Off the beaten path in a place that was once a hub of excitement and decadence you’ll be delighted in visiting Goa. Jean Moquet when visiting in 1609 listed 25 sins common amongst Goans with voluptuousness and fornication being just a few. Formerly a Portugese colony isolated in British India, Goa is a little jewel. For 500 years the Portuguese profited in spice trade until relinquishing the colony to India in 1961. Artists, Bohemians, retired chefs and the like have all made their place there to do one thing and do it very well…live life well. It is an escape from all the things that hinder us from being true and in the moment.
The Braganza House was once a family’s mansion and now a museum holds the relics of an imperial age. Where in India proper you’ll find gold topped temples here you’ll be greeted with white washed and crumbling churches and villas. It has the beauty of time on it’s side and the people are all carefree.
The Monks make feni which is well known and liked by both locals and guests. Made from cashew fruit it will make the time go by as you bask in the sun or hang out in a Casa Xetio, a local drinking den. The practice of susegad, otherwise known as being happy and lazy is both practiced, promoted and discussed regularly by Goans.
The Postcard Hotels are amongst a vast array of three new choices. These being tiny boutique hideaways that are located across the state each offering a unique experience. Postcard Velha is a eight room escape amongst the crumbling churches of Old Goa. Postcard Cuelium overlooks emerald patty fields in a remote South Goan village with a 350 year old chapel and finally, Postcard Moira has revived 214 year old Portuguese mansion near the village of Assagao and North Goan beaches of Anjuna and Vagator. You can find out more at www.postcardresorts.com
Whether you stay in a villa by the sea, or choose a more upscale five star hotel in the south you’ll find yourself swept away from all the hectic hustle of your normal life. Like so many you may not ever want to leave! Sometimes the fanciest things in life are recognizing the beauty of something as simple as a breeze on a deserted beach in the moonlight. Don’t forget to drink the feni and practice the art of susegad while you’re there!
Happy Travels!
