How I found my new purpose in India
Just arrived in Goa - and it turns out, my baggage came too.
In this story, I recount the first days of my global expedition. Here, on Goa’s shores, I realise that, even far from home, I’m still the same nervous wreck.
India has a unique, irresistible energy, people told me. ‘Go with the flow,’ they said.
Ready for whatever this country had in store, I couldn’t wait to explore the beaches, food and yoga in Goa - the first taste of my dream journey.
Arriving in Goa
Heaving my enormous backpack onto my shoulders, I made my way through the airport and into the dry February heat of Goa. Dozens of taxi drivers shouted for my attention.
Spotting a man quietly holding a sign with my name on it, I breathed a sigh of relief. Booking this private transfer had been worth every penny.
We sped toward my accommodation on Ashvem Beach. Looking out at the foliage and dusty streets lit by the afternoon sun, I realised the culture shock I’d feared wasn’t hitting me.
Goa’s touristy vibe and the signs in English seemed surprisingly familiar - though seeing cows meandering in the road made me smile. I was really in India now!
I couldn’t wait to settle in, join my first yoga class and sleep in a teepee. The adventure had begun.
The resort
It was like finding an oasis.
Sandy paths branched out from an open-air communal space, curving around palm trees. Huts made from natural fibres dotted the grounds, blending beautifully with the gardens.
At the rustic reception, signs proposed creamy lassi and a casual dinner buffet of Indian specialities. Nearby, cushions lay invitingly on a bench, perfect for curling up with a good book.
Around the corner, a red wooden yoga platform, strung with fairy lights, awaited evening candlelit classes and sunrise sessions by the sea.
The receptionist casually mentioned the resort’s ‘star’ resident: Rocky the rooster, a friendly bird who loved to have his feathers stroked and would close his eyes in bliss. I couldn’t wait to meet him.
A staff member guided me along a winding path, as seagulls cawed overhead and waves swooshed onto the shore. I inhaled the sea air, mingled with the spices of masala chai brewing nearby.
The tent
Pulling aside the pink patterned sarong serving as a door, I entered the teepee and smiled.
Inside the cream canvas walls was a cosy double bed, a bedside table and a makeshift wardrobe with coat-hangers.
Sunlight streamed through a small opening at the top, past the palm trees overhead, filling the tent with a golden glow.
My new home was small, simple and the perfect haven for my first few days. I could feel my tense shoulders relaxing already.
But my sense of calm didn’t last long.
