VidMama //

Volunteering is relatively new to the growing network of work opportunities in Goa, India . Goa established new project sites in the Himalayas and the desert state of Rajasthan . The one I volunteered for though, is the program concerning Goa’s beaches. I figured this would offer possibilities of not only travel, but recreation; oh and to make a contribution to the socially deprived areas along the coast.

Goa remains a stark reminder of many social issues, despite the obvious benefits of a massive tourism industry. Social issues such as a poorly developed educational infrastructure and it’s almost 3rd world health institutions are still in need of a large scale undertaking from Goa’s government. But, Goa’s beaches is India’s most well known and beloved beach destinations because of it’s music, food and climate. So, my volunteer home base in Goa is situated only 2 kilometers from Colva beach in southern Goa. It’s 30 kilometers long and the palm trees and silver sands is one of the least explored regions. Colva is also the oldest, largest and my personal favorite. I hire a bike, and being a volunteer, I only pay 50 INDR per day. If I had an international license I could hire a scooter to get around, but, I have gotten into better shape using the bike because I not only help with Colva beach, I also travel 6 kilometers to Margao beach . Magao is 25 kilometers long and has the finest white sand lining along the shores studded with coconut palms extending all the way to Bogmalo.

I had a friend fly in from the States and she booked a Goa India Hotel right on the very beach i was assigned to that week. Very fortunate indeed, so not only was I contributing to the betterment of the Goan beaches, I also got to experience the wonderful offerings of a luxury hotel, which my friend was happy to include me in her daily spa treatments. Very nice indeed. But, I too got to treat her to two spectacular beaches and show her around some less touristy hot-spots and show off my newly volunteered shaped body.