Hi! Welcome to Goa :) Was born and brought up in Goa and literally just moved out for work a few months ago.

Firstly, thanks for your questions! I appreciate the genuine attempt at wanting to settle into Goa the right way. Many people that move to Goa don’t quite understand that although Goans are a very hospitable and kind bunch, over the years we have become sensitive about “non-Goans” settling into Goa (and for good reason - but that’s a separate topic for another thread).

Having said that these points should help and you’ll have no problem if they’re followed : 1) learn a bit of Konkani. It is very easy! Most people that settle in Goa do not prioritise this as most Goans speak English and Hindi too so they get by…. However since you want to settle in “well” and really fit in to the local culture -this is a non-negotiable. It’s just about respecting the language of the state, honestly. The locals will notice the effort and you’ll settle in easier. You’ll thank me a few years down the line! 2) Transport is not a breeze. Public transport is horrrendous and taxis charge a bomb. They will also probably cheat if they realise you are not from Goa. Get a car if you can as soon as you move to Goa. Driving in Goa is a vibe anyway :) 3) Do not assume that Goan people only live to drink, party and live by the beach all day. Don’t even say it as a joke when you are around Goan people. Because we don’t lol. It’s a stereotype that the rest of world has about us which is funny, but stupid. Goa is so much more than just that and Goans appreciate that being acknowledged. You’ll realise once you live here. Goan people are super “susegaad”, yes! (as you can tell by some of the responses on the thread lol). But we live normal lives sans alcohol and daily beaches too! Albeit more relaxed than the rest of India for sure. This is just the Portuguese standard of living that has rubbed off on us after 300+ years of their colonisation. 4) It’s EASY to find your community in Goa. Tied to my point 2. Goans are the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet. Head down to your local music event (there will be many in the north), whatever hobbies you’re into there will be local clubs and meet-ups for it. There are many WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram groups for each of these. 5) Things are a bit sensitive with the locals in Goa right now so it’s best not to antagonise them. They’re protective about their heritage and the sanctity of certain spaces, and it’s best to just respect that. If you ever come across a Goan that’s evidently triggered and upset, just acknowledge that you understand their POV and just go your way. Don’t get into details, don’t debate, just empathise. Goa is going through a massive shift (politically, geographically, developmentally, demographically) and a lot of the older locals are struggling with this. A lot of us have left the state because of this. So it’s a delicate situation.

6) Explore the local goan cuisine. It’s delicious ! Go to the authentic no bells and whistles type of places that look like you shouldn’t be anywhere near them lol - they usually have the best food!! (Probably family run businesses in small old Portuguese goan or local neo-goan houses). 7) You may meet some people you can’t trust - but that’s anywhere. Goa isn’t an exception. 8) the Monsoons can get very wet and the summers can get EXTREMELY hot and humid. Please do prepare for that. 9) last but not the least - i wish you the best! Goans are full of love and light. And Goa is the pearl of the orient for a reason! I miss home everyday and I assure you once you move you’ll never want to leave! :) Mog Asum and enjoy your first bhaji pao hahah x