Goa's Natural Treasures

Hi! I am just back from a vacation in Goa-- the small south-western state of India, that is famous for its beaches. As we soaked into the natural beauty of the place, we realised why the 40 beaches of Goa are ranked among the top beaches of the world.

Splashing water : On a speed boat

The azure blue water, the lashing waves, the powdery golden sand, the swaying palm and coconut trees, the green hillocks meeting the sea, several boats sailing at a distance -- the total view was stunning.

The moment we entered our hotel, Miramar Residency, we were mesmerised by the greenery and the thoughful landscaping-- something that cannot be equated with other government hotels. Situated on Miramar beach, this was an abode of peace and tranquility.

Since we had visited Goa earlier also, this time we were keen to explore the hidden treasures of the place instead of the usual beach hopping. During a visit to Panaji market, we spotted these Mario Miranda illustrations on the wall!!

Like all tourist attractions, Goa also has lots of artefacts and souvenirs for the tourists.I was particularly attracted by these silver ornaments...

And more blings....

Mirror-embroidered belts....

And vibrant jholas (totes)

Decorative plates.

An interesting Mario Miranda plate!!

Being a Portuguese colony till 1961, Goa also boasts of intersting houses with a distinctive architechtural style. I could only get pics of a very few since most of them I had noticed from a moving vehicle!!

A school building

At a supermarket in Miramar, we spotted these intersting shopping bags printed with the map of Goa.

 

And finally, I got this bag at a steal at a shop having 25-70 % discount.

And this leather messenger bag we found at shop run by a Bengali. He even offered a discount to us fellow Bengalis!!