The charm of Goa lies within its serenity and picturesque views. It draws you in like a bee hypnotized by the Venus flytrap. Beaches and beers are staple when youngsters arrive, but a Goa trip with family promises unfamiliar ingredients that make for an interesting tale. Every Goa trip has visits to the churches and forts that depict the heritage and history of this lovely land once ruled by the Portuguese. Home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, a typical Goa itinerary consists of visits to churches and forts, where several gather to appreciate the art in the history. Beaches, shacks, and parties are the heart of the appeal of Goa and the city never sleeps but when you travel with protective and caring mothers, there is no road that leads to the heart. The idea behind the trip was to explore and witness Goa from a different point of view. Amidst all the beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and buzzing market the most memorable experience was our visit to Abyss – The Under- world. Located in Nagao just 20 kms away from Panjim, the aquarium is the first of its kind in Goa. Boasting of around 60 different species of fish and marine life and a wonderfully done studio that has beautiful colors and ambient lighting to enhance the viewing experience. Watching the nasty and fierce Piranha up close and a stingray flail about, eels swimming around as the attendant fed them was all part of an unexpected sight. There were fish that you could hold in your hand and we could hear dozens of people shrieking or screaming with fear as the fish moved about as they held them. Written next to every fish was their name, origin, and additional information. The attendees too were well versed with the local ecology and species within the studio and were cordial and patient with the numerous questions that were thrown their way by children and adults, who were all mesmerized and in awe of the beauty of the blue. The Abyss is truly a telling name for the aquarium as you immerse into a land of radiant colors, mystic shapes and sizes that cast you under a spell. Not everyone gets the opportunity to experience the secrets and beauty of the deep sea! Your typical Goa itinerary is incomplete without a visit here.
20 Apr 2023
Allen James
