Discovering the spirit of Saint Valentine in Calangute, this year

As Valentine’s Day approaches, couples around the world gear up for a romance. Preparations begin days – or even weeks – in advance with many planning a long weekend away from home.

Just 11 min (4.3 km) walk away from Ocean Palms Goa in Calungute is a small, non-descript chapel – St. Valentine Chapel. You will find it on Google map too - bit.ly/35H3VaX.

Even the identity of the Roman priest in whose name Valentine Day is celebrated by lovers across the world is shrouded in mystery. One account says he was a physician and priest buried on Via Flaminia; or that he was the Bishop of Terni who died in Rome, but was buried in Terni. Another account says St. Valentine secretly married couples to save men from getting drafted in the war, in defiance of the emperor’s orders.

Another story claims that St. Valentine cured a jailor’s daughter of blindness and signed a letter to her as “from your Valentine” and that’s how the trend started.

Whatever be the truth, why don’t you plan a trip to Goa around Valentine Day with your sweetheart, book a room with Ocean Palms Goa, Goa and indulge in some fun activities!

Explore the area around St Valentine’s Chapel!

Route:bit.ly/35H3VaX
Walk – or bike – down to Saligao and pay homage to St. Valentine’s Chapel. Then relax all day walking around the village and experiencing the simple lifestyle of the villagers. We’ll pack a picnic lunch for you – or you can experience cooking Goan food with the locals who will welcome you warmly. Carry your camera and do visit the Mae De Deus church – a historical monument with Neo-Gothic architecture and place of worship.

Up in the Air!

Route: bit.ly/35E82Vg
Done walking? Head to Panaji, the capital city of Goa, ride up in a hot air balloon and experience the thrill of flying 900 meters high in the air. Try capturing the panoramic view of the entire state –it is indeed a breathtaking experience – before raiding your boyfriend’s wallet in the market at Panaji.

Bird Watching

Route: bit.ly/2saXMGa
Take a bike ride to Ribandar – a 30-minute ride from Calangute beach– and spend the day amid the chirp sound of birds at Dr.Salim Ali’s bird sanctuary. You can carry our basket of delights of course – but you can also grab a bite at the sanctuary before heading back to wine we have on ice and a romantic dinner Quality Inns.

Go Wild!

Route:bit.ly/2Nd3PRI

Watch the wild animals in their natural habitat at the Mhadei wildlife sanctuary. You can ride there on a bike – it’s just 22 km away. Take a guided tour before heading to Vagator, Anjuna, or Baga and spend the rest of the day at the waterfront enjoying water sports or just lazing around. Keep the Beachcombers basket of delights by your side for a quick bite.

Crocodile Watch!

Route:bit.ly/306mRhW

You got that right! There is a maze of backwaters in Goa, which you would love to explore – and watch the crocs lazing in the sun. You can take a cruise from Cumbarjua – an hour’s ride from Quality Inns Calangute. The serenity and romance of the mangrove must be experienced to be believed.

Stargazing

If you would rather spend a lazy day at Calangute, our Beachcombers restaurant and bar are at your service. We have a number of activities that you can participate in – or simply lounge in the restro-bar and sip the delights that our bartender and chef concoct. Indulge in some stargazing after sundown then head to Quality Inns where we’ll have a bottle of champagne and a scrumptious feast waiting for when you return.

Goa is packed with events and activities around Valentine’s Day. If you are planning to visit, do let us know in advance so that we can offer you the best room and a memorable stay.

Talk to our concierge or receptionist about maps, routes, and transport.