During these lockdown and restricted movement days we are all yearning for that long awaiting vacation. Intense prayers are on that this pandemic will be behind us and we shall be able to do as we please again. So whilst we are still at home I wanted to talk about India’s favourite holiday destination.
Choosing your next vacation spot can be a bit of a conundrum at most times, especially if you’re looking for a destination that has it all. If you are torn between choosing a beachy paradise that has an active party life and a peaceful green haven filled with wildlife, look no further, Goa is the perfect place to be.
Situated on the western coast of India, this tiny state is a tropical hotspot that offers you the best of both worlds. With luscious green fields and gorgeous white sandy beaches, Goa is India’s go-to tourist location.
When in Goa, you’ll find yourself waking up to the sound of chirping birds, and if you’re lucky enough to be living in a village you might hear a rooster or two. Everything about the atmosphere of this place exudes peace and serenity, the laid back vibe of the people just adds to the charm. The locals of Goa are extremely warm and welcoming to everyone. All they ask is that you remain respectful and treat their home as if it is your own.
While it might be India’s smallest state, there’s so much to do once you’re in Goa. Since it is dotted with stunning beaches, there’s a never-ending line of water sporting activities like jet skiing, paragliding, snorkelling, scuba diving and flyboarding that you can enjoy. One can also go kayaking through the many serpentine rivers or enjoy a cruise instead.
If you love to party till the sun comes up then you’re in for a treat! If you’re visiting the state any time from November to February, you will have your pick of raves, music festivals and clubs to party at.
Once you’re done with all the late-night madness you can always opt for a few holistic activities like yoga retreats, bird watching, visiting spice plantations and just relaxing by the beach. Of course one can’t forget about all the yummy Goan seafood! While Goa has numerous amazing multi-cuisine restaurants, try and visit one of the smaller off-beat local restaurants for a mouth-watering authentic Goan meal.
While you’re exploring this tropical delight, one of the best places to stay at and unwind is Ahilya by the Sea. As the name suggests, this breathtaking hotel is banked on the shores of the River Mandovi in the quaint village of Reis Magos. Surrounded by the lush green coconut and banyan trees and cool sea breeze, Ahilya by the Sea is a quintessential escape from reality.
The property is made up of three beautiful villas and a picturesque tree house, each more charming than the other. The brick villas have a very contemporary-rustic style that makes you feel welcomed immediately. The interiors of each villa are filled with amazing curios and artefacts that the owner has collected from around the world, creating a very homely and yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Leela Villa, the pride of Ahilya by the Sea, overlooks the Arabian Sea along with the property’s ancient banyan tree and Sunrise Pool. This villa has the largest room in the hotel, the Trindade Suite, which comes with a step-out balcony.It also has a wrap-around veranda that is perfect for outdoor breakfast and its Music Room Suite includes french doors that lead to a private garden.
The second villa is the Sunset Villa, that has four bedrooms and a large common living room. It is the perfect option if you’re in town with friends or family. Three of the four rooms come with balconies and all of them overlook the crystal blue sea. The bright and airy ambience combined with the rustic wooden furniture and minimal interior decor makes this villa a treat to the eyes.
The Sunrise Villa is a three-bedroom villa that has its wall adorned with African Tribal art. Its
Minestrel Suite comes with a lofted children’s niche which is the perfect spot for the kids to play while the adults lounge in the living room.
Arjun’s Tree House is the last room at the hotel. Constructed on the property’s old Banyan tree, this treehouse offers you the perfect secluded romantic setup. With distressed wooden furniture and the breathtaking sea view, this room is bound to win your heart.
You can beat Goa’s heat and humidity with a dip in their two Insta-worthy pools. A few laps around their Sunrise Infinity Pool, that overlooks the glistening Mandovi River, is the perfect way to kick start your morning. Or if you’d rather be pampered and feel rejuvenated, visit their in-house wellness centre that is also nestled atop the 200-year-old Banyan tree, below the Arjun Tree House room.
From having breakfast on their well-manicured lawns to doing a few Surya Namaskars, your stay at Ahilya by the Sea will be an unforgettable experience. So, when you get a chance to travel again, recreate priceless memories in Susegado Goa, where no plans are the best plans and everyone is bound to have a good time!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 18, April 21
