For tourists visiting Goa, every day is a day of love for the grandstand of this tourist destination has always been: good things come when one is good, and so begins the Valentine story.
Love has long been the ethos of local identity that has drawn people from different corners of the world to Goa. And as in the past, this Valentine's Day will add a special flicker.
Beach shacks, restaurants and secluded spots will see much movement on this special day with locals and tourists merging at places where special arrangements have been made to lend that extra touch to love.
“We are expecting extra numbers on Valentine’s Day because it is a day when couples like to spend time together over lunch or dinner. Except for the element of romance, nothing will be different,” says Thomas, as he crafts the menu.
“We have planned some special desserts, have got in some special wine and, of course, a lot of roses,” he muses.
“Valentine’s Days are rather romantic in the south compared to the north, with the emphasis being on fine dining and soft conversations in the south and partying in the north,” says event manager, Rick.
Valentine’s Days are rather romantic in the south compared to the north, with the emphasis being on fine dining and soft conversations in the south and partying in the north.
Rick, Event Manager
“Since the day happens to be Friday, a lot of people from around the country have opted to come to Goa to take advantage of the weekend, and the beaches are expected to be full of locals and tourists romancing,” he predicts.
Most shacks are expected to extend their tables right onto the beach with candle flames flickering as the waves crash onto the shore, followed by romantic walks along the coast.
“It is safe to walk on the beaches at night, and with a lot of couples expected to take romantic strolls, it is pretty safe to assume none will be in line of any danger,” predicts a local, Urbano, as he walks along with his canine friend.
There will be places where live music will be available in the southern coast, whilst Bollywood music has been planned by a few shacks in the north and south. Most places have advertised and reached out to clients in advance, hence the optimism.
Most shacks are expected to extend their tables right onto the beach with candle flames flickering as the waves crash onto the shore, followed by romantic walks along the coast.
For many, Valentine’s Day starts with a rose, and hence the number of fresh roses. “There will be a lot of vendors roaming around with red roses today. Hopefully, they will not end up irritating our guests whilst trying to sell their wares,” hoped Michael as he folded a shack bed.
If restaurants have planned in advance, so have couples. “Valentine’s Day is when we do something special for our spouse, and that 'special' is agreeing to disagree, and just let the emotions of love pour through the day,” observes Mary, as she and her hubby hop into a bar after their sunset walk.
“This is our first Valentine's in Goa, and we have been having a good time since we arrived four days back. With the jet lag having settled, we expect it to be a cuddly day today followed by a romantic dinner,” admits Greaves.
For many tourists spending Valentine’s Day in Goa is about taking their wives or girlfriends shopping in the morning and a romantic dinner at night at places that have curated romantic moments.
“We went out for a late evening yesterday and spent the whole morning sleeping today. Our Valentine's starts with a late breakfast, and we hope to take it up to tomorrow,” confessed Vivek who intends stretching Valentine's through the weekend.
Red roses, different wines, desserts, new outfits and perhaps a romantic dance, February 14 in Goa helps stretch romanticism.