Volume 4 Issue 11 November 2025
Aashta Naik
Aashta Naik crafts joyful, heartfelt reels blending humor, beauty, and authenticity.
Naomi Gajjar shares Goa’s vegetarian cuisine through heartfelt storytelling and community connection.
Feliz Goan Traditional Band
Feliz Goan Traditional Band celebrates Goan culture through music, performing 50+ Roce ceremonies worldwide. Aanaa
Aanaa creates relatable, witty lifestyle content celebrating individuality and Gen Z spirit.
Naomi Gajjar
hotel Lua Nova
If holidays are inspired by nature and your thirst for rustic solitude and inner peace, Lua Nova is the hotel your heart was yearning for.
Located at Goa's celebrated holiday capital at Baga, it overlooks a beautiful Canvas of village Goa, just 5 minutes walk from the Baga Beach.
As we step into a new month in Goa, we celebrate the stories and passions that make this state more than just a destination. This edition highlights individuals and initiatives shaping Goa’s growing artistic, culinary, and cultural landscape.
Our cover story highlights Aashta Jagdish Naik, a creator who blends humor, beauty, and emotion with ease. Her reels reflect authenticity and vulnerability, reminding us how honest storytelling can create meaningful connection.
At just 23, Aanaa (@aanaahahaha) embodies the voice of Gen Z with refreshing clarity. Her content is relatable, joyful, and honest — built around individuality and optimism. Aanaa inspires her audience to embrace their quirks, trust their instincts, and live life with playful confidence. Her journey reminds us that being real is the most powerful form of creativity.
Food lovers will enjoy the world of Naomi Gajjar, founder of Nowmeeats. She celebrates vegetarian cuisine with sincerity, turning her love for food and storytelling into a community-driven space where taste and tradition come together.
Feliz Goan Traditional Band, founded by Melani and Anushka Gomes, celebrates Goan culture through music, performing at over 50 wedding Roce ceremonies and captivating audiences globally with their rich Another unique experience featured this month is Unseen Assagao, founded by Gaurang Narang. Home to India’s first coffee omakase, it offers a four-course sensory journey that pairs specialty brews with thoughtful food and artful design. It redefines how we experience coffee — slow, intentional, and immersive.
And as always, we return to the heart of where we are — Goa. India’s smallest state remains vibrant and full of character, blending Portuguese heritage, tropical charm, and the beloved susegad spirit. Beyond the beaches, Goa offers adventure too — from scuba diving and kayaking to windsurfing and jet skiing
Join us in celebrating Goa’s vibrant stories, from entrepreneurs to artists, each contributing uniquely to our community. Let their journeys inspire you to follow your passions and pursue your dreams with determination.
Well, that's all I have for you from my desk this month. I hope you enjoy reading this month's issue of our e-magazine. Do share it with your friends all across the globe.
Until next month, cheers!
Jessyl Fernandez Editor
01 Aashta Jagdish Naik
02 Aanaa
03 Naomi Gajjar
04 Feliz Goan Traditional Band
05 Unseen Assagao Brews a New Chapter in Goa’s Coffee Culture
06 5 Interesting Facts You Must Know About Goa
07 Watersports in Goa
Introduction
Goa, the tiniest state on the western coast of India, boasts golden pristine beaches, palmfringed avenues, flavourful food, delicious Portuguese-influenced sweets, and warm, hospitable people. Also known as the Ibiza of India for its partying. A tropical paradise of flora and fauna, from the very famous 'almi' (mushrooms) endemic to its forests, that grow only on the red mud anthills, to the solar prawns that are fished immediately after the monsoons, Goa is unique. Tourists are also attracted to Goa for its cultural heritage - from the famous old Portuguese churches like Se Cathedral in Old Goa, the 16th Century Safa Masjid in Ponda and Shree Mangesha Temple in Mardol, the legendary Arvalem or Pandava Caves where the Pandavas of the Mahabharat fame lived, to its two unique festivalsCarnival and Shigmo. Goa plays host to many festivals - the International Film Festival of India that promotes cinema, the Serendipity Art Festival, Sunburn Music Festival, The Grape Escapade to name a few. To showcase this varied heritage of culture, art, tradition, food, and people, in 2015 ItsGoa was born. The main aim was to make it the premier portal for all things Goa. We were able to showcase Goa like never before. Soon our blog-based website transcended the virtual space, with the ItsGoa magazine – a sought-after resource for visitors to Goa from countries like Norway, Germany, UK, USA, UAE, etc.
Editorial Team
Chief Editor
Jessyl Fernandez
Sales
Donald Fernandez
Content & Social Media
Saviola Dias
Renata Fernandes
Graphics & Layout
Latisha Govekar
For advertising queries: +91 7887330620 / 9370502124
ItsGoa Media Group
Nordic Intent HQ - Floor 3, PDA Colony, Porvorim, Goa 403521
Email: mail@itsgoa.com
Website: itsgoa.com
Jagdish Naik
Aashta Jagdish Naik, a vibrant Goan creator, blends humor, beauty, and emotion in her reels—celebrating creativity, connection, and authenticity while turning her passion for storytelling into a growing digital journey. cover feature
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Aashta Jagdish Naik
In today’s world of digital storytelling, Aashta Jagdish Naik shines as a creator who blends humor, beauty, and emotion into her content. Her journey into the world of reels began with an unexpected spark, during a makeup session, a makeup artist told her she had the potential to model. That single moment ignited her passion for being in front of the camera. Encouraged and supported by Mr. Mithil Lingudkar, who she credits as her biggest motivator, Aashta stepped into the realm of content creation, a decision that has since transformed her life.
Crafting Content That Connects
Aashta’s content reflects her personality, cheerful, vibrant, and full of life. She enjoys creating funny videos with her sisters, capturing mouth-watering food moments, exploring travel and sunset reels, and expressing her creativity through modeling. For her, these forms of content aren’t just about aesthetics; they are about emotion, connection, and sharing experiences that make her audience smile.
From Concept to Creation
When it comes to her creative process, Aashta is both imaginative and methodical. She begins by writing an imaginary script, visualizing how each shot will unfold. Once the idea is set, she captures short clips of the chosen location and then adds her personal touch through editing, voice overs, and music. Using tools like InShot, VN App, and Canva, she ensures every reel is polished, engaging, and true to her style.
Staying Real and Relevant
Adapting to trends is another area where Aashta excels. She stays updated on the latest social media shifts and creates content that resonates with ongoing trends, but always with her own twist. Whether it’s a viral audio or a new format, she ensures that her videos remain authentic and enjoyable.
Among her most popular creations are her driving skill videos, modeling clips, and funny content with cousins, all of which have garnered significant attention. One of her most memorable moments came during Ganesh Chaturthi, when a video she made with her cousins went viral, crossing over 3 lakh views within a month. That moment not only boosted her confidence but also deepened her love for content creation.
Aashta Jagdish Naik
Aashta enjoying her moment
Engaging with Her Audience
Aashta values her audience deeply. She believes that while it’s important to entertain, it’s equally vital to create content that respects everyone’s sentiments. She reads feedback, listens to what her followers enjoy, and adapts her content to make it more engaging and heartfelt.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Grounded
Like any creator, Aashta faces her share of challenges, especially in editing, which she manages entirely on her own. However, she views these challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. For her, the joy of seeing people appreciate her work far outweighs the hurdles. When it comes to balancing creativity with growth, Aashta keeps
it simple: she creates what people love to see. Knowing that her content brings happiness to others keeps her motivated and inspired.
Looking Ahead
Aashta’s vision for the future is clear. She wants to turn content creation into her full-time profession while continuing her job alongside it. Her passion keeps growing with every video she makes, and she’s determined to keep evolving, exploring new ideas, and connecting with larger audiences through her reels.
From spontaneous laughs to heartfelt storytelling, Aashta Jagdish Naik is crafting a digital journey defined by authenticity, joy, and endless creativity, one reel at a time.
Aashta Jagdish Naik
content creator
At 23, Goan creator Aanaa (@aanaahahaha) blends authenticity, humor, and Gen Z insight through relatable lifestyle content, promoting individuality, creativity, and self-expression rooted in honesty and optimism.
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Aanaa
At just 23, Goa-based lifestyle creator Aanaa has carved out a unique space for herself online, one that’s equal parts relatable, aesthetic, and unapologetically real. Known by her social media handle @aanaahahaha, she describes herself as “a very observant person with a kind of delusional optimism about life”, a quality that shines through every post she creates. Whether she’s talking about Gen Z culture, coffee, or daily life, her content blends raw honesty with a visual style that feels effortlessly modern. “I might not look perfect in every post,” she says, “but I love keeping things candid while adding subtle commentary about what I observe and believe in.”
A Voice Rooted in Experience
Having worked in marketing for over four years, Aanaa’s background naturally informs her creative process. She leans toward the creative industry, often drawing from her personal experiences to craft content that feels intimate yet insightful. Her feed is a mix of café explorations, coffee culture, lifestyle reflections, and relatable observations about modern life. “My posts often reflect my love for coffee, cozy cafés, and nuanced discussions that make online conversations more meaningful,” she shares.
From Musical.ly to Modern Storytelling
Aanaa’s content journey began long before Instagram. She first found her footing on Musical.ly (now TikTok), where she built a following of 11.9K before the platform was banned in India. It was during those early years that she learned the essentials of editing, lighting, and transitions, skills that now define her distinctive style. While she enjoys creating short-form videos, she’s drawn to long-form content for its sense of community. “The connection on YouTube is unmatched,” she says, reflecting on her love for deeper storytelling.
Keeping It Real
Aanaa’s audience engagement philosophy is simple: authenticity over perfection. She shares snippets of her real life, from travel diaries to behind-thescenes moments at shoots and restaurant visits, keeping things raw and relatable. Her marketing expertise plays a key role in understanding her audience. She relies on data like Instagram reel runtime to refine her approach and measure engagement. “It’s my favorite insight because it shows if your hook works,” she explains. Among all her posts, her funny commentary videos and 30+ kg weight loss journey stand out as fan favorites,
Aanaa
shoot at yaki zushi
aanaa for a shoot at kofuku, parra, Goa
Creating with Intention
When it comes to ideation, Aanaa prefers spontaneity over strategy. She lets ideas flow naturally, jotting them down as they come. Music is integral to her process, she only uses tracks she genuinely connects with, not just what’s trending. “I pick trends that fit my vibe, not the other way around,” she says. “I create as if I’m the only one who’ll watch it, that’s what keeps me authentic.” Her equipment setup remains minimal, just her iPhone 13 and good natural light. Her editing style, inspired by Gen Z culture, is fast-paced, expressive, and full of personality. “It might look chaotic to some, but the ones who get it, get it.”
Balancing Work and Creativity
While she once posted frequently, juggling her professional commitments and multiple clients has made her more selective with uploads. She doesn’t view her personal page as “work” but as an outlet for expression. “I prefer experimenting with unconventional ideas that feel fun and authentic,” she says. Although she doesn’t follow a strict posting schedule, she ensures to stay consistent, even if that means posting a few times a week or collaborating with clients who feature her on their brand pages.
aanaa at guldasta for a collaboration shoot
Building a Community, Not Just a Following
Aanaa’s connection with her audience goes beyond likes and views. She believes in nurturing a sense of community rooted in shared values. Her love for Gen Z is evident: “We’re often labeled arrogant or lazy, but I believe we’re the change this world needed, bold, self-aware, and expressive.” She channels that spirit through her personal style, favoring linens and khadis as symbols of individuality. This mindset has helped her attract a like-minded audience that resonates with her message of authenticity and freedom.
Adapting to Change
In an ever-evolving digital landscape, Aanaa admits that keeping up with Instagram’s constant updates and algorithm shifts is a challenge, especially since she manages marketing campaigns professionally. But rather than resist change, she embraces it, adapting her strategies while staying true to her creative essence.
aanaa
Evolving Through Feedback
For Aanaa, feedback, whether from friends, family, or critics, is a valuable part of growth. “Content can never be perfect; it’s just about being better than yesterday,” she says. She prioritizes lighting, visuals, and a cohesive color palette, ensuring her feed maintains a clear visual identity. Before posting, she asks herself one key question: Why am I posting this? If she doesn’t feel a genuine connection to the content, it doesn’t go up.
Defining Her Brand
Warm, lively, opinionated, and a little crazy, that’s how Aanaa describes her personal brand. Her content embodies individuality, curiosity, and optimism, reflecting the beautiful chaos of being in your twenties. Through her work, she aims to make her audience feel seen and understood. “I want my audience to know they’re not alone in figuring life out,” she says. “I want to encourage them to think critically, develop media literacy, and take pride in who they are.”
Looking Ahead
As she continues to evolve, Aanaa hopes to meet more like-minded creators, travel the world, and spark meaningful conversations that empower her generation.
Her dreams include giving a TED Talk, hosting panel discussions, and being featured at YouTube FanFest, milestones that would allow her to connect with her audience on a larger stage.
Authenticity Above All
When asked what she’s learned from her journey so far, Aanaa doesn’t hesitate: “Authenticity always wins. Trends fade fast, but when your audience connects with you, it lasts.”
Her advice to aspiring creators is simple yet powerful, “Just start. Don’t worry about who’s watching or how you look. Build a routine you’re proud of, focus on growth, have fun, and never lose sight of your values.”
aanaa
Naomi Gajjar
Naomi Gajjar, founder of Nowmeeats, celebrates vegetarian cuisine with authenticity and passion, turning her love for storytelling and food into a trusted, community-driven platform in Goa’s culinary scene.
food blogger
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Naomi Gajjar
Finding Passion Through Food
For Naomi Gajjar, food isn’t just nourishment — it’s comfort, inspiration, and a creative outlet that connects people. A hotelier by profession, Naomi has always had an eye for culinary detail and presentation. Her love for documenting the process of making and sharing food eventually gave rise to Nowmeeats, a platform that celebrates vegetarian cuisine in all its flavorful diversity. When Naomi moved to Goa, she noticed that despite its vibrant food scene, vegetarian diners often struggled to find satisfying options. That realization sparked her mission — to discover, share, and elevate vegetarian food experiences, from soulful home-cooked meals to the most exciting local eateries.
From Passion to Platform
Naomi’s journey as a food blogger began with pure curiosity and a love for storytelling. With no set plan, she started reaching out to restaurants for collaborations, and to her delight, the Goan food community welcomed her with open arms. Their
encouragement helped Nowmeeats grow from a small, personal space into a trusted name in Goa’s food scene. Over the years, her passion-driven venture evolved organically — what once started as her reaching out to restaurants has now transformed into brands and eateries approaching Nowmeeats for collaborations.
The Heart of Nowmeeats
While Nowmeeats is best known for its authentic restaurant reviews, it’s also deeply personal — a reflection of Naomi’s own relationship with food. From recipes she experiments with at home to stories that highlight the people behind the meals, her content stays rooted in honesty and warmth. Vegetarian food is the heart of her platform, yet Naomi enjoys exploring global cuisines, finding joy in connecting flavors from around the world through a vegetarian perspective.
An Authentic Approach to Food Blogging
Every post on Nowmeeats comes from firsthand experience. Naomi believes in featuring only what she genuinely enjoys. If something doesn’t meet her expectations, she chooses transparency over pretension — she informs the restaurant respectfully and refrains from posting it. “Authenticity is nonnegotiable,” she says, emphasizing how much she values the trust her followers place in her recommendations. This commitment to honesty has helped her build credibility and a loyal community that relies on her voice.
The Creative Flow
When it comes to creating content, Naomi blends spontaneity with intuition. Though she has tried planning her posts in advance, her busy professional life often leads to impromptu discoveries — a café that surprises her, a comforting home-cooked dish, or a new flavor combination that excites her. These spontaneous experiences often make for her most loved posts. One such example is her popular In My Dabba series, which began as a casual showcase of her everyday lunchbox meals. The simple, relatable idea quickly turned into a fan favorite, with followers eagerly anticipating her next post.
Diwali grazing table hosted by naomi
Letting Food Speak for Itself
Naomi’s visual style is rooted in simplicity and honesty. She doesn’t over-style or over-edit her photos, believing that food naturally has its own beauty and emotion. Her goal is for viewers to almost “taste” the image — to feel the texture, warmth, and soul of the dish through the screen.
Challenges That Shape Growth
Like many creators balancing full-time careers, Naomi faces the challenge of time management and the constant digital race to stay relevant. However, she remains grounded in her purpose — reminding herself that Nowmeeats was born from passion, not algorithms. For her, meaningful storytelling always outweighs the need for constant visibility.
Staying Curious, Staying Fresh
Naomi keeps her content evolving by staying curious — engaging with chefs, visiting new restaurants, exploring markets, and connecting with fellow creators. Trends may come and go, but for her, genuine curiosity and authenticity never lose value. Her audience plays an active role in this journey, often influencing the kind of content she creates. From exploring vegetarian-friendly travel spots to sharing simple meal inspirations, many of her ideas are shaped by her followers’ interests and interactions.
Meaningful Collaborations
Over the years, Naomi has collaborated with numerous restaurants, brands, and fellow bloggers. Yet for her, collaboration isn’t just about visibility — it’s about shared values. She only partners with people and brands that reflect the same authenticity and love for food. Long-term relationships built on mutual trust and respect form the foundation of her professional philosophy.
Looking Ahead
As for the future, Naomi envisions Nowmeeats as more than just a food blog. She dreams of transforming it into a community-driven platform celebrating vegetarian dining across India.
She’s also exploring new creative avenues — from pop-ups and collaborations with home chefs to documenting forgotten regional cuisines. Through it all, her mission remains clear: to tell meaningful food stories that go beyond what’s on the plate.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Food Bloggers
Naomi’s advice for newcomers to the food blogging world is simple but profound — “Start with passion and stay honest.” She believes that comparison kills creativity and encourages aspiring creators to embrace their unique voice. Consistency, authenticity, and joy, she says, are the secret ingredients to building something lasting. “When you genuinely love what you create, your audience will feel it too.”
Korean buns from Miradouro
Feliz Goan Traditional Band
Feliz Goan Traditional Band, founded by Melani and Anushka Gomes, celebrates 50 Goan wedding Roce ceremonies, embodying the essence of Goan culture through music. With a talented ensemble and dedication to heritage, they enchant audiences worldwide.
www.itsgoa.com itsgoa_ Itsgoa
band
Article by: Team ItsGoa
Images by: Feliz Goan Traditional Band
A Cultural Odyssey Through Melody
Feliz Goan Traditional Band proudly announces the achievement of a significant milestone: completing 50 Goan wedding Roce ceremonies on 18/04/24.Established in 2021 by the visionary sisters Melani and Anushka Gomes, under the guiding light of their father, the band swiftly ascended to become a cherished symbol of Goan tradition and festivity. With a specialisation in the sacred art of the traditional Goan wedding roce ceremony, Feliz Goan Traditional Band embarks on a global odyssey, dedicated to showcasing their musical prowess and safeguarding Goan heritage. They perform for Goan roce ceremonies, hotel events, government events, and more, spreading joy through their music far and wide.To experience the captivating performances of Feliz Goan Traditional Band, one can reach out to Seltan Gomes at 8975032287 or connect with Manuel Gomes at 9881696430.
Meet the Band: Musicians and Missionaries of Culture
At the heart of Feliz Goan Traditional Band lies a cadre of passionate musicians and Kunbi folk dancers, each embodying the essence of Goan identity through their performances. From the dulcet tones of lead vocalist Melani Gomes to the intricate rhythms crafted by guitarist Seltan Gomes and gummot player Diogo Gomes, every member contributes a unique hue to the band's sonic palette. Anchoring the ensemble are Anushka Gomes on keyboard and Manuel Gomes on pendiero and sound, while Kunbi folk dancers Reema, Santana, Viana, Mevish, Jessy, and Princy infuse traditional flair into live shows.
Inspiration and Musical Mélange
Inspired by a lifelong devotion to music, each band member's journey converges in a symphony of Goan traditional Konkani melodies infused with Portuguese influences. Their eclectic backgrounds coalesce seamlessly, weaving a vibrant tapestry of
Roce ceremony of Manisha at Margao Goa
Diogo Gomes on the Ghumot to create some fabulous beats
sound that captures the essence of Goan culture. Characterised by vivacious performances, Feliz Goan Traditional Band encapsulates the spirit of Goa, leaving audiences enthralled and enchanted.
Setting the Band Apart: A Cultural Vanguard
Feliz Goan Traditional Band distinguishes itself through a steadfast commitment to promoting local language and culture. Their repertoire, spanning from Goan Deknni songs to traditional Konkani melodies, serves as a testament to their dedication to preserving Goan heritage. A hallmark of their performances is the inclusion of Kunbi folk dance, a cultural gem that not only entertains but also educates, fostering awareness of Goan Kunbi traditions and customs.
Memorable Moments and Victories
Among the band's cherished memories is a performance at New Vaddem Vasco, where the resounding applause and fervent cheers affirmed their status as revered musical maestros. Revered for their dynamic stage presence and captivating performances, Feliz Goan Traditional Band left an
indelible mark on their audience, etching their legacy into the annals of Goan musical history.
Preparation and Perseverance: Triumphs Over Challenges
Preparation for live performances entails arduous dance rehearsals with Kunbi dancers, ensuring flawless synchronisation and choreography. Despite encountering obstacles such as limited sound equipment and time constraints, the band's unwavering commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience remains steadfast, propelling them to new heights of musical excellence.
Engagement and Energy: Forging Connections Through Music
During performances, Feliz Goan Traditional Band endeavours to create an immersive experience, fostering a palpable connection with the audience. Lead vocalist Melani Gomes, with her mellifluous vocals, serves as a beacon of enchantment, captivating listeners and leaving an indelible impression that resonates long after the final note fades.
Hook up steps of Kunbi Dancers
Feliz Goan Band Versatile Kunbi Dancers
Roce ceremony gig at Merces Goa
The Art of Adaptation: Embracing Innovation and Evolution
Continuous learning and innovation form the bedrock of Feliz Goan Traditional Band's creative ethos. During hiatuses, they collaborate to compose new compositions and refine their dance routines, ensuring each performance is imbued with freshness and vitality.
Lessons Learned and Aspirations for Tomorrow
A pivotal lesson gleaned from live performances is the paramount importance of prioritising client satisfaction and audience delight. Looking to the future, their short-term objective is to grace various events throughout the year, while their long-term vision encompasses the global promotion of Konkani language and Goan culture.
Fan Engagement: Nurturing a Community of Enthusiasts
Feliz Goan Traditional Band remains deeply connected with their fans through riveting performances and a vibrant social media presence. Their curated music list, inspired by Goan Konkani melodies, resonates with audiences of all ages, fostering a sense of kinship and camaraderie between live shows.
Conclusion:
A Harmonious Ode to Goan Heritage
As Feliz Goan Traditional Band continues to serenade audiences with their melodic offerings and unwavering commitment to preserving Goan culture, their journey stands as a testament to the enduring power of music in bridging cultures and celebrating heritage. With each spirited performance, they perpetuate the legacy of Goan tradition, inspiring generations to come.
Experience Unseen —
Coffee
Unseen Assagao, founded by Gaurang Narang, introduces India’s first coffee omakase in Goa — a four-course tasting blending specialty brews, food pairings, and Goan-inspired design for an immersive coffee experience.
Article & Images by: Team ItsGoa
Assagao, Goa — In the quiet village of Assagao, Goa where the air carries whispers of red earth and sea breeze, Coffee Culture unveils Unseen — World’s first coffee-forward boutique hotel. A sanctuary where design, aroma, and stillness meet, Unseen reimagines what it means to experience coffee — not just as a beverage, but as a way of being.
Unseen brings together the Coffee Culture Café that houses an immersive Omakase Experience, an artisanal Roastery, and bake house, and, Uncultured, coffee & spirit-forward speakeasy bar — all seamlessly woven into one soulful narrative.
More than a destination, Unseen is an invitation — to pause, breathe, and return to simplicity and a reminder to slow down. Conceived to blend effortlessly into its surroundings, the space embodies Assagao’s quiet charm, with design rooted in the region’s red soil, lime-washed walls, and terracotta tones.
Every detail — from the zen-bohemian architecture to the textured interiors — pays homage to Goa’s warmth, earthiness, and easy rhythm. With just 11 rooms and a penthouse, Unseen is intentionally intimate. Each room is a private retreat — minimalist yet indulgent — featuring a dedicated coffee space, stocked with beans for brewing, Marshall speakers, and corners curated for reflection. The penthouse opens onto sweeping views of Goa’s lush landscape, while the bio pool and open terraces invite guests to slow down and simply be.
The Coffee Culture Café - At the heart of Unseen is the Coffee Culture Café, a sensory playground for those who live and breathe coffee. The Omakase Bar celebrates the finest single-origin coffees from around the world through guided tastings that pair narrative with flavour — where every cup tells a story of terroir, craft, and imagination. Behind the scenes, the Roastery combines technology-driven precision with artisanal expertise. Each bean is profiled, roasted, and perfected in small batches, offering guests a rotating selection of 10–12 single- origin coffees. From the silky Oat Lite to the classic Cortado, every brew is crafted as a ritual —
encouraging guests to slow down, listen, and taste mindfully. Here, coffee transcends beverage — it becomes a bridge between people, a pause in motion, a quiet moment of connection.
The bake house brings together the finest breads, bakes, and everything in between - all made fresh every day with honest ingredients and a lot of heart.
Uncultured — Tucked within Unseen, Uncultured is a coffee &, spirit-forward speakeasy bar that brings together the worlds of brewing and mixology. It’s where the science of coffee meets the artistry of cocktails — a first-of-its-kind experience that celebrates creativity, conversation, and community. Whether it’s a cold-brew Negroni or an espresso martini re-imagined with Indian origins, Uncultured turns the act of drinking into a story — rich, textured, and alive.
“Unseen is born from the belief that coffee is more than a beverage — it’s a medium for connection, conversation, and presence,” says Gaurav Narang, Founder of Coffee Culture. “Every detail — from the terracotta palette to the scent of fresh brews — is designed to help our guests rediscover simplicity and stillness. For people like me, who live and breathe coffee, this is more than a space — it’s a feeling that blends effortlessly into the rhythm of Assagao.”
For those who find magic in morning light, beauty in quiet moments, and meaning in mindful rituals, Unseen is not just a hotel - it’s a state of being.
About Coffee Culture - Founded in 2004 by Gaurav Narang, Coffee Culture has grown into one of India’s most loved and forward-thinking coffee brands — home to artisanal cafés, bake houses, and roasteries that blend craft with community. With Unseen, the brand steps beyond cafés into global hospitality — creating spaces that combine the intimacy of a café, the design sensibility of a members’ club, and the consciousness of a retreat. Coffee Culture — where coffee becomes culture, and culture becomes home. https://coffeeculture.co.in/
Owner Gaurav Narang at the launch of Unseen Assagao, his new coffee-forward boutique hotel located in Assagao
Coffee Curator AJ demonstrating the meticulous process of the Omakase experience by Coffee Culture at Unseen Assagao
authored article
Goa, India’s smallest yet most vibrant state, blends Portuguese heritage, tropical charm, and cultural richness. From colonial architecture and 40+ annual festivals to cashew feni and its “susegad” spirit — Goa is pure magic.
Article by: Renata Fernandes
Images by: Freepik
Goa, India’s sunshine state, is so much more than beaches, parties, and sunsets. Beneath its laid-back vibe lies a fascinating mix of cultures, traditions, and stories that make it one of the most unique destinations in the country. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or planning your first trip, here are 5 interesting facts about Goa that will give you a whole new appreciation for this tropical paradise.
1. Goa Was a Portuguese Colony for Over 450 Years
This is one of the common facts. Unlike most parts of India that were ruled by the British, Goa was under Portuguese control from 1510 to 1961, that’s over four centuries! This long colonial past left a lasting mark on Goan architecture, cuisine, religion, and even surnames. That’s why you’ll find charming Portuguese-style houses, beautiful churches, and locals with surnames like D’Souza, Fernandes, and Pereira.
2. It’s India’s Smallest State – But the Most Diverse
Goa might be India’s smallest state by area, but it packs a world of variety within its borders. From bustling North Goa with its nightlife and flea markets to serene South Goa dotted with palm-fringed beaches and old Portuguese mansions, every corner tells a different story.
3. Goans Celebrate Over 40 Festivals a Year
Goa loves a good celebration! Apart from the famous Goa Carnival and Shigmo, the state celebrates local feasts, religious festivals, and temple processions with equal enthusiasm. Each village has its own patron saint or deity, and festivals are marked with music, dance, and traditional Goan food.
4. The Architecture Reflects East-Meets-West Charm
Take a stroll through Fontainhas in Panjim, and you’ll
feel like you’ve stepped into a European neighborhood. The colorful houses, tiled roofs, ornate balconies, and narrow lanes reflect Goa’s Indo-Portuguese heritage, blending tropical warmth with old-world charm.
5. Cashew Feni is Goa’s Signature Spirit
You can’t say you’ve experienced Goa until you’ve tried feni, the locally brewed liquor made from cashew apples or coconuts. It’s unique to Goa and even has a Geographical Indication tag. Meaning it’s legally recognized as a Goan specialty, much like champagne is to France.
In a Nutshell
Goa is more than a destination; it’s a feeling. From its Portuguese past and festive culture to its unique food and “susegad” lifestyle. This tiny state continues to charm travellers from around the world. So next time you visit, look beyond the beaches, and you’ll discover a Goa full of stories waiting to be told.
AUTHORED ARTICLE
Water sports in Goa:
Adventures on the Arabian Sea
Goa is more than beaches — it’s an adventure lover’s paradise. From jet skiing and banana boat rides to scuba diving, kayaking, and windsurfing, Goa’s waters promise thrill, beauty, and unforgettable memories.
Article by: Renata Fernandes
Images by: Freepik
Goa is not just about beaches and sunsets, it’s also India’s ultimate destination for adventure seekers. From jet skiing across sparkling waves to parasailing high above the Arabian Sea, Goa’s water sports scene offers a thrilling blend of excitement, beauty, and adrenaline. Whether you’re a beginner or an adventure enthusiast, every beach has something special to offer.
Jet Skiing: The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush
Jet skiing is one of the most popular water sports in Goa, combining speed and scenic beauty. As you glide over turquoise waters, the sea breeze and the rush of waves create an unmatched thrill. Popular beaches like Calangute, Baga, and Candolim in North Goa, and Colva in South Goa, are perfect for jet skiing. Instructors are always available to ensure safety, making it suitable even for first-timers.
Banana Boat Rides: Fun for Everyone
If you’re traveling with friends or family, banana boat rides are a must-try. These inflatable banana-shaped boats are pulled by speedboats, bouncing and gliding across waves. The thrill of staying balance, or falling into the cool waters, adds to the laughter and excitement. Calangute, Palolem, and Vagator are popular spots to enjoy this group adventure.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: Discover the Underwater World
Goa’s clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a great spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Grande Island, located off Vasco da Gama, is one of the best places for beginners to explore coral reefs, colorful fish, and even shipwrecks. Several certified diving schools offer training sessions and guided underwater tours, ensuring safety and an unforgettable experience.
Kayaking: Serenity in Motion
For a calmer yet equally captivating experience, kayaking through Goa’s backwaters, mangroves, and estuaries is a must. It’s the perfect way to connect with nature, observe birds, and witness Goa’s scenic
beauty up close. The Sal River in South Goa and Nerul Creek in North Goa are popular kayaking routes. Early morning or sunset sessions add a magical touch to this peaceful adventure.
Windsurfing and Kite surfing: For Skilled Adventurers
Windsurfing and kite surfing combine the thrill of sailing and surfing, making them favorites among experienced water lovers. The beaches of Dona Paula, Bogmalo, and Morjim offer ideal wind conditions for these sports. Professional instructors and rental gear are available for those eager to learn or refine their skills.
Safety and Best Time to Visit
Water sports in Goa are usually open from October to May, when the sea is calm and weather conditions are favorable. During the monsoon (June to September), activities are limited due to rough waters. Always ensure you’re wearing life jackets, follow instructor guidelines, and choose certified operators for a safe experience.
Adventure Awaits in Every Wave
Whether you’re soaring above the ocean, racing across waves, or exploring the world beneath, Goa’s water sports promise unforgettable memories. Every splash, every gust of wind, and every dive captures the state’s spirit of adventure. So, the next time you visit Goa, go beyond sunbathing, dive in, fly high, and let the sea set you free.
