ADVENTURE: Wakeboarding
Goa’s always been a popular destination for water sports, and several new and improved water sports have been introduced on its waters over the years. Those adrenaline junkies not too keen on a high-thrill sport can check out wakeboarding. A combination of water skiing, surfing and snowboarding, the sport involves the rider, on a wakeboard (a mini surfboard), being towed by a speedboat at speeds of 30–40kmph. The sport has gained popularity since it doesn’t require the high speeds and focus on balance that water skiing does. Candolim, Mobor and Rajbaga beaches all offer the sport. (Rs 2,100 per trip)
HERITAGE: Old Goa’s churches
One can never tire of the churches in Old Goa. The majestic structures built when Goa was a Portuguese colony manage to leave you awestruck every time you see them and attract visitors from the world over. Most visitors end up stopping by the usual suspects: the Basilica of Bom Jesu (which holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier) and neighbouring Sé Cathedral (where the saint’s remains are taken during the Exposition every 10 years). But if you want to see more, it is best to take a short walk through Old Goa using maps available online (www.walking-tours.wonobo.com) or through a travel agency. Most walks will follow a route that starts from the Church of St. Cajetan to the Basilica of Bom Jesu via the Viceroy’s Arch, Alberqueques Steps, Church of St. Francis of Assisi and Sé Cathedral.
FOOD: Dine at Palácio do Deão
Located in a 200-plus-year-old mansion on the banks of the Kushavati River in Quepem town, 14 kilometres from Margao, is Palácio do Deão. The palatial house, built in 1782, is an interesting mix of Hindu and Portuguese styles. Its lush gardens feature a pond, loggia, balustrades and a belvedere. Painstakingly restored by Ruben and Celia Vasco da Gama, the current owners, the property is open for tours and, if reserved in advance, for traditional Portuguese meals or afternoon tea on its beautiful terrace. And if you’re feeling generous, make a donation—all donations are used to continue the restoration of the property. (www.palaciododeao.com)
SPECIAL EXPERIENCE: Silent Noise, Palolem
No laws are broken and no curfews breached at the Silent Noise Party at Palolem Beach in Goa. Instead, the world is on mute as live mixes by DJs such as Dan Booth, Ozgur and Barney Trouble, playing everything from deep house and breaks to progressive and chillout, are fed to you via wireless earphones; choose Blue for house, Red for progressive, bass and D&B, and Green for alternative, R&B, pop…whatever floats your boat. Watch bodies move to different beats as smoking fire dancers, breezy aerial artists and dizzying visuals drive you to a musical frenzy, all in silence—except, of course, when a few croaky voices break into choruses. (Every Saturday at Silent Noise-The Club; www.silentnoise.in)
CULTURE: Goa Carnaval
Goa’s portuguese traditions come to the fore every year during the Goa Carnaval. Introduced in Goa by its Portuguese colonisers, the carnival has today come to be one of the most colourful and exciting festivals in the state. Celebrated over four days, the carnival sees float parades on the streets of Panjim, Margao, Vasco, Mapusa and Ponda. Cultural programs and dances are organised all over the state. Fashion events, live music, and a variety of traditional Goan and Portuguese food and drink accompany the celebrations. Special packages for accommodation and water sports are also available during the time. (www.goa-tourism.com)