Goa is a state of two halves, but most travellers only ever see the surface. Step off the map and into the local narrative. We’ve curated a three-day journey that bypasses the tourist traps. Think blue-water isolations, centuries-old island traditions, and the authentic spice of Goan heritage kitchens.
Sao Joao Festival: A vibrant Catholic celebration in late June where locals jump into wells to retrieve gifts. These festivities are best experienced in the smaller villages like Siolim, where the tradition of leaping into wells is celebrated with authentic fervour.
Secluded Beach Life: Discover the unpopulated blue waters of Querim (Keri) Beach and the hidden Butterfly Beach.
Chorao and Divar Islands: Quiet escapes featuring quaint Portuguese houses, local bakeries, and scenic ferry rides. Our secret recommendation for Chorao is to engage a local birding guide for the Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary at dawn; the biodiversity here is a masterclass in tropical ecology.
Floating Casinos: A unique experience on the Mandovi River, where gaming happens right on the water. Bypass the crowded gaming floors for upper-deck lounges featuring premium mixology, live jazz, and Goan-fusion menus. Arriving at sunset transforms a night of high stakes into a refined social hour, offering a cinematic view of Panjim’s glowing colonial architecture that most visitors miss.
Local Food Nooks: Authentic Goan flavors found at tucked-away spots like Chef Fernando’s Nostalgia and La Fayette. For lunch at Chef Fernando’s Nostalgia in Raia, ask for the seasonal specials like the ‘Mackerel Recheado’ or ‘Pork Solantulem.’ These recipes are slowly disappearing from the common Goan palate.
Backwater Crab Catching: An exciting challenge in the lush Goan backwaters, far from the typical tourist trail. Beyond the map’s coordinates, the secret to the South Goa backwaters is the silence. The best time to go kayaking is sunrise. You’ll witness the local fishermen at work before the sun goes up, and it’s a great way to participate in a preserved culture.
Backwater Kayaking: A peaceful way to scout the mangroves and enjoy the solitude of Goa’s natural surroundings. Beyond the map’s coordinates, the secret to the South Goa backwaters is the silence.
