The Artists’ House
north Goa
Located in north Goa, about 2.5km inland and across the rice paddies from the beaches of Ashwem and Mandrem.
How to get there:
The easiest way is to head to Yab Yum at Ashwem Beach, rather than try and find the house by yourself. From Yab Yum, a member of staff can take you over to the house and show you around.
By air:
Goa airport aka Dabolim is very well served all year round by domestic flights (Indigo/GoAir, Jet, Air India, SpiceJet), as well as international charter flights during the holiday season.
Take a taxi or request collection from the airport.
By train:
Goa’s main station is Madgaon (in Margao) and is well served by trains coming south from Mumbai and north from Kerala. For Mandrem, try to alight at Pernem rather than Madgaon.
Take a taxi from the station or request collection.
By taxi / road:
Coming from further south – from Mapusa or from the airport for example – turn right towards Mandrem at the fish market just after the bridge and eventually head up the hill and onwards to Ravalnath temple (you can’t miss it). Carry on and just after the speed bumps take the right-hand turning signposted Dandos Wadda. Head over the rice paddies and The Artists’ House is on your right, a large yellow and white pattern painted on its roadside wall.
Distances & travel times:
airport: 50km / 1 hr 25 mins
railway stations:
Madgaon: 70km / 1 hr 55 mins
Thivim: 25km / 40 mins
Pernem: 20km / 35 mins
When to go:
All year round. This is a lush, beautiful place to be in monsoon or the off-season (May to October), though beach tourism is off the agenda at that time. The tourist season (October to April) has the easiest weather, with December to February being the most pleasant months.
Getting around:
You can head out on foot to the little corner store, or 20 mins walk will take you to the village centre. Other than that, your best option is to call or Skype Yab Yum’s receptionists and ask for a driver/taxi to be called. Use them whenever needed – they will wait or you can call or text them for pick-up no matter where you end up (or when).
Ultimately, scooter or motorbike is a great way to explore Goa as it gives you flexibility, staff can help you with hire. Be aware that those upfront should wear a helmet and drive only tourist-licensed bikes. Traffic around Mandrem is not heavy but there are many unmarked speed breakers, so take it easy!
Public transport is not the best option though a local bus service does exist if you can find it.