TRANQUIL TREASURE: AMRAPALI HOUSE OF GRACE, SIRIDAO

 

My typical journey from south Goa back up north is always with home in mind – one rarely stops to notice the beauty along the highway. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve driven by Siridao with scarce a thought for its hidden treasures until one day a friend and I went on a ‘discovery drive’ and found Amrapali – House of Grace.

Tucked away from the highway, surrounded by charming village life and a quiet lake, this century-old heritage home has been welcoming guests into its warm environs since 2014. It’s a majestic home done in hues of magenta, white and exposed laterite that sings praises of Goa’s architectural heritage and historical culture.

On a whim, we decided to stay overnight, simply absorbing the tranquillity that Sundays in Goa bring, connecting with the action across the state solely through newsprint. Restored by architect Alex von Moltke, and taken over by Simran Kaur and Abbas Sheikh, Amrapali House of Grace aims to return guests back to their innate peaceful and joyful nature through highly personalised service and boutique luxury.

With just four rooms, each overlooking the azure pool in the centre of the property, Amrapali was earlier called Morgado, meaning ‘dear’, a sentiment that each guest is still treated by. Up to eight adults and two children can comfortably be accommodated here, making the boutique hotel ideal for family reunions and private destination get-togethers.

Just a few minutes’ drive brings you to the majesty of heritage churches – including Old Goa’s wonders, and the stunning avian life at the peaceful Carambolim Lake, home to myriad migratory birds during winter.

This sight is breathtaking from the shadows of the Peace room, with a cute bench outdoors and classic antique interiors. A beautiful four-poster bed commands the attention here, as they do in Compassion and Devotion, the two other superior rooms at the property.

In the master suite, called Creation, the simple bed rests on a slightly raised platform and the attention is taken by the simplicity and expanse of the room as well as the gorgeous moulded bathtub. Here, guests can enjoy languid views of the pool from the lounge and refreshing views of the garden from the bedroom.

The charming and talented Mathieu leads the food and beverage service here, bringing his years of experience as a chef and his love for French tradition to the shores of Carambolim lake. At Amrapali House of Grace, his passion for detail and flavour is evident – guests particularly enjoy his light and delicious crêpes for breakfast.

The in-house chef also delights with excellent snacks, while sumptuous meals and can be enjoyed in the pretty dining room, in the comfort of your bed or outdoors. Recently opening its doors to the general public, their coffee shop now serves the best coffees & a variety of teas with scrumptious savouries and delightful pastries. 

In the shared spaces, it’s common to engage with other guests on the property in the swimming pool or while playing board games indoors. For those who prefer solo time, outdoor yoga is an excellent way to get back in touch with yourself.

The management also offers fun private picnics to the nearby Siridao beach, massages and even shows you the ropes with fishing and crab hunting. They will also organise guided tours, airport transfers, day trips to the beach and are generally on hand to help with any request a guest might make.

Our impromptu stay at Amrapali House of Grace gave us a wonderful surprise to find such a beautiful hidden treasure so close to Panjim, clothed in the tranquillity one might expect to find much further away. I highly recommend it.

For more details: http://www.amrapali-houseofgrace.com

Contact- +91-8329912172

 

REVERSE TIME AT ISHAVILAS’ NEW REJUVENATION CENTRE

Several years ago, in the midst of a stressful season, I took a few days off and submerged myself in the tranquil paradise that was – and continues to be – Ishavilas. The heritage home in Siolim recently completed a few renovations and I popped back to see the changes.

 

This stately villa is a breathtaking example of Indo-Portuguese architecture with an interplay of stark white, bold blue and demure yellow surrounded by a luscious garden. Its warm openness and welcoming entrance offer guests the allure of being in their own luxury home on holiday, pampered by the wonderful staff.

Ishavilas’ location is simply surreal. The meandering Chapora river runs quietly nearby, with a majestic church at the centre of Siolim. Green hillocks hedge the village on two sides and the people who reside there are some of the warmest, friendliest folk in Goa. Just a short drive away are Goa’s famous and quiet beaches, night markets, pubs and nightclubs, gourmet restaurants and more.

For a little over 10 years now, Ishavilas has been a gracious host to many happy guests who revel in the amalgamation of warm hospitality, exquisite location, serene surroundings and luxurious pampering.

Only recently, it opened its residential rejuvenation centre focused on Dr Mosaraf Ali’s Time Reversal Concept. Dr Ali has long been known for his alternative healing techniques, running his integrated medical centre in Delhi since 1983. He has worked in Hong Kong and London and is reputed for his health advice in integrated care, even speaking at the UN General Assembly and other important conferences around the world.

This is the man who has treated celebrities from actor Samuel L Jackson and supermodel Kate Moss to action hero Sylvester Stallone and pro golfer Colin Montgomerie. And here in Goa, his varied non-invasive treatments are available in the pristine surroundings of Ishavilas. Two resident Ayurvedic doctors – one male and one female – carry out the treatments and supervise other therapists, all trained by Dr Ali himself.

The location of the treatment room itself is well thought-out. Earlier the majestic Surya room, space is located closest to the entrance of the property, allowing walk-in guests ease of access without having to traverse through the privacy of residential guests.

 

Ishavilas’ new private yoga and rejuvenation centre specialises in detox and weight loss, while also treating chronic issues related to fatigue, sciatica, backache, migraine, arthritis and stroke rehabilitation. In addition, the centre treats children with height issues, anxiety, cerebral palsy, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and more under Dr Ali’s supervision and care.

This set-up makes it ideal for a group of friends or a family to indulge in a holistic holiday, spending quality time with each other while enjoying a private rejuvenation programme that includes Isha hatha yoga, Dr Ali’s special therapies as well as meals that cater to individual dietary requirements.

The special focus on quality and luxury makes it perfect for yoga retreats by organisers and teachers who travel to Goa with their participants and disciples. The inclusive nature of the programme – with luxury accommodation, wholesome meals and high-quality facilities – offers the unique opportunity to hold very personalised retreats.

The rejuvenation centre is a long-standing dream of Ishavilas of Jeh Bajaj and this family-owned property. Jeh has been a faithful follower of Isha yoga and Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev for more than a decade. Despite much prompting, I was unable to complete the required week-long treatment programme due to time restrictions and so settled for a specially designed one-day teaser of the retreat.

On arrival, I was escorted to my accommodation for the night – Ishanya – and what a wonderfully palatial space it was. It’s a two-bedroom cottage set next to a private pool that glistens in the night with gorgeous lights. Each room boasts an en-suite bathroom and a beautiful Baroque Goan-style mirror. The verandah doubles as the pool deck and offers a delightful outdoor dining area.

Ish, the room in the north-east, revels in beautiful blue tones with a spectacular sunburst mirror symbolic of Shiva’s third eye. Adjoining it on the east is Anya with soothing green and white interiors and a gorgeous painted chest of drawers. Interconnecting these rooms is a beautiful Buddhist lounge, a smart contemporary kitchenette and laundry area that makes Ishanya ideal for long-staying guests.

After a tour of Ishavila to see the new additions, I tucked into a light Indian lunch of fresh produce and lively flavours. Later, I received a warm welcome at Dr Mosaraf Ali’s Time Reversal Rejuvenation Centre, where specialist Dr Udbhav Singh explained the various benefits of this unique rehabilitation therapy.

My consultation with him revealed a need for a special marma therapy, ideal for those – like me – who practise martial arts on a regular basis. The 55-minute treatment that followed came from an ancient system with techniques that have been followed for hundreds of years. Dr Ali has modified this therapy to stimulate the nervous system, improve deeper blood flow to various parts of the body and revitalise the muscles. The techniques of this therapy are used in stroke rehabilitation research in two major British hospitals.

In addition to the signature marma therapy, Dr Mosaraf Ali’s Time Reversal Rejuvenation Centre also offers a neck connection massage to free up blockages in blood vessels to the brain, headache therapy, backache treatment which improves blood flow to inflamed tissues and chronic fatigue treatment which combines various techniques to revitalise the body.

Also, guests can opt for a stress management treatment focused on the trigger zones in the body linked to emotions and scalp therapy which doubles up as a hair nourishment treatment. The Time Reversal Therapies include Body Treatment, Facial Treatment and Weight Loss Therapy. All of these aim to rejuvenate and revitalise using special products and application procedures.

Dr Mosaraf Ali’s Time Reversal Rejuvenation Centre offers 3-day, 5-day, 7-day, 10-day and 14-day programmes to treat aches and pains, stimulate rejuvenation and address weight loss requirements. Each of these includes a consultation with a doctor, Isha hatha yoga and meditation, prescribed therapies, diets, detoxes and cleansing gels. Prices include accommodation and meals as well as transfers to the airport.

For those like me in Goa who want a short introduction to each of these programmes, a day retreat is available with consultation, Isha hatha yoga and meditation, prescribed therapies and meals.

Surrounded by the arresting beauty of the landscape and traditional architecture, Ishavilas is the perfect destination for yoga groups to indulge in the luxury of a conveniently located tranquil space and qualified instructors and therapists. International yoga groups can take full advantage of experts well-versed in both international and local techniques and therapies while soaking in the full experience of yogic life in India.

It will not be long before Ishavilas opens its specialised health food shop that offers recommended nibbles that are both delicious and good for you – true refreshment for the body and soul.

With the opening of Dr Mosaraf Ali’s Time Reversal Rejuvenation Centre, Ishavilas has seen a spurt in interest from celebrities and visitors from around the world, all wanting a chance to indulge in his famous healing techniques in the midst of this exotic location. Already, yoga teachers and organisers from all over the globe are in touch with the management at Ishavilas to enjoy a physically and spiritually fulfilling season of personalised retreats at the rejuvenation centre.

My time at Ishavilas flowed by like water over pebbles in a riverbed. I succumbed to the enigmatic charm of hatha yoga meditation at the beautiful Aum Yogashala, both in the evening and early in the morning. My meals were delightful, healthy and flavourful – a touch of both Indian and Continental, and I enjoyed every minute of my peaceful stay there.

I eagerly await the impending visit by Dr Ali himself, during which time I will ensure I set aside more time to experience the rejuvenating retreat in full.

For further information on Treatment and Stay – http://ishavilaswellness.com

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/yogawellness.goa/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/ishavilaswellness/

BURRITO BOYS: TEX-MEX HEAVEN

Mexican food gives me a similar sort of vibe that Indian food does – it’s full of flavour and fresh ingredients and can give you intense cravings when you haven’t had it for a while. One of my new favourite places to get my Tex Mex fix here in Goa is the Burrito Boys Bar & Bistro on the Calangute-Arpora Road.

Now, my taste of top-notch Tex Mex was whetted back when I moved up north. Every Saturday I would head to the Burrito Boys stall – their debut venture in Goa – at the Saturday Night Market in Arpora where Graham Vincent and Alex Schomberg were churning out roll after roll. 

Their journey here started seven years ago, but their introduction to the food business began much earlier – at least for Alex. At just 16, he set out to follow his heart in London – working in a restaurant kitchen. But like all passionate people, he started from the bottom: washing dishes.

At 20, he joined a catering course at Westminster College and then went on to cook at one of London’s best upmarket cafés and bistro Conran’s Blueprint Café at Butlers Wharf.

While he was sweating it out in the kitchen, Graham was hard at work in his successful computer programming career. A few years ago, the best buddies decided to call it quits on the humdrum of city life and moved to Goa, to enjoy sunny climes and a relaxing atmosphere.

Their love for Tex Mex food led them to open Burrito Boys at Ingo’s night market in Arpora, pulling in long queues almost immediately. When the season wound down, they headed back home for the summer, setting up their food stall at all the big festivals where they received rave reviews. Boomtown, Glastonbury, Love Supreme, Victorious and Latitude have welcomed them with open arms every year.

As the brains behind the business, Graham has now pushed Alex to expand horizons once more, giving Goa a Burrito Boys Bistro on the Calangute-Arpora Road. Renowned for being the best Funk House Dj’s Northside of Goa, the Burrito Boys have created the perfect fun dining experience –  it has become the ideal combination of the best sounds and ambience with stellar food that keeps people coming back for more

Nothing sells better than a good beef burrito and here, the boys do an amazing orange braised beef stuffed to the ends with black beans, sour mint cream, salad, green rice, tomato salsa, Mexican chilli sauce, jalapeños and a choice of toppings.

Of course, you can also go with the chipotle mushrooms which are almost just as popular, smokey chicken or caramelised aubergine. There’s no way you will be disappointed. You get perfectly done wedges of potato alongside.

Despite the name, burritos are not all they make. The Burrito Boys’ enchiladas – similar to the burrito but made with a corn tortilla – are a cheese maniac’s dream, slathered in a smooth sauce. The favourite in this section is the chicken tinga or pulled chicken.

In addition, there’s the all-time favourite quesadilla, the ever popular tacos including a battered mackerel version, as well as nachos and tlauda – a Mexican pizza – to share with friends if you’re just looking to graze.

If even this doesn’t float your boat, the Burrito Boys offer a juicy beef burger and a couple of specials that are sure to satisfy. Weekends are a crowded time at the bistro when the duo deliver their famous Sunday roast with lamb or chicken – literally heaven on a plate.

With the colourful décor and unbeatable food, Burrito Boys Bar & Bistro is certainly the best Tex Mex restaurant this side of town.

Contact: +91 73919 39683

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BurritoBoysGoa/

PHUKET: 5 DAYS WITH SPLASH BEACH RESORT

Thailand is on everyone’s hit holiday list. From India, it is one of the most convenient and best holiday destinations in South East Asia. Having been to Bangkok, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan before, I wanted to explore the equally famous island of Phuket and the travel marvel that is Splash Beach Resort.

There is not much competition when it comes to choosing your pad for your beach holiday in Thailand. With just five days in hand, I wanted a place that could offer me convenience, affordable luxury, excellent service and stunning views. I got all this and more. 

My luxury beach vacation began the moment I touched down. There is not a day I regret choosing to stay with Splash Beach Resort in Thailand. For every day, they gave me a new reason to wish for an extended stay.

We’re talking about waking up in 50 acres of tropical paradise with skies and sea that clamour for a more striking shade of blue. We’re talking about 500 metres of a pristine beachfront, world-class landscaping and a swanky architectural style. We’re talking about exclusivity that boasts the ultimate views of the ocean as well as Phuket’s hinterland beauty.

Splash Beach Resort in Thailand is the only integrated resort in the area that has a spa, children’s club, the largest conference centre in the vicinity and – wait for it – a water theme park! This means fun and frolic for families, groups of friends and the young at heart.

With 615 rooms, suites, penthouses and villas, it spans a range of accommodation requirements, and the direct access to the country’s silken sands makes it one of the best beach resorts in Thailand.

Believe it or not, there are folks out here who have business on their minds. To make work feel good, Splash Beach Resort has a gorgeous conference centre that offers 950 square feet to accommodate 1000 people theatre-style and 1300 guests at cocktail receptions.

rhdr

Needless to say the equipment and conference facilities including high-speed Wi-Fi is top of the line. But I wasn’t there on work. I was there to play. And play I did! Splash Beach Resort is a vacation in itself. There’s barely a reason to get out. 

I explored as much as I could during my five days there and soaked in all of the luxury, facilities and hospitality on offer as possible. Between meals at the resort’s different restaurants (including authentic Thai food, international dining and cocktails) and rejuvenating treatments at The Spa, I was having the time of my life.

rhdr

Staying at the resort also meant I had complimentary access to Splash Jungle Water Theme Park and all of its nine exciting rides. At every turn, the adrenaline rushes just keep coming. One might think it undignified of an adult to engage in these crazy adventures, but the joy it brings is simply unparalleled.

There are special rides just for children, and another that can be enjoyed by little ones with their guardians – a large raft that speeds to a huge splash pool, with surprise drops and twisting turns along the way.

Some of the most fun memories can be made in the maze of colourful body and tube slides and the Boomerang slide which sends you in a reverse freefall before accelerating over a 15m high transition bump into the splash pool. For others who prefer a slightly more relaxing ride, the Lazy River meanders around the property for 335 metres through lush gardens and outdoor restaurants.

Putting all of these together makes Splash Beach Resort in Mai Khao the perfect recipe for a tropical beach holiday in Thailand. There is no time of year you can go wrong with this. I will certainly be back for more.

Splash Beach Resort,

Mai Khao Beach,

Phuket, 83110 Thailand.

http://www.splashbeachresort.com

 

 

 

NOVOTEL HYDERABAD: BIG ON BUSINESS

I enjoy travelling for work; the excitement of new business is almost always complemented beautifully with gorgeous new properties to discover. Over Christmas, I zipped over to Hyderabad and was eager to visit the Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, looked after ably by my good friend and general manager Manish Dayya who moved there from Goa.

Having arrived over Christmas, the air was festive and the ambience magical despite the Novotel Hyderabad being primarily a business hotel. In fact, it is one of the most ideally located business hotels in the city. Hyderabad International Convention Centre – one of Asia’s largest convention centres – lies just adjacent and is connected internally, making Novotel Hyderabad the first choice for the jet set community.

But business is not all you see. Spread over 15 acres, Novotel Hyderabad combines affordable luxury with thrilling entertainment, delicious food, relaxation and wellness in one exquisite package. First-class facilities and a dynamic team ensure that everything from meetings and conferences to seminars and events run without a hitch.

Many of its 288 rooms and suites overlook the azure free form pool bordered by well-manicured lawns and a stunning outdoor restaurant. I took in the splendid views from my peaceful room, before heading to Food Exchange for brunch, a Sunday special at the hotel. A live band kept the mood upbeat as guests walked down aisles of fresh salads and sushi, classic Indian dishes, global food and a tantalising dessert spread.

With the festive season in full swing, I took a generous helping of traditional Christmas roast turkey with all the trimmings. Teamed with unending mimosas and the glorious sunshine of a clear south Indian winter, it was a far cry from the biting cold of Christmas back home in Ireland.

A short walk around the property reveals the reason behind its popularity. Sprawling spaces, state-of-the-art technology and round-the-clock customer service make it an absolute winner when it comes to meetings and events.

Through innovative use of space, its indoor meeting venue Granite spans 104.6 square metres. This is divided into three distinct spaces ideal for board meetings, which can be merged in several different combinations for the perfect space.

The Ballroom is spread over 235 square metres and works well for pre-wedding events, large meetings, exclusive launches and intimate cocktail parties.

Just adjacent, the Hyderabad International Convention Centre managed by Novotel umbrella group AccorHotels draws visitors and clients from around the world. Spanning more than 6,000 square metres, the pillar-less hall can accommodate more than 10,000 guests, featuring 37 breakout rooms over three levels. These include specialised meeting rooms, speaker preparatory rooms, board rooms, VIP lounges, translation booths and more.

Even the reception area can hold up to 500 guests and it boasts 16 terminals for registration. The main hall itself can be partitioned into six smaller halls. It is heartening to note that this centre has contributed so much to positioning Hyderabad among the top MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Events) venues in India.

After my string of meetings, I headed back to La Cantina by the pool for my fix of Pan Asian and Mexican fare. The extensive menu tempts both the eyes and stomach with classics including enchiladas, quesadillas, tacos, chimichangas, fajitas, chicken adobado and baked fish in Veracruz sauce. Accompanied by cocktails, tequilas and other spirits from the well-stocked bar, many an hour can pass you by.

I was happy to end my meal at La Cantina with a selection of its most popular desserts – tres leches, a dense Spanish sponge soaked in three types of milk (evaporated, condensed and heavy cream), and banana dulce de leche wraps.

Sadly, my time at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre was coming to a close, but as I bid farewell to the now familiar staff in my chauffeured airport transfer, I truly appreciated the thoughtful service and facilities throughout my stay.

For More Details: http://www.novotelhyderabad.com

 

Super Thursdays at Sol de Goa

Re-invented has never been cooler than Thursdays at Sol de Goa in Candolim-Nerul, north Goa. The chic, revamped hotel recently brought back its eclectic Thursday Nights in a new avatar – SolDay, an exquisite hospitality experiment featuring world-class entertainment, superb fine dining and high quality beverages.

Now well into its first season, SolDay has seen a meteoric rise in popularity among the who’s who of Goa as they soak up the relaxed party vibe created by international DJs and musicians. Each week brings stellar music performances and global dining and mixology experiences amid Sol de Goa’s svelte, edgy ambiance.

So far, the decks have seen the likes of Sashanti, Sense8, Adrian Atma, Whosane, Akshay Mather, Victoria Burke, Dada Disco, Ayesha Pramanik, Yuvraj Arora and Baba Robijn, bringing a sensational beat to the scene. Its latest tunes have been broadcast live on the famous Ibiza Sonic radio, connecting the smooth sounds of downtempo electronica, lounge and deep house from the beaches of Goa to the pulsating island of Ibiza.

Urban chic fine dining at the revamped Sol de Goa is young, zesty, and effortlessly straddles the line between classic and innovative. Maia Laifungbam and Sanchit Behl recreate the hotel’s unique ambiance on the palate with delicious tapas-style plates and innovative mains. The duo brings to the table a strong passion for innovation through their adventurous menu with modern twists to traditional tastes, fresh takes on evergreen classics and other interesting encounters of the culinary kind.

Special menus for Solday on Thursdays and Fun Dining Journeys on Tuesdays bring technical virtuosity, flavour experiences and beautifully plated food to the fore. Guests can expect small plate nibbles, hearty mains, creative desserts and unorthodox beverages that span the range from traditional tastes to innovative amalgamations. Mixologists bring in the works to create innovative cocktails that perfectly suit the classy ambience and vibe.

The new Fun Dining Journeys on Tuesdays touches a chord with the culinary heritage of India, bringing centuries-old recipes to life with new reflections and interpretations. Every week puts the focus on a different region in India highlighting history with a contemporary lens.

Sol de Goa blends the local with the global, bringing in the best Goan products including organic vegetables from nearby farms, aromatic Devi Coffee and Tea Trunk chai, Susegado craft beer and cheese from the Swiss Happy Cow fromagerie in Siolim.  

Talented mixologists create exquisite drinks to suit your personality and mood for the day and night. With the re-designed open kitchen, guests have the pleasure of watching their food and drink of choice be brought to life before their very eyes as specially curated tunes by DJs of international repute drop through the day.

The newly built 80-cover restaurant, bar, lounge and verandah; lush lawns and poolside deck are designed for eclectic events including destination weddings that stay imprinted on the mind.

Sol de Goa is where memories are made and the stage is perpetually set for a good time. It constantly engages with its guests through concept events and as a venue for private dos. Guests are guaranteed a complete experience, a timeless melange of elegant design ethos and high quality entertainment and hospitality.

It’s a place where the beautiful people of Goa meet to relax, let their hair down and enjoy a different kind of nightlife. Sol de Goa is where a great time becomes the best time ever, every time.

 

For Sol Day Table Reservations call: 98608 73300

 

The Grand Launch of Owl the premium Night Club – Calangute

Owl, the premium night club proved to be the hottest new party destination in Goa. The ingenious beats played by India’s top DJ’s Lost Stories, Dj Anish Sood, Dj Akthar & DJ Aqeel left the dance floor bustling with socialites and millennial. The lineup and mash-ups kept the party animals asking for more.

The Premium Nightclub was launched by T-Mark Hospitality, a joint venture by three youthful and energetic entrepreneurs Mr Shikhar Kumar, Mr Trivesh Ajgaonkar and Ms Rhea Kumar. The Trio believes that the owl is more than just a nightclub, it’s more of an experience. The clubs mascot ‘Mr. Hoot’, added to the glamorous evening.

Ms Rhea Kumar, the mastermind behind the décor and interior described the unique concept of the owl. “I have put in a lot of thought into the creative element of the club. Every artwork, every sign has a hidden message. The Owl is not about partying alone, it’s about creating stories.”

When asked how the nightclub benefits the Goans, Mr Trivesh Ajgaonkar revealed, “We have taken care to ensure that Goans too benefit from this club. With the launch of this club, we are hoping to create as many employment opportunities as possible for the Goans. In fact, about 90% of the staff here are Goans. We have a very interesting lineup for DJ in store this season and many of them are our very own GoanDJ ’s.

Talking about the lineups, Mr Shikhar Kumar said “We have an exciting lineup for the coming week. We are introducing Owly Wednesdays, the night dedicated to Women. We are hoping to get both local and international DJ to perform. The Premium nightclub will bring new experiences to Goa. And we look forward to entertaining our party goers with the best we can offer.”

Some of the interesting details incorporated in the club are the ‘Fantasy Well’, a dance area built over an existing well which is also perfect for photo-ops. The club also has a mini art gallery call Pablo which holds some of the most beautiful painting including the famous Beatles poster. With a wide dance area and beautiful interiors, the Owl is the first night club in Goa to have the longest island bar. Keeping in mind the crowded roads and parking issues in Calangute, the club provides Valet Parking to all its patrons.

About OWL Goa

OWL is an underground nightclub, located in the same complex as DivoCafe. It has been an inspiring journey so far and the young and energetic siblings Shikhar and Rhea Kumar promise to deliver an astounding and refreshing experience.OWL nightclub is the best destination to head to for night getaway. With a young, energetic and dynamic team, the premium club is everything that makes your evening getaway a one to remember. From the amazingly built bar to the great groovy music that doesn’t allow you to stand without dancing, the beauty of the club is indeed a treat to the eyes. Apart from the beautiful surroundings, the place has a grand and spacious dance floor along with a fully-stocked bar that caters to every taste. From the glowing ambience to the sounds of the coolest DJ sets, Owl Goa promises a happening time.

Contact Details: +91 98188 55152

 

POKER KING PATRIK ANTONIUS AT DELTA CORP’S 10th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

High rollers and poker lovers from across India will get the rare chance to meet global pro player and renowned celebrity Patrik Antonius at Delta Corp Ltd’s 10^th anniversary special onboard its Deltin Royale casino in Goa.

Antonius, a Finnish poker player who is also a former tennis player, coach and model, will place his cards on the table as he enjoys the festivities from November 30, 2018 to December 02, 2018, and will continue to meet high rollers and poker fans until December 06, 2018. The long weekend is expected to witness grand celebrations, including entertainment performances by top Bollywood celebrities, across all three Delta Corp vessels in Goa – Deltin Royale, Deltin JAQK and Deltin Caravela.

Delta Corp is the only listed company in the casino gaming industry in India and has been at the centre of the country’s poker fabric since 2008. It has been instrumental in grooming the country’s competitive poker environment by aligning with multiple poker operators to conduct tournaments in Goa from 2011.

Manish Adnani, Delta Corp’s business head for Poker, said, “We are pleased to have Patrik Antonius commemorate our 10^th anniversary and enjoy the festivities with the community. I am very humbled to celebrate this moment with Delta Corp. I remember playing the first game hosted by Casino Royale back in 2009, and since then poker has aggressively been promoted by Delta Corp Ltd and is growing at a fast pace in the sub-continent.”

Delta Corp introduced Texas Hold ‘Em on Casino Royale in 2009 and led the wave of bringing high stakes poker gaming to Goa in 2011. A few years later, it introduced India’s flagship poker tournament – Deltin Poker Tournament – in 2016, and followed it up with India’s first Poker Sports League the next year.

The company has continually strived to improve the poker scene in India and bring various operators under a single umbrella. In this endeavour, it acquired India’s largest poker website Adda52.com and introduced World Poker Tournament (WPT) India to the country in 2017. Earlier this year, Delta Corp also introduced Deltin Poker Tournament’s (DPT) Colossus India’s first super high roller 2018 and DPT Xpress.

Adda52.com, which is bringing Antonius to Goa, is evaluated by iTech Labs and certified to meet industry standards by using award-winning technology that makes it the most secure online poker game platform in the market.

Antonius – also known in poker circles as PA, The Finn and Black Lotus – is one of the world’s most successful high stakes players online and often competes in international poker tournament circuits.

ALILA DIWA GOA LAUNCHES A NEW COCKTAIL BAR – COURTYARD BAR

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Inspired by craft and inventiveness, Alila Diwa Goa’s much awaited cocktail bar, Courtyard Bar, specializes in the art and alchemy of taste. Conjuring the true flavours of fine fruits and botanicals, mixes of a rare quality are carefully calibrated, alongside timeless classics. The menu offers a unique taste of India crafted from spirits and mixers infused in-house with local spices, and build your own gin and tonics. An ideal place for an evening aperitif.

The Courtyard Bar has introduced a concept where one will get to choose from a diverse range of flavours, including Floral, Spiced, Sweet Gin and Vodka. Guests can indulge in an array of options such as a Manhattan with Kokum-infused Martini Rosso & Cherrywood Smoke or a customized gin and tonic made with their choice of herbs and spices. For virgin lovers, there are enticing options such as Kuch Nahi, a tangy concoction of pineapple cubes, coriander and citrus fruit soda, and Dadima Cooler made with fresh mint, lime juice, sprite and pomegranate syrup.  

To accompany the liquid refreshments, guests can enjoy tasty bites like Goan Beef Cutlets, Rava Crusted Fish Fingers and Goan Chorizo Dumpling, among others, or whet their appetite further with delicious bites served from the award-winning restaurant Spice Studio.

The menu also includes India’s favourite spice-infused drinks such as the Narangi Elaichi, which consists of reduced fresh orange juice along with cardamom and honey, as well as the striking concoction of Kaffir Lime Leaves and Ginger, a herbal drink made with fresh kaffir lime leaves simmered with ginger and honey.

Courtyard is a speakeasy bar with a retro theme and an appealing air of relaxed elegance. With its arrangement of soft leather seating and an indoor bar that spill out to open-air seating around the majestic banyan trees in the famous courtyard outdoors, this evening venue embraces a sense of refinement, sophistication and tropical ease.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Sachin Shet, General Manager of Alila Diwa Goa, said, “The Courtyard Bar is aimed at offering our guests a flavour of Indian traditions which evokes a feeling of homecoming. The menu at the Courtyard Bar consists of uniquely created drinks that embrace local taste. Set in the warm surrounding of a traditional Indian courtyard, the bar offers a calming experience for our patrons.”

Antares Restaurant & Beach Club – Season 4.

I have followed Sarah Todd and her journey since she arrived here in Goa, from her culture shock of setting up a brand new beachside restaurant to where she is today.  Now in its fourth season, Antares Restaurant & Beach Club in Vagator, North Goa has been carrying the baton of making dining a truly unique experience ever since its inception with their highly skilled chef, Sarah Todd, of Master Chef Australia and now joining the team as their executive chef is Kaustubh Haldipur making it a must-visit destination in Goa.  Chef Kaustubh who hails from Goan heritage but travelled the world and acquired his unique skills over a decade brings his influence to this new menu by introducing modern Goan inspired dishes that are ever-evolving at Antares.  The all-new avatar and was inspired by Sarah’s travel around India and researching for the second restaurant in Mumbai with partner and friend from Antares, Ashish Dev Kapur, called Wine Rack.  Ashish, a renowned restaurateur in his own right, a partner in Antares, award-winning Whiskey Samba, now Wine Rack, The Wine Company and Yo China! bring his unique experience and know how to this fourth season.

Antares offers modern Australian cuisine with Asian and Indian influence giving a diversified and carefully yet creatively curated menu. Subtle condiments paired with unconventional dishes is the prowess of the Antares new which leaves one craving for more.  A combination of Barbecue Chicken and Pomegranate makes for Australian grilling techniques merged with tropical freshness a unique yet favorite dish at Antares. The menu is an assortment of small and large plates making it easy for customers to choose from with easy to share dishes such as Hummus, spiced toasted chickpeas, za’atar Turkish bread. The Croquettes with their simplistic presentation, the Pork Ribs, covered in a spiced, chipotle-tomato flavored barbecue sauce and Lamb Bao are but a few of the dishes on offer this season.

The Goan inspired menu has such delights as The Kale and Cranberry Salad, with walnuts, kokum dressing, gruyere is delicate and summery in every way yet with that fresh tanginess. Moving on to the Roasted Pumpkin with peanut coconut masala, with peanut chutney, fresh coriander, toasted peanuts, fresh coconut served on a soft tortilla, hopes to bring back memories of grandmothers cooking from south of India to life at Antares, perfectly balanced flavors with Sarah’s modern touch. The Chicken Cafreal with pomegranate, roasted cashew nuts served on soft tortilla envelopes you in Goa with every bite of tradition meets Antares. There is The Grilled Snapper with its orange beurre blanc, salt baked beetroot, rocket, couscous, perfectly flaky fish that just melts in the mouth offset with the orang beurre balances each bite.  Fresh Wok tossed Mud Crabs are a mush try for the seafood lovers. The Stuffed Pointed Gourd with tomato cashew sauce and poi or even the Zucchini & Lotus Root Xacuti offers up interesting Goan infused flavours for all the vegetarian. The Pork Vindaloo served with Sannas (traditional Goan steamed rice cakes) fresh coriander, julienne red chilli and garlic chips yet another new addition to the menu. Furthermore, the chef’s here have married Goa with Italy to bring you Goan Sausage Spaghetti with calamari. This is to mention by a few of the new Goan influences on the menu. 

Antares still, however, retains it past season favorites such as the Surf and Turf, beef fillet, tiger prawn, seasonal vegetables, red wine jus and Pulled Lamb with mint raita, pomegranate, chilli jam, soft tortilla and much much more. For that sweet tooth there is the Layers of Chocolate Orange, chocolate mousse, chocolate fudge cake, orange chiboust and as always there is Sarah’s Famous Master Chef Iced Nougat with candied orange, streusel. 

The only thing better than Antares food is the Antares cocktail selection, with its amazing quantity. The Spicy Mango Martini, a mixture of vodka, mango and green chilli, an old favorite on the menu. To the addition of Plum Berry Martini. The taste of plum came to life in this refreshing cocktail. It was an easy mix of galangal, lemongrass & gin which is mellowed by cranberry juice and was a delightful blend sweet and sour.  Antares is now truly an Austrailian star on the Goan coast.

For Reservation Contact – +917350011528/38