Hello, I am Ninad Ghodekar. Once upon a time, in November 2023, I received a golden ticket—a free pass to India Bike Week 2023 in Goa. Ecstatic, I decided to turn this into my first solo trip, a journey of self-discovery and adventure.
The Journey Begins
The adventure began with a car ride from Nashik to Mumbai. From Mulund East, I hopped on a Chalo Bus to the Mumbai airport, eager to start my escapade. Arriving at the Goa airport, I booked a cab to my hostel in Calangute. It was already 11 PM on the 6th of December when I checked in, but the excitement kept me awake. I joined a group of fellow travelers at the hostel’s backyard, where we bonded over a bonfire and shared stories until midnight.
Route:
- Flight from Mumbai to Goa & back
- BlaBlaCar from Nashik to Mumbai & back
- Chalo Bus from Mulund East to Mumbai Airport
Exploring Goa
The next day, I explored the nearby areas, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, I ventured to Candolim Beach with a newfound friend on a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The scorching heat forced us to retreat to the hostel, where we spent the evening with other travellers, sharing laughs and experiences.
Places Covered:
- goStops Hostel in Calangute, Goa
- Candolim Beach
- India Bike Week 2023 in Vagator
- Dona Paula Viewpoint
- Miramar Beach
- Para Road
- Baga Beach
India Bike Week 2023
On the 8th of December, I started the day with a delicious breakfast and headed to India Bike Week 2023 in Vagator. The event was a paradise for bike enthusiasts, with stalls showcasing accessories and rare bikes. The highlight was meeting vloggers and engaging in meaningful conversations.
South Goa Exploration
The following day, I embarked on a South Goa exploration with a friend from the hostel. We rented a scooty and visited Dona Paula Viewpoint and Miramar Beach, although the heat proved challenging. I returned to the hostel, feeling dehydrated, and took a nap to recharge.
Day 2 of India Bike Week 2023 was a blast, with DJ shows and new friends adding to the excitement. We ended the day at a Saturday night bazaar, exploring local markets and indulging in local cuisine.
Farewell to Goa
On my last day, I bid farewell to my new friends from Pune, met in Goa and embarked on a memorable journey to Para Road and Baga Beach. The trip ended with a heavy heart as I boarded the flight back to Mumbai, cherishing the memories of my unforgettable solo trip to Goa.
Highlights (Hidden Gems Visited):
- Calangute local market
- Saturday night bazaar in Arpora, Goa
- Backyard bonfire at the hostel
- Shacks on Calangute Beach & Baga Beach
Food & Stays:
- Hostel stay in Calangute
- Tried local delicacies like prawns fry, coconut feni, and street food
- Suggestions: Try local shacks for authentic Goan cuisine
Necessary Things to Pack:
- Comfortable clothing
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Spirit of adventure
Tips for Travelers:
- Embrace spontaneity
- Interact with locals
- Try new experiences
Budget Breakdown
My Goa trip was a testament to affordable travel. Here’s a peek into my estimated expenses:
- Travelling (INR 14,000): Flights, Bla Bla Car, Chalo Bus
- Accommodation + Food (INR 6,000): Hostel stay, local shacks, street food
- Miscellaneous (INR 2,000): Souvenirs, activities
Total: INR 22,000
The solo trip to Goa was a transformative journey filled with adventure, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or just looking for a new adventure, Goa has something for everyone. Embrace the spontaneity, interact with locals, and dive into new experiences—you won’t regret it.For more travel stories visit: https://sowl.in/stories/
