Carnival commences nine days from today and for the four days of the festival, merriment will be writ large. For tourists in Goa, it will be four days of unlimited fun, but after that 40 days will be more quieter and subdued.
Visitors coming to Goa will not find some kitchens at their functional best because Lent, that follows carnival, is when many Catholics abstain from beef and pork and therefore dishes made of these meats may be scarce.
However, this time of the year brings an opportunity to savour a wide variety of delicious, meat-free meals, showcasing the other side of Goan cuisine.
Restaurants managed by Goan cooks are those frequented by locals but for 40 days after carnival many restaurants will not stock large quantities of non-vegetarian food.
“We normally have beef and pork dishes but we cook less as orders are few. It becomes even worse on Friday when most locals opt to stay at home as many opt to fast. Soup is one dish that goes well on that day,” says Francis, owner of a restaurant in the capital city.
Friday is when many Catholics opt to fast or refrain from heavy meals during the day and hence most eateries run on sparse menus keeping the flow of tourists in mind.
Despite many locals abstaining from alcohol during the 40 days of Lent, the sale of alcohol is made up by tourists. “Lent does not affect retail shops as it does not apply to tourists. It’s bars frequented by locals that see a dip,” said a retail shop owner on the coastal belt.
Though many locals may not opt to party as many take it easy on alcohol, party spots in the north are normally operational though the blast is not as deafening as on normal days.
Though many locals may not opt to party as many take it easy on alcohol, party spots in the north are normally operational though the blast is not as deafening as on normal days.
Here are a few pointers to enjoy Carnival and the following days:
1) Carnival parades never start at the scheduled time. So, take it easy and don’t rush because whatever is the time, no one ever misses the fun.
2) Tourists coming into the cities for the parades should try meals at restaurants managed by local chefs. For those who love beef and pork, start with a cold beer and enjoy some delicious dishes featuring these meats.
3) Parades are normally crowded. Don’t rush to get the best glimpse because most parades are about music. Find a spot where the music can be heard and sway to it.
4) If you are carrying beer cans with you – advisable as prices rocket along the parade route – take back the empties and drop them at spots where dry waste bins are available.
If you are carrying beer cans with you – advisable as prices rocket along the parade route – take back the empties and drop them at spots where dry waste bins are available.
5) Snacks will be served along the route. Patronise at your own risk because the FDA employees too are enjoying carnival and hence there will be no one to entertain any complaints.
6) If you miss the parade in Panjim, go to Margao or Vasco or Mapusa because the floats are similar.