Glorious Goa:
Seaside living in an Indian oasis
What if your overseas posting had been somewhere else? Here’s an insight into life in Goa, India, from an expat’s perspective. Plus, we look at some divine villas by Elite Havens to set your sights on for future holidays.
Italian expat GIANFRANCESCO PERRONE is the general manager of luxury property developer Isprava. He’s lived and worked in the state of Goa, on India’s southwest coast, for four years. We asked him how he got there and what he likes about it.
Why did you move to Goa?
I came here both for personal and professional reasons. After seven years in Mumbai, I was looking for a change in pace and a home closer to nature. In 2015, I joined Isprava, which builds luxury holiday homes in Goa, Coonoor and Alibaug. I’d been working there for a year, when the company decided to expand further and ramp up operations in Goa. This was my cue; I took the opportunity and moved to Goa soon after to build and manage our regional office.
What’s the character of Goa today? Paint a picture for those who’ve not been there.
It’s definitely laid-back and relaxed. Being the smallest state in India and heavily reliant on tourism, Goa has built its reputation over decades – from the hippie years in the 60s and 70s to the real estate boom in the past five years where it’s now become the place to be. What I appreciate most, though, are the juxtapositions: the 16th-century charm against the vibrant neighbourhoods, the calm beaches against crowded shacks, the energetic parties against tranquil hideaways. It’s a land of contrasts.
How has it changed over time?
I think it’s safe to say that Goa’s charm is derived from its colonial past. The Portuguese first arrived in 1498, spreading Christianity and expanding Portuguese culture. While India gained independence in 1947, Goa was only liberated from the Portuguese in 1961 and became a proper state in 1987. Once a major trade centre in India, Goa attracted influential dynasties, seafarers, merchants, traders, monks and missionaries to its shores; all of them have impacted its cultural and socio-economic development for years.
Not much has changed since: a typical Goan home is still influenced by Portuguese architecture; Christianity is the second largest religious group and English is widely used across all sections of the society; Goa’s beautiful coastline is still as attractive as it was before, and new businesses are being established here every day.
What makes it so appealing for tourists and expats?
There are lots of reasons. For one thing, the overall atmosphere is quite different from other Indian states: the relaxed way of life (or “susegad” as locals call it), the opportunity to be at one with nature, the sheer acceptance from locals who make you feel at home and, for me personally, the beautiful long beaches where I go for a run with my dog Ugo.