GOA

If there is Paradise on earth,
then pinch me if it isn't Goa ...

We re-visited Goa after a span of 7 years. This time however, we spent our time in the South of Goa, mainly on the wonderful white sands of Cavalossim beach.

We journeyed overnight by the recently introduced Konkan Railway from Bombay (a scheduled journey of 12 hours, but a real time experience of 16). The surroundings were picturesque, with the vegetation turning more green and lush as we neared the State of Goa.

Goa hasn't changed much .. which is why its so lovable. Don't count on getting any important or official work done on schedule in Goa. This is a place to RELAX. And if you don't siesta in the afternoon, you've plainly missed the point.

One of the reasons Goa was on our travel schedule was because we'd been invited to perform a couple of concerts there. The first was held by the beach, on the lawns of the Holiday Inn (where we were staying), and the second, at the Kala Arts Academy in Panjim.

Jazz concert by the beach, 10th Feb. '99
(L to R: Noel Borthwick - guitar, Benoni Soans - drums,
Karl Peters - bass, Ramona Borthwick - keyboards)

In spite of our hectic schedule and last minute upsets - delayed sound checks, voltage drops, late transport etc. (considered normal of course, in Goa) we did manage to spend some wonderful sun filled hours on the beach, and make a trip to Colva beach, where the trio (quartet sans me) performed at a local pub. That was some huge red snapper we dined on that night!

We returned by air - a mere 35 minute flight to Bombay. Couple of things to note: 1. When in Goa, always make sure you're booked on the flight you think you're travelling on. 2. Make sure the flight is scheduled to leave that day, on time. Flights get cancelled here at the drop of a hat. And we'll always return to Goa ...

Home : Rajashthan : Jaipur : Jaisalmer : Pushkar : Jodhpur : Bombay : Goa : Rajashtani cuisine