Cows and white sand. Goa, India.

We left Kerala by 3rd class sleeper train heading to the South of Goa. The train was closterphofic for me, a Canadian who is used to so much personal space. They really pack people in like sardines. India has a huge population and cramming people onto transportation systems is the only way to accomodate their needs. I did manage to sleep despite my mental discomfort of the blankets and pillows being used again and again by travellers without being washed. We were fed a basic meal and tea in the early morning before arriving at our destination.

The beaches in Goa are perhaps the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. White sand stretches as far as the eye can see. The entrance to the main beach is crowded with foriegn and domestic tourists waiting to be taken on speedboat or airballoon rides. However, a short walk down the beach provides a quiet haven from the crowds. We have heard that the holiday season is slow this year. Perhaps due to the recession in the UK and America.