Though the tourists were a bit disappointed that there was no traditional Goan welcome, they all enjoyed the drive from Vasco da Gama railway station to Calangute beach. However, they again were not too interested in going to a crowded beach.
The moment they reached the beautiful Taj Holiday Village near the beach, the tourists were completely bowled over. “I don’t know how you Indians do it. Just a few hours back we were very upset for taking us to the beach, but this is a very good welcome experience,” said Austrian tourist, Mrs Dorit.
The well thought journey which began in the historic town of Srirangapatna where Hyder and Tipu ruled in the 18th century ended in Goa at another 18th century unique baroque styled riverside mansion called ‘Solar dos Colaco.”
The construction of the 810 sq metres mansion was started in 1730 by Joao Colaco and was completed by his son Nazario Colaco. The interesting fact is that the family was originally Hindu and later converted to Catholicism. The period furniture, the beautiful dining hall, ball room, its own private chapel, all reflect ‘Solar,’ meaning nobleman in Portguese. The place is still run by Maria Terese Colaco, 79, and is helped by her nephews Joauim Botelho and Tony Botelho.
The churches in Goa is an attraction and the St Xavier’s church is definitely included as a tourist attraction.
The whole tour is really well planned starting with history, visiting wild life, being immersed in the lovely temples of Belur, Halebid, not forget the magnificent monolithic statue of Bahubali in Shravangabelogala and on to the ruins of Hampi. Of course the rulers like Hoysalas of Badami, the Chalukyas of Aihole, Pattadakal and Badami and the Vijayanagar kings are all introduced to the tourists.
The trip to Goa was a fitting finale to the tour. The moment one enters this city, the spirit just soars as each and every spot, with it beautiful rivers Mandovi and Zuari reflect the laid back life style.
If one has a deep pocket then one must definitely do this wonderful Golden Chariot tours and will be treated to unlimited luxury, said Neil and Vivian Finlayson, the British tourists.
