Family Adventure in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Culture

Goa's Coastal Charms: Colva and Benaulim Beckon

Today was all about embracing the quintessential Goan experience: sun, sand, and sea! We set out to explore the southern beaches, known for their serene beauty and laid-back vibes. It was a day of relaxation, punctuated by delicious Goan flavors and the simple joy of spending quality time with Priya and Devon.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Suzie's. Priya had read about it and was excited to try it out. It was a bit of a drive, but so worth it. The restaurant was nestled in a lush garden setting, which immediately transported us to a tranquil paradise. I opted for a traditional Goan breakfast of pao with bhaji, while Priya chose the masala omelet. Devon, predictably, went for pancakes. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for starting our day on a relaxed note. It reminded me of the simple pleasures of Princes Town, where the day often began with the aroma of freshly baked bread and the sound of lively chatter.


Discover Suzie's in Goa: where fine dining meets creative cuisine and handcrafted cocktails for an unforgettable experience.

After breakfast, we headed to Colva Beach. The drive itself was an experience, with vibrant markets and colorful houses lining the streets. Colva Beach was bustling with activity, but still retained a sense of calm. The white sand stretched out as far as the eye could see, and the waves crashed gently against the shore. Devon was immediately drawn to the water, splashing and playing with the waves. Priya and I found a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sun. I tried my hand at photography, capturing the beauty of the coastline and the playful energy of Devon. Priya, ever the vigilant mother, kept a close eye on Devon while enjoying the warmth of the sun.


Experience the magic of Colva Beach in Goa, a perfect blend of stunning scenery, thrilling water sports, and delectable local cuisine.

The best stories are found between the pages of a passport.

For lunch, we decided to try Spicy Bella Restaurant. I was in the mood for some authentic Goan seafood, and Priya had heard good things about their fish curry. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a simple decor that highlighted the focus on food. I ordered the fish thali, which was a feast of flavors. The fish curry was rich and aromatic, and the other dishes were equally delicious. Priya opted for the prawn balchao, which was tangy and spicy. Devon, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish fingers. It was a satisfying meal that gave us a true taste of Goan cuisine. The spices and flavors reminded me of the dishes my mother used to make back in Trinidad, a comforting taste of home away from home.


Discover a world of flavors at Spicy Bella Restaurant in Calangute - where Indian spices meet global cuisine in a vibrant setting.

After lunch, we made our way to Benaulim Beach. This beach was much quieter than Colva, with a more relaxed atmosphere. The sand was soft and white, and the water was crystal clear. We took a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoying the cool breeze and the sound of the waves. Devon collected seashells, while Priya and I chatted about our plans for the rest of the trip. Benaulim Beach was the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. I thought about how different this was from the hustle and bustle of Toronto, and how much we all needed this break.


Discover the serene beauty of Benaulim Beach in Goa, where golden sands meet azure waters and local culture thrives.

As the sun began to set, we decided to grab a drink at Soro - The village pub. The place was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with music playing and people dancing. I ordered a local beer, while Priya opted for a cocktail. Devon enjoyed a refreshing juice. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening air and the vibrant energy of the pub. It was a perfect way to end our day of beach hopping and culinary adventures.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Goa at Soro - The Village Pub, where delicious food and live music create unforgettable memories.

For dinner, we chose Shivers Garden Bar & Restaurant. It was a bit of a drive, but we wanted to try something different. The restaurant was set in a beautiful garden, with twinkling lights and a romantic ambiance. The menu was extensive, with a variety of cuisines to choose from. I opted for the Goan vindaloo, while Priya chose the tandoori chicken. Devon, again, went for the pasta. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a perfect end to a perfect day. The garden setting reminded me of the lush landscapes of Trinidad, a comforting reminder of my roots.


Discover an exquisite fusion of Pan Asian flavors in a serene garden setting at Shivers Garden Bar & Restaurant in Goa.

Today was a day of pure relaxation and enjoyment. We explored beautiful beaches, savored delicious Goan cuisine, and spent quality time together as a family. It was a day that reminded us of the simple pleasures of life and the importance of taking a break from the everyday routine. As we head to bed, we are already excited about tomorrow's adventure to Dudhsagar Falls and the Tropical Spice Plantation. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the falls, as I've heard they are a spectacular sight. And Priya is eager to learn more about the local spices and their uses. It promises to be another exciting day in Goa!

I also learned that the Shigmo Festival is happening in Goa. I wish we could have seen the parade in Curchorem today! There is also a cashew festival in Saligao tonight, but we are too tired to attend. Maybe next time we visit Goa, we can plan our trip around these festivals.

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.”

As I reflect on the day, I realize how much I appreciate these moments with my family. Life in Toronto can be hectic, with work and school consuming most of our time. This trip to Goa has given us the opportunity to reconnect and create lasting memories. It's a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. And as a first generation Canadian, it is important for me to expose my family to different cultures and experiences, so they can appreciate the diversity of the world and their heritage.

Tomorrow, we venture inland to experience a different side of Goa. I'm sure it will be just as memorable as today. Goodnight from Goa!