Family Adventure in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Culture

A Day of Nature's Wonders
Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and sensory delights of Goa. From the cascading waters of Dudhsagar Falls to the fragrant air of a tropical spice plantation, it was a day that engaged all our senses. It was a day of adventure, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that Goa has to offer.


Discover the enchanting Dudhsagar Falls in Goa, a breathtaking natural spectacle with stunning views and thrilling adventures amidst lush greenery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Soul Chef Goa- Feasts From The North East. Priya was especially excited, having heard about their authentic North Eastern cuisine. I opted for a traditional Trinidadian breakfast of Sada Roti with Baigan Choka, a taste of home away from home. Devon, of course, chose the safest option: pancakes. The cozy ambiance and friendly service set a perfect tone for the day ahead.

With our bellies full, we set off towards Dudhsagar Falls. The journey itself was an adventure. We drove through winding roads, passing lush greenery and quaint Goan villages. The anticipation grew with every kilometer, especially for Devon, who kept asking, 'Are we there yet?'

Reaching Dudhsagar Falls required a bit of off-roading. We parked our car and hopped into a jeep organized by the local Dudhsagar Tour Operators Association. The bumpy ride through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary was exhilarating! We splashed through streams, dodged low-hanging branches, and held on tight as the jeep navigated the rugged terrain. Devon was in his element, laughing and cheering with every bump and splash.

Finally, we arrived at the base of Dudhsagar Falls. The sight was simply breathtaking. The cascading water plunged down from a great height, creating a milky white spectacle against the backdrop of the lush green forest. The name 'Dudhsagar,' meaning 'Sea of Milk,' was indeed fitting. The falls are one of India's tallest, and being there, feeling the spray on my face, was an awe-inspiring experience.

We spent a good hour at the falls, taking in the beauty and capturing memories. Devon, fearless as ever, even took a dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls. Priya and I were content with just soaking in the atmosphere and the stunning views. I managed to capture some great shots with my camera, something I knew my photography enthusiast friends back in Toronto would appreciate.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

After our fill of Dudhsagar's majesty, we embarked on the next leg of our adventure: the Tropical Spice Plantation. I had heard so much about Goa's spice plantations and was eager to experience the aromas and flavors firsthand.


Explore the lush beauty of Tropical Spice Plantation in Goa, where spices come to life and authentic Goan cuisine awaits.

Located near Ponda, the Tropical Spice Plantation was a different world altogether. As we entered, we were greeted with the fragrant scent of spices that filled the air. We received a traditional welcome with Aarti, Kumkum, and garlands of flowers, followed by a refreshing cup of herbal tea. It was a warm and inviting start to our spice plantation tour.

Our guide, a knowledgeable local, led us through the plantation, explaining the cultivation process of various spices like black pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. It was fascinating to learn about the traditional methods used in organic farming. Priya, with her background in science, was particularly intrigued by the medicinal properties of some of the herbs and plants.

We saw tropical trees like cashew, betel nut, and palm trees, along with a variety of citrus fruits. Devon was fascinated by the guide's demonstration of how to extract juice from a betel nut. The whole experience was a sensory delight, with vibrant colors, intoxicating aromas, and the taste of fresh spices.

The tour ended with a traditional Goan lunch served on banana leaves. The vegetarian spread included jeera rice, veg dal, vegetable curry, bread, papad, pickle, and a sweet dish. Non-vegetarian options included chicken, prawn curry, and fish. It was a flavorful and satisfying meal, showcasing the spices grown on the farm. I particularly enjoyed the prawn curry, a perfect blend of spice and seafood.

Before leaving the plantation, we indulged in some in-house Feni, a local Goan liquor made from cashew. It was a unique and potent experience, a perfect way to end our spice plantation visit. We also picked up some spices to take back home, a fragrant reminder of our Goan adventure.

Our final stop for the day was the Anjuna market. I had heard so much about the vibrant Anjuna Flea Market and wanted to experience it. It’s best to visit the market between November and March when the weather is pleasant. It was bustling with activity, a melting pot of cultures and colors. We strolled through the stalls, browsing through a variety of items, from artisan jewelry and clothing to souvenirs and spices.


Discover the essence of Goa at Anjuna Market, a colorful hub for beach fashion and local crafts, perfect for every traveler seeking unique souvenirs.

Priya haggled for a beautiful saree, while Devon picked up some quirky souvenirs for his friends back home. I found a unique leather bag that I knew would be perfect for my photography gear. The market was a sensory overload, with music, food stalls, and the constant buzz of bargaining and chatter.

For dinner, we decided to try Chulha. The restaurant offered a great menu and was conveniently located. The North Indian cuisine was excellent. I was particularly impressed with the tandoori dishes. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, a perfect way to unwind after a long day. Devon enjoyed his butter chicken, while Priya savored the flavors of the Dal Bukhara.


Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Chulha in Goa's Grand Hyatt – where tradition meets luxury amidst breathtaking landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back to our accommodation, tired but content. We reminisced about our adventures, from the majestic Dudhsagar Falls to the fragrant spice plantation and the vibrant Anjuna market. It was a day that showcased the natural beauty and cultural richness of Goa.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve into Goa's history and art with visits to the Museum Of Goa and the Houses of Goa Museum. We're also looking forward to trying out some new restaurants, including A Reverie for breakfast, Gunpowder for lunch, and The Fisherman's Wharf Panjim for dinner. And, if time permits, we might just unwind at Cohiba Bar & Kitchen. It's going to be another day of exploration and discovery.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about how lucky I was to share these experiences with my family. Traveling with Priya and Devon always adds a special dimension to my adventures. Their perspectives, their laughter, and their unwavering enthusiasm make every journey unforgettable. As a Trinidadian living in Canada, sharing my love for travel and different cultures with them is something I cherish deeply.

Goodnight from Goa! Until tomorrow's adventures...