The train pulls into Margoa station, Goa. I am excited, excited to be about to do nothing. I grab a taxi to Colva – I have decided to stay in the south of Goa, the more chilled out area, rather than in the party scene of the north. I am looking for some quiet time to relax and write. If I want some loud nights I can sort something out. I am also planning, a few days before Christmas day, on going south to Palolem, the most picturesque of Goan beaches, and Patnem where there is a chance of surf.

I penciled in the Joema Tourist Home and get dropped at the road. After a walk through some wildlife I get there. It’s a lovely setting and costs just INR350. After settling in I head down to the beach. It’s a beautiful spot and a take a long walk down the beach to the next village.

I am famished and grab a tuna fish lunch. I have noticed lots of places with accommodation right on the beach. On my way up I ask at about 7 or 8 and those with rooms are all charging INR1,000 per night, which is too much for me. I decide to leave it and go back to my room.

Back at the Joema guest house I settle outside my porch and watch the farmyard animals make a fuss, while the local villagers go about their business. I am more than happy with this spot at this price.

I notice quite a few mosquitoes around, so I setup my mosquito net for the first time on this trip. Wow, the weather is hot!