eyond pune For most people, the beguiling state of Goa stirs up images of raves and parties, youngsters and foreigners, sun-kissed beaches and water sports. But Goa is so much more than that, it is surreal, intoxicating, quaint and liberating. It is far and beyond a mere vacation spot, it is magnetic as much as it is addictive. Head to Goa this summer to break free from your daily routine and unwind while gaping at the swaying palms trees and unhurried waves 112 march 2017 www.crememagazine.in
eyond pune Goa like most other states is divided into North and South, creating a clear distinction between the two areas with regards to tourism, food and ambience. Tourist flock to North Goa for reasons varied and different including the over popularised beaches and party destinations, but for anyone looking to visit Goa, purely to relax, South Goa is the best bet. It is laid-back and nonchalant and serves some of the best sea food in the country. Dwelling heavily on the old Portuguese charm, with well-maintained colonies and impossibly green countryside, the place is for anyone seeking an uninterrupted break from daily routine. ituated 2 km away from Colva lies the tranquil town of Benaulim. Untouched by domestic tourists and shrouded in mythology, the tiny beach town is said to have come into existence when Parusharama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu shot an arrow from the Sahyadri ranges into the sea asking it to retreat till the point the arrow was shot. The sea god Varuna relented, leading to the creation of Goa. The place where the arrow landed has been identified as the village of Benaulim or Benahalli- Bena meaning arrow in Sanskrit and Halli meaning village in Kannada. The census town of Benaulim, with a merger population of over ten thousand, is a treasure cove in true sense, tucked away neatly among palm fringed golden beaches. Being well connected to Margoa and all other cities by road, the town offers budgeted stays in peaceful locales, most hotels and resorts are located a kilometre or two away from the beaches, making it an ideal location to enjoy days at the beach and nights, away from it. Being a popular fishing centre, the day breaks in early in Benaulim as boats filled with fishermen traverse into the sea at day break. You could head to the beach in the morning to watch the fishermen head back with their catch, an event that is almost ceremonious for localities. Popular mostly among European travellers, the beach is dotted by tourists who come in to experience the Zen life while basking in the sun. Apart from the carefree crowd, one can also spot locals indulging in beach games or honeymooners making most of their stay, each enjoying a common fix- the Benaulim Vibe. The beaches in Beanulim are open all day long offering services at all hours, from relaxing beach beds to on-call service. If you stay long enough to watch the setting sun, it can be guaranteed that you will find it difficult to tear yourself away from your spot. The atmosphere is magical as the warm orange glow disappears to give rise to descending darkness, the beach lights along the coast being your only guide. Barring a few, most restaurants in Benaulim set up candlelit tables along the beach, creating a picturesque ambience to help amplify your experience. Fipless, AJ’s, Johncy’s and Hawaii Garden are few of the reatuarant that can help satiate your epicurean hunger in Benaulim. Being famous for its handicraft markets and local crafts, the beaches are abuzz with shops each with its unique products, catering to toursits, both domestic and international. Benaulim also has several monumental churches including the Holy Trinity Church and the Church of St. John the Baptist, which was originally built near the shore and was shifted to the hill beyond Benaulim in 1956. The Goa Chitra and the Art Escape Mueseum also deserve a visit. vidyaunnithan@crememagazine.in March 2017 113
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