It’s ironic that Goa is known as the ‘Sunshine State of India’. Coming from Queensland, the ‘Sunshine Sate of Australia’, I instantly fell in love with Goa’s palm-lined sandy beaches and its casual vibe. However, it is not just the land of sun, sea, sand and all-night parties; this oriental pearl has a lot more to offer than what meets the eye.
Goa is steeped in history, and as a former Portuguese colony, the influence is evident in its architecture and cuisine. I have spent the last four Christmases in Goa, and with nearly 400 churches, the entire state lights up in festive Christmas celebrations. I remember one Christmas Eve when Phoenix (my son) and I were returning home from my restaurant, Antares; the traffic slowed, and we could hear Christmas carols in the distance.
Cars were overtaking a truck up ahead and when we drove up behind it, we were delighted to see a real-life nativity scene. It really was magical.
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