When you think of Goa, images of beaches, seafood, and vibrant parties often comes to mind. However, if you’re seeking a unique experience that transports you back to the Portuguese colonial era, consider staying at Fontainhas. Known as Asia’s only Latin Quarters and now a UNESCO Heritage site, Fontainhas offers a glimpse into the unadultrated Portugese influence.
Everywhere you turn, you’re greeted by cobalt blue, red brick, and Ochre coloured houses, interspersed with tropical flowers and cobbled streets. It’s as if you’ve been transported effortlessly to a bygone era! You should just stay here and slowly absorb it all.
We embarked on a captivating half-day cultural walk of Fontainhas with MakeitHappen, a journey highly recommended for the insightful historical nuances and cultural stories they share along the way. Also happen to meet some wonderful travellers who have their own beautiful stories like how we met a couple from South Africa in search of their roots!
Pausing at Confeitaria 31 de Janeiro, one of Goa’s oldest bakeries dating back to the 1930s, evokes a sense of vintage charm. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in their delectable Bebinca and other delights. Well we went their many times post our first visit!
The walk concluded with the delightful addition of live local music leaving us humming Oh Maria Pitache ..Oh Maria Pitache as we walked back to our stay!
There is a lot of artistic cafes and bakeries to explore by foot. One of our favourites was Cafe Bodega atop Altinho hill, an old, restored beautiful blue heritage mansion with an art gallery to explore as well.
Another one was a very cute tea room called TeaTrunk, that’s housed in a 100-year-old Portuguese casa.
Before bidding adieu, be sure to acquire an Azulejos hand-painted tile, a distinctive emblem of Goan heritage, particularly an art work of renowned Mario Miranda. For these one-of-a-kind Goan souvenirs, look no further than Marcou Artifacts store, at Fountainhas.
Well a word of caution : Don’t get overwhelmed to see Instagram Influencers and travellers flocking in to just to take Insta worthy pictures on the colourful streets during the day and leave.
But if you slow down and linger there is much beyond to savour and take back home.
The Soul Compass 