When you think of Goa, you probably picture golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a laid-back, tropical vibe. But there’s another side to this coastal haven that adds an extra layer of thrill—Gambling and Casinos. Often dubbed the “Las Vegas of India,” Goa is one of the few Indian states where casino gambling is legal and thriving. Here’s a deep dive into this glittering world of cards, chips, and fortune.

The Legal Landscape

Gambling laws in India are largely governed by the Public Gambling Act of 1867, which prohibits most forms of gambling across the country. However, states can frame their own laws, and Goa took a bold step in 1992 by legalizing certain types of gambling under the Goa, Daman and Diu Public Gambling Act.

Currently, Goa permits both onshore casinos (in five-star hotels) and offshore casinos (on ships anchored in the Mandovi River). These offshore casinos are particularly famous, floating like beacons of excitement on the Goan waters.

The Big Players

If you’re planning a night out at the tables, here are some of the most popular casinos in Goa:

🎰 Deltin Royale

A name synonymous with luxury, Deltin Royale is Asia’s largest offshore casino. Spread across 40,000 sq. ft., it offers everything from poker and roulette to rummy and baccarat. With live entertainment, gourmet dining, and a dedicated VIP gaming area, it’s the go-to spot for high-rollers.

🎲 Casino Pride

Another offshore favorite, Casino Pride is known for its vibrant, desi-style atmosphere. It’s a hit among domestic tourists and offers games like flush, blackjack, and roulette with a lively mix of DJs and Bollywood performances.

🃏 Big Daddy Casino

One of the newer entrants, Big Daddy Casino promises a “Vegas-style” experience on the Goan seas. With modern interiors, high-end facilities, and international games, it’s becoming a major contender in the casino circuit.

🏨 Casino Strike (Onshore)

Located inside the Grand Hyatt, this luxury casino brings the thrill of gambling to the mainland. It’s stylish, classy, and perfect for those who want a more refined, resort-style experience.

What You Can Expect

Goa’s casinos are more than just gaming floors—they’re full-fledged entertainment hubs. Here’s what you’ll typically find:

• Entry Packages: Most casinos have cover charges that include play chips, buffet dinner, and access to entertainment.
• Games Galore: From poker and roulette to Indian favorites like Andar Bahar and Teen Patti.
• Live Entertainment: Think live music, dance shows, and even comedy nights.
• Food & Drinks: Lavish spreads of multi-cuisine buffets, free-flowing drinks, and premium bars.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Carry ID: You must be 21+ to enter. A government-issued photo ID is mandatory.
• Set a Budget: It’s easy to get carried away—know your limits.
• Dress Code: Smart casuals are usually fine, but some places prefer a slightly more formal look.
• Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekends are busier and more vibrant, but weekdays are better if you prefer a relaxed vibe.

The Flip Side

While Goa’s casino scene is booming, it’s not without its controversies. Concerns about addiction, social impact, and regulatory oversight often surface. The state government walks a fine line between promoting tourism and maintaining ethical standards.

Final Thoughts

Gambling in Goa is an experience unlike any other in India. Whether you’re in it for the adrenaline rush of a poker hand, the dazzle of live performances, or just to soak in the glitzy vibe, Goa’s casinos offer something for everyone. Just remember to play responsibly, enjoy the moment, and maybe—just maybe—Lady Luck will smile your way.

Ready to try your luck in Goa?
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just curious, the casinos of Goa promise a night to remember.

TikiBab is a typical beach shack that serves excellent seafood along with Italian cuisine. You can tuck into a lobster and also enjoy some pasta and pizza at the same shack. Situated on Benaulim Beach, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and listen to the waves hitting the shore—a lovely spot for a long beach walk. The whole place is decorated with a traditional Tiki theme, which is why the shack is called TikiBab in the first place.

For me, the best part was the cocktails. I had three large ones, all made with a bourbon and orange mix—it was simply out of this world. The liquor takes some time to kick in, but once it does, it’s mellow and relaxing. With the sea breeze hitting you, you’re transported to another plane. As the night approaches, there’s music and karaoke at the bar. People gather to dance and sing their favorite songs together. The place is frequented by many foreigners who want to experience the real feel of sun, sand, and food in Goa. They dance until midnight, drinking and enjoying the local fish with rice.

Benaulim Beach

Guests can sit on comfortable lounge chairs that give you that perfect sinking-in feeling. The lighting is low and mellow—just right to get everyone in the mood. The karaoke equipment is top-notch, with a screen for lyrics and two mics for people to sing. I was amazed at the talent of some guests—people were doing salsa and tango on the dance floor inside the shack!

It was a coincidence—but a happy one—that we met Rekha again at the shack. She had come with a friend from England. The chap looked cheerful and even gave me a few tips about how to get to the Everest Base Camp. The food was just as good as the cocktails—I had pork ribs and butter-fried prawns, just the appetizer I needed.

It’s fun to get a bit tipsy and walk along the beach. I paused to take some lovely pictures, and a few shots that Ani took of me turned out absolutely fantastic.

TikiBab is a fun shack with a lot of character. If one chooses, you can also enjoy sheesha and hookahs at the shack. Kids are welcome at TikiBab—it’s a family-friendly place where everyone can dine and soak in the vibrancy and color of Goa.

The feel and theme of the bar are inspired by Tiki culture—an American-born art, music, and entertainment movement inspired by Polynesian, Melanesian, and Micronesian cultures. It is known for its themed bars and restaurants decorated with Tiki carvings and artifacts, exotic cocktails, and a romanticized view of island life.

Tiki culture emerged in the 1930s during the Great Depression—it was a way for people to escape reality and romanticize their lives. “Tiki” refers to the first man in Māori tradition and culture.

Do try the rum-based drinks here, especially the Mai Tai and Zombie. Till then, enjoy the pictures of what was an almost perfect night for me—with close friends, lots of dancing, and joyful banter.

If you’ve ever wondered what magic looks like after the sun dips below the horizon, a night in Goa will show you. Known for its golden beaches and carefree spirit, Goa transforms into an entirely different world when darkness falls—a world pulsing with music, glowing with lights, and alive with stories.

The Sunset Prelude

Every Goan night begins with a sunset so cinematic it could bring you to tears. Locals and travelers alike gather on beaches like Anjuna, Vagator, and Palolem, drink in hand, eyes on the horizon, as the sky melts into hues of pink, orange, and deep purple. As the last rays vanish, a different kind of energy takes over.

Goa Nights

Beach Shacks & Bonfire Vibes

Step into a beach shack and you’ll find a laid-back vibe—soft reggae or acoustic covers, fairy lights strung around palm trees, the smell of seafood grilling over open flames. Curl your toes into the sand, sip on a feni cocktail, and let the sound of waves be your background music. It’s intimate, it’s chill, and it’s exactly what the soul needs.

Clubbing Under the Stars

For the wild hearts, Goa’s nightlife is a playground. From the legendary clubs of Baga and Tito’s Lane to the trance parties in Vagator and Anjuna, the music never stops. Psytrance, techno, EDM—you’ll find beats to match every heartbeat. Hilltop, Curlies, and Club Cabana (famously known as “The Nightclub in the Sky”) are just a few spots that guarantee an unforgettable experience.

Night Markets & Midnight Bazaars

If dancing isn’t your thing, Goa’s vibrant night markets offer a sensory delight. The Arpora Saturday Night Market is a buzzing hub of colors, aromas, and artistry. Local artisans, global travelers, live music stages, food stalls with everything from Goan chorizo to Thai noodles—it’s a feast for all the senses.

Full Moon Magic & Silent Discos

Some nights are extra special—like the full moon nights on Palolem Beach. Here, you can stumble upon a silent disco where people dance with wireless headphones, lost in their own rhythm, under the moonlight. It’s surreal, dreamlike, and uniquely Goan.

After-Hours Serenity

And when the parties wind down and the crowds thin out, Goa reveals her softer side. A walk along the beach at 3 AM, stars glittering above, waves whispering secrets to the shore—that’s the kind of moment that stays with you long after the night ends.

Final Thoughts

Goa nights are not just about partying—they’re about freedom. Whether you’re dancing till dawn or simply stargazing with your toes in the sand, every night in Goa tells a story. It’s a place where strangers become friends, where music feels like a heartbeat, and where every moment sparkles with a little bit of moonlit magic.

If you’re dreaming of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant nightlife, mouthwatering seafood, and a place where time seems to slow down—Goa should be on your radar. Tucked away on the western coast of India, Goa is a fascinating blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, wrapped in an endless summer vibe.

🏖️ The Beaches: Where the Magic Begins

Goa is synonymous with beaches, and rightly so. Whether you’re a party animal, a solitude seeker, or a family traveler—Goa has a beach for you.

• North Goa is the life of the party with beaches like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna buzzing with shacks, bars, and music festivals.
• South Goa offers a more laid-back experience with serene beaches like Palolem, Agonda, and Colva—perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature in peace.

Pro tip: Rent a scooter and explore hidden gems like Butterfly Beach or Kakolem—you’ll thank yourself later.

Goa: A Tropical Paradise

🍛 Foodie’s Heaven

From beachside shacks to fine dining, Goa’s culinary scene is an absolute treat. Indulge in spicy Goan curries, fresh seafood, and unique Portuguese-influenced dishes.

Must-try:

• Goan Fish Curry
• Prawn Balchão
• Bebinca (a traditional Goan dessert)

Also, don’t miss sipping on Feni, the local cashew liquor—just go easy on it!

🕍 A Glimpse Into History

Goa isn’t just about the beaches. It’s home to centuries-old churches, forts, and temples that echo its rich colonial past.

• Basilica of Bom Jesus (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Fort Aguada with panoramic sea views
• Fontainhas, the Latin Quarter of Panaji, for a colorful walk through time

Every corner tells a story—be it through art, architecture, or the local way of life.

🌄 Adventures & Nature

If you’re into more than just lounging by the sea, Goa’s got you covered:

• Water sports (jet skiing, parasailing, scuba diving)
• Trekking to waterfalls like Dudhsagar Falls
• Cruising along the Chapora or Mandovi rivers

You’ll find that Goa is more than just a beach holiday—it’s an experience.

🌙 The Nightlife

From silent headphone parties in Palolem to EDM nights in Anjuna, Goa’s nightlife is legendary. For something offbeat, try a full moon beach party or a jazz night in a cozy bar tucked in the lanes of Assagao.

🧘 Wellness & Soul

Goa’s peaceful side offers yoga retreats, Ayurvedic spas, and meditation centers. If you’re looking to detox your body or mind, there’s no better place to reconnect with yourself.

Final Thoughts

Goa is not just a destination—it’s a vibe. Whether you’re a solo traveler on a spiritual journey, a couple looking for a romantic escape, or a gang of friends chasing sunsets and soundtracks, Goa has something for everyone.

Pack light, keep your plans flexible, and let Goa show you her magic—one beach, one shack, and one sunset at a time.

The pool has been shut for a while due to maintenance, and I’ve tried going for a swim in the colony next to us, as they have a large infinity pool. However, I was told it was only for residents. So instead, I’ve been taking long, ten-kilometer-plus walks around Dona Paula and its many roads and streets.

Early evening, around five, is the best time to take long, leisurely walks around Goa with its undulating terrain. People here are very health-conscious, and it shows—walkers, joggers, and runners crowd the pavements in the evenings. Football and cricket are the main sports here, along with ocean swimming and surfing, though those are more for the beach bums. Most of the youth are engaged in some kind of sport or physical activity. Of course, the sun, the air, and the tropical climate all contribute to the fitness and health routines of many residents.

Meandering Walks

Long walks are the best way to soak up the sun and get some much-needed vitamin D for the skin—the suntan helps give the skin a healthy texture. I love these evening walks and often burn up to 800 calories. Sometimes, I step off the high pavements and meander into winding forest roads, walking down hills and even circling gardens. Taking photos of my walks—and of the people who enjoy them alongside me—is also a joy.

It’s best to focus on your breathing, but it’s also important to look around at blooming flowers, statues, or simply the sun beaming from the sky. I’ve really been enjoying these walks and have been taking them for over a week now.

One of the best parts is walking up and down inclined roads. For that, I have to bend my back a bit—and that strengthens it. All of this is part of my preparation for my Everest trek, which I assume will be all uphill. I walk with a peculiar style, swinging my arms to give my strides more energy and grip.

The best part is simply watching the people and the crowd. I once photographed a group of four ladies walking up and down the pavement and then down a hill with me. They were gossiping and cracking jokes as they walked leisurely. It’s truly the best way to burn calories, and the fresh air is great for the lungs.

I usually end my walks with a loop around a garden near the bay, sometimes sitting on a bench for a while, just gazing at the vastness of the sea and watching gulls and crows fly by. It’s a deeply invigorating experience, and after over two hours of walking, I find myself sweating from head to toe.

I leave you with some pictures of my meandering walks around Goa and its many scenic streets and hills.

Fontainhas, also known as the Latin Quarter of Goa, has a rich and vibrant Portuguese heritage, blended beautifully with Indian culture. The area is known for its traditional Goan bars that serve feni and other local liquors. Its colorful architecture, which dates back to the Portuguese colonial era, is a major attraction. The neighborhood was established in the 18th century when the Portuguese built it to showcase their architectural style and cultural heritage.

Fontainhas falls under the UNESCO heritage protection zone and is a must-visit landmark for all tourists. Its bars and vibrant nightlife attract artists and singers from all over Goa. The area is also famous for its art galleries, traditional crafts, and Goan sweet shops. Overhanging balconies and winding narrow alleys define the look and feel of this quaint part of Goa. The wrought iron balconies, pop colors, and old villas are all a reminder of its Portuguese past. The best time to visit is during the Sao Joao Festival, which takes place as the monsoon arrives. The artistic spirit is alive in the bars, where creative minds gather over liquor and tantalizing conversations.

Bar Hopping in Fontainhas

I had company that evening—a young, single damsel named Rekha, who decided to show me around the bars of Goa. The first place we hit was Joseph’s Bar, a spot Rekha frequents often. She seemed to know everyone there, including the bartender. Joseph’s Bar is small, very local in look and feel, and quite basic, with wooden tables and benches. It has the charm of an intimate and rustic space.

Interestingly, the bar used to be a watch repair shop owned by M.H. Haldar. The name of the watchmaker is still prominently displayed on the wall. One of the rooms is filled with antique clocks—some encased in glass, others hanging on the walls. The bar is dimly lit, with most of the light coming from bulbs and iron hanging lamps, giving it a soothing, old-world atmosphere.

There’s a small balcony overlooking the street where one can sit, sip on a beer or feni, and watch people come and go. Upon entering, you’ll see the liquor-stocked bar and a waiter who takes orders in a register before serving. The chicken and bun, along with vegetable cutlets, are a must-have here—especially if you’re enjoying whisky or gin.

The crowd was lively. I noticed many young couples, all dressed up for a night of bar and party hopping. This was my first experience of Goa’s nightlife, and I was lucky to be in the company of Ani, his wife Soma, and their friend Rani, who knew Fontainhas like the back of her hand. She was, without a doubt, the guide for the evening.

To the right is Asian Bar, and from there, one can just get a little buzzed on beer and stroll through the alleys of Fontainhas without a care in the world—and that’s exactly what I did for most of the evening.
“You know, this is the best place to meet singles and the artsy crowd in Goa,” Rabin told me as we sipped on some J&B on the rocks.
Some of the women, including Rani, wore big red roses in their hair, which gave them an almost angelic appearance. Soon, I saw another young woman wear one too. The soft lighting, the music, the conversation, and the wafting cigarette smoke gave the air a distinct hue of intoxication. I had a beer and followed it up with whisky, which made me a little lightheaded. I couldn’t help but dance—found a corner for myself and just grooved for a while.

Joseph’s Bar prides itself on being a Feni Bar, and its menu card makes that very clear. It pays tribute to feni, the soulful drink that Goa is known for. The bar is dedicated to the ward of Sao Tome, whose patron saint has a chapel built nearby, close to the old post office. Joseph’s sources its food from local women, helping support their small businesses. The bar has been around since colonial times and was once run by Senior Joseph Pereira. In those days, spicy maad with uraq was served here.

“Let’s go to Antonio’s! They serve great cocktails—the melon one is especially good,” Rekha said, tugging me by the hand as we headed to our next stop.

Antonio’s Bar has indoor seating and a smoking area. Multicolored ribbons hang from the ceiling, which makes for a unique and eye-catching decor. There are wooden stools and comfortable chairs to relax in. The cocktails here are some of the best I’ve had, and there’s enough room to shake a leg too. The walls are colorfully painted, and even the restrooms are fancy and well-kept.

We wrapped up the night at Soho Bar, where we spent the last hour playing pool. We played three games—I lost them all, but thoroughly enjoyed myself. It had been a long time since I last played, probably back when I was studying in London almost thirty years ago.

I spent a good part of the night just walking around Fontainhas, soaking in the vibe, gazing at its many bars, and admiring a local church. Overall, it was a wonderful night that gave me a taste of Goa’s vibrant, single, and artistic side. We ended the night with a meal at Mac, and I truly felt like the good times were back again.

Prawn curry is by far my favourite gravy dish in Goa. I do like crab and lobster, but I find it very difficult to cut through the shell and get to the white meat of the damn creature. It feels like hard work, and in the end, you get very little meat. I’d much rather have shellfish. Along with that, the traditional caramel custard and Serradura make just the right dessert for someone who wants a taste of traditional Goan cuisine.

Prawn Curry

I’ve been going on long hikes—over 10 km every evening—and that has given me more strength. It also helps in building my back muscles. The good thing is that I’ve started doing dumbbell exercises, 5 kg each, for the forearms. That helps build overall body strength. But the most important thing is to keep losing weight and getting lighter and lighter.

The evening sea and the sun on the horizon can be very invigorating. At times, I’ve managed to sit on a wooden bench facing the bright turquoise sea, just being there—so still and one with nature. It was an out-of-this-world feeling.

One needs to let the surroundings seep within. There were flowers in full bloom as I walked across steep roads and winding alleys.

Goa has it all—sun, sea, gambling, liquor, and its own vibrant energy. The fish and fresh air really lift your spirits, not to mention the sun that’s always streaming from the sky.

We’ve been having a bit of a problem with our pool, as it has been closed for repairs and cleaning. With no pool to swim in, the last few days have felt a bit of a drag, as I’ve had to change my exercise schedule as well. I’ve now added brisk walks up and down the hilly terrain and roads just outside our apartment complex. The long walks along the sidewalks of Goa as the sun begins to set are very invigorating, and I highly recommend everyone enjoy a long one-hour walk every evening when in Goa.

The View to Infinity

Climbing up and down winding roads is one of the best ways to burn calories and work up a sweat. It’s a great way for me to prepare myself for my upcoming Everest Base Camp trek. I even managed to wander into a nearby housing society and was mesmerized to see their large infinity pool facing the sea and the hills beyond. The water seemed to cascade seamlessly, as if merging into the sea and the night sky.

I walked a lot that evening to burn off the extra calories, but what I really enjoyed was the fresh air and deep breathing as I climbed small hills or walked briskly through fishing colonies. I soaked in every moment of it.

One of the best parts was taking photos of fellow walkers and joggers just ahead of me on the sidewalk. The spring air and feel were everywhere in the city. I saw trees full of blooming flowers—some yellow, some orange, others red and purple. As the sun set, its rays fell on the blossoming lilies and flowers, and it looked as though the trees were dancing with joy.

So guys, here’s three cheers for Goa—the land of sun and sand!

Goa has been a revelation. I just got a call from a friend who suggested I should look for a flat in Goa and stay there permanently. But today was all about driving around Goa with Ani, as we headed towards his room and shack in a fishing village.

The drive was long, and I was behind the wheel the whole time. The most fun part was driving across the large bridge that connects part of the city with the port. I drove over it without my feet on the clutch or the gas—we literally free-wheeled across with ease. It was a slow ride, but fun, as I had both my legs in the air!

Fresh Fish and Dancing Under Banyan Trees

It was a hot April day and thank God we had the AC on the entire time—that saved us from the sweltering heat. There’s a lot of construction happening all over Goa: bridges and flyovers are being built, cables are being laid—the city is clearly in expansion mode.

We then drove through small Goan villages. The Hindu fishing village had old houses with verandas, and there was a tulsi plant in each veranda, just like in Vedic times. Hindus form the majority in Goa, followed by Catholics/Christians and then Muslims. You can spot many Shiva and Ganesh temples along the winding roads of Goa.

Finally, we arrived at Ani’s shack, which he is currently renovating. He plans to rent it out later. The shack is right next to the sea, with a fishing village nearby. Many foreign tourists come here to fish, and you can see fishermen’s boats tied around the bay area.

It was the perfect place for a brisk, long walk—and that’s exactly what I did. I wandered through the fishermen’s colony and into farmland, looking for shade under large trees. It was fun burning calories in the heat, though I soon got exhausted. Luckily, I had packed some oranges and dates, which helped me regain some energy.

After that, we headed straight to Karvelo’s Hut, a very local food joint and bar that serves freshly cooked seafood—prawns, lobsters, and fish. The owner, Anthony, brought in a fresh fish straight from the sea. His wife cooked and baked it right there. It took a while, but the fish was absolutely delicious.

I had four bottles of beer—it was the first time I felt truly relaxed. I devoured the entire fish and even enjoyed the prawn curry with rice.

After a late lunch, we headed back into the city. My eyes caught sight of huge banyan trees lining the road. Ani took some breathtaking pictures of me dancing under those gigantic trees, with their roots falling into the ground and anchoring deep into the soil. It was such a beautiful, almost dreamlike sight.

And how could we end the day without a touch of spiritual energy? On the way back, we stopped to pray and pay our respects at the Devi Bhagwati Prasanna Temple. It’s a massive temple, where many Goan Hindus come to worship and celebrate festivals.

All in all, it was a hectic day—but full of action, color, and sights from this wonderful city that’s already doing wonders for my health and well-being.

Goa has been getting a bit cooler as it rained the other day. The lazy elegance of the city of sand and sun has sunk into me as I wait for time to stop. But alas! I have only one more week left in the city.

It was a welcome change when my mate and I decided to go for lunch at a very famous heritage hotel in the city called Fort Tiracol. This is a luxury heritage hotel with its own restaurant and bar. One needs to climb a flight of stairs to get to the reception area, and on the ground floor is a huge chapel with a large statue of Jesus with both His hands flung in the air. There are seven rooms around the chapel area, each named Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and so on, which I found very unique. However, I did not inquire why they were named after the days of the week. The luxury and deluxe rooms are priced between Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000.

Fort Tiracol

One gets an entire view of the bay area, and it is worthwhile just standing on the balcony to enjoy the breeze and the sea. A lot of stone and old teak wood has been used to make the walls and the furniture of this particular heritage hotel.

Lunch was chicken, fish with wine sauce, and chocolate cake with hot sauce. It was scrumptious, and I paired the entire lunch with a large glass of beer—just the treat I needed! Although I have been focused on my fitness and diet, consuming a thousand calories a day, I still manage to treat myself to a rich meal once in a while.

The charm of Fort Tiracol is that it has that old Goa feel, and one gets transported to the ancient era of the Portuguese as soon as one enters the large iron gates that lead to the fort. Just at the entrance, one can see a large memorial—a huge gun made of wrought iron with a ribbon made from steel sheets tucked onto the gun. The memorial was built in honor of the Goan freedom fighters.

After lunch, we drove to a sculpture shop to look at some marble statues. Goans are very artistic, and Goa has always been a place for artists. From writers to filmmakers to fashion designers, Goa is a very artsy place, and the government has also put a lot of resources into promoting art and culture in the city. Its cafés, art galleries, cinema halls, and exhibitions make it the perfect place for artists to gather. Along with Mumbai, I would choose Goa as a place for artists and thinkers to hang around.

We have been doing a lot of driving around Goa, and I have been behind the wheel most of the day. After a long time, I am enjoying driving and even managed to do some go-karting in Ani’s car at an empty parking lot. I drove the car at full speed and swirled around the parking lot a few dozen times like kids do. It was fun, as I was driving once again after almost a decade.

It gets hot in the afternoon, but one can go for a swim at Tiger Beach just to escape the heat. I did manage to take an hour’s swim at the beach, and by the time we returned, it was almost seven in the evening. But it was a full day—we were busy from morning to night, and that was the energy of Goa.