So what’s a barter got to do with twitter, inspiration and an home stay?

A few months back, I got in touch with a client and a friend – Adrian(@theonlyolive). He suggested that he had some work for me, and would talk about it soon. Sure enough, he got back and asked me what I thought about doing up a website for his new homestay business; that he had recently set up in Goa.

Not being the one who says “No” to work, I agreed. Boy, I was in for a surprise!

Adrian, wanted me, not to charge him, but instead, barter. I took some time to think over. I came back with a proposal to charge him a buck and barter a free stay(s) policy, in his homestay in Goa for lifetime for two (me+1). The food, and other such everyday necessities, I would gladly pay for. It was one of the best deals, I have ever made, at least till the next one comes along

Soon, We got the site designed, developed and delivered. Once the site was delivered to his liking, he would repeatedly request me to visit the place – The Only Olive, as its known – A lovely name which falls short to describe the calm and serenity of the place.

I never got a chance to visit the place, until…

Finally, two weeks back I got some time and took some friends with me. He welcomed us all. What pursued was an experience of a lifetime to remember and the satisfaction of an aftertaste of a sweet deal!

Think, I am out of mind yet? Have a look at these pictures!

For the 3 days I was there, I was treated with utmost respect, with love and caring. I was also given a personal tour of the beautiful village of Aldona, Goa. It’s really a marvelous wonder, that this village, even to this date, has wonderful artisans and a very rich culture preserved, and I mean intact! We visited some local artists. Normally, I would hunt for inspiration online, but looking at these guys, I know I will look outside the “box” more for my inspiration dose.

And speaking of culture, we had local food, no fancy restaurants, well.. there was this once, but the rest of the time we ate at local places and it is A MUST, even if the spice gets too much for you, it’s still highly recommended.

Coming back to – The Only Olive. The place is secluded, “quite” is THE word. Highly recommended for people, who are tired of their daily grind and just want to break away. Don’t get me wrong, not advertising here, but the place is simply marvelous. There’s a river right behind, where one can sit on a chair, throw bait, and relax; while overlooking open sky, lush green trees and some old boats.

During my stay there, I met some very interesting people from absolutely different walks of life, who have travelled around the world and have finally settled down in Goa. It seems that Adrian – the owner of TheOnlyOlive.com and an entrepreneur I look up to and have come to respect, had arranged for a Goan tweetup, the first ever in Goa!

This tweet-up was a direct result of me introducing Adrian to Twitter!

Coming to a close, all in all a warm place, great food and fabulous company is what made this trip. And I am definitely going there back soon! Any one in?

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