffed bouncers guard the place, making it perfect for couples and girl groups.

Bottom: Fun at Capetown

Top: Dancing the night away at Tito’s

In this kind of a setting, excellent selection of spirits, surprisingly large and varied seating options, you might sometimes settle for less than impressive food with the thought that it would be ‘ok’ if the food didn’t match up, but that slight doubt will be completely abandoned the moment you get a taste of the food from Regis Kitchen. In true Capetown style of unpredictable +$*,'',:$!",$<,*-$/#*),'$7/&<$authentic ,$'*5-"N$=3% recipes of prawn *4##: and chicken *$2#-$+ to a more modern spread which includes the ever popular bacon wrapped prawns, 54,,4) plate and a very mean steak! Capetown draws a very eclectic and fun crowd and (dare I say) is cooler (and relatively safer for singles) than its older brothers Tito’s and Mambos. It has the diversity and quality to draw a crowd anytime

Travel Goa Feature


of the week (will save the Sunday monsoon brunch for a separate column) and afford a different experience each time! So much so that if the girlfriend wants to shop, she could do that at Curves (the boutique store in Capetown) while you devote your attention to that all-important drinks menu. Does it really get any better?

Capetown has the advantage of being everything you want it to be and although it is located in the ever-popular Tito’s lane in Baga, the management maintains a strict door policy to keep the crowd fun and safe.

Mambo

Initially a beachside shack, Mambo has surpassed all the other clubs on this street. It has emerged as the epitome of what clubbing in Goa stands for. Mambo is ten steps from the Baga beach and boasts of a relaxing lounge area and a top-notch soundproof club with acoustics of international standards (and a pole in the center!). Mambo has played host to a number of Indian and international DJs as well as groomed their very own ‘Goan Tiesto’ - DJ Ajit who has come through the ranks to become one of India’s most respected turn-table wizards. In terms of food there’s a huge spread including Chinese, Arabian and South Indian cuisine, not to forget the delectable dessert counter. It also houses Goa’s only mechanical bull that adds to the fun of the whacky few! The drinks are priced reasonably (by Indian club standards) and unlike most Baga restaurants, Mambo accepts credit card payments. Mambo plays a very important and unmistakable role in the Goan party tradition and has over the years established itself as a must-visit nightspot in Goa.

Kamaki

This is Goa’s ‘after party’ destination. Don’t think of where Kamaki sits in !,/<'$&7$68#''(+$6#!(&*0$1'$(!$-.!&;*:$downtown…really who cares? Kamaki is downright fun! From the all-you-can-down shots for ladies, cocktail offers and the fact that it parties till 7 a.m., when all the party spots on the street –Tito’s, Mambo and Capetown are long asleep. The door policy, especially for men, is strict (the later, the worse), but once in, prepare for a night that has no speed-breakers. The food has improved over the years with the Chicken O5$9$#,$"#$5,+$*(!,$"()"8()"!:$!"#!$!#'!,$)&&5$at 9 p.m. and even better at 5 in the morning. The DJ never stops and upholds the reputation of the bar as an all-nighter (everyday of the week) through pumping tunes and tempo.

Right: Pumping beats at Mambo

Bottom: Dj Ajit with a friend

Top & Bottom: After-partying at Kamaki

Travel Goa Feature


Nicobar Tucked away in a corner of a small street diagonally opposite Capetown is the unassuming Nicobar. This small bar has a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. Lively retro music plays at the perfect volume as you sip on drinks, to ensure that conversations do not get drowned. If you wish to chat with friends, your partner or someone interesting you’ve just met, Nicobar is the place for you.

Cavala

Most people who have never been to Cavala imagine an old expensive classy bar that their dads drank at; when in reality it is an old classy bar that their dads drank at (and still drink at) surrounded by folks that don’t care about age or other worldly distinctions. Cavala is a place with music that quite simply makes you dance like you never "#9,:$5/(*>'$#/,$-*(=-,$(*$?$#9&-/:$served by people who never stop smiling and never forget a face – a place where quite simply put- everybody knows your name and is always glad you’ve come. Friday is the night to be at Cavala. The mood is casual, light and +$88,5$;(!"$8#-)"!,/$#'$5(*,/'$'!#/!$mingling at 8 p.m. and follow it up by swaying to work off the delicious food consumed. The music invites you to grab your partner (guy or girl – Cavala doesn’t judge!)

Right: A chilled out evening at Nicobar

Bottom: Catching up with friends at Cavala

and move to the sweet sounds of forgotten masters like Nat King Cole, Righteous Brothers, Frank Sinatra and even Joe Cocker. Its relaxing mood makes up for the fact that tables are overbooked and latecomers (or as Cavala calls them – regulars) are eating by the bar. One hour into the night, around 9 p.m., the tune peps up into more funky ‘jive-able’ music - think Police, Stones and Dire Straits and before you know it, the dance ?$&&/$('$.#6>,5$!&$!",$/#7!,/'$;(!"$#*$assortment of 18 to 70 year olds.

Amongst the people who have been coming to Cavala for over 10 years are the newbies who are lucky to just catch a glimpse of the ‘magic’. It is not uncommon to see a variety &7$'!38,'$&*$!",$5#*6,$?$&&/$7/&<$!",$experienced ‘Jive Bunnies’ to the ‘Meringue Mermaids’. Cavala is a genuine place – scream if you want to, dance your heart

out or just watch and enjoy the exhibition of pure energy that this place radiates. From 10 p.m. right till the band stops playing at around midnight, the energy is infectious; after which the mood chills down, though it is not uncommon to see guests stagger out at 4 in the morning, long after the band has played its last song. P.S: If you are lucky and I mean really lucky, you will meet Cavala’s very own ‘Mustache Marius’, a charming man whose nicknames range from ‘The King’ to ‘Twinkle Toes’ to just ‘The Dude’ and if you want to really mingle with a fun lot of the ‘Cavala Faithfuls’, go around to the back and have an interesting conversation with one of the many regulars – it will be an experience you will never forget!

Top: Cavala post 9 p.m.

Travel Goa Feature


Getting up at six in the morning to get to Calangute beach can be an exercise for many but after hearing rave stories from friends that have done (!:$1$5,6(5,5$!&$+*#883$),!$-.$,#/83$#*5$),!$!&$!",$2,#6"$7&/$#$8(!!8,$C&)0

Bleary eyed and ears ringing from my unrelenting alarm, I make my way to the beach near the Paradiso restaurant (formerly Bella Ciao) and once I reach there, am taken aback by the absolute beauty that greets me. Gone are the )$#'"68#5$';(<<,/':$!",$C,#*$;,#/(*)$!&-/('!'$!/3(*)$!&$+!$(*$;(!"$the regular ‘beach bums’ and the incessant noise of the jet skis are still three hours away, leaving the beach with a smattering of people and still a reminder to those who are lucky enough to get up in the morning, that she’s still ‘got it’.

I continue towards the direction of Calangute and the absence of operational shacks allows an uninterrupted view of the Baga-Calangute stretch right past the formerly imposing dune alongside the Bosco shack of the nineties !"#!$',/9,5$#'$#*$-*&7+6(#8$5,<#/6#!(&*$&7$!",$2&-*5#/3$2,!;,,*$W#)#$and Calangute. I am lucky to indulge in one of the famous morning football games among locals, and then carry on alongside the unmistakeable greens of Villa Goesa and onwards till a small crowd on the beach tells me that I have reached Calangute beach.

The former ‘Queen of beaches’ still retains a certain regal elegance which differs to the more modern appeal Baga has to the youth and young at heart, or the certain mischievous quality of its neighbour Candolim. The steps still ',/9,$#'$#$/,<(*5,/$&7$(!'$8&*),9(!3$#'$!",$(6&*$!"#!$+/'!$5/,;$!",$"(..(,'$&7$the 60’s and 70’s. Her role as north Goa’s largest beach still draws millions &7$9('(!&/'$,9,/3$3,#/$#*5$7&/$<#*3$'",$('$'!(88$!",$+/'!$8&&>$&7$#$2,#6"0$1$am indeed humbled at how different the beach looks in the morning as compared to its ‘busy’ look after 9 o’clock and am reminded of stories my father told me about that certain aura that Calangute used to carry right back in his time and a thought comes to me that the beach doesn’t change, just the people and with that the perception of the beach.

The waves were raging but were still swimmable, with no signs of the littering &7$!",$/,5$?#)'$!"#!$!,*5$!&$2,$#$5&;*,/$7&/$#$.&!,*!(#8$L(6"#,8$Q"&/.,'0$1$manage to get quite far and relish in the fact that I don’t have to worry about an out of control jet ski or a drunken tourist slamming into me.

Indeed, it is a moment that more people should experience; if waking up early is a task, end the night with a morning view of the sea.

A THOUGHT COMES TO ME THAT THE BEACH DOESN’T CHANGE, JUST THE PEOPLE AND WITH THAT THE PERCEPTION OF THE BEACH.

Queen of Beaches

Calangute at dawn

Photography and story by Wilbert Egipsy

Right:"The inviting morning sea

Living Goa


Sushumna is a hidden yoga school in North Goa. It is unique, serene and perfect for a holiday for the body and soul.

Yoga Hideaway

A short walk away from the beach, amidst softly rustling palm trees, serene landscaped gardens and the cool sea breeze, is the Sushumna Studio and Yoga School. Sonja Appel, the founding director, moved to India six years ago and initially set up practice in Delhi with her partner Gita Sahni but three years later, while on holiday in Goa, Sonja felt the need to relocate and Sushumna is now in its fourth season at Ashwem beach in North Goa.

Sonja has been practicing yoga 7&/$+7!,,*$3,#/'$&7$;"(6"$!;,89,$years have been spent studying and teaching yoga. She has also been teaching Pilates in London,

India and Nepal for the past !;,*!3$+9,$3,#/'$#*5$('$6,/!(+,5$by the British School of Yoga in <$05$ meditation and is also registered with Yoga Alliance. Sushumna offers RYS 200 training which fast tracks participants to 2,6&<,$(*!,/*#!(&*#883$6,/!(+,5$yoga teachers. Sonja has a BA in classical theatre & acting and an MA in contemporary dance. She has found these two disciplines to be invaluable in balancing life and maintaining calm. She also conducts workshops in C)50$%&$, Restorative or P'% Yoga, Mysore self-practice, C)50$%&$"F'%:$)$"?&;:$_&)#8#!,':$Pilates and freestyle dance, nationwide and abroad.

Sonja says, “I believe in a holistic approach to the study of yoga, giving my students a well-rounded yoga education. I combine alignment techniques of the body, with breath techniques for calming and balancing the mind; focus and visualisation to balance body and brain; chanting and music for inspiration, concentration and meditation.”

Sonja has studied in India and England and believes that keeping up her own practice helps her to impart knowledge better and more succinctly. She has pioneered her own brand of yoga called ‘Sushumna’ which is a carefully worked out ='%:$)$$?&;$!"#!$#88&;'$one to do $)$%$) as a meditation and in the process unleash ones 14%8$+'%')5$10'0$Q",$?&;$('$spontaneous and she mixes up the $)$%$) in interesting ways, with the help of inspiring music, always ending with a deep and relaxing meditation session. As in C)50$%&$"- 8#')50', 7$%85$), 4NN$:' breath and ='%:$)$ are always employed.

Her spiritual"&4#4 is Sadhguru from the Isha Foundation outside Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Spending time and undergoing courses with Sadhguru has helped Sonja to understand her ‘calling’ much better. She believes that we can never

Left & Bottom:"Sonja in different yoga positions

stop learning how to be sound, well adjusted people, with our soul, mind and body, forever striving for perfect and equal unison. Continuous study of yogic texts and yoga philosophy are essential to living a peaceful and harmonious life with the environment and people around us. Sushumna is committed to aiding everyone to live a healthier, cleaner and a more rewarding life.

Photography and story by Shannon Smith

www.goa24x7.com

Living Goa

Getting There

Ashwem is nestled right after Morjim beach in North Goa. Dabolim, Goa’s only airport is 60km away. The nearest train station is Tivim and the nearest bus stand is central Mapusa.

Eating

Sushumna has its own organic and raw food restaurant. Other than that a must visit is La Plage on Ashwem beach. There are many restaurants within walking distance from Sushumna to suit every taste and budget.

Stay

Sushumna has cottages but there are many beach huts as well. For higher budgets there are upmarket resorts. A good place to stay is Cuba in neighbouring Mandrem beach. You can also check out Marbela Beach Resort in Morjim.

FOOT NOTES

Night Out

There are many small bars around. For a more intensive night out don’t miss Liquid Sky perched on top of a hill.

“SUSHUMNA OFFERS A HEALING ENVIRONMENT THAT IS EXTRAORDINARY FOR THE HOLISTIC TREATMENT OF THE MIND, BODY AND SOUL.”

Sushumna, means the central %$8' (river) associated with the river Saraswati. This is the central energy channel, running up the body from just below the coccyx bone, up the spine to the crown of the head, ‘the waking of cosmic consciousness’. When this is activated, the 14%8$+'%')5$10' and the *5$1#$) (energy centres) move up the spine,

this represents our evolution from self-absorption, towards realisation of our innate and unlimited potential. We rise beyond the ordinary realm of birth and death to the level of divinity.

Bottom:"The serene waters of Ashwem beach


`500

ENJOY FREE DRINKS WORTH

`500

ENJOY FREE DRINKS WORTH

They say once the therapeutic hobby of bird-watching in Goa hits someone, there’s no looking back - watch out you could be one of them!

Amazing bird diversity in verdant Goa! Story by Melba Mergulhão-Carvalho AntãoPhotography by Glyn Pereira

Terms & ConditionsOffer not valid on entry or cover chargeValid till 31st January 2012Not valid from 24th December 2011 to 1st January 2012

Terms & ConditionsOffer not valid on entry or cover chargeValid till 31st January 2012Not valid from 24th December 2011 to 1st January 2012

Goa is known as a bird watching destination – we don’t mean the fairer sex of homosapiens but the multicolored birds in the rich vegetation and verdant forests of Goa, a veritable bird watchers’ paradise. Even average visitors will see many birds around at dawn and dusk - in the towns, temple and church compounds but a true bird lover will be keen to visit or make overnight trips to bird sanctuaries or sail along the rivers in the early hours of the day when myriads of birds of every hue and size sing Bottom:"Bird sightings galore

www.goa24x7.com

their song to the glory of nature and the universe. They say once the therapeutic hobby of bird-watching in Goa hits someone, there’s no looking back - watch out you could be one of them!

There are many varieties of birds in Goa including four different species of Eagles, as well as birds of prey such as Kites, Buzzards, Kestrels and Ospreys. There are several types of Pigeons, Doves, Cuckoos, I(*)+'",/'$#*5$J&&5.,6>,/'0$L&/,$than enough bird varieties to keep

even the most ardent enthusiast busy for months, huh? What’s more, you don’t have to go very far to watch birds or photograph them. An early morning or evening spent beside a river, or better still, in the boat of a local #$,63%1$#"c+'",/<#*T:$5/(7!(*)$#8&*)$!",$waterways will reveal an amazing number of unusual species of birds.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Chorao For those who are into serious bird watching, a trip to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island is a must. It is only 5km from the capital city of Panjim - just hop onto or drive into the ferry at Ribander jetty to the picturesque island of Chorao just ten minutes away. The sanctuary is situated in the west of Chorao and covers an area of 18 sq. km. Visitors hire private canoes, pack /,7/,'"<,*!'$#*5$?-(5'$7&/$#$5#3$&7$happy bird watching thrills. Before embarking on this trip, be updated on the timings of tides from the forest &7+6,$(*$H#*C(<$&/$!",$'#*6!-#/3$&7+6,$#!$N"&/#&$C,!!3$(!',870$$$

The sanctuary has 14 different species of mangroves that have stilt roots supporting them in the soft mud of river water canals in which tiny plankton, shrimps, crabs and small ,'!-#/(*,$+'"$2/,,5$#*5$./&9(5,$#$rich feeding ground for hundreds of 2(/5'$!"#!$?&6>$!&$!",$'#*6!-#/30$B'$you sail languidly along the still blue canals with water gingerly lapping along your hired boat or canoe, your ,#/'$;(88$2,$+88,5$;(!"$!",$5(77,/,*!$calls of birds. White bellied sea eagles snatch up unsuspecting +'"$7/&<$!",$;#!,/'$7&/$2/,#>7#'!$or lunch. The local island birds include a variety of Drongos, R$:$) (weaverbirds), Eagles, Kites, Egrets, M,/&*':$I(*)+'",/':$%/,34M,#5,5$K:%$), Purple Sunbirds, Tailor birds, Redshanks, common Sandpipers, Red-Wattle Lapwings, pheasant-tailed Jacanas and green Bee-eaters. If you are lucky you will see some migratory birds too that visit from November to February – they are Pintail Ducks, Cormorant Storks, Purple moorhens and Mallards. And if your luck still holds, you might even spot the Flying Fox, the Indian rock Python and the smooth Indian Otters.

Culture & Diversity


Left:"A Bramhiny Kite soaring in the sky

Carambolim Lake, North Goa

Another great bird watching site is Carambolim Lake, right in the middle of Carmbolim village which is about 12km from Goa’s capital, Panjim. Taxis, buses and cars will get you there and on the return journey you could use the train at Karmali railway station to get to Tivim, Panjim or Margao. Carambolim Lake is a rainwater lake and has a bird population of almost 500 in the monsoons alone, but from September onwards, when the water level recedes the population of birds

increases manifold and touches almost 10,000 by February. The birds feed on aquatic plants, worms #*5$!(*3$+'"0$W(/5$;#!6",/'$#/,$thrilled to spot Pintail Ducks, Purple Moorhens, Whistling Teals, Cattle Egrets, Pond Herons, Coots, Little Egrets, Red-Rumped Swallows, and the bronze-winged pheasant-tailed Jacanas. Needless to say, the Caramolim Lake is a great picnic spot, so go well armed with food, water and a high resolution camera, to snap the beautiful winged creatures to add to your bird albums back home.

Top:"Q",$1*5(#*$A#)8,$?3(*)$#*5$the Indian Cormorant catching prey

Do also visit excellent but lesser known bird-watching sites – that promise rare bird sightings - such as the Curtorim Lake in interior Salcete, the estuary at Morjim Beach in Pernem, the spring at Saligao, Mayem Lake in Bicholim, the banks of the Chapora River in Bardez and the marshlands around Merces, near Panjim.

www.goa24x7.com

Inexpensive hobby

Bird watching is an inexpensive hobby and does not require sophisticated gadgets. All you need is a good pair of binoculars, a sun hat, comfortable walking shoes and plenty of drinking water. A bird guide-book or a local guide, or both, are a great help to have satisfactory bird watching sessions. Of course, you have to have loads of patience because birds show up in the cool of the day and night and especially when they are sure they are not being watched by either prying humans or predatory animals or birds. Silence or minimum noise is &7$!",$,'',*6,$&/$!",$2(/5'$;(88$?3$ off never to return and your trip could be wasted and frustrating. Lastly, to have a satisfactory bird watching experience you should have a basic knowledge of birds to be able to identify their colour, size, markings, sounds and chirpings.

Contact points

Goa has amazing bird sighting destinations and many businesses of repute have sprung up – like the Sea Safari that conducts bird-watching trips along the banks of the Cumbarjua Canal. Boat trips with a minimum of eight persons are arranged and leave for their destination either early morning or late evening. Another enterprise is Canopy-Goa that conducts tours to all the bird habitats in Goa which include shores, marches, boat safaris to Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary including 2-day visits to the luxuriant forests of the Western Ghats as well as overnight stays at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, south Goa. You could check out their website www.canopygoa.com for further details.

The songs of the water and forest birds have fascinated poets down the ages and they have penned soulful poems in their memory. So be ready to be similarly enthralled by the diversity of birdlife in Goa on your birding trips. You could also

+*5$3&-/',87$.8,#'#*!83$'-/./(',5$with an unexpected sighting of stunning birds just outside your hotel window in any of the beautiful villages surrounded by woods, .#553$+,85':$&/6"#/5'$#*5$6&6&*-!'$groves all along the coast of sunny and sandy Goa.

Bottom:"The Indian Eagle in ?()"!


Culture & Diversity

www.goa24x7.com

In the sleepy village of Assagao, North Goa, the Indian Story is a store that you cannot miss as the uniqueness of the store sets it apart from other structures on the broad Assagao-Mapusa district road. The store is a labour &7$8&9,$4$7&/$!",$7#<(83$4$!"#!$7/-6!(+,5$!;&$3,#/'$#)&$;(!"$#88$7&-/$<,<2,/'$of the Swaika family doing what they loved best under its roof. The Indian Story is an endeavor to create a vertically integrated chain to promote contemporary Indian design; from craftsman and artisans to designers and then to manufacturing and retail.

EACH TIME YOU SHOP AT THE INDIAN STORY STORE, YOU DON’T JUST INDULGE YOUR SENSES; YOU ALSO TAKE HOME A LITTLE ‘INDIAN-NESS’ WITH YOU.

Indian Story

A beautiful indulgence

Photography and story by Shweta Bajaj

Fashion & Lifestyle

The Swaika women

The Indian Story is the brainchild of Mamta Swaika who started the store for her two daughters – Pooja and Ayesha. While Pooja is the fashion designer, Ayesha specialises in interiors and hospitality and manages a chain of large hotels in the United States of America. Pooja has an extensive design background and has worked for designer Raghvendra Rathore and Wills Lifestyle. Ayesha, on the other hand, is the interiors person and manages the +*#*6(#8$#*5$6&<<,/6(#8$'(5,$&7$!",$1*5(#*$S!&/3$'!&/,0$A9,*$!"&-)"$2&!"$the daughters are in the forefront of the business, who strikes me most is Mamta, who is an artist in her own right with brilliant ideas that have shaped the store.

As you enter the gated garden, you will know this is not just a store. The garden is landscaped with beautiful pots and 73%)$') – and that’s where the store begins, actually. The Indian story has four different sections, each with a charm so different from the other.

Jama

On the right hand side is a store called S$,$, which means ‘clothes’ in Bengali. There are a variety of dresses, accessories, art jewellery, footwear – in fact, the store is every girl’s delight. Each piece is handpicked by Pooja and you can see that her sensibilities are an inherent part of the store. Dresses that are beautiful and unique, bags that are quirky, accessories that 6&<.8,<,*!$3&-/$&-!+!'$#*5$7&&!;,#/$!"#!$#/,$'&$%&#$4$S$,$ has something for everyone! The price range here is between ` 800 to ` 5,500.

Bottom: One of the many quirky creations of S$,$

Top: S$,$ - at a glance


Gigu’s

The women of the family are the centrepiece of the store, but the coffee shop is named after Pooja and Ayesha’s father – Hemant. Here you can enjoy coffee, beer and an extensive selection of tea. If you are lucky, you might even get to taste the yummy Lemon Drizzle cake. You can also buy yoga books here and of course home furnishings like lamps, vases and more.

Baari

Through the lobby of the store you reach the interior furnishings store, which is my favourite. Each piece in the store is unique. Some of the items here are made by young designers and are quite reasonable, while some pieces are expensive – but once you pick something from here, rest assured it will be 5(7+6-8!$!&$+*5$#$'(<(8#/$.(,6,$#*3;",/,$,8',0$A#6"$(!,<$P$7/&<$5,6&/#!(&*'$to upholstery to cutlery to cushion covers – has its own character. The Indian Story also has plates, coffee mugs and serving dishes – all made in Kolkata-which are simply stunning. Ayesha says that what strikes her most when she is abroad is how colourful India is in contrast to the west. This unique characteristic has been incorporated by both the sisters in R$$#' and S$,$"The home interiors price range starts from as low as a couple of hundreds and goes up to ` 40,000.

Bottom: One of a kind home furnishings at R$$#'

Top: A vivid collection of cushions and ceramic bowls

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Fashion & Lifestyle

Adda

At the rear of Indian Story is Pooja’s signature store, which houses her brand – Swaika. The range that includes both men’s and women’s wear can be picked off the shelf and is a delight for the discerning customer. Pooja specialises in custom-made clothing and her clients swear by her designs #*5$,D6,88,*!$6-!'0$1*$#$6#'-#8$6"#!$H&&C#$<,*!(&*,5$#$68(,*!$;"&$?,;$(*$from Mumbai in the morning to place an order for a jacket, a )5-#9$%' and a 7$%8&$+$"#*5$?,;$2#6>$!",$'#<,$,9,*(*)R$Q",$./(6,$/#*),$#!$C88$ starts from ` 5,000 and goes up to ` 80,000.

Bottom: The elegantly appointed - C88$

Fashion & Lifestyle


For me, Indian Story is about the atmosphere it creates. I don’t mean ambience because an ambience 6#*$2,$6/,#!,5$23$!",$5V6&/$&7$#$place. The Indian Story is all about the people. Pooja and Ayesha are intrinsically warm people; their mother takes time to warm up to you, but once she does, you will go to the store just listen to the stories she narrates. Very often I visit the Indian Story for a friendly chit-chat with the affable ladies though I have never left without buying something or the other. And I must mention that you take home a little ‘Indian-ness’ each time you shop at the Indian Story store.

Rewind

Q",$#**-#8$+8<$2&*#*O#:$!",$ignd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) g[hh$6&*68-5,5$(*$%&#:$&*$U,6,<2,/$Y0$K(8<$5,8,)#!,'$#*5$+8<$8&9,/'$from every part of India and abroad participated in the festival–where walls of culture and language merged providing a wide platform to showcase *#!(&*#8$#*5$(*!,/*#!(&*#8$+8<'$./&C,6!(*)$'&6(#8$#*5$6-8!-/#8$,!"&'$&7$all countries. In short, like all the earlier IFFIs, the IFFI-2011 enhanced friendship and cooperation among people of the state, country and the world in general.

Film repertoire

The IFFI-2011 showcased a repertoire of critically acclaimed international +8<':$;&/85$./,<(,/,':$+8<$2#O##/':$6"(85/,*$;&/>'"&.':$'!/,,!$#*(<#!(&*':$music concerts and open-air beach screenings. It was the perfect package of glamour, excitement and celebrity participation, with 150 Indian and 7&/,()*$+8<'$'6/,,*,5$7/&<$*,#/83$j[$6&-*!/(,'0$B!$!"('$3,#/F'$1KK1:$!",$YU$!,6"*&8&)3$<#/>,5$#$<#''(9,$'.8#'"$#*5$#88$YU$+8<$9,*-,'$;,/,$,=-(..,5$with enhanced projection technology to showcase the new generation digital movies. Deviating from its conventional format, the Indian Documentary H/&5-6,/'$B''&6(#!(&*$c1UHBT$",85$6&<.,!(!(&*'$8(>,$\X*,$<(*-!,$+8<'F0

Curtains up

Q",$+8<$7,'!(9#8$#!$;"(6"$Q",$e*(&*$1*7&/<#!(&*$#*5$W/&#56#'!(*)$L(*('!,/$Ambica Soni and Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat were present, was inaugurated at the Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, by Bollywood superstar Shah @->"$I"#*$#*5$W,*)#8($#6!/,''$@(!-.#/*#$S,*)-.!#0$Q"('$;#'$!",$+/'!$!(<,$Margao had hosted the opening ceremony of IFFI much to the delight of the people of south Goa. The 90s superstar, Madhuri Dixit, inaugurated !",$1*5(#*$H#*&/#<#$',6!(&*$;"(6"$;#'$&.,*,5$23$!",$L#8#3#8#<$+8<$‘J#4,'F$5(/,6!,5$23$S#*!&'"$S(9#*0$\Q/#7+6F:$\T$#,$:3&'’, ‘Bombay March 12’, A5$66$"T4#')54’ and ‘K-+='+$)3,’, a court room drama directed by Madhav @#<#5#'#*:$;,/,$!",$&!",/$+8<'$(*$!",$H#*&/#<#0$\B*&!",/$H8#*,!F$5(/,6!,5$23$S<(!#$W"(5,$;#'$',8,6!,5$#'$!",$;(**,/$&7$!",$'"&/!$+8<'$',6!(&*$23$#$jury headed by director Basu Chatterjee. The Vasudha Award for the best

International Film Festival India

Curtains down on IFFI-2011

+8<$&*$,*9(/&*<,*!#8$(''-,'$;#'$;&*$23$\B$H,'!,/(*)$k&-/*,3F$5(/,6!,5$23$Kerala-based KR Manoj.

In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, Nobel 8#-/,#!,:$',9,/#8$+8<'$2#',5$&*$"('$8(!,/#/3$<#'!,/.(,6,'$;,/,$'6/,,*,5$;"(8,$"&<#),$;#'$#8'&$.#(5$!&$!",$8#!,$+8<$;(O#/5$L#*($I#-8$#*5$"('$2,'!$+8<$\J)1'"@30'’ was screened as part of the homage. Assam’s outstanding son Bhupen Hazarika and Bollywood’s heart throb Shammi Kapoor were also remembered with love and sadness. Peacock winners

Q",$E#!(&*#8$B;#/5$;(**(*)$L#8#3#8#<$+8<$\C8$,'%0-"K$1$%"C74’ (Abu, Son of Adam) directed by debutant Salim Ahmed won the Silver Peacock for the Special Jury Mention headed by eminent director Adoor Gopalakrishnan. The Golden Peacock for the Best Film was won by the Colombian Film ‘G3#!#'3’ directed by Alejandro Lanales. Iranian director Asgar Farhadi ;&*$!",$W,'!$U(/,6!&/$#;#/5$7&/$!",$+8<$\B$S,.#/#!(&*F0$S#''&*$%#2#($#*5$Nadesha Markeena won the awards for the best male and female Actors /,'.,6!(9,83:$7&/$!",$+8<'$\@,'!&/#!(&*F$#*5$\A8,*#F0$

Curtains down

The award ceremony started with paying tribute to the director Oscar K(8&$;"&$"#5$.#'',5$#;#3$5-/(*)$!",$+8<$7,'!0$L#8#3#8($6(*,<#!&)/#.",/$Madhu Ambattu was also honoured at the ceremony attended by Bollywood actors Irfan Khan, Bhumika Chawla, Kangana Ranaut and Sohail Khan. The 2(&.(6$+8<$&*$B-*)$S##*$S->3(:$\Q",$G#53F$;#'$'6/,,*,5$8#'!$#*5$(!'$6/,;$honoured. The French legendary director, 70-year-old Bertrand Tavernier was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award; Tavernier is known for his large period sagas and innovative mastery of sound and colour.

X*$!",$8#'!$5#3$&7$!",$+8<$7,'!(9#8:$!",/,$;#'$#$.#8.#28,$'#5*,''$(*$!",$6(!3$&7$!",$1KK1:$H#*C(<$#*5$#'$;,$/,!-/*$!&$&-/$<-*5#*,$/&-!(*,:$,9,/3$+8<$8&9,/:$including yours truly, is looking forward to the IFFI-2012.


AS LIFE RETURNS TO MUNDANE ROUTINE, EVERY FILM LOVER IS LOOKING FORWARD TO THE IFFI-2012 FOR ANOTHER REPERTOIRE OF MEANINGFUL WORLD FILMS.

By Melba Mergulhão-Carvalho Antão

I felt that there was a lot of money available here. The locals have been spending money outside Goa and people who come here do not have an exciting place to spend their money. Secondly, Goa has everything – cars, roads, beauty, and beaches. Why should Goa not have a mall? Whenever we travel, we see that all coastal tourist destinations have shopping malls of international standards. Goa for sure needed one.

J",*$1$5,6(5,5$!&$2,$!",$.(&*,,/$!&$8#-*6"$%&#F'$+/'!$shopping mall, size was very important. I didn’t want to oversize it. That’s because I wanted a mall for both locals and tourists. After this mall, more shopping malls will come up in Goa but the Caculo Mall will always be %&#F'$+/'!$<#880

My aim is to constantly re-invent the mall. We will change and expand the Caculo Mall before it completes one year. I want to keep up with the changing times and, as you point out, time does change fast.

When you think of Goa, a mall doesn’t really come to anyone’s mind. What made you believe that Goa is ready to have a mall?

What were the things that you kept in mind when you were conceptualising the Caculo Mall?

Today time flies and things get old pretty fast. How do you plan to keep your mall relevant to fast changing times?

Manoj CaculoPhotography and interview by Shweta Bajaj

When you meet Manoj Caculo what strikes you most is his vision and his openness to ideas and concepts. Travel Goa met him to understand ;"#!$<&!(9#!,5$"(<$2-(85$%&#F'$+/'!$<#88P#*$#/,#$(*!&$;"(6"$<&'!$enterpreneurs would not even think of venturing.

Pioneering it!

Travel Goa Interview


U,+*(!,830$1$;&-85$8#-*6"$#*&!",/$<#88$(*$%&#$2,6#-',$now I know what Goa needs. However, that is something !"#!$;(88$<#!,/(#8(',$&*83$+9,$3,#/'$7/&<$*&;0$Q",$*,D!$mall will have everything in one place – multiplex, shopping, eateries and parking – we want to give our customers a holistic experience.

Tell me would you do this again? Would you launch another mall in Goa?

We have been very selective about brands because we did not want very low-end brands nor did we want 9,/3$"()"$./&+8,$&*,'0$J,$;,/,$8&&>(*)$7&/$<(548,9,8$2/#*5'$;"(6"$<#>,$+*#*6(#8$',*',$7&/$2&!"$/,!#(8,/'$and consumers in Goa. A couple of brands in our mall have completed their annual targets in four months - like Westside, KFC and Blackberry. So the going has been good, so far.

It’s also very important to have the right mix of brands in a mall. What is your vision?

How do you plan to expand the mall?

When we built the mall it had three levels soon it will have six levels. I would like to bring in products that the mall does not have so far. I plan to add footwear retailers, entertainment and brands for children. I want to expand the shopping and entertainment experience for our customers. I will also be adding more food outlets and good restaurants.

Left page: Mr. Manoj Caculo

Right page: The view from the third ?&&/$&7$N#6-8&$<#88

Hyundai EonGoa Drives

Photography and review by Shweta BajajLocation Courtesy: The Sol

When a company launches a car like Eon, the opportunities are many. Hyundai’s Eon has been launched in the market segment that has a market base like no one other car segment. Its direct competition is the world’s largest selling car –the Alto. When you are tapping a market like this, you have a customer who doesn’t want to spend much money but, at the same time he wants the best. He is young so he looks for style and spunk. He has just started earning so the price point is extremely important and so is the mileage. He is tech savvy, so the car gadgets you offer also become vital. To top it all, today the young understand cars – so they want a drive what is pleasurable. With this long list of demands, there is a lot to prove.


Appearance

Personally I am in love with the way Eon looks - it stands out and the ?-(5$2&53$!"#!$M3-*5#($"#'$2,,*$talking about is evident to all. The sweeping headlamps add character !&$!",$A&*$;"(6"$('$5(7+6-8!$!&$+*5$in the crowded small car market. Q",$;#3$!",$8(*,'$?&;$7/&<$!",$7/&*!$of the car adds spunk to its looks - every time you look at the Eon you feel it has just had a fresh facial. The taillights are designed in a ‘comma’ shape - again something not been seen till now. All in all, the car gets a 4 on 5 from me, in the ‘looks’ department.

Interiors

Eon has fresh interiors never before seen in this segment of the Indian car market. The interiors are futuristic and the space is appropriate for a small car. The 5#'"2&#/5$#8'&$7&88&;'$!",$?-(5$design that Hyundai has been propagating for its new cars and the display is very readable but lacks a tachometer. The sports version of the Eon also comes with airbags on the driver’s side. I like the gearshift indicators – as they indicate which gear you should be driving at a particular speed to better the car’s fuel economy. I have to mention the Eon’s AC – it’s really good if you are hot blooded but for someone like me, it’s like being in Alaska after !",$+/'!$+9,$<(*-!,'R$B*3;#3:$#(/$conditioners do work well in new cars. The quality and interior design are actually Eon’s strong points and no other car comes anywhere close to its price range and chic interiors.

Left: Angular tail lights of the Eon

Bottom: Q",$?-(5$8(*,'$&7$!",$7/&*!$of the car

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Capacity

The Eon can accommodate four people comfortably and if the four .#'',*),/'$#/,$!#88:$!",*$!",$+7!"$passenger can squeeze in. The space inside the car is good for the segment it belongs to, as its tall-boy design is advantageous. However, there is a small problem with the space in the back seat because, if the front passengers are tall, the back seat passengers will have to settle for a little less space.

Ergonomics

There are ample planned spaces in the car for all your knick-knacks. The dashboard is large and placed slightly low which keeps the line of sight clear and reduces the problem of blind spots. The glove box is also spacious.

The icing on the cake is the 219 litres boot space - the best offered in !"('$6#!,)&/3$&7$6#/'0$_&-$6#*$+!$(*$whatever you want into it especially when the back seats are folded. However, I fail to understand why Hyundai didn’t provide the facility to unlock the door from the passenger side which I realised only when I tried to open the car door from the passenger’s side to retrieve my bag!

Specifications Hyundai Eon Maruti Alto 800cc

Price (ex-showroom Goa) 2.70 lakh – 3.75 lakh 2.40 lakh – 3.40 lakh

Engine 814cc/55bhp 798cc/46.4bhp

Overall Length 3495mm 3495mm

Overall Height 1500mm 1475mm

Overall Width 1550mm 1460mm

Overall Wheel Base 2380mm 2360mm

Left Page: The sporty Eon

Right Page: The angular headlights


Goa Drives

Verdict

Right now, the Eon is the best choice in the small car segment. The top-end sports model price though, is close to many other hatch backs, so you could go for a car with a better engine. But in terms of the total package the Eon is a good car and makes the Alto look seriously dated.

Surviving Air TravelBy Melba Mergulhão-Carvalho Antão

B(/$!/#9,8$('$<&/,$#77&/5#28,$!&5#3$2-!$8&*)$"#-8$?()"!'$6#*$!#>,$!",$.8,#'-/,$&-!$&7$,9,*$!",$#(/8(*,$;(!"$!",$2,'!$8,)4space! Here’s how to make the most of a bad situation in the ‘cattle class’ of our cash starved airlines.

1*!,/*#!(&*#8$!/#9,8$('$7#'!$#*5$7-/(&-'$7&/$!&-/('!'$?3(*)$(*$#*5$&-!$&7$%&#$#**-#8830$Q",$"&8(5#3$',#'&*$('$",/,$#*5$that means charters become a common mode of transport in the October-May tourist season. Airlines are connected to all countries and all major and minor cities and have become smart players in a meltdown era where slashing amenities like sophisticated cuisine, meals and comfortable seating has become a norm. One can’t even complain because air tickets don’t cost an arm and a leg anymore. In turn, air travellers have to be more innovative to withstand the vagaries of long-haul air journeys.

Right seat

The right seat makes your day, or rather, your journey, as it ensures a smoother journey. So book a seat in advance as online booking is the order of the day – a couple of days or even 24-hours in advance is advisable or the best spots will be taken. Check out sites like www.)-$0&4#4.com which offer assistance in booking seats on scheduled airlines including charters and provide in-depth information on seating and other #(/8(*,$(*7&/<#!(&*0$K/,=-,*!$?3,/'$should preferably sit in front of the engines where it is quieter – noise being a huge stress aggravator. If 3&-$#/,*F!$#$6&<7&/!#28,$?3,/$(!$('$advisable to secure a seat above the wings where the effect of air-turbulence is less evident. Economy 68#''$?3,/'$#8'&$,<."#'(',$!"#!$(!$('$chillier at the back than the front of the aircraft due to the powerful food freezers at the rear end of the plane. So avoid the extreme back seats to prevent chilled bones.

Get sleep

There are many books on air travel ‘musts’ which indicate how a combination of dry and sparse air in the airplane and booze – consumed in large quantities especially when it’s free! – results in dehydration of the body therefore it is important to 5/(*>$#$8&!$&7$?-(5'$,'.,6(#883$;#!,/$before take-off while keeping away 7/&<$5(-/,!(6$?-(5'$!"#!$/&2$3&-$&7$#$refreshing sleep. Meal timings are important too – and what should be eaten depends on the length and !(<,$&7$!",$?()"!0$A#!$#$8()"!$<,#8$2,7&/,$#$?()"!$#*5$&*6,$',#!,5$wear an eye mask on take-off and doze off. If you must have a meal in transit, nutritionists suggest +'"$/#!",/$!"#*$<,#!$P$&7$6&-/',$a vegetarian meal is the best bet followed by Carmomile tea. Avoid eatables like pulses and gum as those create bloating and make you restless thousands of miles off the ground.

Comfort kit

Most airlines provide basic amenity >(!'$7&/$&9,/*()"!$?()"!'$#*5$(6&*'$indicated on the box represent the services that are available on a particular aircraft. It is a good idea to carry ear plugs in case you are unfortunate to have loud co-passengers. An eye mask is vital too because darkness – in case your neighbour uses a light to read into the night – facilitates the production of melatonin in the body which regulates the sleep cycle. Also, a set of headphones to listen to music or watch movies is a huge help on a long journey.

Must Know


Dress right

It’s very essential to have appropriate footwear on long 5('!#*6,$?()"!'$#'$28&&5$6&88,6!(*)$in the legs could cause them to swell (even to double their size!) if proper precaution is not taken. Don’t over-dress with a bow and tie; it’s not only uncomfortable for you but it’s also out of place in a seat that lacks leg room and a suit in a cubicle toilet is frustrating, to say the least. Since temperatures in the aircraft vary you will be either shedding or donning coats, cardigans and jackets as the temperature demands, but keep a woollen scarf and socks handy to keep your neck and feet warm. Carry a thicker blanket as the one supplied in the plane may be too thin to provide heat when the plane air-conditioners are on high from midnight to early dawn.

Walk up the aisles

Medical research has proof that journeys of four hours or more increase the chances of blood clots giving rise to deep-veined thrombosis. Dr. Francisco Colaco, eminent heart specialist of Goa, states that when blood does not circulate blood clots are formed in the legs. These clots move and lodge in the lungs giving rise to a very distressing clinical syndrome called acute pulmonary embolism, which can even be fatal.

So walking in the aisle of the plane is good or you could wear pneumatic socks which alternatively compress and decompress the leg veins and prevent stagnation of blood. The socks are available at pharmaceutical stockists if not provided by the airlines.

Work off jet lag

Jet lag is inevitable if you are crossing many time zones – like a journey from Mumbai to London or Chicago. Medical professionals suggest that you synchronise your watch to the local time of the destination. Main meal times - and sleep – should be according to local time to minimise the effects of jet lag. Also use light therapy to reset the body clock to maintain its link with the outside world – direct daylight is best but a bedroom lamp light will '-7+6,0$B9&(5(*)$8()"!$23$5/#;(*)$!",$curtains or wearing an eye mask - is also an important signal to the body clock to recover from the effects of time zone crossing.

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Jaskirat, a journalist who covers everything from a building falling in New Delhi, to the Supreme Court deciding on corruption cases, is an avid biker. Shakunt Saumitra is a 8#;3,/0$X*,$+$*,$5#3$2&!"$',!$&-!$&*$a biking trip to Manali in Himachal Pradesh. A ride they call - “a mother of a trip”.

Biking it Story by Shakunt SaumitraPhotography by Jaskirat Singh Bawa (except JK’s own picture!)

There are two ways of looking at this. A manual of what not to do, by two dolts (Mr. I-have-a-bad-back aka J.K. and Mr. I-can’t-negotiate-a-curve aka me) on two motorcycles or a mother of a trip. I humbly and with red ears avoid the obvious and look at the latter option. A bike trip to Manali and back from the capital, is, well, something. At 25 and 26 respectively, you’d think that we’d be sensible men, sleep early and then set off on a 650km journey. But no, we chose to be giddy, excited, sleepless schoolgirls, till the wee hours of the morning.

So, a dazed start before sunup. There’s something about the air in September. A confusing chill! The chill, evaporated in an hour and landed us in the post apocalyptic dirt trails (I refuse to call them roads. They just weren’t). This was on the other side of Ropar in North India. There were some mirages resembling canals of the dream blue hue, the kind you’d expect in a Microsoft wallpaper. A barrage of about 73 million trucks ensured that we proceeded slow enough to be laughed at by ants who overtook us on multiple occasions. 400km into the trip we found ourselves near Bilaspur.

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT THE AIR IN SEPTEMBER. A CONFUSING CHILL!


Top: Luscious apples on tree in Manali

Left: JK sipping tea enroute to Manali

This was close to sundown. And then exhaustion took over and my absolute novice approach to biking in the twisties thankfully came to a halt. Thanks to the HPTDC resort, our woes were postponed.

N-!$!&$5#3$!;&:$;"(6"$;#'$5,6(5,583$2,!!,/:$;(!"$!",$A*+$,85'$!"-*5,/(*)$through the cut-outs at a much improved pace with a lot of funnies. I’ve heard biking collectives have a lot of hand signals when riding formation. Our man J.K. has two. One signal means *5$' and the other means a photo &.$'!&.0$S,,:$!",$+$/'!$!(<,$#$/(5,/$),!'$!",$5/(7!$&7$!",$!;('!(,':$*,9,/$2/,#>$his *5'. So, after some 847 photo stops, that’d make the river Beas shy away from course, we entered Manali. I vowed to not step out of the Drifter’s Inn till we were supposed to ride out to Delhi.

But, as the drapes opened to an old Manali morning…well, how do you 5,+$*,$8&9,`$Q",$6",,',$<-'"/&&<$&<,8,!!,'$#!$Q",$W,,F'$>*,,':$",#9,*$in the middle of an apple orchard, Dylan’s, The Lazy Dog where in classic ('++'"style, we had butter chicken. A reluctant trip to new Manali led us to the avoidable mall road and the pleasantly eerie Hidimba temple where I was slapped by a monkey at age 2.

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Explorer

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The highlight were the twisties leading to Solang Valley, the most beautiful tarmac and supporting scenery I have ever seen. The next candidate for paragliding after our man crashed right in front of us. His name was Diamond. To which our man, says, “Well, apparently diamonds aren’t forever, eh?”

Q",$/(5,$2#6>$!&$U,8"($;#'$#$'!/#()"!$5#'"$!&$!",$+$*('":$),!!(*)$6#-)"!$(*$?$#'"$'!&/<':$!/#7+$6:$8&;,/$2#6>$(''-,'$#*5$,*!,/(*)$&-/$/,'.,6!(9,$"&-','$8&&>(*)$like wet raccoons back from a drunk mud squabble.

I miss. Where’s that darned helmet? *Sniff*

Top: The view keeping us company, along the way

Explorer


The small town of Gokarna may be a pilgrimage spot but its tiny interconnecting pristine beaches, a blue sea lapping the coast and a sheet of stars in the night sky wafts you into the arms of nature.

Backpacking in Gokarna!Story by Papillon

It’s like stepping into the frame of a travel show, where you see the host’s hair whipping across her face as she points out the expanse of sheer blue before it melts into the sky. She has stopped on the bend of the road leading to Gokarna’s Om beach and takes a breather at the short wall before the outcrop rolls away into the crashing seas below. That’s where you are now, two-and-a-half hours after you left Panjim.

The small town of Gokarna, more famous among travellers for its tiny interconnecting beaches is, in fact, a pilgrimage spot for a four-day O5'=#$0#' festival, when thousands of faithful pay obeisance at the K$5$7$+-)5=$#$ and K$5$"E$%$6$0' temples. Barely 160km from Panjim, a short stop to see the Dravidian architecture of the several hundred-year-old K$5$7$+-)5=$#$ temple is advised before you continue to the beach. It is believed that the stone image of O5'=$ dates back at least 1,500 years.

Whether you take the train to Gokarna (like the quick K$0):$&$%85$ Express or the slower Margao-Mangalore passenger), the bus or just drive down, you would want to see the famed double curve of Om beach before you actually get there. Enough friendly haggling with the rickshaw wallas or taxi drivers &-!'(5,$!",$!/#(*$'!#!(&*$&/$2-'$5,.&!$;(88$./&+!$#$'!&.4&9,/$#!$!",$'.&!$;",/,$

BUT IT’S MORE THE DESOLATE COUNTRYSIDE, WHICH GIVES THE ROAD TO GOKARNA’S FAMOUS BEACHES A DIFFERENT FEEL.

Goa & More


the ‘U,’ is clearly visible and the yearning to dive straight into inviting waters suddenly gets stronger. But it’s more the desolate countryside, broken only by the odd motorbike that whizzes by in the hot afternoon sun, which gives the road to Gokarna’s famous beaches a different feel.

A sense of meandering is the prevalent motif here, from the winding roads to the tiny bays of the beaches to the dog picking its way among the rocks '*(7+*)$&-!$6/#2'0$Q",$'"#6>$&;*,/'$#/,$.&8(!,$,*&-)":$#8!"&-)"$!",$peculiar twang of a foreign accent or a different colour of skin will invite the latent courteousness (bordering on the servile) to break through.

Putting up in a shack lends a beautiful rustic feel to the vacation, with the mud walls, thatched roofs and bamboo poles jostling for space on the beach. It’s much cheaper too, compared to living in a resort, if you are prepared to put up with buzzing mosquitoes and very basic communal toilet facilities. Om beach’s I$,$)0-$N#7V$('$.&''(283$!",$2,'!$2,!:$#'$(!$&77,/'$3&-$a variety of living spaces to choose from, including huts on the beach and rooms with balconies and seperate washrooms - all at affordable prices. Added to this is an open restaurant on the beach front, which serves the most scrumptious 54,,4) and pancakes in the region.

Top: Gokarna at a glance

Kudle and Om beach are the only two directly accessible by road and receive many domestic and foreign tourists. You could still enjoy the tranquility of Gokarna by sitting at #$6#7V:$'(..(*)$*5$' and enjoying a bowl of fresh fruit after an early morning swim.

A trek up the dusty hills strewn with rocks peering over sheer cliffs is a great daytime activity in Gokarna. The walk takes you on a circuitous path, via a rocky causeway at the edge of the Arabian Sea, up a hill and on towards Half Moon and Paradise beach. They are pretty isolated with only a few shacks providing a welcome bottle of water and a place to rest. Stunning views of the sea lapping at the horizon and a pod of dolphins frolicking about, arrest time. It’s only the sudden movement of the local *4# padding its way to the next beach or the sight of an outboard motorboat chugging across the sea that makes you step out of the moment and carry on. You could have taken that boat ride between beaches for as little

as ` 100, but you would miss the walk through the woods and the breathtaking views along the way.

It is despairing to note the piles of plastic water bottles at each of the beaches, though they are hidden from plain sight by rocks. The predominant blacks of the boulders, blues of the water, greens of the shrubbery and browns of the earth are punctuated by the riot of colour offered by the hippies, who laze about the sand in bright sarongs and shorts. It feels very much like Goa of the 60s – the dull resonance of the bongos from outside a beach shack, bare-footed children playing with scavenging puppies and dreadlocked strangers saying ‘hello’ through a cloud of smoke. Though there are inconveniences such as 1*5(#F'$&<*(./,',*!$"&-',$?(,'$squatting about low plastic tables, replaced by moths and mosquitoes after the sun goes down, these are negligable as the sun winds down, chucking its palette into the sky making Gokarna’s beaches come alive.

People sit outside huts or on !",$2,#6"$23$2&*+/,':$6"#!!(*)$and smoking, nibbling at fresh +'"$.8#!!,/'$&/$'#*5;(6",'$#*5$sipping on beer and other alcohol. Rajasthani lamps are put up in every restaurant and you can see them winking at you from across the beach. The thunder of the waves seems to grow louder and it lulls you into a comatose state on the cooling sand beneath a dark sheet shining millions of stars that are sorely missed in a city sky.

It is then that you realise it isn’t the majestic sea, the temple, the refreshing trek, the vacant beaches, the bright sun, the reasonably priced but delicious food or the next long weekend that will bring you back to Gokarna. What draws you back is !",$',*',$&7$\+*5(*)$3&-/',87F$;",*$you’re alone on the beach at night, of belonging to nature and of seeing !",$!;(*>8(*)$'!#/'$#'$?&&58()"!'$!&$#$beautiful world.


Apart from the excellent local restaurants serving cheap 05$+') and *5$$0 just before Om beach, you could try delicious cusines at I$,$)0-$N#7V0$K/,'"$+$))' and Indian food at Shree Shakti or Pai hotel.

There are a myriad choices of huts on the beach or you can live it up at the upscale Swa Swara yoga retreat centre or Om Beach Resort (`4,000 per couple). Kudle Palace Resort and I$,$)0-$N#7V$c`150- 800) are bang on the beach. Gokarna International and Seabird Resort are in the town.

While there aren’t any organised parties as such, small jam sessions are common on the beaches and shacks. Alcohol is widely available at beach restaurants.

Left: Swimmers at Kudle beach

Bottom: A local vendor selling musical instruments

FOOT NOTES

You can take an express or passenger train from Margao, a taxi (which could set you back by about

` 4,000 return) or you could simply drive there.

Getting there

Getting there

Eating

Night out

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The famous Namaste Cafe at Om beach

Goa & More

On 11th December 2011, we lost an irreplaceable and eminent asset of our nation. As the country mourns, we at Travel Goa pay homage and respect to our beloved Mario Miranda. R.I.P.

Rishad Miranda, lovingly called ‘Maoshe’ has got the penchant for cartooning like his celebrated father Mario Miranda. Cartooning is all about showing the lighter side of life and whats life without some fun!

Maoshe’s Goa!Goa Funnies


The feni tune

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Daringly different

Goa Funnies


Konkani Guide

“Dev boro dis dinv”, someone screamed over my shoulder as I dropped the piping hot tea I was drinking all over my lap. After I had wiped off the retarded look of anguish and the urge to smack someone off my face, I said goodmorning to my mother, who was actually trying to be really funny at 12 in the afternoon.

Now as I go to the market, since I have to be a man and make up for not doing most of the morning chores (or maybe my mother forced me to go; no one will ever know), I skip down my merry way until a horde of hawkers rush up to me with an emphatic “hello, 7$7$"&5-"&5-”, #'$1$'!(88$!/3$!&$+)-/,$&-!$;"3$1F<$skipping, I say looking at all of them in the eye, “,5$1$"%$1$”, just as my economics teacher had taught me. He loved using the words “I don’t want” with his wife. He had found that using them in Konkani had more effect; hence the ,5$1$"%$1$ with emphasis on the ‘%$1$’.

While I still travel a little further, a little boy comes up to me with some plastic bags saying, “7$'?"041$"630'"B$'V” Now, I really didn’t know

The Language GuideStory by Joel PiresPhotography by Shweta Bajaj

whether to hit him or question my ),*5,/$'.,6(+6$7#'"(&*$6"&(6,':$but I just said “,5$1$"%$1$”. Baba (which literally means ‘son’ in Konkani) is applicable to a man or boy, and 7$' (literally means ‘daughter’ in Konkani) to a woman or girl; so you can imagine my confusion.

Q",3$'#3$!"#!$!",$+/'!$;&/5'$you can easily learn to speak in another language are the swear words. That’s not entirely true. _&-$+/'!$8,#/*$!",$;&/5'$!"#!$;(88$get you out of trouble or get you a massive discount. Or at least that’s what I am going to teach you.

When I was learning how to speak Konkani there were a couple of things I knew by default. Firstly how to say, ‘Hi, how are you?’ Well, most of the language actually involves a lot of English too, so it’s not particularly hard to learn. So getting back to ‘Hi, How are you?’ you go, Hi, 13)3"$)$"0533V Now luckily if you get that wrong my father won’t smack you on the back of your head. But you should ),!$(!$/()"!$!",$+/'!$!(<,$-*8(>,$me. If someone does ask you the

same question,"13)3"$)$"0533V, you reply with a 5$%="73#3"$)$ instead of going, ‘uhhh…ummm…let me get back to you on that’.

Now while you are at a store it always helps to let the sales person know that you understand Konkani so that you can earn some brownie points and most importantly get a discount (and in some cases not get cheated). You start off with an emphatic, 1--05+-":-*5-V (which means ‘how much?’), or you could ask him in English because it would take you some time to learn the jigsaw puzzle that is the Konkani number system. Now to seem like you are his buddy, (Come on, we’ve all done that before) you ask him $%'1"1$'"%$"#-"33%%-V (literal meaning: ‘Can’t you give me a lesser rate?’) Now that should help you get a better rate. If that doesn’t work, it probably is because he doesn’t speak Konkani and you freaked him out. Now put a cherry on top by saying, “(-4="73#-,"13#4,” (which actually means, ‘May God bless you’) but technically is used for a ‘Thank you’. And with that you can 8-4="73#-,"13#4,"me later.

Shalom David has been practising vedic astrology for over 16 years. He specialises in tarot card reading, astrology numerology and vastu shashtra. With every issue Travel Goa will bring to you David’s predictions for your month ahead. www.divinedew.com

Dear Aries

Be wary of misleading information and prepare for the potential need to redo projects you thought were 6&<.8,!,$(*$!",$+/'!$"#87$&7$!",$month. After mid-month, things begin to straighten out. Ironically, your money picture looks quite bright around the holidays. The 22nd-23rd is strong for love and money, especially from foreign or non-routine sources. Shalom

Dear Libra

You’ve been going through a maturing process recently and sometimes you may have felt that it was forced upon you. Impulsiveness in relationships may have come at a price. This month, you’re likely to feel more in your element on a romantic level from the 20th onwards. Take extra time for rest this month as energy levels may not be up to par. Shalom

Dear Taurus

Watch for a clash with a lover over money or intimacy matters around the 4th. There is impulsiveness with money and somebody requiring more space around the 10th. Your romantic life continues to stimulate and challenge you and although part of you might long for a more settled and stable situation, it’s *,9,/$5-88R$Q",$<&*!"$+*5'$3&-$especially adventurous. You’re both breaking routines and building new ones. Shalom

Dear Scorpio

Money matters can get very tricky this month and sticking to budget <#3$2,$5(7+6-8!:$(!$('$*,6,''#/3$however. Work schedules can change at a moments notice this month, but it will ultimately be for the best. The last week of the month brings a growing feeling of strength (*$#$.#/!*,/'"(.0$_&-F88$2,$(*$+*,$shape to host gatherings during the holidays and will probably want to stick close to home. Shalom

Dear Gemini

Close relationships can be suprising around the 10th with emotions bubbling up with great force. Watch for impatience in speech and action on the 9th. General confusion and delays clear up by mid-month. Family life is exceptionally busy for you this month. While challenges can present themselves, it’s a good time to address long-standing problems and take actions to +D$!",<0$G&9,$('$(*!(<#!,$#*5$passionate. Shalom

Dear Sagittarius

Avoid an overly independent stance this month. Alienating someone special will not help. This can also be a time when something personal comes to the attention of others. Q",$8#'!$;,,>$&7$!",$<&*!"$+*5'$you considerably more balanced #*5$*#!-/#883$6&*+5,*!$c*&!$2/#'"83$so). A project begins to regain momentum and money-making ideas are plentiful. Shalom

Know your stars

Aries 21 March - 20 April

Scorpio24 October - 22 November

Taurus21 April - 20 May

Libra24 September - 23 October

Sagittarius23 November - 21 December

Gemini21 May - 22 June

The Astrologer’s Corner


Dear Cancer

An especially busy month for you. Prioritise tasks well. Past or previously hidden matters come to light around the 13th. Don’t jump to speak about a personal subject unless you’re certain it’s not premature to do so. While it’s usually recommended to start shopping for the holidays early, if you haven’t started yet, you might want to save the bulk of your buying for after the 14th. Shalom

Dear Capricorn

You start off December on the right foot, with determination and charm. A love interest is paying attention. In fact, for Capricorns, this is one of the best months of 2011 for romance. While the holidays may not run close to schedule this December, you’re bound to enjoy yourself despite the lack of routine. Expect the unexpected. Shalom

Dear Leo

Be extra cautious with expenses this month, as there is a bit of a risk-taker in you right now! Relationships become clearer by mid-month, before which signals can be confusing and display of affection muted. Good news or rewards on the job front can arrive in the last week of the month. You may want to make work-related resolutions around the 28th-29th. You’re coming across with increased charm at this time as well. Shalom

Dear Aquarius

Friendships can be fairly whacky (*$!",$+/'!$"#87$&7$!",$<&*!":$!"('$includes both platonic and romantic ones. Recognise that signals from others can be misread before jumping impulsively to action. On the domestic front, good news may be forthcoming as 2011 draws to a close. Family ties are stronger and comfort levels run high. Shalom

Dear Virgo

Love matters are strong in December. While you may be on the fence about many things until mid-month, you’re certainly not lacking admirers. Try not to react impulsively at this time. Family is supportive and comforting in the last week of the month. Efforts to reorganise the home can also pay off. Shalom

Dear Pisces

Partnerships continue to keep you on your toes this month. Signals from a partner become clearer mid-month but love still tends to require '&<,$8,9,8$&7$'#6/(+6,0$M&;,9,/:$acting in haste (as inclined as you may be to do so) is not advisable. A friendship can bring surprising and pleasant emotions. Despite some chaos surrounding your work this month you are likely to end 2011 with a renewed feeling of 6&*+5,*6,0$S"#8&<

Capricorn22 December - 20 January

Pisces 21 February - 20 March

Aquarius21 January - 20 February

Cancer22 June - 22 July

Virgo24 August - 23 September

Leo23 July - 23 August

www.goa24x7.com

Get eco-friendly. Recycle your old T shirts to fashion bags which can be used on the beach, when you go shopping or just to make a style statement.

Do it Yourself

Step 1

Ensure the T shirt is ironed. It will help you get a 2,!!,/$+*('"0

Step 2

Fold the T shirt lengthwise in half.

Step 3

Cut off the sleeves along the armhole stitch.

Step 4

Cut out the neck in a shape of your choice.

DIY Fun

Step 5

Cut three slits on the hem of the T shirt (take care that you do not cut through the hem stitch). You could also cut one slit, but two or three will strengthen the base of the bag.

Step 6

Cut out three strips of around 1 inch width from the sleeves. There’s no real need to measure, however if you like you could use a ruler and a sharp edged object to draw lines.

From T shirt to bag in 10 stepsAll you need is…

An old T shirtA pair of sharp scissorsA safety pin


Step 7

Pull the ends of the strips as much as possible, this will result in the edges folding in to form cords (or you could use ready-made cords).

Step 9

Draw the cords and tie them tightly.

You can decorate the ends of the tassels by threading beads through them.

If your T shirt is faded, brighten it up using fabric paint, buttons, lace…go all out…have fun!

Step 8

Using a safety pin thread the cords through the slits (one slit to the next). Repeat for all three slits.

Step 10

Your bag is ready.

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Fortune

Thursdays: Live & Wired with KDJs Axel & Shine Fridays: Live & Wired with KDJ Ayesha

Kamaki

Thursdays: Hip Hop Night with DJs Newton & Gomzee Friday Fever Night: DJs Hayden, Leon & Eldrin Smokey Saturdays: DJ Gomzee Mixed Sundays: DJ Gomzee Mix

Thursdays: Retro Night with The Streetlight People BottleBay

Thursday Hip-Hop: DJ Ashton Resort Rio

Thursdays: Open Mic Night Fridays: Goan Night with Sigmund Desouza Sundays: Italian Night with DJ Miramar Mascarenhas Cidade de Goa

Mondays: The Cotta Family @ AlfamaFriday: Trio Orlando @ Alfama Az U R

Sunday: Saturday Night Out Casino Carnivalo

Sunday: Live & Wired with KDJs Axel & Shine

Calender Nightlife


Where’s the party?

North Goa

South Goa

Tito’s Courtyard

Mondays: Saby Goes Solo Wednesdays: Elvis Carvalho - The Duo Saturdays: Neshwin & Jonathan Sundays: Peter on the Saxophone Club Tito’s

Mondays: Atul & Anthony Tuesdays: Atul & Agee Wednesdays: Atul & Anthony Thursdays: Jay & Anthony Fridays: Atul & Anthony Saturday: Atul, Agee & Anthony Sundays: Atul & Anthony Café Mambo

Wired Mondays: Yuri & Agee Twisted Tuesdays: Ryan & Jay Wicked Wednesdays: Jay & Anthony Trashing Thursdays: Yuri & Agee Friday Vibes: Jay & Agee Saturday Showtime: Ajit & Jay Smakin’ Sundays: Jay Cape Town Café

Tuesdays: The Streetlight People (Live band) Thursday Blues: Elvis, Carlos & Joe (Rock live band) Friday Funk: DJ Ajit Everyday: DJ VickyU,#8'l$W-3$&*,$I(*)+$'",/$2,,/$#*5$),!$&*,$7/,,$!(88$midnight with exotic cuisine at Regi’s kitchen.Free entry and free shots for ladies. Down the Road

Wednesdays: Karaoke Thursdays: Retro Sistas Fridays: The Valentinos with Elvis & Edgar Saturdays: Retro Night Sundays: Karaoke with KDJ Tony

Club Margarita

Thursdays: Hip-Hop Night with DJ Aggi Fridays: DJs Navin & Aggi Saturday Reloaded: DJs Cynthia & Nick Sunday Special: DJs Cynthia & Nick

Fiplees

Thursdays: Modern Age Thursdays: DJ Sillie Friday: DJs Francis & Silli Saturdays: Music Oasis live Sunday Melodies: Brian Bones

Café Del Mar (Palolem)

Thursdays: DJ Stephen Friday Special: DJ Stephen Saturdays: House Saturdays


North Goa

Bosio Hospital

Tel.: 0832 227 6034B550l$H(*!&$]#55&:mN#*5&8(<:$%&#

J.M.J.Hospital

Tel.: 0832 2412 132Add.: Alto Bardez, Porvorim, Goa

Vrundavan Hospital

Tel.: 0832 225 0022, 225 0033, 671 3535Add.: NH 17 A, Bypass Karaswada, Mapusa, Goa

Vrundavan Hospital

Tel.: 0832 665 2525, 665 2552, 665 2555Add.: Pinto Vaddo, Candolim, Goa

South Goa

Bicholim Hospital

Tel.: 0832 236 2050B550l$H/(<#/3$M,#8!"$N,*!/,:mW(6"&8,<:$%&#

Goa Medical College

Tel.: 0832 222 3658Add.: Bambolim, Goa

NUSI Wockhardt Hospital

Tel.: 0832 668 4444Add.: Panzorconi, Cuncolim, Salcete, Goa

Hospitals Rejuvenation

Spa

Snip Salon & Spa

Tel.: 0832 2420898Add.: 18th June road, next to Bombay Bazaar, Panaji, Goa

Jiva Spa

Tel.: 0832 668 3333Add.: Taj Exotica, Benaulim, Goa

Ayurvedic Massage

Aramam

Tel.: 98 9035 1107Add.: Opposite Chinese Place restaurant, Candolim, Goa

Ayushyam Karmani William Beach Retreat

Tel.: 98 9021 0949Add.: William Beach Retreat, 4th Ward, Colva,Goa

Beauty Salons

Envogue

Tel.: 0832 242 6967Add.: S 3-4, El-Capitan Center, Feira-Alto, Mapusa, Goa

Neomi’s Hair and Beauty Salon

Tel.: 0832 278 1027Add.: Westerlies Vanelim, Margao-Colva Road, Colva, Goa

ListingsCalender Nightlife

Listings


Rafting

Southern River Adventures

Tel.: 0832 325 8928, 94 4813 4379, 98 4551 4122Add.: Nachinola, Bardez, Goa

Go Karting

Go-Karting Pvt. Ltd.

Tel.: 0832 249 7525Add.: Anjuna-Calangute Road, Arpora, Goa

Go-a-Karting

Tel.: 0832 275 7899Add.: Above Tata showroom Margao, Panjim Highway, Nuvem, Salcette, Goa

Boat Trips

Aqua Sports

Tel.: 0832 242 6967Add.: 5th Floor, Nizari Bhavan, Menezes Braganza Road, Panaji, Goa

Wilson Tours and Travels

Tel.: 0832 270 6999Add.: C-5, Shar N Sorai apartments, Margao, M.L. Furtardo Road, Goa

Water Park

Blue Lady Water Park

Tel.: 0832 242 6967Add.: Across Baga Creek, Arpora-Baga, Bardez, Goa

Elephant Ride

Goa Tour Planners

Tel.: 0832 227 5580, 96 7399 2899Add.: Opposite hotel La Calypso, Calangute, Bardez, Goa

Day Tripper Tours and Travels

Tel.: 0832 227 6726, 227 5144Add.: Gaura Vaddo, near Kamat Complex, Calangute, Bardez, Goa

Adventure

Bird Watching

Arco Iris Boutique Hometay

Tel.: 0832 278 6800, 96 0496 4482Add.: House No.1384, Sinai Bagh, near Carmel Chapel & High School, Curtorim, Goa

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Tel.: 0832 223 9141Add.: Island of Chorao, near Mandovi river

Jeep Safari

Universal Travels

Tel.: 0832 2251370Add.: Shop No. 287, opposite taxi stand, Mapusa, Goa

Kiran Travels

Tel.: 0832 273 5002, 273 5024Add.: 1, Almeida Mansion, Margao, below New Era High School, Malbhat, Goa

Horse Riding

Betalbatim A’s Holiday Beach Resort

Tel.: 94 2205 9688, 98 2330 0800Add.: Sunset Beach, Ranvaddo, Betalbatim, Salcete, Goa

Trekking & Hiking

Goa Hiking Association

Tel.: 94 2205 9688, 98 2330 0800B550l$X..&'(!,$%,*,/#8$H&'!$X7+$6,:$Mahalsa Prasad Building, Panaji, Goa

Youth Hostel Colva

Tel.: 0832 278 1139Add.: C/o GTTC, Colva, Goa

Biking

Peter’s Classic Bike Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Tel.: 0832 226 8467Add.: Casa Tres Amigos, House No. 425, Assagao, Goa

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