My favorite things to do and places to visit in Goa
Goa, apart from being famous for its laid-back beaches and cheap beers, has many hidden getaways and offbeat things to do. Over multiple road trips to Goa from Pune, I spent time at different beaches of Goa and also explored Goa beyond beaches. Here's a list of my favourite things to do in Goa:
Beachside Shacks in Goa
The shacks of Goa are very inviting for beers and food. I have learnt to cook some of the most creative dishes out of the menus of Goan shacks. While I’ve tried various shacks on various beaches, this shack on Patnem beach became my favourite just because of its sheer uniqueness. This was the only outdoor shack in Goa which wasn’t covered by the colourful umbrellas, but with green trees. The tables are set up between the trees and the hammocks which are tied up next to the tables. I chanced upon this shack for my breakfast and it just made my entire day. I have learnt some of the best breakfast recipes from the these shacks!
Beach Gym in Goa
If you are health conscious and were avoiding Goa because you thought it was only about beers and tasty seafood, you didn’t know that the beaches care enough for us. The fantastic beach gym that I discovered on Ashvem beach in North Goa completely blew me away. The wooden equipment completely blends into the beach ambiance. It was the most scenic gym I have seen till date.
Paragliding In Goa
Arambol beach at Goa offers paragliding with a beautiful bird’s eye view of the beach. The gliders take off from a cliff top near the beach and land on the shore of the Arambol beach. It’s an experience very different to gliding in the mountains.
Local Fish and Spice Market
Goan fish and spice markets is an ideal place to watch the daily life of the Goans. Everyday these markets are setup with heaps of fish and dried fish, spices and pork-hangings. I just walked around the markets and stood in a corner to observe some action.
