The summer heat in Goa can get truly unbearable. However, when temperatures rise, you won't find Goans hiding indoors within the confines of AC rooms.
Instead, they embrace the outdoors, seeking the cool shade of trees and breezy beaches, where they share beers and relax with the chilled out nature of a true Goenkar.
For Goans, summer is synonymous with picnics. If you're planning a visit, make sure to bring your picnic basket and mat and immerse yourself in a genuine Goan summer experience.
Marina Fernandes is busy spreading the green chutney she prepared on sliced bread, handing the ready ones to her 18-year-old daughter.
“The summer holidays have begun, and the kids get very bored at home, so Sunday is the best time to bring them all to the beach,” says Marina, as she offers a few croquettes to her husband.
She adds, “We come to the beach to relax while the kids are busy playing and making sand castles. Everyone talks about family time and spending quality time with the family – for us, going to the beach on a summer day is family time, and it has been like this for years.”
The summer holidays have begun, and the kids get very bored at home, so Sunday is the best time to bring them all to the beach.
Marina Fernandes, picnicker
BEACH THERAPY
Besides sipping on chilled beers and enjoying croquettes, the older generation has a few health summer tips. They believe that salt water contains a lot of healing powers.
Among those at the beach was Simao Dias, a 76- year-old from Velsao, who came with his family. He makes sure that he visits Velsao beach every summer for three consecutive days.
This tradition of taking a dip in the salty sea water has been recommended by many doctors too as it helps reduce joint pains and inflammation, and helps in circulation.
This tradition of taking a dip in the salty sea water has been recommended by many doctors too as it helps reduce joint pains and inflammation, and helps in circulation.
"This has been a tradition with us for almost a generation now. My parents used to take me, now I’m taking my children. The salt water helps relieve muscle and joint pain. Summers also mean getting rashes and eczema, so a dip or two helps.”
He adds, “We usually go with the family on Saturdays and Sundays. However, coming here for three days is not possible; so I ask my daughter to bring me to the beach in the evenings to dip my feet in the water,” he says.
SAFETY MATTERS
While the beaches can get a bit risky due to the heavy inflow of tourists, the Drishti Marine Lifeguards have the situation under ccontrol.
“We have added a few more safety measures including the installation of speakers to provide real-time safety announcements and warnings. In the case of rough sea conditions, red flags are erected to denote that beach swimming is not allowed," said Navin Awasthi, CEO of Drishti Marine.
Public announcement systems have been installed at Miramar, Bogmalo, Colva and Baga beaches.
Awasthi also noted that the concept of a dedicated women’s swim zone was introduced in order to ensure additional safety and comfort of women on the beaches.
"Everyone should have a safe and enjoyable experience while visiting Goa's beaches and stepping into the water for a swim," he added.
PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE
Besides safety and traditions, a dermatologist from Vasco suggested that skin care is most important. So, when going to the beach, do carry a wide-brimmed sun hat to protect against the harsh sun rays.
Apply sunscreen and moisturiser to soothe the skin. Aloe Vera is also recommended to heal the skin if there is a sunburn. Before going to the beach, skin care protection is definitely recommended.
So, they next time you decide to picnic is Goa, don't forget to keep these points in mind.