Goa after the age of flower power
Once a paradise for hippies – you’ll still find traces of the flower power of old – Goa is now mainly a magnet for package holidaymakers, globetrotters and retirees.
ANJUNA Beach, just before sunset: The party is starting, after the heat has become somewhat more bearable.
Soon the first lights will illuminate the stalls of the Anjuna Flea Market, which was born during the height of hippie lifestyle in the 1970s.
A mixture of rock music and Goa trance are accompanying the swaying palm trees which cast dancing shadows in the dusk, before the sun disappears into the ocean and the first stars come out.
Couples are holding hands on the Tantra Rock Cliff, while children are playing in the sand. More and more lights begin to sparkle in the dark as restaurants, bars and clubs turn on fairy lights and the charcoal of the hookah, an Indian water pipe, glows on the little tables along the beach.
The music often booms on late into the night. Sometimes the party even lasts until the early morning in Goa, once a place of pilgrimage for hippies on India’s west coast.
Hello, mass tourism
The Indian state of Goa was a Portuguese colony for 450 years, until Indian troops ousted the colonial power in 1961. Just a few years later, the first hippies arrived and found paradise on Earth.
During the 1980s, the state became a popular destination for package tourists from Europe, while Bollywood film stars and other rich folk began building prestigious villas with pools and ocean views on the lush green hills.
In the 21st century, pensioners from Munich (Germany), Rome (Italy), Sydney (Australia) and Chicago (the United States) have been discovering that this spot, 600km south of Mumbai, is the ideal place to flee from the cold winters in their native countries. Especially British senior citizens, who are often among those hibernating in Goa.
Between saris and punk fashion
The flea market in Anjuna, which takes place every Wednesday, is a multicultural experience. Vendors come from all parts of India, sometimes even from as far as Australia, the US or Spain.
They are often foreigners who have remained loyal to Goa over the years and continue living here on a meagre income, selling handmade products.
The scent of cinnamon, curry, cardamom and cloves rises from open bags. Dozens of varieties of tea are on offer in large trays, to be purchased loosely and without additional packaging.
IF Goa is too busy or crowded for you, there are other destinations that would give you almost the same kind of vibe. Some of these places are located in our neighbouring countries, while one can be found in Malaysia.
1. Koh Phangan, Thailand
Quieter than Koh Samui and definitely less crowded than Phuket, Koh Phangan is where one goes to completely unwind. Unless, of course, you visit during the full moon party seasons. The beach parties here are epic, but at the same time, you would still be able to enjoy some quiet time during the day. The locals here are more laid back too, and you don’t get disturbed by friendly beach vendors as much.
2. Bentota, Sri Lanka
One of the top beach destinations in the world, Bentota has calm and striking blue waters that are perfect for diving, snorkelling and other fun water activities. Just outside of touristy areas you will find local fish markets, beautiful temples and gardens, and Lunuganga Geoffrey Bawa’s Country Estate, a gorgeous property that is now a museum.
3. Bali, Indonesia
There’s just something about Bali that attracts all kinds of travellers. Affable tourists love the privacy and exclusivity that luxe hotel resorts offer here, while solo and budget travellers love the easily available value-for-money accommodations and transportation. Everyone loves Balinese culture and the people here, as well as the food too.
4. Bhutan
Bhutan is not the cheapest country to visit, but definitely worth checking out if you can afford it. It’s high up in the mountain ranges so there’s no beach nearby, but Bhutan is where you need to go if you’re looking to be more spiritual. Bhutanese are mostly Buddhist devotees, who believe in the philosophical teachings of many honourable gurus. More than that, Bhutanese are typically a humble people who enjoy the quiet and simple life.
5. Perhentian Island, Terengganu
If the island life is for you, then head to Perhentian for a week or even month-long holiday. Yes, Perhentian gets better the longer you stay there, and the availability of different types of accommodation makes this possible. Even if you don’t dive or snorkel, simply lounging around the beach and dipping your toe in the water every now and then is good enough to make you feel utterly relaxed. It is also easy to find like-minded individuals on the island who are there to get away from the stresses of everyday city life.