Travelle Goes To Goa with Rhea Gupte
Interviewed by Eva Baczynska
Creative Director at FUSS, fashion blogger and model Rhea Gupte shares her style, beauty and health tips for women traveling to Goa, India.
What are some general tips you would share with women traveling to Goa?
Most areas in Goa are friendly to women. However, when traveling to a new place it’s good to be cautious and make sure you have transportation pre-planned. If you are planning to go out for drinks, I would recommend that you skip driving your own car and take a cab instead. There are safe cabs with good drivers available on CabsInGoa.com. Always have your internet pack recharged and have map directions available. Most popular places are marked on Google Maps and it’s a very convenient app for finding your way around. Also just generally be conscious of the people you are with and those around you, especially if you are visiting a nightclub or are out after hours.
Give us the lowdown on local street style.
Local women wear skirts and blouses. Many also wear saris. The style is pretty diverse. Some places are quite laidback, but there are certain places that have a dressier crowd. Many people have hippie influences as a part of their style. However, the overall vibe is relaxed, effortless and beach-inspired.
Any evening outfits you'd recommend for a fun dinner or drinks?
Really, you can be yourself in Goa and wear anything that makes you feel comfortable. Goa is the kind of place that’s accepting and open-minded about different cultures and ethnicities as it is home to many tourists every year. It is quite humid all year round though, so natural fabrics and breathable, free-flowing silhouettes are more comfortable.
When it comes to beauty products, what should we bring to take care of ourselves in Goa specifically?
If you are not used to humidity, you may see your hair do things it never would otherwise. It is good to have some hair serums or sprays which can take care of that. It’s also very sunny during the day so a good sunscreen will help.
What about a good workout?
Yoga is very popular in Goa. There are a number of studios and cafes which have Yoga sessions as part of their weekly workshop.
How can we enjoy local cuisine and still eat healthy? What are some of your favorite dishes?
Seafood is a must here. You can pick a protein-rich Goan fish curry instead of the fried variety to be healthier. Also the Chicken Caferel is delicious.
Do you have favorite places to eat where amazing food meets health conscious meals?
There’s Art Cafe in Parra which serves plenty of organic food and Artjuna in Anjuna which is a personal favorite.
Where are the best places for women to stay with great facilities for beauty, dining, and wellness?
Some places I’d recommend you stay in Goa are The Tamarind Hotel and Acron Waterfront Resort. These are both beautiful properties with excellent service. I am a big fan of Snip Salon in Goa which has lovely spa services. There are plenty of beautiful restaurants in Goa. Baba's Wood Cafe, Black Sheep Bistro, La Plage, Beach Combers, Gunpowder are some of my favorites. I would recommend Ashwem Beach and Utorda Beach for a swim.
