5 WAYS TO CHILL OUT IN GOA DURING THE MONSOON

When you imagine a holiday in Goa, sun-kissed beaches, wild parties, and hordes of hippies probably come to mind. What if I was to tell you this tourist hot spot becomes particularly blissful throughout the Monsoon Season?

Few international tourists realise Goa is a playground 365 days of the year. The idea of visiting during its wettest months might seem strange; but, for travellers who dream of total relaxation, a beautiful backdrop and mellow holiday vibe, it’s the perfect time to chill out in this aspirational destination. Here are some of my favourite ways to unwind and soak up the magic of Goa during the Monsoon.

#1 Explore the Tropical Spice Plantation

A trip to India isn’t complete without a visit to a spice plantation. When Goa takes on a slower pace, it’s the perfect time to head towards the lush hills and discover spices in their most natural state. Ben and I visited the Tropical Spice Plantation in Keri (Ponda). Upon arrival, we were welcomed with traditional offerings of flower garlands, kumkum (red, round marks impressed on our foreheads) and herbal teas. Our guided tour immersed us in nature, revitalised our senses and filled our brains with new knowledge about spices. During the gentle stroll, we were able to mingle with buffalos, elephants, dogs, cats, monkeys, ducks and rare species of birds. They were all rather jealous of our buffet lunch, which included a mountain of traditional and nutritious foods served in banana leaves. After our walking tour and spice-infused feast, the only thing left to do was visit the gift shop!

#2 Get Your Chef’s Hat On at a Goan Cooking Class

For me, the act of preparing delicious food is wonderfully therapeutic. Once I’d witnessed spices in their purest form, I was eager to learn how to cook with them! Goa is home to many divine dishes, which are unique to the area. Goan Fish Curry is just the beginning, but it’s hard to go past. Ben and I learnt how to make this signature recipe, along with Tandoori Chicken, at the Grand Hyatt. The hotel’s Indian restaurant, Chulha, offers abridged cooking classes for guests, and there are many other courses on offer throughout Goa. No matter which operator you choose, you’re guaranteed to feel inspired by the ingenious use of spices in Indian cuisine. Ben and I realised we had many of the vital ingredients in our kitchen back home. The only problem was we had no idea how to turn them into something special. Well, now we do! And, we can’t wait to cook up an Indian feast once we get back to Australia.

#3 Sign Up for a Detox & Yoga Retreat

In this day and age, most of us are bombarded with toxins on a regular basis, from the air pollution we breathe to the processed foods we eat. Goa is home to a number of eco-conscious resorts, which offer detox retreats and aim to give your body a break and health boost. I opted for a 5-day Juice Cleanse and Yoga Program with The Beach House and will never forget the experience. My days were filled with remedial massages, nutrient-rich beverages, educational health talks, colonics, walks on the beach, one-on-one yoga classes, meditation and “me time”. It was bliss. And, I came out the other side having reduced my bio-age by 3 years, improved my ph level from 6 (acidic) to 8 (alkaline) and dropped 2kg. I’m keen to come back and do it all again next year!

#4 Let Your Hair Down on a Floating Casino

For a more upbeat way to unwind, enjoy one of Goa’s signature holiday experiences – the floating casinos. Ben and I ventured out to the Deltin Royale, India’s most grandiose party boat for gamblers. We kicked our night off with an epic feast on the middle floor, where buffet treats, alcoholic beverages, cabaret dancers and party beats set the indulgent tone for the evening. It wasn’t long before the gaming zones captured our curiosity. While we’re not big gamblers, it was fascinating watching the different dynamics at play. The air of exhilaration was infectious, and we were absorbed in the action for hours. By the time we caught a tender back to the peaceful mainland and crawled into bed, we were completely spent.

#5 Live in the Lap of Luxury 

Few places are more relaxing than luxury resorts and hotels – they’re slices of holiday heaven where your every whim gets catered for. Goa’s stateliest establishment, the Grand Hyatt, is pure comfort and escapism of the finest kind. Ben and I had the pleasure of staying in one of the ocean-view suites, which formed a royal base for our many decedent escapades. The hotel runs daily activities to keep guests entertained during the Monsoon, from fondue evenings and Indian-inspired cocktail classes to yoga sessions and detox days. The spa complex was more like a state-of-the-art sanctuary, offering male and female spas, steam rooms, a gymnasium, relaxation room, indoor pools, beauty salon and enticing massage menu. Meal times were pamper sessions in their own right. Ben and I always savour opportunities to enjoy good food, made with love, expertise and careful consideration. At the Grand Hyatt, every experience seemed to involve those three ingredients. We felt truly taken care of – like the weight of stress and chaos had been taken off our shoulders.

Whatever your chill out style, Goa offers something to help you unwind and enjoy the enchanting charm of the Monsoon Season. From lavish resorts and fun-filled nights to health retreats, educational activities and time with nature, there’s a world of locally inspired adventure waiting to be enjoyed. While Goa is a prized holiday destination throughout winter, it’s particularly breathtaking during the Monsoon when it turns into a lush and peaceful playground. So, make sure you experience Goa’s unique diversity and sample this world-renowned travel destination during the different seasons – not just the sunny ones.

A FOOD ADVENTURE IN THAMEL (KATHMANDU)

Thamel is like Disneyland for hippies. Incense, hash, body art, daggy baggy clothes, vegan food, yoga classes, mountain gear, bejewelled bits ‘n’ bobs, more hash…it sells everything a travelling hobo could possibly desire in a teeny-tiny radius.

Indeed, it’s easy to lose yourself to Thamel and call the place Kathmandu. A labyrinth of narrow paths and miniature retailers, it’s gritty, weathered and blanketed by old-world charm. There are stores within stores – sideways, around the corner, down the back and six stories skyward – all begging for your tourist dollar.

Before you know it, you’re stuck in a blissful holiday routine: sleep, shop, eat, repeat. While your day-to-day business stays pretty much the same, the places you visit will undoubtedly change. There are so many wonderful restaurants to choose from, it’s possible to enjoy every lunch, dinner and snack session in a different hideaway. During my stay in Thamel, I did exactly that. Here are my favourite food finds; they won’t disappoint.

BEST VEGETARIAN
Where to go: OR2K, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: Apart from the huge, flavour-packed meals, OR2K really draws a crowd thanks to its unique ambience. Offering a social yet relaxed setting, it’s a place where you can slip off your shoes, chill out on giant pillows, share stories with other travellers and soak up the uber cool vibe.
What to try: The falafel if you’re on your own, or the OR2K Combo Platter between two. Both are delicious and great value.
Tasty tip: The meals are massive, so consider buying a light option or sharing a starter and a main between two people, especially if you’re on a tight budget. 

BEST SWEET TREATS
Where to go: Third Eye Bakery & Espresso Bar, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: Their desserts are prettiest, most decadent treats in town. Unlike a lot of other bakeries in the area, which offer beige, beige and more beige, Third Eye presents an exciting range of vibrant, eclectic sweets.
What to try: Whatever takes your fancy. Everything is delicious.
Tasty tip: They sell a lot of their stock at half price towards the end of the day (just when dessert cravings kick in). 

BEST SANDWICHES
Where to go: Gourmet Bakery & Coffee Shop, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: The sandwiches are cheap, chunky and filled with saucy goodness.
What to try: Any of the large sandwiches. The bread is soft, light and moreishly good.
Tasty tip: If you’re not big on sauce or dressings, mention it to the staff before they start creating your carb feast. Otherwise, you’re in for a soggy sanga.

BEST NEPALESE FOOD
Where to go: Mahabir’s Centre for Nepal Connection, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: If you’re not from this part of the world, the local food menu is a wild guessing game – which is kind of exciting. Luckily, the staff are eager to talk you through the dishes and traditional techniques for eating them.
What to try: The Khaja Set. When in Nepal, try the local food…even if it sounds strange.
Tasty tip: Eat with your fingers if you order the Khaja Set. It’s a whole lot more fun, plus it’s how things are done. 

Where to go: La Bella Café, Chaksibari Marg Street
Why it’s awesome: It has a classy Italian vibe, which offers the perfect escape from the commercial, chaotic streets of Thamel.
What to try: The momos are divine. La Bella Cafe is the best place to gorge on Nepal’s most popular dish. Order the lemonade to go with your meal. It’s zingy, refreshing and perfectly sweet.
Tasty tip: Travel up to the second floor and sit as close to the street as you can. It’s a fantastic vantage point for people-watching.

BEST HEALTHY STUFF
Where to go: Green Organic Cafe, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: The food is mind-blowing, healthy and creative. The “GOC” is hands down my favourite restaurant in Thamel.
What to try: You MUST try their signature dish, the Everest Victory Salad. The homemade noodles are delightful and the dressing is special by name and nature.
Tasty tip: Don’t get frustrated when the internet doesn’t seem to work. Take a pack of cards, read a book or – better yet – enjoy your meal!

BEST TEA & COFFEE
Where to go: Himalayan Java Coffee, Mandala Street
Why it’s awesome: Because it’s more refined and polished than many of the other rough ‘n’ tough coffee shops in the area. Plus, the staff go they extra mile. My chia tea came with crema on top. I’d never seen that before. Yum!
What to try: Your beverage of choice…plus a cookie.
Tasty tip: Bring your laptop. This funky-fresh hideaway is a perfect spot to host small meetings or get some travel research and work done.  

BEST CHEAP EATS
Where to go: Green Valley Café & Restaurant, Chaksibari Marg
Why it’s awesome: The staff are chatty, the locals love it, the food is flavoursome and your budget will thank you for it.
What to try: The momos and curries.
Tasty tip: The portions are as modest as the prices, so why not treat yourself to an entree?

BEST STREET FOOD
Where to go: A roving food vendor, most likely on the corner of Thamel Marg & Leknath Marg
Why it’s awesome: It’s a cheap, fast thrill … for your tastebuds.
What to try: The rice bubble cone thing. It looks like a kid’s wild food concoction, especially when a dozen mystery ingredients get mixed with it. But, it’ll kick start a rockin’ party in your mouth.
Tasty tip: If you can’t handle the heat, ask for the mild version.

Getting Pampered, Poked and Prodded in Thailand

I can confidently say I’ve never been to a tourist destination where holiday goers seem more relaxed than in Thailand. Beyond the idyllic settings and laid-back local attitude, the comparative affordability of everything seems to help people truly unwind. In Thailand, you can be completely self-indulgent with money and time – the two things we seem to stress about most – and not feel guilty about it.

So what does that mean? It’s time to treat yourself to a few decadent experiences simply because they’ll make you look and feel great. Here are my top three picks for those wanting to get the most out of their time and money in Thailand.

DENTAL WORK

A few months ago, Ben ignored that little voice inside his head that said, “Don’t do it!” and attempted to open a bottle with his teeth. Needless to say, it resulted in a chipped incisor and newly acquired hobo grin (which was actually kind of cute). So, the plan was to repair the damage (a new crown was needed), fix a couple of fillings and get Ben’s teeth whitened using Zoom technology in Thailand. The entire package set us back around $1000 AUD – it would have been triple the cost back home in Australia.

It you’re thinking about jumping on the medical tourism bandwagon and getting some dental work done in Thailand, we highly recommend it. Based on the advice of friends, we chose to go under the drill at Phuket Dental Signature. This clinic is the size of a small hospital and it’s so crisp white, you almost need sunglasses inside. The staff were friendly, super-skilled and easy to communicate with. We also found great comfort in the free Wi-Fi and air-con, which are both highly sought after in tourist riddled, piping hot Patong.

You can see the results of Ben’s dental work in the photo below. He’s looking pretty darn fine if I don’t say so myself!

DETOXING THE MIND & BODY

After a weekend of debauchery at the Full Moon Party, visiting a detox resort sounded like a good idea. We hit up The Sanctuary, which was perfectly placed just around the corner from “party central” in a quiet little hideaway. After a 10-minute boat ride, we wandered up the private beach and immediately knew we were somewhere special. This was where the real hippies were hanging out and their lean yoga bodies, ornate tattoos, technicolour fashion and wild haircuts were all proudly on display. It was another world – one we couldn’t wait to sample.

With only a day to enjoy The Sanctuary, Ben and I picked three different experiences from the extensive menu on offer: yoga, spa treatments and…colonics. Yes, colonics. The yoga session was a shock to the system and we quickly felt the full force of the Full Moon Party. Having said that, it was also the best yoga class we’d ever been to – the instructor’s voice was incredibly soothing putting us in a meditative state.

Next came the spa treatments. Ben opted for a full body massage to repair his muscles after a weekend of dance raves. I chose the full body scrub to cleanse the stubborn dirt and grime of long-term travel. Both offered a complete sensory experience. The smell of the spice-infused body scrub actually made my mouth water and the effect on my skin was brilliantly intense. I remember feeling ice cold and red hot at the same time. Ben and I both felt as though we’d been given new life after our treatments.

Lastly, we tackled the self-administered colonics. We were both feeling nervous and vulnerable as we walked into the ‘demo chamber’. After a quick tutorial, Ben and I were put into separate cubicles, which happened to be situated side by side (how romantic). We’ve reached a new level of intimacy in our relationship and heard things we can’t un-hear (despite the elevator music playing in the background). While we both left the session feeling “lighter” and less bloated, we agreed it was one of grossest things we’d ever done. Each to their own. Enough said.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to sample most of The Sanctuary’s signature offerings. They are renowned for their detox programs, which sound somewhat life changing. Not only are they designed to eliminate toxins from your body and help you discover newfound energy, they can also challenge your emotional connection with food. These programs can be supported by a number of mind-body-spirit sessions from the obvious (yoga, Pilates and meditation) to the unusual (Taoist abdominal massage, Reiki, NLP and “Shake Therapy”). If we’d had more time up our sleeves, we definitely would have given them a go.

GETTING PAMPERED TO A PULP

The idea of spending a whole day in a beauty spa sounds ludicrous anywhere in the world – except Thailand. If you hit up one of the many urban sanctuaries which line the city streets, you can practically afford to walk in and do everything one the menu, including: manis/pedis, eyelash extensions, massages, hair treatments, the weird feet-nibbling fish thing, facials and beyond. A full day will set you back anywhere between $100-$300AUD in the cheaper spas depending on your choice of treatments. Don’t feel shy about haggling or asking for a discounted package cost.

There are some important things to keep in mind before you jump into the first spa you lay eyes on. Remember, you get what you pay for. Our first massage came from a bargain beauty salon on a main road in Patong. There was no music, the air-con was broken and their traditional Thai massage was more like a back tickle. But it was ok for $12 AUD.

We tried the same thing at Pier 42 and had a completely different experience. From the rustic charm of the rooms and soothing forest music, to the intriguing scents of the oils and masterful massage techniques of the staff, it was pure heaven. Again, it was well worth the price. So, decide what level of luxury you’re after, do your research online and at your hotel reception desk, and match your expectations with your budget.

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