7.2.26

I really wanted to visit Panjim, also known as Panaji for confusion purposes. It’s the capital of Goa province.

I was happy to go alone. The others are so happy chilling, I don’t mind it but I love to see new places.

Liz told me I was absolutely not allowed to go alone. So we arranged to set off at 9am.

I woke at 5am, scrolled, caught up on the Epstein scandals, had a coffee and at 7am got dressed. I decided to wait until Liz woke, but realising a 9am departure wasn’t going to happen I left a note and snuck out. I’ve promised to send updates as to my well-being!

I caught a bus from near where we’re staying in Benaulim to Margao bus station, 30 rupees. It takes around 15 minutes.

Bought a 45 rupee ticket at the small ticket counter where the Panaji buses leave from. A grand total of 61p.

I would never do anything if I didn’t feel safe. My whole experience in this area has been really comfortable.

To Panjim from Margao was 45 minutes. A really pretty journey when we got to the water and all the inlets.

The Fontainhas is where the Old Portuguese buildings are.

The area is quite compact. Once I’d seen enough I walked along by the river for a while and was surprised to see the huge casino boats.

Coffee and a snack were very much needed. Most cafes didn’t open until 12 or 1pm, not sure if that’s because it’s Saturday.

Finally found some where, coffee, chicken samosa and brownie. Ahhhh perfect.

I spotted the bracelet in the Swarosvky shop that I’ve fancied for ages.

It seemed like a bargain until I added another decimal point. Oh well..

I was on target to get to see Goa Old Town too. I walked back to the bus station and found the stop for the Old Goa bus.

It was a swanky new electric bus and just 25 rupees for the 20 minute journey.

I enjoyed strolling around and visited the archaeology museum. Some great artifacts but very strict rules about photography inside.

I’m so please I saw Portuguese Old, Indian old and new Panjim.

I gulped down 2 lime sodas, it’s certainly hot.

Old Goa bus back to Panjim Bus Stand. It’s massive. I hadn’t realised there are so many stands way over and round the corner.

Saying Margayo instead of Margoww didn’t do me any favours either. Eventually I found the promised stand 10. Turns out it’s a local bus for local people! Ok, stand 17, ticket purchased and off we went.

The conductor kept shouting and piling more people in. It was madness. I was so glad I had a seat even though the woman next to me had the worst B.O in Goa.

Getting off the bus was an experience for sure.

Liz ggot back shortly after me, she’d had a beach day.

We met Kevin & Sharon at Roger’s for a candlelit meal on the beach.

Really beautiful and delicious as always.Not ashamed to admit I had the honey chilli chicken and cheese and garlic naan.