You’re probably second guessing this already, but don’t. Your personality deserves far more credit than you think. In fact, your personality type influences a number of decisions that you make on a daily basis, decisions like where to eat, what to wear, or even who to vote for. This same personality type could (in theory) help decide the right beach for you to plan your next vacation.
Before we go making predictions however, we need to find out what your dominant personality type is, and what it means. For this pseudo-experiment, we’ll be using the Five Factor Model of Personality developed by Robert McCrae and Paul Costa. The FFMP categorizes our personalities into five main types – conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, openness to experiences, and neuroticism. Determining the exact mix of these factors, the ones that are are the most or least dominant, can be done by taking any number of tests such as this one by 123Test. Once you find out what your dominant personality type is, then you’re on your way to finding out the beach in Goa that you are best suited to. Good luck!
Conscientiousness
People who display conscientiousness as a dominant personality type are usually (as the word suggests) conscientious, disciplined, efficient, and well organized. These people are self reliant and need very little help because of their high level of organization.
The beaches we recommend: Palolem or Patnem
Because of its secluded nature, Palolem and Patnem beach are perfect for those who know what they are doing. There are no major cities close by, so its best that you carry all your essentials with you. Thankfully over the years there has been an increase in the number of cottages to spend the night, but these are usually devoid of the luxuries found in the more popular tourist areas.
Extraversion
Those with a dominant extraversion personality type are outgoing and social. They are friendly, spirited, and like being in groups. The extraverts are usually the ones making the group plans and looking for the best parties around.
The beaches we recommend: Calangute/Baga and Anjuna
Very little mystery here, especially since Calangute, Baga, and Anjuna are smack dab in the middle of all the action. It’s where the biggest parties happen, and where all the excitement is. If you’re the kind who likes to see and be seen, then this is definitely the place to be.
Agreeableness
The more docile of the personality types, those who display a dominant agreeable personality type are the ones who are most likely to be compassionate and eager to please. People who are agreeable in nature are affectionate, altruistic, and love volunteer work.
The beaches we recommend: Morjim, Arambol, and Ashwem
Morjim, Arambol, and Ashwem have over the last few years become the new favourite among travelers. This is partly because these beaches, though commercial, are not as crowded. Many international tourists come to Morjim, Arambol, and Ashwem for the positive energy that surrounds the place, to take part in the drum circles and the spiritual beach yoga sessions, and sight several species of birds.
Openness to experience
The explorers and the travelers, this particular personality type is defined by adventure. Those with an openness to experience as their dominant personality have a broad range of interests. They are curious, creative, and unpredictable, often opting to take the path less travelled.
The beaches we recommend: Querim and Hollant
Querim and Hollant are on two ends of Goa’s beach spectrum, Querim being up North after Arambol, and Hollant down South along the foothills of the Western Ghats, yet both are a traveler’s paradise. Both beaches are quite secluded, and offer the chance for exploration of the surrounding area, with maybe a bit of trekking if you’re looking for some adventure. Make sure you take your camera along, because you never know what you might find!
Neuroticism
The last one on the list, those that display neuroticism as a dominant personality type are usually the ones with a high degree of emotional instability. They are readily excited and are distracted easily, making them prone to worry and anxiousness. People around usually view them as unstable and insecure.
The beaches we recommend: Talpona and Galgibaga
Both these South Goa beaches are secluded and look like something out of a postcard (picture golden sands, turquoise water, and breath-taking sunsets). Distractions here are minimal, and habitation is rare. Most importantly however, unlike other beaches in Goa, there are no water sports activities here. So if you’re looking for calm, quiet, and the perfect place to unwind, this is where you need to be. Galgibaga is also a protected site due to the habitation of the Olive Ridley turtles.
What is your dominant personality type, and which beach are you best suited to? Do you agree with the recommendations? Or do you have a suggestion that you’d like to share? Let us know in the comments below.
