Family Adventure in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Culture

Goa's Cultural Gems: A Day of Art, History, and Culinary Delights

Today was a day dedicated to diving deeper into the cultural heart of Goa. Priya and I, along with Devon, set out to explore the artistic and architectural treasures of this beautiful region, and of course, to indulge in some authentic Goan cuisine. It was a day filled with learning, laughter, and some truly unforgettable flavors.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at A Reverie in Calangute. The ambiance was enchanting, with lush greenery surrounding the open-air seating. It felt like we were dining in a tropical paradise. Priya enjoyed a traditional Goan breakfast, while Devon opted for something more familiar – pancakes with maple syrup. I decided to try a fusion dish, which was a delightful blend of local spices and continental flavors. A Reverie certainly lived up to its reputation for culinary creativity!


Experience modern European cuisine at A Reverie in Calangute, Goa – where exquisite flavors meet enchanting ambiance.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to our first destination: the Museum of Goa. This contemporary art museum, founded by artist Subodh Kerkar, was a fascinating experience. The museum spanned three levels and featured an array of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to installations by Goan, Indian, and international artists. Devon was particularly intrigued by the interactive exhibits, while Priya and I appreciated the thought-provoking themes and diverse cultural dialogues presented through the art. It was a space that truly encouraged public engagement with art and culture.


Discover the artistic heartbeat of Goa at the Museum of Goa, where modern art meets local culture in a captivating setting.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

Next on our itinerary was the Houses of Goa Museum. Designed by the renowned Goan architect Gerard da Cunha, the museum itself was a marvel, shaped like a ship. It showcased the unique architectural heritage of Goa, influenced by over 450 years of Portuguese rule. We explored exhibits featuring models, photographs, and installations of traditional Goan houses, highlighting the blend of Indian and Portuguese styles. Devon was fascinated by the intricate details of the Goan homes, while Priya, with her keen eye for design, appreciated the blend of Eastern and Western architectural sensibilities.


Explore the unique heritage and architecture of Goa at the Houses of Goa Museum, where history and culture come alive in an immersive experience.

After immersing ourselves in art and architecture, it was time for lunch. We chose Gunpowder, a restaurant in Assagao known for its South Indian cuisine. The restaurant was housed in an old Portuguese bungalow, adding to its charm. We ordered a variety of dishes, including Kerala mutton curry, Madras chicken curry, and spicy Goan chorizo fry, accompanied by fluffy Malabar parotas and appams. The flavors were bold and authentic, a true representation of coastal Indian cuisine. Devon, surprisingly, enjoyed the spicy chorizo fry, a testament to his growing palate.


Experience authentic South Indian flavors at Gunpowder in Goa—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As the afternoon waned, we decided to explore Panjim, the capital city of Goa. The city was bustling with activity, and we strolled through the vibrant streets, soaking in the local atmosphere. We made a quick stop at a local bakery to pick up some Goan sweets for later.

For dinner, we had reservations at The Fisherman's Wharf Panjim, a restaurant known for its seafood and Goan cuisine. The restaurant was located in a heritage home, with a charming ambiance. We started with some appetizers, including grilled squid and chilli chicken, followed by a Goan fish curry and a seafood platter. The seafood was incredibly fresh and expertly prepared, a true delight for the taste buds. Priya particularly enjoyed the Goan fish curry, while Devon devoured the grilled prawns.


Experience authentic Goan flavors at The Fisherman's Wharf Panjim—a seafood paradise where every dish tells a story.

To cap off our day, we decided to unwind at Cohiba Bar & Kitchen in Candolim. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with live music and a spacious dance floor. We ordered some cocktails and enjoyed the music, a perfect way to end our cultural and culinary exploration of Goa. I even managed to get Priya and Devon on the dance floor for a quick jig!


Experience the vibrant flavors of Goa at Cohiba Bar & Kitchen, where exquisite seafood and lively ambiance come together for an unforgettable night.

It was interesting to note that today, March 20, was also the day of the Shigmo festival in Calangute and Bicholim. Though we didn't make it to the parades, we could feel the festive spirit in the air, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of Goa.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Viceroys Arch and St. Augustine Tower, continuing our exploration of Goa's rich history and architecture. Devon is already excited about climbing the St. Augustine Tower, and Priya is looking forward to capturing some stunning photographs of the Viceroys Arch. We're also planning to visit Mario Gallery to pick up some souvenirs. I am hoping to find some unique artwork there that captures the essence of Goa.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Goa has truly captivated us with its art, architecture, and cuisine. It's a place where history and culture come alive, and where every corner holds a new discovery. I'm looking forward to what tomorrow brings, and to sharing more of our Goan adventure with you all.

This trip has been a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with my family and to share my love for travel and culture with them. It's moments like these that make life truly special. As a software developer, I spend most of my days in front of a computer screen, but these experiences remind me of the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone and exploring the world around me. And what better way to do it than with my loved ones by my side?

I almost forgot! I did miss my cricket game today, but Devon promised to practice with me tomorrow. Perhaps we can find a local cricket ground and have a friendly match with some of the locals. That would be a truly authentic Goan experience!

And Priya, ever the thoughtful one, reminded me that we forgot to pack a first-aid kit and snorkeling gear. I suppose we'll have to make a trip to the local market tomorrow to pick those up. It's all part of the adventure, right?

Until tomorrow, then. Keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep creating memories!

Priya and Devon send their love from Goa!