One of the great things about going on a yoga retreat abroad is the opportunity to explore a new country and so I was very excited to leave the beautiful cocoon we had been enveloped in at Ashiyana Retreat to discover some more of Goa. I was especially excited as we were off to visit a market and a festival … two of my favourite things about India (along with the food, architecture, and pure assault on your senses)!

Crystal shopping in Anjuna Flea Market
Our first trip was to the Anjuna Flea Market, about a forty-five minute drive from the retreat. It was a very hot, dry and dusty day but that did not dampen my enthusiasm … or that of my very excited little shopping companion. I had read that the market was a good place to buy crystals and it was not long at all before Layla and I had spotted a stall absolutely laden with sparkling, coloured gems. The stall holders saw us coming too and it was not long before I realised it was going to be a very hard situation to walk away from empty handed! I usually pride myself on being a firm but fair haggler but after Layla was given gift after gift I knew that my bargaining power had been sorely reduced. Still after pouring over what must have been just about every crystal on the table, Layla and I came to a decision about what we wanted to buy, and although I could have probably got the price down a little further (the banter with the stall holders, complimenting my beauty and that of my children, plus telling us numerous times what a famous name Layla is in Hindi made it even harder!) we are very happy with our souvenirs. Little Etienne was even gifter a crystal of his own.

The market was huge and I must admit I wish I had shopped harder but being hot, and hungry, and with two little ones in tow, we spent a good chunk of our time there retreating to the lovely Flour Power cafe. We had a delicious pizza, iced coffee, kombucha and juices and Layla and Etienne left with a brownie for the trip home. If you have a little more time in Anjuna you could always make a side trip to the beach or wander into some of the traveller’s cafes in town.

Maha Shivratri festival in Chapora
Women adorned in their brightest saris, little girls in their prettiest dresses. The men and boys with their hair combed just so. The air thick with the smell of incense and the sounds of devotional music, ‘Om Namah Shivaya’, ringing out loudly on loop. Our trip to the little village of Chapora to attend the Maha Shivratri festival (dedicated to Lord Shiva) was a feast for the senses.

As we walked towards the temple, past the rows of brightly coloured boats, we were greeted by thousands of yellow and orange marigolds. The temple adorned with lights and shimmering silver bows. A sea of people snaked in lines waiting to enter and pay their respects. Taking selfies, ringing the bells overhead and chatting with their loved ones.

Outside there was an air of celebration. Men on bikes selling ice creams, families splashing in the ocean and eating blessed foods. Being witness to such beautiful and authentic cultural experiences is always such a treat and an honour and is one of the things I love the most about travelling.