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.