Spent the day at the beach. It was a bit hazy but very pleasant . Lots of swims. Spent time organising a river boat trip on Bettys Boat for early February. We did it a couple of years ago and it was such a fabulous day we definitely want to do it again.

In the evening we got a tuk to Palolem, our first real visit this year. We went a bit early because Bob wanted to buy a very cheap backpack we could use for the beach. He managed to get a knock-off North Face one for £12. Love the tuk ride to Palolem, speeding through the lanes and uphill and down dale. Here’s an idea

We met Joseph and Janet, Susan and John at Dropadi, my personal favourite restaurant in Goa. I have spent many nights here, alone and in company and there are a lot of memories. The staff are amazing, they take such care of you and always welcome you back as an old friend no matter how long it’s been. This was our first visit this year so it was very convivial.

Palolem was crowded; The beach was packed. To be honest, Palolem is so done as a nice place to go….. It used to be paradise but not any more. Great to dive into for a day or a night but otherwise….. such a shame.

Lovely lovely meal at Dropadi. I had Chicken Kastoori. Lumps of chicken marinaded in a cashew and yoghurt cream and cooked in the tandoori. Just ultimate in succulent meat. Bob had a prawn biriani with a butter naan. Amazing. The others had extraordinary bowls of king prawn masala. Enormous prawns grilled and then served in a uber rich masala gravy. yum

Heather and Chris looked in on the way to try the new small plate menu at Ciarans. There was music on tonight which was good news as we’d heard it wasn’t happening anymore.

A final nightcap or two at Eve’s and then home to bed….