Photo Credits: pg 4- go here
Goa is home to some of the most beautiful homes in the country. Such is the splendour of the ‘Goan villa’, that it has become one of the most prized possessions for the rich and famous in the country and outside it.
But in this region with homes of abundant beauty, there are still a few residences which stand out even more than the rest. One of them surely is the 250-year-old Casa Araujo Alvares, whose magnificent doors even carry the crest of the family. The grand house even has its own chapel where the inmates of the home kneel down before the almighty. The chapel itself is a treasure trove of its own, which includes ivory figurines, an enchanting marble statue of Madonna and exquisitely carved wooden panels. One of the other highlights of the house is an image of St. Anthony which was ferried from Africa and whose miraculous powers have blessed the family inhabiting the house.Incidentally, the reason why the Alvares brothers threw the doors of their house open to members of the public, especially tourists, is because high costs of maintenance and repairs which are required to keep these centuries old structures up and fighting fit.So if you want to do your bit to keep Goa’s culture and heritage alive, make sure you do patronise places which are great repositories of age-old elegance, along with popular beaches and nightclubs. Remember a good deed comes right around. Casa Araujo AlvaresLoutolim, South GoaOpen all daysFrom 9:00 am to 1:00 pmand 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm+918322750430
Get Inked in Goa!
For many getting tattooed is no less than a spiritual experience. Over the last few years, many a specialist tattooing artistes have set up shop in Goa, etching memories of Goa along with the funky designs on to necks, arms, bellies and other sundry parts of the body. Below are some of the best places where you can get yourself inked with a tattoo, which can help relate your Goa experience to your friends and family back home.
Kraayonz Tattoo Studio
Kraayonz Tattoo Studio is a multi-city studio which has been operating in Goa, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Pune. A creative signature as well as high degree of hygiene is their USP along with their client list which includes A-listers like HrithikRoshan, KanganaRanaut and Sushmita Sen.
Where: Carienca's Shopping Complex, Calangute-Anjuna Road, Calangute
Contact: +919820342044 or +919011894244
Inkfidel Tattoo
The man who runs this place has a reputation which precedes him. Duncan Viegas started Inkfidel a couple of years ago in Assagao. A whacky sense of creativity along with custom made designs are what makes Inkfidel special for tattoo lovers.
Contact: 9820415684
Moksha Tattoo Studio
Started by certified tattoo artist Mukesh, Moksha Tattoo studio specializes in a wide range of styles which includes Japanese, gothic, tribal and Maori. The buzz is that West Indian cricketing superstar Chris Gayle got himself inked here. Moksha Tattoo studio also offers private tattoo sessions by appointment.
Where: Near Baga Circle, Calangute
Contact: +919881773312
Sabby’s Tattoo Studio
Born in Pune, Sabby’s tattoo studio has started a branch in Goa. It’s famous for its tattoos as it is for its body piercing skills. Word has it that their intricate lettering and portrait skills are as good as the best in business.
Where: House No 310, Khalchawada, Arambol
Contact: +919823176464
Tarazwa Tattoo Shop
If you live down south, here’s a tattoo shop you must try in Palolem. The Tarazwa tattoo shop specializes in tribal art as well as detailed design. They also are sought after for finger tattoos.
Where: Next to Silver Star Beach Resort, South End, Palolem Beach
Contact: +919881793956
