Shopping in Goa

Goa may be famous for a lot of things, and shopping might not yet be its forte, but it’s getting there. It might not have the luxury of malls in every corner of its cities, or brands it can boast of, but its night markets and flea market are unique to the state. When it comes to brands, Goa is slowly on the learning curve with the addition of its newest mall in Porvorim.

PEP, LIVELY AND CONTAGIOUSLY ECLECTIC – INGO’S SATURDAY NIGHT MARKET

One of the most unique shopping experiences in Goa is hands down the Saturday night market in Arpora. Shopping here is a pleasure as artists and sellers from around the world converge having their own stalls pepped up throughout the area. The atmosphere is eclectic as musicians from across the globe, acrobats and even fire dancers entertain the crowd all on a Saturday night. The food court whips up some delicious treats at reasonable prices from desserts to starters and everything else delicious transforming the Saturday night market to more than just a shopping experience. While walking through the lanes at the market, you come across people from different parts of the world, selling everything from apparel to décor and even rare instruments. And although they might not force you to buy anything like many other market places in India, most of them are more than happy to talk about their culture, background and where they are from.

As the night market is overly popular, the traffic might drive you insane. To avoid this, head there earlier, it is worth the trouble. Mackies is known to have the best of India, from quilts and dhurries from Rajasthan, to silverware from Tibet, and embroidered leather bags from Kashmir, the market has just about everything to tickle you shopping buds. There are plenty of stalls selling export surplus garments at unbeatable prices too. The market also has stalls selling a myriad of teas and spices as well as Italian pizzas, shawarma, roasted chicken, tandoori. Expect to jostle around for a table but once you find your spot you can kick back and enjoy the live music on stage.

The Anjuna flea market is a popular market that happens in Anjuna on Wednesdays a location by the sea side. Here second hand ware to Thai knick knacks are sold; coming a long way from the time where travelers would sell their extra baggage to make a few bucks before leaving Goa. Today amidst the flowing printed silks, the glittery jewels and crystals and the fluorescent Shiva paintings, sit European and Indian designers. Though the flea market essentially remains a one stop destination for budget shopping and street fashion, there is a growing number of talented designers showing off their high end collections. And, though some of the pricing may give a bargain hunter a heart attack, each piece is worth the price. From handmade leather gladiators with crocodile or python skin, to intricate lace tutus, to colourful fractal printed hoodies, there is such a creative overflow of new ideas and fresh design that you better bring a full wallet with you when you decide to go.

Caculo Mall is Goa’s first mall, and much smaller than is competitor Mall de Goa. Situated in St. Inez in Panjim, although small in size, is a pleasurable shopping experience. This mall has brands like Westside, Arrow, Lee, Wrangler, Van Heusen, Blackberrys, Planet Sports, Pepe Jeans, Ray Ban, Cotton World and more! The Caculo mall also has a food court, a KFC outlet, Mainland China, Kix lounge and Citrus Banquet hall. The Magsons super mart has everything you need from wines and chocolates to cosmetics and other household items. Westside is popular amonst many shoppers, as it houses a range of colourful and appealing clothing for all, kids, men and women. Westside also houses a section for shoes, make up, accessories and household items. While Goa might not cut it as a shopping paradise, as compared to cities like Mumbai and Pune; it is getting there or so the shopaholics hope so. Fingers crossed, brands like Zara and Forever 21 soon make its way to Goa too! From a state where malls were a far dream, today it has 2.