GOAT Festival at Marbela blows minds

The first edition of the international music and arts festival at the breathtaking Marbela Beach Resort in Morjim saw lots of guests turn up over the weekend to catch sets by Gilles Peterson, James Priestley, Kiasmos, The Turbans, BLOT and more

The stunning sands and lush lawns of Marbela Beach Resort on Morjim hosted the first ever edition of GOAT Festival, which lived up to its promise of an intimate, exciting festival with some stellar performances and a general bonhomie that made everyone feel special and involved.

Marbela Beach stepped in after impending election rules led to a change in venue and opened up its spectacular property to all the guests who walked in for the three-day festival.

Dave Gaydon (CEO of GOAT), Jaydeep Rajbhosle (Marbela Beach Owner), Gilles Peterson, Sinead McManus

The decision proved a resounding success as the popular resort transformed itself into a floral jungle where the sounds of disco and house music accompanied the crash of the waves. 

Highlights 

The three-day GOAT Festival held at Marbela Beach Resort from January 27-29 offered the discerning music fan the best experience. It introduced new sounds – the Afrobeat stylings of Afroquoi and Eastern European, Middle Eastern melodies of The Turbans – and gave the audience an opportunity to hear celebrated DJs like Gilles Peterson, secretsundaze co-founder James Priestley, Kiasmos as well as some of the most exciting acts from India like BLOT!, Sandunes, Aqua Dominatrix and Kumail among others.

             

Gilles Peterson, who is a celebrated broadcast host, DJ and label owner played the set of the festival mixing in Latin American tunes to disco, house and techno to ending the set with a Bollywood flourish, with the popular track ‘Choli ke peeche’ from the movie Khalnayak.

Apart from the music that started at 2pm and ran till 10pm, there were activities like yoga, sound bathing, sunset jams, body art, dance workshops and stalls full of vintage finds and clothes to peruse. 

GOAT Festival is the first-ever festival put together by London-based agency GOAT that was formed in 2015 – together with Lyndon Alves from Sunset Getaways collectively they pulled off this hugely successful event which has found its base here in Goa.

Photo Credits – Carys Lavin

Experience La Vie En Rose at Michele’s Garden Cafe

Like a lot of people, Michele came to Goa on holiday. Little did she know she would spend the next 38 years here, starting an entirely new, French food filled life on the verdant coasts of India.

Michele grew up in Normandy, a beautiful region of northern France. Her family members, passionate foodies that she learned from, inspire most of the distinctive dishes on her menu.

Michele’s Garden cafe — formerly known as La Vie en Rose — was started eight years ago, and is one of the only cafes in Goa that specializes in French food. The garden is spacious and delicately adorned with furniture and fabrics from her home, with a lot of feminine patterns and of course, the color pink. Michele’s pleasant presence adds to an already refreshing ambience. She works with her chef very closely, guiding him with every dish, and her enthusiasm for her guests and her food too, is evident.

Michele’s food is all made from scratch. Her crepes, desserts and jams are all homemade, including a unique, mouth-watering onion marmalade. Some of the most popular dishes on her menu include the French classic ’Boeuf Bourguignon’ originating in the wine region of Burgundy; and ‘Chicken Normandie’, a favorite dish from Michele’s hometown which is loaded with cream and mushrooms, with a hint of mustard. The beef is marinated and slow cooked in red wine and beef broth, resulting in the meat being succulent and tender. Michele describes how every dish in Normandy is served with a little jar of cream on the side, just like we eat pickles with all our food in India.

Michele has also crafted some signature dishes that reflect her long tryst with Goa. ‘Fish Mish’ is made with ‘pastis’, a star-anise based sauce, capers, garlic and cream, of course. And the ‘Douala’ salad is made with prawns, avocado, sweet potatoes and papaya. Her salmon crepe is inspired by her aunt. Michele fondly describes how her huge family would sit on the dining table on special occasions, and relish a large plate of the highly anticipated creation.

French cuisine, according to Michele, was more popular 38 years ago when she first came to Goa, when it used to be less accessible. Although French food can be expensive since some recipes are complex, but Michele makes an effort to offer simple and affordable home cooking, that is exquisitely tasty. She definitely knows how to do both!

Above the garden cafe, Michele has four lovely rooms for her guests to stay, all surrounded by trees, and a number of adorable cats and dogs. One of the rooms is a rustic looking tree house, designed to make one feel like they’re in a home away from home. Two of the rooms are themed, orange and blue. They each have their private balconies with views of a lot of greenery and blue sky. The name of the Bed & Breakfast property, ‘La Vie en Rose’, which is a way of seeing life through rose tinted glasses, as you do when you are in love, is the kind of experience Michele wants her guests to have when they visit.

Tamarin, A Mediterranean Oasis In Calangute

Tamarin, A Mediterranean Oasis In Calangute

On the busy Calangute-Candolim road, near the prominent Snip Salon and Spa, one walks into an oasis of calm at Tamarin. Set in an urban garden atmosphere, with an extensive menu of unusual dishes from all around the Mediterranean, and an impressive wine list, visiting travelers are awed here. Everything is just perfect, from the Moroccan Prawns to the Lebanese Beef Kibbeh Kebabs and Tunisian Briouats… they never go wrong.

Part-year residents of Goa from Europe who live in the area mingle with local domestic tourists, enjoying the live music here in the evenings. Bilal is responsible for the impeccable flavours and is almost always hands on in the kitchen, whereas his wife Jennifer is out front interacting with guests and making sure their experience is memorable. Bilal and Jennifer fell in love many years ago, when Bilal cooked his first meal for her… Gadh Ghushtaba, a recipe from his home in Kashmir.

After moving to England and getting married, Bilal began working in hospitality, where Jennifer had already carved out a reputation as a chef and later a manager. After completing his training, Bilal worked as a chef at London’s top restaurants such as Quaglino’s, Carluccio’s Cafe and the famed Digby Trout restaurants at the British Museum and Barbican Centre. Inspired by their travels, they decided to fulfill a long-held ambition and opened Tamarin in 2012, serving Mediterranean cuisine. The Kashmiri Wazwaan menu was developed in the second season and has gone from strength to strength with its authentic flavours and impeccable quality… The mutton is to die for.

Bilal was a passionate home cook, having been inspired by his mother from an early age. When he started travelling, his passion and love of Mediterranean food evolved. Having received much praise and encouragement from friends and family who had dined with them, he decided to train professionally whilst living in Central London. His wife has always worked in the industry so it seemed like a natural step for to start up on their own.

The dual menus make Tamarin unique. They researched regional differences in the Mediterranean extensively, such as the ‘Kefalonian Greek Salad’, which has the inclusion of a little bit of chilli. This subtlety suits Goa, the people and the climate. The flavours are bold, un-compromised and authentic, whether you are eating Mediterranean or Kashmiri. The Kashmiri cuisine features a lot of vegetarian options, which people often overlook, assuming it’s mutton all the way. Bom Chount and Nadir Kebabs are unlikely to be found on any other menu in Goa and they bring in the indigenous ingredients direct from the valley. Bilal think it takes a lot of hard work and stamina, as well as courage, to bring something new to the food scene whilst staying true to your goals and vision.

The Hotel That Wows- W Hotel in Vagator.

The Hotel That Wows

W Hotel Goa in Vagator takes one’s breath away with exquisite views and outstanding service

Hotels are a dime a dozen in Goa, so to stand out, new entrants must be exceptional. W Hotel hits the nail on the head starting off with a jaw-dropping location against the historic ruins of Chapora Fort in north Goa, and world-class hospitality.

The hotel brings the bold attitude and upbeat culture of its New York City origins to the laidback environs of Vagator as it overlooks one of the most pristine beaches in north Goa. W Hotel Vagator is innovative, inspiring and infectious, offering a different experience in Goa’s hospitality range.

Led by dynamic general manager T J Joulak, the hotel aims to blow guests away with an experience unlike any they’ve had before and make it a travel destination in itself.

Overview

A creative vision of Design Wilkes brought to life in collaboration with Eco-id Architects, W Hotel in Goa combines colour and culture. It makes a statement right from the start, with an oversized mirrored W at the entrance where the doors feature an artwork on the phases of the moon by renowned Goan artist Dr Subodh Kerkar.

Acknowledging Goa’s popularity among Indian celebrities, W Hotel makes things grand and celebratory, typifying the Bollywood element that helps market the country abroad. All through the hotel are murals and artwork that never overpower but still provoke. Goan folk art features in a beautiful mural behind the welcome desk where local capiz shell mobiles hang serenely.

Accommodation

As many as 160 guestrooms, suites, chalets and villas are spread across the vast property in a way that creates illusions of private spaces all around. There are fabulous views to wake up to from either a terrace or a balcony, and custom furniture that mix old-world and contemporary. The comfortable bed and pillows are hypoallergenic, and guests can avail of room service 24 hours a day.

For rainy days, there’s a 49” LED flat screen TV in the room and excellent Bose surround sound systems for that movie theatre experience. The designers have looked to Goa for inspiration on décor, with the flooring and blinds reminiscent of traditional Goan Portuguese heritage. To bring in the vibe of Goa’s meditative side, the mirrors in the rooms are outlined by the shape of a Bodhi leaf. All in all, the rooms are comfortable yet evocative.

Dining

W Hotel offers three major food and beverage menus for guests. Spice Traders is a lux beach hut with awe-inspiring views of the Arabian Sea, a top floor bar, lounge and an all’aperto terrace. Its ambience is quite fluid and can accommodate romantic to fun to relaxed across its spaces. Here, chefs whip up delectable pan-Asian cuisine that feeds both body and soul.

The stunning rock pool is paired with the outdoor Wet deck, where healthy snacks and sips from the bar are certain to refuel your tired body. For a taste of the high life, head to The Kitchen Table which serves all-day international favourites as well as classics and modern interpretations of dishes from around the world. Additionally, there’s the Woo Bar and Living Room bar that transform from day-time hangout to evening lounge, offering a wide range of premium spirits and inspired cocktails that perfectly complement the sunset panoramas of Goa’s dramatic red cliffs and the sea.

Spa

Expansive is one word to describe the Spa by Clarins at W Hotel Goa. Clarins has had the experience of spa and beauty since 1954 and has developed unique treatments that combine specialised massages with the purest plant extracts and aromatic essential oils.

At W Hotel Goa, Clarins is spread across a sprawling 14,000 square feet, with eight luxurious treatment rooms, special couples’ rooms, heated indoor vitality pool and a wet section with steam, sauna and experience showers.

Services

W Hotels Goa also offers a wide range of ancillary facilities for events, conferences, meetings and seminars. A variety of spaces that suit every need spread across 4,200 square metres boosted with fully adaptable conference equipment and world-class audio-visual facilities.

Its Sensory Set Up concept allows hosts to elevate the event experience with mood music, signature scents and appropriate cuisine for all tastes. There’s the sprawling 350 square metre Great Room for grand events, and a 200 square metre oceanfront area for outdoor parties. The hotel has its own business centre called Wired, so you can attend that emergency work meeting without ruining your vacation.

W Hotel Goa also has a Wee Kids Club and SPG Kids Pass for children, a well-equipped gym, complimentary valet parking, free high-speed internet access in all rooms, as well as The Store to satiate your shopping needs.

Experience

As one of the first guests to stay at the W Hotel Goa, I was blown away by the service and hospitality. If they keep this up – which I have no doubt they will under the able leadership of T J Joulak – this could be the next best thing in South East Asia.

The first thing that hits you is the arresting location – set against the backdrop of the 18^th century Chapora Fort, it is the perfect spot to take in breathtaking views of the river, Vagator beach and a 180 view of the Arabian Sea.

We enjoyed a warm welcome by the staff and couldn’t wait to see what the hotel had in store. First, there was a delicious lunch at The Kitchen Table where we dined on the Caesar with twice cooked egg and chicken, and rack of lamb with cauliflower mornay. The lamb melted in the mouth. So divine!

The lunch demanded a stroll around the property, but we were pampered with a golf buggy and did not resist. It took us around the steep slopes and winding lanes of the hotel and lulled us into a serene feeling. But this was taken away with a mind-blowing view from the northern edge of the property, right by my favourite place in the hotel – the Rock Pool Bar. I love everything about this spot, from its space and design to its location and ambience. It offers a treasured view of the pristine Vagator beach and at sunset, amplifies the view and surrounding sounds of nature. I certainly know where I will be spending many more sunsets from now on.

Later that evening, we headed to Spice Traders where Chef Tanveer put together a delightful menu that showcased his vast repertoire. We had raw pizza, truffle tuna with crispy cabbage, Chongqing chicken with cashewnut and Sichuan oil, bamboo charcoal tempura prawn with wasabi and mang, baked Singapore chilli crab, black tanuki, cumin lamb with scallions, dry red chilli and coriander, ginger chicken stir fried with carrot and pickled chillies and Cha han rice with a trio of Asian greens and crispy spinach. All that food made it hard to have dessert, but we couldn’t resist the delectable cheese cake that rounded off the meal.

The following day, we indulged ourselves at the amazing Spa by Clarins. We certainly took advantage of the Sunday at hand and indulged in the Ultra Hydrating Facial Treatment with Katafray, a rebalancing massage with essential oils and a melting honey deep touch massage. Katafray is a desert tree with water storage capacities, and its extracts help stimulate the skin’s natural hydration process for a softer, suppler property.

The rebalancing massage uses enveloping movements with tonic body treatment oil to stimulate the body and mind, while the melting honey deep touch massage used hot polished marble and slate stones to drain the body of stress, soothe and energise.

My stay at W Hotel Goa was sadly at an end and with one last cocktail, I took my time with it to enjoy and appreciate the time I’d spent here. For me, W stands for ‘wow’, and it’s surely had that effect for me. I now know where to unwind into that Goa state of mind.

1st anniversary celebrations for Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel

Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel in Pernem, North Goa, formally celebrated the beginning of the Christmas season and its first anniversary on December 21 at its fine dining restaurant – The Tavern Dining Room, Verandah & Bar – that offers exquisite cuisine with a spectacular view to match.

The meal was created, showcased and inspired by Chef Christopher Saleem, renowned all over for his delectable offerings at his restaurants in Goa called Sublime & Elevar. Dinner at Fort The Tavern was supplemented by a breathtaking sky full of stars that clothed the sweeping views of green Goa and its blue Arabian Sea and brought in the festive spirit with a magical feeling.

The four-course spread was paired by a sommelier from Sula with a selection of some of the finest wines India & France has to offer. The evening began early with a welcome aperitif to allow guests to bask in the full glory of the beautiful sunsets at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel. They mingled, wished each other a very merry season and found themselves awestruck at the sheer beauty of nature from this secluded vantage point.

Singer-songwriter Natalie Matos added a background score to the scene with stirring music accompanied by Vivek Philippe on percussion. Their uplifting performance leads you on a unique journey that winds it’s way across a number of genres including folk, soul, jazz, R&B and pop, with a number of their   own originals & recognisable covers that brought a great buzz to the night.

The evening began with an amuse bouche of a watermelon and feta salad with coriander and mint dressing that was light on both tongue and stomach. The first course at the sit down dinner was a roasted cauliflower and garlic soup with crispy spinach offering a medley of textures. This was paired with a Sula Sauvignon Blanc 2016.

A filo pastry came next, stuffed with prawn, ricotta and asparagus on black tahini and saffron. For vegetarians, the filo simply skipped the prawn. Both sang with flavour and were accompanied perfectly with Sula Sauvignon Blanc 2016.

The third course brought continents together – a Goan-inspired dish for meat lovers and a French-inspired one for vegetarians. There was rawa fried fillet of sea bass on Goan chorizo risotto, crispy fried okra and tambdi bhaji (red amaranth) that offered a modern take on local favourites. Across the divide were zucchini cups overflowing with ratatouille and herbs on potato gratin, green spinach and white wine cream sauce. Both dishes were paired with Le Gran Pinot Noir from France 2015.

Finally, dessert tied it all in, taking the shape of a silken tofu cheesecake with ginger crumble and pickled lime.  It was dainty and delicious, allowing uncommon flavours to fuse perfectly together. A serving of Sula Late Harvest Chenin Blanc 2015 came alongside.

The event was supported by curator of the Tavern menu Christopher Saleem, Sula Wines, artisan bread company Rare Republic in Siolim, and cheese specialty firm Fromagerie Happy Cow with their locally made produce.

Hosted by Director Rainer Stoll, the evening was attended by high profile guests, who thoroughly enjoyed themselves in the unique setting and left more than pleased to return again simply for a taste of Chef Christopher Saleem’s food at The Tavern at Fort Tiracol Heritage Hotel.

The Tarvern Dining is a a destination of fine dining – a great day out with stunning views, awesome food &  fine wines.

Relaunched – The Shore Bar at Anjuna Beach

Back in the 60s, there was a jewel on the west coast of India, a palm-fringed paradise with sleepy village lanes and idyllic tranquillity. Anjuna was a gem of the hippie trail, a pocket of privacy that was home to some of the best beaches and the liveliness of flea markets that resulted from the original backpacker movement. The Shore Bar was one of those hangouts, where at sunset, they gathered. Till today, Anjuna bares signs of the past and is still well loved on the circuit.

Owners – Coral Leisures from Bangalore has been in the food industry for the last 8 years & have relaunched this popular hangout for the seasons to come. Showcasing their expertise, they will be serving a varied menu of English, Russian & Goan cuisine with 75 covered both on the lower & upper deck.  Everyday breakfast, lunch & dinner will be served with a lavish & exotic ‘all inclusive’ brunch both on Sundays.

With the best music system, Dj’s from Iran, Russia & India will play to the beat of the drum with Deep & Tech House accompanied by an Electric Violinist. The Shore Bar was always known for its Full Moon & Half Moon Parties which will happen throughout the season. They will come to life from sunset onwards with dancers & performers from all over the world. Revellers can enjoy this great atmosphere dancing in the sand and later on in the evening, in the sound proof upper deck.

The Shore Bar on Anjuna beach is sure to remain permanently etched in your memory forever. The beautiful setting and great ambience, with its innovative design and creative structure, is an experience not to be missed.

The Marbela White Beach Party: India’s Favourite Party Night with Falguni and Shane Peacock

On the virginal sands of Morjim, Marbela Beach Resort brings its long-awaited annual season opening party. An ode to the angelic wisps of the winter dusk, the bright shimmer of the azure Arabian Sea and the lightly floating swathes of haute couture, Marbela Beach’s White Party on December 11 marked the beginning of a season of revelry and music.

With Marbela Beach owners, Jaydeep and Sheetal Rajebhosale at the helm with refreshing cocktails, grilled delights and jaw-dropping entertainment took over the evening. Conceptualised in 2010, The White Party has become one the most anticipated parties of the season not only in Goa but celebrities for all over India comes especially for this dazzling evening.

Legendary Tel Aviv based DJ, Sarhar Z, a long-term veteran of the global house scene, headlines the night. The live sounds of the world famous drummers ‘Drums on Live’, this Spanish duo were also back by popular demand.

Backing them up at the White Party were WAtec, who also performed last year to the amazement of the crowd. Eager to show the revellers what they have in store for this season, Dj’s Cosmonaut, Tejas, Shaun Moses, Mohinesh with their new tricks and tracks up their sleeves.  As Marbela Beach regulars, these DJs have a loyal fan base and are known to make every party one to remember.

But it isn’t just music, entertainment and location that Marbela Beach is all about. What also sets this party venue apart is its attachment to fashion. This year, Marbela Beach hosted The Fashion Show with internationally renowned designers  Falguni & Shaun Peacock who showcased their latest collection & have now opened its store at this great new beachside location.

Falguni Shane Peacocks resort wear statements feature bright, bold colours, as well as floral and tropical patterns, to suit every mood and occasion in the holiday season. The collection mixes bright colours, lightweight fabrics and a play of patterns in a carefree style. It comes in a warm palette of blue, purple, aqua and orange that is rich in colour and texture White is a popular shade this year, along with blues perfect for the easy breezy mood. A Bohemian look with a more casual and playful feel incorporates with interesting and international silhouettes.

Speaking about this new venture Falguni Peacock said- “Resort is the best excuse to get a head start on revamping your spring wardrobe. And because it’s a narrow season and sells out quickly, you can make a quick style statement via this new collection. The looks are comfortable and travel well. The collection is sophisticated, stylish, yet simple, and comfortable for a relaxed yet chic lifestyle”.

The Marbela Beach White Party isn’t just a night of dancing and fun on the beach. It’s a celebration of lifestyle but also a tribute to fashionable revelry and class.

Tatva Spa: Massage at the mall

Porvorim’s new mall has caught the attention of many ever since its construction began many months ago. It now has one of the most consistent spas in Goa located on its premises – Tatva Spa.

I say consistent, because it is one of the few spas in Goa that has maintained its quality of service, thanks largely to its vivacious and ever-youthful owner Asha Arondekar. Tatva Spa at Mall de Goa is recently launched, but features all the favourite treatments patrons have come to know and love at its other outlets across Goa.

The décor at the spa in Mall de Goa follows the Oriental auspicious trend of red and gold and has Buddhist motifs in pockets, with the entrance reflecting Thai and Indonesian cultures. This delightful little spa in north Goa uses all the latest spa and salon equipment.

The Tatva Spa at Mall de Goa offers all beauty services, as well as manicures and pedicures, hair services for men and women, facials and skin services, and a host of skin treatments. There’s also a range of make-up packages, and you can even get complete bridal make up and henna done here.

I chose the Crystal Foot Spa and found a rejuvenating therapy that brought my feet back to life, perfect for post travel or even just regular every day running around. But this isn’t all they have on offer and I made a list for later. The spa offers classic clean ups, skin tightening and anti-ageing treatments, and has a chocolate facial and rejuvenation therapy too. It also has peels, with special treatments for acne, under eye and party glow as well as fillers.

Tatva Spa at Mall de Goa is one of the few spas in Goa that offers microdermabrasion skin treatments – a non-chemical, non-invasive procedure to bring a youthful glow to your skin. It involves microcrystals made of rough material like aluminium oxide, magnesium oxide, sodium chloride or sodium bicarbonate sprayed on the skin to remove the outermost layer of dry, dead cells.

My Lotus Crystal Spa treatment began with a relaxing strawberry manicure and pedicure that protected and renewed the hands, feet and nails, by smoothening, soothing and nourishing with penetrating blends of botanical extracts.

The lovely therapist at this warm spa in north Goa then applied a healing cream of wheatgerm oil with a special anti-oxidant for the cuticles. My feet and hands were soaked in a relaxing lavender based oil that soothed the muscles and dry, cracked heels and eliminated any foot odour.

Next came a decrystallising solution and skin polishing, one with avocado and sugar reinforced with vitamin E for softening, and the other a rescue masque of jojoba and avocado. The treatment at Tatva Spa ended with a soothing massage using milk and honey cream.

I’d definitely recommend this Tatva Spa service even during a short visit to Mall de Goa.

Top 5 Offbeat Wedding Venues In Goa

Goa has been high on destination wedding lists for years. Goa weddings have evolved from simple, casual, just-thrown-together ceremonies on the beach to meticulously planned events whether they’re earthy, boho celebrations or opulent, elaborate events.

As a much-desired destination, it can sometimes be a scramble to get a venue in Goa that is perfect for you. Sinéad McManus makes a handy list of five locations, each with a little special something about them, that would be perfect for an intimate ceremony or an absolutely rocking party.

Casa Colvale, Colvale
Distance from the Airport: 1 hour
No of Rooms: 12
Celebration Spaces: The hotel has played host to couples from across the globe who have delighted guests with cocktail parties at the Riverview Bar and rehearsal dinners at the Riverside Restaurant. There’s an added thrill; the groom or bride can arrive at the venue on the hotel’s speedboat! Casa Colvale is perfect for intimate gatherings where the lush lawn can also be transformed into a picturesque reception area.
About the hotel: Casa Colvale is privacy redefined. Hidden away on the still pristine backwaters of the River Chapora in North Goa, you will find beauty and serenity in the sweeping views of lush tropical landscapes, flowing water, magical little islands and an understated and luxurious hospitality. Long lazy days and peaceful nights at this exclusive private resort will determine the rhythm of your holiday.

Marbela Beach Hotel, Morjim
Distance from the Airport: 2 hours
No of Rooms: 23 
Celebration Spaces: With dedicated spaces ideal for wedding ceremonies like the mehendi, sangeet, baraat etc, Marbela also offers you the option of having a wedding on the beach and the hotel provides ultra luxury accommodation.
About the hotel: A brushstroke of green lawn, a broad canvas of golden beach and you have the perfect palette for an intimate destination wedding. Whether you want a beach celebration against the sunset or a prayerful ceremony at dawn, this sensational property, with its 6 Spanish villas, 14 luxury tents and 3 master tents will accommodate up to 60 guests. The staff will work with you to create bespoke décor and menus as part of your theme. The hotel even has an in-house Club M to take the party into the wee hours.

Planet Hollywood Goa, Utorda
Distance from the Airport: 25 mins
No of Rooms: 130
Celebration Spaces: If you want to add the glitzy celebrity quotient to your wedding, then Planet Hollywood is for you. Maximus, the outdoor event area, features sand, lawn and wooden decking that can be dressed up or down for formal or casual wedding events. The sea-facing beach lawns are a flawless ‘I do’ backdrop. The hotel also offers additional services including a full bar, valet, catering and specialized wedding cakes
About the hotel: Located 15 kms south of the Goa International Airport, this resort brings Bollywood and Hollywood together in style. Its Cinema Paradiso ballroom accommodates up to 320 guests, with 130 rooms, suites and seasonal tents to enhance the destinationwedding experience.

Mayfair Hideaway Spa Resort, Betul
Distance from the Airport: 1 hour
No of Rooms: 30
Celebration Spaces: This venue is equipped to host 120 guests at an informal setting and more than twice as many with a generous guest list. Its poolside is perfect for a chic cocktail party.
About the hotel: This undiscovered gem, is an accessible 41 kilometres from Goa International Airport but far away enough to be secluded and private. It has 29 rooms and a very quiet, uber luxurious suite for kickstart your honeymoon at your wedding itself!

The Tamarind, Anjuna
Distance from the Airport: 1 hour 20 mins
No of Rooms: 26
Celebration Spaces: An intimate boutique space, pre-wedding dinners are very popular at this hotel. The management offers great flexibility in order to accommodate your dream celebrations.
About the hotel: Right in the heart of Goa’s vibrant Anjuna, an hour away from the international airport, the Tamarind is built to be a cocoon away from the bustle. The exposed stone and wood architecture is meant to evoke a quiet European manor and it is the ideal place to host an intimate, earthy wedding celebration.

Sinéad McManus, a hospitality and spa columnist, has lived and worked in Goa for more than a decade. She consults in media and PR, fashion, lifestyle and high-society entertainment and her passions include health & beauty, travel and fashion. Get in touch at sineadythelady@gmail.com

http://weddingsutra.com/blog/index.php/2016/06/12/top-5-offbeat-wedding-venues-in-goa/

Goa’s Hidden Hospitality Gems

Offering spectacular views and hand-picked locations, the Casa Boutique Hotel Group provides guests a wonderful introduction to the best of Goa

 

It has the literal translation for ‘house’ in Spanish but emanates the universally recognised warmth that comes with being ‘at home’. The Casa Boutique Hotel group is a collection of quirky and eclectic individual guesthouses spread across North Goa, each touched by nature and creativity.

The group has villas scattered in Britona, Colvale, Baga, Anjuna and Vagator, with Colvale the first of the five hotels which has seen a motley line up of Bollywood stars and jet-set personalities walk its corridors and lounge around its pool. Each offers a unique experience by way of its location and amenities.

It is pertinent to note that none of the Casa Boutique Hotels have infringed upon the old idea of Goa – they have all saved the beautiful high ceilinged-warm wooden-clay tiled abode and swaddled it with lush local vegetation, no matter the location.

Overviews

Each hotel is handpicked for location, giving singular views to guests or pockets of serenity. Casa Anjuna is a colonial mansion interlaced with manicured lawns just 200 metres from the beach. At Baga, you’ll find an art deco inspired house sharing close ties with the ragtag shopping and frenzied club culture of Goa’s hedonistic north.

Britona is makes inroads into Goa’s village life, with a 300-year-old home that has stood the rest of time. Seemingly miles away from civilisation, Colvale is the manifestation of hinterland luxury with meandering backwaters and dirt roads. And finally Vagator reveals the jewel in the Casa crown teetering on the edge of laterite bluffs overlooking a sparkling Arabian Sea.

The Accommodation

Casa Anjuna, Casa Baga and Casa Vagator all offer 24 rooms each, but with styles of their own. The first features grand four poster beds with unique en-suite bathrooms that reflect Anjuna’s hippy past. At Casa Baga, there’s a touch from Asia’s other beach-side getaway – Bali, thanks to creative use of bamboo, coconut, teak wood and stone. The rooms are lavish and ideal to steal a quiet romantic moment in the middle of Goa’s party belt. With a view that steals hearts, Casa Vagator offers choices that are hard to make. 

The most secluded of the lot, Casa Colvale has 12 rooms that marry south-East Asia with Goa through natural materials and handmade fabric, and original works of art by local artists. Each room features a sit out or terrace looking out across Goa’s under rated waterways spotted with distant islands that glow against a setting sun.

Casa Britona is the smallest with only eight rooms and two studios. It is perfect for single room rents or the whole villa for getaways with the family or a close-knit group of friends. Set against the river, it opens out into the quiet sleepy eponymous village only a furlong from the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

Dining

Keeping with the Goan theme, each of the Casa Boutique Hotels ensures that guests have sumptuous local delicacies for the taking. Ingredients are mostly sourced locally and seafood – the craving that filters through unanimously among guests – is often caught by the village fisherman.

At Casa Anjuna, breakfasts at the pool-side café are the perfect way to begin the day. Baga has a more hip, savvy feel, bringing in global style and popular trends. There’s the Lotus Pond restaurant covered by Balinese pagodas for candlelit dinners offering Goan seafood, Indian and international cuisine. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to the Casa Baga Bar for yummy cocktails and chilled beer to keep everyone happy.

It’s easy to feel lazy at Casa Britona and simply keep the dining to those gorgeous wooden tables in the balcony. Local women dish up their secret recipes of fish curry rice to the sound of bird song and the gentle rustle of palm fronds. It’s enough to make Goan cuisine everyone’s favourite. Down by the shade of the trees, wrought iron tables and chairs are lovingly caught between the blue free form pool and thick foliage of mangroves bordering the river.

There’s more than one place to lounge around and enjoy a cuppa at Casa Colvale, but its two main dining areas are generally a hit. At the Riverview Bar, wickerwork sofas and chic seating entice guests to try innovative sundowners and cocktails, interspersed with succulent barbeque or continental hors de œuvres. And then there’s the Riverside Restaurant laid out informally on a wooden deck that serves a range of Italian, Chinese and Indian fine dining.

Casa Vagator offers the most stunning dining location of all thanks to a 180-degree view of the azure Arabian Sea. Just above the small cove that is Little Vagator beach sits the Open Air Seaside Deck that simply begs for intimate dinners with special people or even a soul-searching solo meal. There’s Asian, Goan and European cuisine to pick from, not to mention classic sundowners and cocktails with the view thrown open before you. If it rains, Casa Vagator has covered seating across the lawn too. No matter where you are, you’ll still be able to enjoy your meal with a hefty side of ‘view’.

Amenities

All the hotels offer television with cable networks, swimming pool, free Wi-Fi in select areas and laundry facilities, besides arranging for taxi and scooter hires as well as sightseeing tours to monuments, spice farms, jungle treks, forts and other places. Casa Britona is only a short drive away from Goa’s world-famous heritage sites in Panaji and Old Goa, and in the other direction the beautiful coastal belt. On the other hand, Casa Vagator shares approach lane space with the well-known Nine Bar club and dozens of shops selling curios, clothes and knick knacks.

Guests at Casa Colvale typically take advantage of the luxurious massages available or a yoga class on deck. The management also offers equipment for fishing or bird-watching, activities one can spend hours doing without an inkling of the passage of time. With the inland waterways at close hand, there’s also the chance of heading to your favourite beaches by speed boat, or enjoying a sunset cruise.

Conferences & Meetings

The facilities and space available coupled with a serene setting, make Casa Anjuna an off-beat location for conferencing and banqueting. It has a purpose-built air-conditioned facility that converts beautifully for meetings, weddings and parties. Guests can spill out onto the lawns and children can frolic in the wide open spaces. It’s a place any invitee will remember for its unpretentious hospitality and quirky locale.

The Experience

It took me a leisurely two years to experience all five properties under the Casa Group umbrella. Only later did I have the pleasure of meeting the lady who dedicated 10 years to making these fabulous properties the gems they are today. I found Sheila to be a very dynamic woman with a keen eye for detail, warmth and hospitality. It is evident that her qualities brim over into each of the Casa hotels.

They are all beautiful – inside and out – and her talent for creating exquisite interiors turns each hotel so unique, with every room different from the next, and always a view to die for. No other hotel group I know of can offer such diversity from property to property, and yet each pick on the uniqueness of the best of what Goa can offer.

The dedicated staff at each hotel also ensures a very home-like service, making it virtually impossible to leave.

Each of her five boutique babies have been tended to with care. Sheila Dhody’s group of hotels offers stays and experiences that feature different facets of Goa’s bounty. The Casa Boutique Hotels bring out the best in Goa.

Sinéad McManus is a premier hospitality and spa columnist, consulting additionally in media and PR, fashion, lifestyle and high-society entertainment. Sinead has lived and worked in Goa for more than a decade. Her passions include health & beauty, travel and fashion. Get in touch at sineadythelady@gmail.com.