Goa, the Indian Beach and Djungle

Goa is undoubtedly one of the most popular beach destinations in India, and for good reason. With its idyllic coastline stretching over 100 kilometers, it is the perfect place to soak up the sun, relax, and indulge in some water sports. But Goa is not just about beaches - beyond the sandy shores, there is a world of dense jungle waiting to be explored. It is home to a diverse range of animals such as monkeys, wild boars, and langurs, who can often be seen frolicking in the treetops. The jungle is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with a host of colorful bird species found in the region. So, whether you're looking for a leisurely day soaking up the sun or a thrilling adventure trekking through the jungle, Goa has something to offer everyone.

It was the perfect place for our yoga retreat and a great stop-over during our stay in India.

We got to know three of Goa's beaches

1. Cola Beach: Cola Beach is a secluded and tranquil beach located in South Goa. The beach is famous for its lagoon, which is formed by the river flowing into the sea. The water in the lagoon is calm and perfect for swimming. The beach is surrounded by coconut trees and is an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.

2. Polem Beach: Our main Beach for our yoga retreat at Bamboo Yoga Retreat, so beautiful. More about the story of our yoga retreat you can find under this blog post.

Polem Beach is located in the southernmost part of Goa and is one of the least crowded beaches in the state. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere and scenic beauty. The crystal-clear waters and white sand make it a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is also home to a variety of marine life, and visitors can enjoy snorkeling and other water sports.

3. Palolem Beach: Palolem Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Goa and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The beach is a crescent-shaped stretch of white sand surrounded by palm trees and hills. The water is calm and perfect for swimming, and there are plenty of water sports activities available. The beach also has a lively nightlife, with a variety of restaurants and bars offering a range of food and drinks.

For us, Palolem was a great 2h trip to check some shops, to book train tickets and finding an ATM. We did not like the beach too much, there is Hotel on Hotel and we preferred to go back quickly to our quiet and meditating Polem Beach.

Fast Facts about Goa

• Goa is located on the west coast of India and is India's smallest state by area.

• The official language of Goa is Konkani, but English and Hindi are widely spoken.

• Goa was a Portuguese colony until 1961 and still retains a strong Portuguese influence in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.

• Goa is known for its lively nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours of the morning.

• The state has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C throughout the year.

• In addition to its beaches and jungles, Goa is also home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• The cuisine of Goa is famous for its use of seafood and spices, and traditional dishes such as vindaloo and xacuti are must-tries for foodies.

• Goa is a popular destination for yoga and wellness retreats, with many resorts offering programs focused on health and relaxation.

Monsoon time in Goa

Again (no coincidence) we came in a perfect timing. The weather was sunny and hot as we like it, but also little humid. And the season was over, with still people in the guesthouses, but not the masses. And three weeks later our club will have closed down their business because of the monsoon.

The monsoon season in Goa typically lasts from June to September, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the region. During this time, many businesses in Goa, particularly those located along the coastline, close down due to safety concerns and a lack of tourism. The locals in Goa, however, are well-prepared for the monsoon and have adapted to living with the season. Many of them take advantage of the rainy weather to engage in activities such as fishing, farming, and harvesting, which are vital for the region's economy. Despite the challenges that the monsoon can bring, it is also a time of celebration in Goa, with many festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the season. So, while the monsoon may disrupt some of the usual tourist activities in Goa, it also provides an opportunity to experience the unique culture and way of life of the locals during this special time of the year.

The state Goa

Goa is one of the wealthiest and most developed states in India, with a thriving tourism industry and a high standard of living. It is governed by a democratically elected government and is known for its political stability. While there are some economic challenges in the state, particularly in the areas of agriculture and manufacturing, overall Goa is a prosperous and dynamic region that is an important contributor to India's economy.

• Goa's GDP per capita is one of the highest in India, with a figure of approximately $7,500 USD in 2021.

• Tourism is a major contributor to Goa's economy, accounting for around 15% of the state's GDP and providing employment to over 100,000 people.

• In recent years, Goa has also emerged as a hub for the information technology industry, with companies such as Infosys and Wipro setting up operations in the state.

• Goa is known for its high literacy rates, with a literacy rate of 88.7% in 2021, one of the highest in India.

• Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for over 450 years until it was annexed by India in 1961. The Portuguese influence can still be seen in Goa's architecture, culture, and cuisine.

• Goa has a unicameral legislature, with a total of 40 members in the state assembly.

• In the most recent elections held in 2017, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won a majority in the state assembly and formed the government in Goa.

Especially the fact, that many companies open their operations in Goa, is interesting, so why?

One of the main reasons why firms like Wipro have set up operations in Goa is due to the state's favourable business environment, including a well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and supportive government policies. Goa's strategic location on the west coast of India also provides easy access to markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.