Mack Barreto

They say you can take the Goan out of Goa but not the Goa out of the Goan. A Mass Communication graduate from Xavier’s, Mumbai, I handled communications strategy for top-tier brands at Ogilvy India. Later, I managed corporate communications and motorsports for Amaron Batteries. Drawn by an inner calling, I returned to Goa and founded The Local Beat in 2018.

The Local Beat was inspired by my desire to share the Goa I grew up in, that I know best. I didn’t realize I had knocked on the doors of Goa in the ’70s and '80s, and I had little idea it still existed in all its blitheness; an easy-going charm, as alluring as ever.

The great news—this Goa is very much alive. You just got to know where to find it and how to connect with it.

I find it extremely gratifying to connect and engage guests with our local community through stories, feni, and food. Recently, I received the Outlook Traveller Responsible Tourism award for our efforts to provide authentic, earthy, and heart-warming experiences despite Goa’s over-tourism.

I invite you to experience the unexplored parts of Goa and savor its beauty and richness.