Each afternoon, busloads of visitors from out of state
mill around here after a paddle on the crowded foreshore,
pestered by postcard wallahs and the little urchins whose
families camp on the outskirts. If, however, one wants to
steer clear of this central market area, and stick to the
cleaner, greener outskirts, Colva can be a pleasant and
convenient place to stay for a while. Swimming is relatively
safe while the sand, at least away from the beachfront,
is spotless and scattered with beautiful shells.
Nightlife
Although never an established rave venue, Colva's nightlife
is livelier than anywhere else in south Goa, thanks to its
ever-growing contingent of young package tourists. The two
most happening nightspots are down in the dunes south of
the beachfront area: splash boasts a big MTV satellite screen
and music to match, and a late bar and disco those liven
up around 10.00 pm.
A sandy plod just south of here, posier Ziggy's boast Goa's
only air conditioned dance floor, a thumping Indian Ragga
and Techno sound system, and a sociable terrace littered
with wicker easy chairs. If one prefers to get plastered
somewhere affordable and less pretentious, try Johnny Cool's
midway between the beach and Colva crossroads. Men Mar,
on the Vasco Road, also serves beers, snacks and Lassis
until around 10.30 pm.
Useful Information
Rent a Bike:
To rent a motorcycle, ask around the taxi rank, or in front
of Vincy's Hotel, where 100cc Yamahas are on offer at the
usual rates. Fuel is sold by the Bisleri bottle from a little
house behind the Menino Jesus College, just east of William's
Resort. This is the only fuel stop in Colva.
Exchange:
Meeting point travel between William's Resort and the crossroads,
exchanges Travellers' Cheques and cash at a little under
bank rates.
