Goa

I found the hostel we are staying at in Goa out of pure laziness. Our movie star friends from the Bollywood soap opera set mentioned that they would be staying a Jungle Hostel in Vagator beach. I had no clue about the difference between the 20ish beaches that make up Goa and had no desire to read the vast amount of material about Goa in the guide book. So I just copied our friends and we headed to the Jungle Hostel once we got off the plane from Mumbai. It was a great decision. We kept extending our stay by one day, then two days and finally we just booked the rest of the week (and our time in India) here.

They don't have seagulls on beach in India but they do have cows

And in restaurants...

The hostel has beds for 45 people. Each of the dorm rooms has between 4 and 6 beds. The owners are always around working and hanging out with the guests. Breakfast in the morning is included with our room. There is a great indoor/outdoor common area where people relax on hanging chairs and mats on floor. We have been cooking up huge amounts of veggies for lunch. Carl and I both like to cook and we haven't had access to a kitchen for two and half months. Its been so nice to be able to cook up fresh veggies which we buy down the street for around 100 rupees ($1.50). 

There are a lot of Russians in Goa (and apparently Russian mafia that brings in drugs, among other things) some of the Indian people selling stuff on the beach and working in the shops don't speak English but speak prefect Russian. In some areas all the signs are in Russian. 

The other backpackers turn into friends quickly. Both the Canadian girls and the Australia boys that we met working as extras ended up staying at the hostel so when we arrived it already felt like home. 

Let me tell you, the whole hostel is in love with Carl. The Australian boys are especially in love with him. Whenever we return to the hostel and or run into people out and about there are always shouts and warm greetings of "Carlito!" "The legend has arrived!" "Carl man, how ya doing man!" It's okay, I don't take it personally that a bunch of 20 something boys like Carl more than me.... But seriously who wouldn't love Carl, he is hilarious, happy, completely himself and he really knows how to live life.

Volleyball on the beach

Goa has been a great way to wrap up our India trip. Who can complain about watching the sunset set on the beach every evening and swimming in the ocean everyday. Carl did a photo shoot with one of our instant friends from the hostel and the pictures are truly amazing.

The hostel was organizing a yoga class on the first day we arrived. Carl volunteered me to teach the class (since I was too shy to volunteer myself). The owners quickly painted the roof, put in a railing, and bought yoga mats for the class the next morning.

Yoga class on the roof of the hostel

I was a really nervous for the first class but it will well. Its been so great to get some practice teaching. I have taught a beginners class most morning. Between 8 to 3 people have been attending the class. I am feeling a little less nervous and more prepared to teach some free classes in Manly.  

My friend and one of my roommates during my yoga teacher training, Siobhan just arrived in Goa. She is staying at the hostel with us. She has been traveling around India as well. It's so great to see her again! 

Only a couple more days in India! Thanks again to Carl for taking all the pictures!