Baga Beach, Goa

Goa me sab chalta hai (everything is acceptable in Goa). We heard those words at 2AM near Tito's when a group of girls were moving out in scooty. That summerizes the existence of Goa as the most preferred vacation spot in India. Goa has something for everyone - like life you just need to find those few things and settle in.

Water Sports, Baga Beach

It was our first trip to Goa which surprises us as well given the travel enthusiasts we are. Another first was being part of a large group of friends while traveling which demanded a certain level of flexibility. In hindsight, the herd behavior worked in our favour as nobody wanted to miss something that others experienced.

Baga Beach

We had booked our hotel right at the Baga Beach and to our delight our rooms were upgraded to independent cottages when we arrived. The rooms were warm and cosy but it took us less than ten minutes to hit the shacks across the road at the beach. Lukewarm sea breeze, ocean view, beer, fish, chips and a large group of friends around - we had hit the sweet spot of happiness.

Baga Beach Resort, Baga

We didn't leave till sunset and then also the plan was to come back in an hour. This time the crowd had arrived and random music was being played by each shack. We found a peaceful shack called Bosco's a few hundred metres towards Calangute and settled. The food here was much better. The first day in Goa went in a flash.

Swimming Pool, Baga Beach Resort

Next day we woke up late and figured how to get few cheap scootys for next three days. While petrol pumps are afar in Goa, almost every household keeps bottled petrol to sell to tourists like us. Mobility solved, we visited Ozran Beach, Mandrem Beach and Aguada Fort the next few days on scooty.

Morning at Baga Beach

We went to couple of casinos - La Calypso near Baga and Deltin Jaqk near Panaji. I liked Calypso more because of its proximity to Baga and a more homely crowd. It was fun and we made some money as well. Fisherman's Wharf near Calangute was also good but pricey. Infantria Cafe had some of the most delicious food we tried in Goa specially the Apple Pie.

Banana Ride, Baga Beach

You will be back ! - shouted one of the advertisements at Goa Airport as we were leaving for our home. Again it was bang on as some of us were already thinking about when the next trip will happen. As a large group we behaved in a reasonably organised manner which ensured we had ample laughs.