Family Adventure in Goa: Sun, Sand, and Culture

Goa's Timeless Appeal: A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of contrasts, blending history with relaxation and, of course, the incredible flavors of Goa. It's amazing how much this small state has to offer, and I'm excited to share my experiences as we continue our family adventure. From ancient forts to golden beaches, and from aromatic bistros to lively bars, Goa continues to surprise and delight.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Black Sheep Bistro in Panjim. Priya and Devon were particularly excited, having heard me rave about this place from my previous visits. It's a charming spot with a retro vibe, housed in a beautifully restored old building. The comprehensive coffee menu was a hit with Priya, while Devon was more interested in the pastries. I opted for the fish cakes, remembering how much I enjoyed them before. They were just as good as I remembered, full of flavor with a hint of chili. Priya chose the prawn plancha, savoring the fresh, full-bodied flavors. Devon, ever the adventurous eater, tried the red kishmoor fish served on a bed of lettuce and declared it a winner. It was a perfect start to a day of exploration.

Fueled up, we headed north to Chapora Fort. The drive itself was scenic, passing through lush greenery and glimpses of the Arabian Sea. Chapora Fort stands high above the Chapora River, a red-laterite bastion built by the Portuguese in 1617 on the site of an earlier Muslim structure. The fort has a rich history, having changed hands several times between the Portuguese, the Marathas, and other rulers. As we walked through the ruins, I tried to imagine what life was like here centuries ago. The kids were fascinated by the old walls and the cannons, while Priya enjoyed the panoramic views of the Chapora River and the surrounding coastline. Devon was particularly thrilled, recognizing it as the Dil Chahta Hai fort from the Bollywood movie. We spent a good hour exploring the fort, taking in the history and the stunning scenery. It's amazing how a place can be both a historical site and a popular tourist spot, blending the past with the present.


Explore the historical Chapora Fort in Goa, a fortress offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and a glimpse into the region's rich past.

           

Sometimes, the most unexpected detours lead to the most unforgettable discoveries.

After our historical interlude, it was time for some beach relaxation. We drove down to Candolim Beach, one of the longest beaches in Goa, known for its calm and clean shoreline. The kids were thrilled to be back on the sand, and Devon immediately started building a sandcastle. Priya and I found a couple of sun loungers and relaxed, soaking up the sun and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Candolim Beach is perfect for water sports, and we watched as people parasailed, jet-skied, and took banana boat rides. Devon was eager to try jet skiing, so I took him out for a quick spin. He loved the adrenaline rush, and I enjoyed seeing the excitement on his face. Priya preferred to relax on the beach, reading a book and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. We spent a few hours on Candolim Beach, swimming, playing, and simply unwinding.


Discover the enchanting allure of Candolim Beach, where golden sands meet vibrant culture and thrilling water adventures await.

Lunch was at Suzie's, a charming garden restaurant in Assagao. This place came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The setting was beautiful, with rustic wooden seating and a whimsical atmosphere. We opted for the 5-course fusion fine dining menu, which was a culinary adventure. The lentil soup with fried okra was a standout, as was the tamarind pork chop. The presentation was impeccable, and the flavors were a delightful blend of local and international influences. Priya particularly enjoyed the mushroom cigarillos, while Devon raved about the pepper chicken daaku. It was a truly memorable meal, and we left feeling satisfied and impressed.


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

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Mafia Cocktail, a local bar known for its cheap drinks and lively atmosphere. It's a quirky spot, dimly lit and filled with vintage artifacts. Tony and his sister Rosy run the place, and they were both incredibly welcoming. We ordered a round of drinks – I tried the local Urrak, while Priya opted for a lime soda. Devon, of course, stuck to juice. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all enjoying the cheap drinks and friendly conversation. It's the kind of place where you can easily strike up a conversation with a stranger and feel like you've known them for years. We stayed for a couple of hours, soaking up the local vibe and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and relaxation.


Experience the best of Goan cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Mafia Cocktail, your culinary oasis in the heart of Goa.

For dinner, we headed to Shivers Garden Bar & Restaurant Goa, enticed by its promise of Pan-Asian cuisine in a romantic garden setting. The restaurant lived up to its reputation, with a mesmerizing ambiance and a menu that offered a wide array of dishes. We started with the Szechuan wings, which had just the right amount of spice. Priya chose the Thai chili basil noodles, while I went for a steak, cooked to perfection. Devon, as usual, opted for something familiar – chicken lollipops, which he devoured with gusto. The service was excellent, and the staff were friendly and attentive. The mesmirising setting and seating area was something out of a fairytale. The food was amazing and the drinks was fab and can't wait to return we had one of the most romantic nights in Goa so far. Thankyou to the staff we are greatful of your hospitality.


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

As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day's experiences. Goa truly is a place of contrasts, where you can explore ancient forts, relax on golden beaches, and indulge in culinary delights, all in a single day. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is what makes this place so special. And sharing it all with my family makes it even more meaningful.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Arvalem Caves and Harvalem Waterfalls, venturing a bit inland to discover more of Goa's hidden gems. I'm excited to see what adventures await us as we continue our journey through this fascinating state. I am also planning to stop by Infiniti Boutique to get Priya and Devon something nice as a memory of this trip.

Until then, goodnight from Goa!