Summer is here and in Goa, it is hot hot hot, but besides the cheap booze, beaches and other well-known things, Goa offers a lot more to do. Accommodation is cheaper now, adults or kids can climb trees, watch birds and wildlife, swim in lakes and rivers, and learn new things. Goa offers it all, so check these out before you book a holiday in the hills this summer.
6 Killer Reasons To Be In Goa This Summer
Try The Local Summer Drink Urrak
Urrak is a drink indigenous to Goa, which you get only in the months of March, April and May. As this one is made during these months and tastes best when it is fresh, it means a summer holiday in Goa. Plus, this tasty drink has very less alcohol content, and is especially had in the afternoons, as it tends to cool the body down. The best part? It is really cheap, for about INR 150 you will get a glass of the jungle juice. The one at Joet’s by the sea, just cannot be missed. So go ahead and book that Goa vacay.
Get Creative
Whether you have been wanting to learn to read, write, paint, woodworking, drama, cooking, singing or more, Goa offers a multitude of classes and workshops to learn these at. And you are indoors in an air-conditioned or cool environment, so there’s no reason to say no. Visit the Museum of Goa, Sunaparanta, Champaca Bookshop and Okapi Vegan Kitchen to check out all the fun workshops that you could do whilst on a holiday.
Move Beyond The Beaches
If you are a water baby like us, then Goa is the best place for you! During the day when it is hot, just sit in the pool and chill, as most places have a swimming pool. When it gets cooler in the evenings, head to the beaches for that dip while the sea breeze keeps it pleasant and get killer sunsets as a bonus.
Or then take a picnic and head to riverside, or some local ponds and take a dip, while the jungle around you still keeps things cool. You could also stay at places such as the Olaulim Backyards, Wildernest or Mangaal Farmstay, which are in the cooler jungle or interior areas, offering a chance to maybe even catch a wild animal or two.
Explore The Jungles
The Jungle Canopy Walk, the first of its kind in the country is a definite must visit when in Goa. Though technically in Karnataka, it is just across the Goa border near the Castle Rock village. Where else will you get to see treetops and the beautiful creatures that call it home while you feel like you are walking in the clouds and a cool breeze to keep you chill. Plus, with 7 Wildlife Sanctuaries, you are never spoilt for options when doing that wildlife exploration and summers are the best times to catch animals out of their core areas.
Check Out Our Favourite Restaurants Without The Crowds
With most crowds gone, this is a great time to visit your favourite food and party places but be assured of prompt service, good food and no waiting forever to get a table. Catch some good live music at a few places, or just enjoy the food at Petisco, Bean Me Up, Versus, Sakana, Burger Factory, Cavatina, Bombil, Good Fellas, Kismoor, Venite, Cafe Tato, Meiphung, SoulChef, Padaria Prazeres and more. Plus, a lot of hotels offer brunch or lunch options with use of their pools (at super affordable rates), so visit Villa Botanique, The Park Hotel Calangute, Le Meridien, Presa Di Goa, Rose at Mademoiselle Goa and many more to have a great time.
Immerse Yourself In The Culture.
What is a trip without experiencing the destination's culture right? Head to Rita’s Gourmet Goa, near the Dabolim airport for a cooking class on Goan food. You can also hop on any walking tour by Make It Happen to really understand the heritage in both, North and South Goa. Sounds from Goa hosts four-part tours, including the history of the architecture, the food, the music and dances. Do step into the Old Bakery in Ribander to how the Goan breads are prepared and taste them while they are steaming hot from the oven.