We goa to Goa

Last month we took a trip to Goa, a renowned beach getaway. We had such a great time! Sun, sand, clean air and stunning architecture. Up until the 1960s Goa belonged to Portugal, even though it is on the Indian subcontinent. So when you come to Goa... it doesn't much feel like you're in India at all! The houses and buildings are still Portuguese Mediterranean style.. oh so beautiful!!!

This is the place where we stayed for the weekend... a random pick from a tourist handbook, and boy was it a good one. It was called Alidia... spacious and clean rooms with private balconies... a pool and a couple minutes walk to the sandy beach.
I spent a lot of time in the pool! And mama and papa were surprised to learn that I can now swim almost independently (except for the help of the water wings) ;)

When we walked to the beach... we passed by some humble little homes with livestock.
And a friendly man bringing up water from the well noticed our curiosity and let us take a look (and a picture) :)
The beach we went to was called Baga...

Here I am telling mama how old I am ...

All of us taking in the serenity of the sunset and crashing waves.
A man came by selling chai!! Now that's heaven :)
Mama didn't swim... mainly because she didn't have a swimsuit on and also the culture here is a bit conservative (basically wearing a bikini and the likes is showing way too much skin). Many local women go into the water fully clothed.. saris and all! She couldn't bring herself to swim in the ocean fully clothed, so she stationed herself on the sand and guarded everyone's valuables ;)
We took a picture with a temple elephant (although it cost us 25 rupees - about 60 cents)...
This was our ride for one full day of travelling from one tourist site to another :)

There are a LOT of churches in Goa!
It was HOT, and it's so important to keep hydrated you know... I even wore SPF 60... Can never be too careful is what I always say (I'm so wise at such a tender age, don't you think?)