Tag: Travel

Special Occasion

Celebrate Mickey & Minnie Mouse: Birthdays of the World’s Most Beloved Disney Icons

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, two of the most beloved figures in animation history, have been charming fans for nearly a century. Since their debut in Steamboat Willie on November 18, 1928, these characters have become global symbols of joy, imagination, and the magic of storytelling. Created by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Mickey was originally designed as a replacement for Disney’s first character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Even though his first short film, Plane Crazy, didn’t captivate audiences, Mickey persevered and finally soared to fame with Steamboat Willie, a groundbreaking animated short that synchronized sound and motion for the first time. From that point forward, Mickey became the face of Disney, inspiring generations and earning his place as the first animated character with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Minnie Mouse, Mickey’s partner in fun and fashion, debuted alongside him in the same short film. With her charming personality, love of style, and playful nature, she has become a fashion icon in her own right, evolving from flapper-inspired black-and-white attire to polka-dotted dresses and vibrant colors over the decades. Minnie’s voice was first provided by Walt Disney himself, later passing through talented actors including Russi Taylor. Over the years, she’s starred in her own specials, attended red-carpet events, and even earned recognition as a fashion icon at New York Fashion Week. Beyond her stylish exterior, Minnie is also an aunt to Millie and Melody Mouse, showing that her charm extends beyond just fashion and fun.

Celebrating Mickey and Minnie Mouse is as limitless as imagination itself. Fans can honor them by dressing in Mickey or Minnie-themed attire, singing the classic Mickey Mouse Club song, learning to draw their favorite mouse, or visiting Disney parks around the world—from Disneyland in California to DisneySea in Tokyo, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort. Watching classic shows, shorts, or feature films like Fantasia also brings their world to life at home, while themed parties, music, and fun facts allow fans of all ages to engage in the celebration.

The magic of Mickey and Minnie goes beyond mere entertainment. They embody hope over adversity, the joy of friendship, and the power of imagination, touching the lives of millions worldwide. Whether it’s through a Mickey-shaped ice cream cone, a Minnie polka-dotted bow, or a day spent exploring the wonders of a Disney park, celebrating these icons reminds us all of the fun, creativity, and warmth they have brought to the world for over 90 years. From their first pencil sketches to becoming timeless legends, Mickey and Minnie Mouse continue to inspire hearts and imaginations everywhere, making their birthdays the perfect occasion to celebrate joy, creativity, and the magic of Disney.

Events in Goa

Goa Journalist Awards 2025 Presented by CM Dr. Pramod Sawant on National Press Day

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant presented the Goa Journalist Awards 2025 to nine distinguished journalists on the occasion of National Press Day at the Institute of Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji. The event celebrated and acknowledged the contributions of media professionals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to public-interest journalism throughout the year. The Best Editor Award on National Integration and Communal Harmony was conferred upon Shri Pandurang Gaonkar, while Shri Ajay Buva was recognised for his impactful rural reporting. Ms Ramandeep Kaur received the award for reporting in public health and hygiene, highlighting her work in bringing key health-related issues to the forefront. Smt Vibha Verma was honoured for reporting with special reference to women, children, and social issues.

In the field of sports journalism, Shri Marcus Mergulhao was awarded for his consistent and insightful sports reporting. Ms Gauree Malkarnekar received recognition for her remarkable work in reporting on art and culture, while Shri Rajtilak Naik was awarded in the category of Photojournalism for producing the Best Photograph of the Year. Ms Christine Machado was felicitated for excellence in reporting on education, and Shri Sameep Narvekar was honoured for his reporting on achievements of the Government. Their contributions represented a diverse spectrum of journalistic impact, reflecting the evolving needs of society and the essential role of the press in shaping informed public discourse.

The event was graced by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Information & Publicity) Shri Sarpreet Singh Gill, IAS, Director of the Department of Information & Publicity Shri Dipak Bandekar, and Goa Union of Journalists President Shri Rajtilak Naik. The occasion underscored the government’s recognition of the media’s role in upholding democratic values, promoting accountability, and serving as a bridge between the public and policymakers. The ceremony reaffirmed the importance of responsible journalism and celebrated the dedication of individuals who continue to pursue truth, awareness, and social progress through their work.

Travel

Goa Deepens Engagement with Russian Travellers as Delegation Visits Paryatan Bhavan

allycaralgoa

Panaji, Nov 14, 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, extended a warm welcome to a 37-member delegation from Russia at Paryatan Bhavan as part of their week-long exploration of the State’s tourism offerings.

Present for the reception were Director of Tourism Kedar Naik; GTDC General Manager (Hotels & Marketing) Gavin Dias; Assistant Director (Tourism) Jayesh Kankonkar; Assistant Tourist Officer Chitra Vengurlekar; OSD to the Tourism Minister Shawn Mendes; and TCI & SITA Chief Operating Officer Ernest Dias, along with officials and key representatives of the tourism industry.

Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said Goa enjoys a warm, long-standing relationship with the Russian market, marked by mutual trust and consistent engagement. “We value this continued interest from Russian travellers. Goa remains committed to offering every visitor a safe, pleasant, and memorable stay,” he said.

Director of Tourism, Kedar Naik, also highlighted the enduring bond between Goa and Russia, noting that travellers from Russia have long appreciated the State’s culture, hospitality, and lifestyle, making them an integral part of Goa’s tourism narrative.

TCI & SITA COO, Ernest Dias, expressed optimism that Goa would witness strong tourist arrivals from Ekaterinburg and Moscow for the upcoming season, underscoring the ongoing confidence of Russian travellers in Goa.

As part of the reception, GTDC’s Gavin Dias presented an engaging overview of Goa’s diverse tourism profile—its cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, culinary richness, wellness tourism, adventure offerings, and high-quality hospitality infrastructure.

During their seven-day visit, the delegation will explore a range of experiences across Goa, including spice plantations and iconic attractions, while gaining deeper insights into the State’s evolving tourism landscape. The visitors expressed appreciation for the warm reception and showed keen interest in discovering more of what Goa has to offer.

The Department of Tourism looks forward to strengthening this relationship further and enhancing collaborations to promote Goa globally.

Spotlight

Lily Catering Services: Redefining Wedding Experiences Across Goa with Flavor, Warmth, and Passion

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey for Lily Catering Services, traveling across every corner of Goa and curating unforgettable experiences for weddings and events. Each event brings new learning, new people, and the joy of sharing good food. What has touched the team most is the warmth and acceptance they’ve received from clients all over the state. Along the way, they’ve discovered Goa’s many cultures and traditions, and with each event, they’ve grown more connected to the people they serve.

The menu at Lily Catering Services reflects a perfect balance of Goan heritage and global influence. Signature dishes like BBQ Pork Ribs, Pork Belly in Hunan Sauce, and Shepherd’s Pie bring together comfort and creativity, while desserts such as the Dark Chocolate Marquise, Baklava Cheesecake Roll, and Tender Coconut Kheer add a distinct and memorable finish to every celebration.

When planning a wedding, the goal is simple—to create a menu that stands out. Whether it’s a Goan celebration or a modern themed event, the team curates dishes that surprise and delight guests. They often suggest fusion menus that mix Goan favorites with international flavors, and the joy on guests’ faces as they try something new makes it all worthwhile.

Each menu is personalized to reflect the couple’s taste and personality. Tasting sessions help finalize dishes, and dietary requirements like vegan, gluten-free, or Jain meals are handled with utmost care. The team works closely to customize dishes, brief the service staff, and ensure every guest feels included and cared for.

Some of the most memorable experiences have come from large-scale weddings—events that feel like organized chaos but end in triumph when everything flows seamlessly. Behind the success is a well-trained team, many of whom have worked together for years. Their shared experience and chemistry make the service smooth, efficient, and professional.

Communication is key, and the team maintains constant contact with wedding planners and venues through WhatsApp and calls to ensure every detail is aligned. Alongside food, Lily Catering Services also offers bar services, featuring cocktails and mocktails customized to the couple’s story—sometimes even recreating the first drink they shared together. Popular choices like the ‘Busy Bombay’ cocktail and their rotating seasonal creations keep guests delighted year after year.

Behind every dish is a skilled culinary team personally trained to uphold high standards. With flexible catering packages, including special discounts for upcoming seasons, Lily Catering Services ensures that great food is accessible without compromising on quality. Regular training sessions and workshops keep the team sharp, ensuring service that’s both warm and professional.

Feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with guests often praising the unique flavors and presentation. Even small, detailed feedback is valued—it reflects the company’s commitment to perfection. From the first consultation to the final event, clients receive hands-on support, ensuring that every element runs smoothly and stress-free.

When asked what makes the team special, the founder says they’re like a Shepherd’s Pie—a blend of many ingredients coming together to create something comforting and satisfying. The same spirit drives their work ethic and passion.

With new dishes and services launching every season, and a dream of catering beyond Goa, Lily Catering Services continues to grow. Their ultimate vision is to take their love for food and hospitality global—ensuring that no matter where they go, every meal carries a little bit of Goan warmth and a whole lot of heart.

Events in Goa

Heritage First Festival Returns with 41 Walks and Workshops to Celebrate Goa’s Living Heritage

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s living heritage once again takes centre stage as the Heritage First Festival returns for its second edition, promising to spotlight the cultural, ecological and historical wealth of the state. Organised by the not-for-profit Heritage First Goa (HFG) — founded by heritage advocates Heta Pandit, Jack Ajit Sukhija, and Snigdha Manchanda — the festival will be held from November 14 to December 7, 2025 and will feature 41 walks and workshops spread across three weeks.

From the tranquil villages and khazan lands to the city streets and coastal landscapes, this edition of the festival explores Goa’s multifaceted heritage through immersive experiences. Participants will have the chance to embark on a village walk in Saligao with Subodh Kerkar, dive into the biodiversity of Chorao’s mangroves and otter habitats with Kilian Hughes and Katrina Fernandez, explore prehistoric caves in Chicalim with Cyril Fernandes, or discover Panaji’s nocturnal charm through a night walk guided by Pritha Sardessai.

Beyond the walks, the festival’s workshops will offer deeper engagement with Goa’s art and craft traditions. Attendees can learn the intricacies of Kaavi art with Darpana Athale, explore the textures and heritage of the Kunbi saree weave with Mahalaxmi Bhobe, join a poetry walk with Meera Ganpathi across the scenic fields of Parra, build a sand dune on Miramar’s beach alongside Dr Antonio Mascarenhas and Gabriella D’Cruz, or enjoy community kitchen experiences in Chorao led by Amreen Sheikh.

“Goa has so much to offer in terms of heritage and culture, which people are still not aware of beyond their own local boundaries. In this second edition of the festival, we aim to throw a spotlight on these gems and educate the general public as there is yet so much of our heritage which is yet unknown to us, especially the younger generation. We hope that through the walks and workshops people are able to understand, connect and in turn preserve the heritage of the state,” says Heta Pandit of Heritage First Goa.

The festival also opens the door for individuals and businesses to play a role in heritage preservation by adopting a walk through modest contributions, helping sustain the operational costs and supporting the cause in a tangible way.

Registration for each event is mandatory, with limited slots available to ensure meaningful engagement. Tickets are priced at ₹750 per event, and attendees are encouraged to pre-book their slots to be part of this journey that celebrates Goa’s living legacy.