Come Home to Konkan: Where Your Story Still Lives

What if home isn’t just a house or a pin on a map, but a place you feel deep in your chest? A landscape you haven’t seen in years, but could describe with your eyes closed. A coastline that has quietly waited, unchanged, while the rest of the world moved on.

For many, that place is Konkan.

It’s not always spoken about in travel circuits or featured in curated lists, but for those who know, it’s unforgettable. Winding roads shaded by palm & jackfruit trees, villages where strangers still wave, and a coastline dotted with timeworn forts, age-old temples, and beaches that haven’t been overrun by resort life.

And while you may have built your life elsewhere, this land remains a part of your story. One that’s always ready to be picked up where you left off.

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Where History and Belonging Intersect

Konkan stretches along the western coast of India, nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. It’s a region steeped in centuries-old traditions, with a culture that continues to thrive quietly in its own rhythm.

You’ll find the legacy of sea forts like Sindhudurg, Vijaydurg, and Jaigad – structures built not just for defence but as expressions of pride, resilience, and permanence. These aren’t ruins. They are reminders of a time when people lived in closer harmony with nature and community.

There’s also coastal gems like Tarkarli, Malvan, Vengurla, and Sawantwadi where life still follows the tides. Relish authentic fish thalis prepared using fresh catch, wooden toys carved by hand, and family-run stalls selling mango pulp that tastes like childhood.

Why Coming Back Feels So Right

This isn’t a nostalgic escape. It’s something deeper, a gentle return. Whether it’s showing your partner the village temple you visited as a child or introducing your kids to beaches without shacks and crowds, the experience feels both grounding and joyful.

You begin to see luxury differently, not as polished indulgence, but as the ability to slow down and savour fresh ghavan with spicy coconut chutney for breakfast, fall asleep to the sound of waves instead of traffic and have time, space, and stillness all at once.

A Thoughtful Revival by the Sea

In the heart of this coast lies a retreat that honours the quiet strength of Konkan’s legacy.

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Araqila Resort is a modern-day sea fortress, inspired by the great coastal citadels that once protected this land. Built using laterite stone, lime plaster, and native wood, its architecture rises naturally from the terrain. Each of its 25 sea-facing suites opens up to uninterrupted ocean views, designed not to impress, but to immerse.

The cuisine celebrates Malvani roots, the mood is slow and intentional, and the atmosphere is refined yet grounded. Here, you will find experiences deeply rooted in the history and culture of the region, thoughtful hospitality, and time to reconnect with what truly matters.

Araqila isn’t a destination; it’s a rediscovery of place, of people, and of yourself.

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Come Home to the Coast

Konkan has always offered more than just scenic beauty. It offers familiarity without obligation and stillness without isolation.

Now, it offers something more; a space built for those who have seen the world but seek something closer to soul. A retreat that doesn’t try to impress, only to remind you of who you are and where you come from.

If you’ve been meaning to return to something real, this is your moment. The coast hasn’t changed much. And maybe that’s exactly why it matters.

Come home to where your story began. Konkan’s soul is still waiting, and Araqila is ready to receive you.

Explore Sindhudurg: 10 Unique Experiences You Can’t Miss

Tired of tourist traps and overdone itineraries? Sindhudurg, nestled along Maharashtra’s Konkan coast, is one of those rare places that still feels untouched. The air smells of salt and earth, the food carries generations of tradition, and silence is more common than crowds.

If you’re looking for something immersive, rooted in culture and nature, and luxurious in its own quiet way, Sindhudurg may just surprise you.

Here are 10 offbeat experiences to explore when you’re in this stunning stretch of the coast.

1. Explore the Historic Sindhudurg Fort

Sindhudurg Fort coastline with ancient stone walls rising from the sea under a clear blue sky.

Rising from the sea like something out of history, the Sindhudurg Fort was built in the 17th century by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a coastal defense fort. You reach it by boat from Malvan, and once you’re inside, you’ll find old wells, escape routes, and views that stretch far beyond the horizon.

Insider tip: Visit during golden hour for soft light and fewer people.

2. Go Dolphin Spotting in Tarkarli

Two dolphins swimming gracefully in clear turquoise waters.
(Representative image)

Just off the coast of Tarkarli and Devbagh, you can catch dolphins cutting through the waves at sunrise. Local boats leave early, often guided by fishermen who know exactly where to find them. It’s a quiet thrill, raw and unfiltered.

Insider tip: Book a private boat just after dawn for the best chance and least crowd.

3. Kayak Through Backwaters and Mangroves

A person kayaking in a colorful kayak on a calm, reflective water surface, surrounded by trees and foliage.
(Representative image)

Not far from Malvan, small inlets open into lush backwaters lined with dense mangroves. Here, you can kayak or canoe through channels so narrow you can almost touch the branches on either side. It’s peaceful, meditative, and far from anything commercial.

Insider tip: Choose late afternoon trips when the sun filters through the trees and the water reflects the orange sky.

4. Witness the Turtle Festival (Seasonal)

A group of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings making their way to the sea along a sandy beach, with a misty coastline in the background.
(Representative image)

Between February and April, Olive Ridley turtles return to the shores near Vengurla to lay their eggs. If you time it right, you might witness the magical moment when hundreds of hatchlings make their way to the sea. It’s nature at its most moving.

Insider tip: Contact local conservation groups who organize guided, respectful visits.

5. Trek to Nivati and Bharatgad Forts

A couple enjoying a moment together near a waterfall, surrounded by rocky terrain and lush greenery.
(Representative image)

Hidden inland and less explored, these hilltop forts offer views over the Konkan coastline that most people never see. You’ll pass through forests, local villages, and finally, reach windswept ramparts that feel entirely yours.

Insider tip: Start your trek early in the morning to catch fog rolling over the hills and avoid the afternoon sun.

6. Chase Waterfalls in Amboli

A scenic waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff, surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations.
(Representative image)

A short drive from the coast takes you to Amboli, a misty hill station known for its waterfalls, especially during monsoon. Here, the rainforest sings and everything is covered in green. It’s the perfect contrast to the beach.

Insider tip: Visit in late July or early August for the best water flow and thickest mist.

7. Experience Warli Art in Pinguli Village

A traditional Warli art painting depicting rural life, featuring a thatched house, figures carrying pots, cows, trees, and a cart, all set against a red background.
(Representative image)

For something cultural, visit Pinguli, a village famous for preserving the ancient Warli art form. You can watch artists at work, understand the symbolism in their paintings, and even try your hand at it. It’s intimate, not staged.

Insider tip: Buy directly from the artists. Their stories are as rich as their art.

8. Watch the Sunset at Chivla Beach

A serene beach at sunset with golden hues reflecting on the water and palm trees silhouetted against the sky.
(Representative image)

Skip the usual beach crowds. Chivla Beach is quiet, clean, and ideal for an evening walk. Locals come here to unwind, not party. The horizon is uninterrupted and the vibe, completely unfussy.

Insider tip: Pick a corner of the beach, bring your book, and stay until the stars show up.

9. Go Scuba Diving in the Konkan Reefs

A scuba diver underwater capturing images of marine life in clear blue waters, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.
(Representative image)

The waters near Tarkarli are surprisingly clear and colourful. You’ll spot coral reefs, shoals of fish, and maybe even an octopus if you’re lucky. Local dive schools now offer small-group dives with certified instructors.

Insider tip: Plan your dive between October and March for the best visibility.

10. Savour an Authentic Malvani Meal

A grilled fish served on a blue plate, accompanied by sliced onions, a wedge of lemon, and a green chutney, with cutlery arranged beside it.
(Representative image)

You can’t leave without tasting the region. Malvani cuisine is all about slow cooking, bold spices, fresh seafood, and flavours that linger. Whether it’s kombdi vade, sol kadhi, or fresh-caught pomfret, the food is as much an experience as anything else.

Insider tip: Skip restaurants. Find a local home that cooks for guests. You’ll remember that meal for years.

Where to Stay

A serene sunset view over the sea, with a modern coastal property silhouetted on a hillside, surrounded by lush greenery.

Set along a quiet stretch of Sindhudurg’s coastline, Araqila by SaffronStays offers a thoughtful stay for those who appreciate design, detail, and a sense of place.

Every room opens to the sea. The structure draws from the architectural language of Konkan’s forts, with open courtyards, stone walls, and long verandahs that frame the horizon.

The interiors are minimal yet warm; local laterite stone, teakwood, linen, and light.
Meals are prepared using regional ingredients, with a focus on freshness and restraint. Slow-cooked curries, seasonal seafood, and home-style Malvani staples are at the heart of every meal.

There are no loud distractions here. No rush. Just space to gather, to retreat, or to do nothing at all.

Araqila isn’t just a stay. It’s a quiet return to the land you’ve been exploring.

Modern architectural view of Araqila by SaffronStays, featuring a clean white facade, a swimming pool with lounge chairs, and surrounding green landscaping.

Sindhudurg may not be on every map yet. But that’s part of its charm.
It gives you room to slow down, to discover, and to experience luxury that isn’t defined by excess, but by depth.

If you’re planning a trip that feels different from the usual, start here.

Let Sindhudurg unfold on its own terms and let Araqila be your portal to the soul of Sindhudurg.

Top 8 Dazzling Villas In Assagao That Are Perfect for Milestone Celebrations

Top 8 Private Villas In Assagao

Our travel bucket lists know it – no matter where we go, Goa, the oh-so-breathtaking beach island of India, will always have a special place in our hearts. But what also comes next, plucked from the collection of our fondest memories, is the heart of Goa – Assagao. 

Perfectly nestled between quaintness and the typical Goan buzz, Assagao, with its whitewashed churches and age-old Portuguese mansions, is the most up-and-coming neighborhood of Goa. 

And what’s it like to vacation, here? Let’s just put it this way – the golden pot at the end of a rainbow? That’s Assagao! Brace yourself to expect a revelation as you gaze at sunset(s) on the breathtaking beaches of Baga, Vagator, Calangute or Candolim, or enjoy your very own ‘Dear Zindagi’ moment as you walk aimlessly on the charming streets of this town. 

That being said, let’s have a look at some of the best private villas in and around Assagao that are less than 30 minutes from exceedingly serene Goan beaches, most happening nightclubs and of course, cafes that offer food so yum-yum!

SaffronStays De La Mer

‘De La Mer’, meaning ‘by the sea’ in French, describes views from this 4-bedroom pool villa in Reis Magos perfectly. With every balcony opening onto breathtakingly beautiful views of the sea, this sea-facing villa in North Goa is situated close to the Coco Beach (10 minutes), the Reis Magos Beach (10 minutes), and the Candolim Beach (20 minutes). Ideal for a girls’ getaway, a family vacation or a friends reunion, this home boasts of a stunning swimming pool that overlooks the sea.

SaffronStays Grand Mansion Of Saipem Hills

A ‘Grand Mansion’ amidst the iconic Saipem Hills, quite literally. Renowned amongst the crème de la crème of B-town, this locality is tucked away at a high altitude in absolute peace and quiet. A pristine estate, overlooking distant hills, that comprises 6 luxurious bedrooms, a massive swimming pool and an independent entertainment deck, you can trust your family vacations, intimate parties and/or celebrations to become one-of-a-kind, here. 

SaffronStays Eternia Villa

‘For as long as you can see…’, an experience so eternal, you would never want to leave. This 7-bedroom villa with an infinity pool that overlooks the sea on one side and a serene river on the other side is just perfect for an intimate getaway, a much-awaited reunion or a memorable vacation. To those who love the idea of combining luxury with their vacations, this private villa near Candolim beach is just the place you need to be. 

SaffronStays Kamalaya Villa

Some place where the sun shines brighter, the air feels lighter and the heart feels happier – give your stresses and worries the ultimate FOMO at this 3-bedroom private villa in Assagao near Anjuna Beach. The home has an infinity pool overlooking lush green views and is ideal for a workation. The beaches of Anjuna, Vagator, Baga and Calangute are just less than 20-minutes from the home. 

SaffronStays Soham Villa

A dip in a heated pool as we look up at the bright blue sky – tell us a self care sesh better than this! This 6-bedroom private villa for families comprises a large swimming pool, lush green lawns, bedrooms that open up into dreamy balconies and interiors that make you happy. A melting pot of relaxing vibes, this charming villa in Assagao is located in the middle of peace and quietude, also just 30 minutes from Club Cubana and SinQ Night Club. 

SaffronStays Bel Azur

A piece of the blue sky made a home somewhere in Assagao and that was later known as Bel Azur (meaning ‘blue skies’ in French). A set of twin private villas with 5 and 4 bedrooms each, this quintessential Goan home has all the Mediterranean vibes, naturally lit rooms, pastel interiors and a large swimming pool in between. It is situated less than 15 minutes from the eateries of Sublime, Gunpowder and Villa Blanche, and Anjuna and Vagator beaches. 

SaffronStays Azara Beach House

A spectacular 5-bedroom villa with a private pool in Candolim, this home is just 150m from the beach and has all its bedrooms facing the pool. Besides a spacious living room, a dining area and a really large swimming pool (pool babies, high-five!), the home also has some uber-luxe amenities like the jacuzzi, a bar by the pool and a gazebo for chilled-out evenings. The beaches of Sinquerim and Calangute are just 20 minutes from the home whereas the famous Aguada Fort is just 15 minutes away. 

SaffronStays House of Só Alegria

Contemporary touches, pastel finishes and the feeling of just being enough – Só Alegria – meaning ‘joy’ in Portuguese, makes every minute spent in this home worth it. Ideal for small families, 2 couples or a small group of friends, this 2-bedroom home with a shared pool is located in a gated community, right behind the Vinayak Restaurant. Mustard Cafe, Sublime, Gunpowder and Suzie’s are at a 15-minute distance from the home. 

Also Read: Villas To Conclude Your Bombay-Goa Road Trip | Plush North Goa Villas For Families | Beachside Luxury Villas In Goa

Know More About Us: www.saffronstays.com
Contact Us: book@saffronstays.com | (+91) 80691 60000

5 Great Goa Getaways: Pool Villas Near The Beach

Goa is much more than the overcrowded clubs, the generic tourist spots and the cheap booze: Goa is about great homes, midnight dips in a pool villas near the beach and fun times with friends and family. Your #GoaTrip does not have to be in a cheap motel, in a deserted alley: It can be a gorgeous ancestral home in Goa, extremely close to the beach, yet hidden from the cacophonous crowd that throngs the city. Here are Pool Villas in Goa’s Candolim, Calangute, Assagao, Nerul and Dona Paula – All popular tourist spots – that you can call YOUR HOME!

Pool Villas by the Beach in North Goa

Nestled in the heart of Calungute, SaffronStays Terra Bonita is the perfect amalgamation of charming Goan architecture and modern comforts. Situated at a stone’s throw from the hustle of one of Goa’s most famous beaches, yet tucked away peacefully in a nook, the home provides comfort within the chaos. The natural canopy is a perfect respite from the concrete jungle of the metros.

Price: INR 9,700 (+GST) for 4 guests

Book Now: SaffronStays Terra Bonita, Calangute
Call: (+91) 8424 040 040
Mail: book@saffronstays.com

 

Come away with us to villa SaffronStays Saanuki, a quirky holiday villa, just 5 minutes from the beach. The 3 bedroom villa is equipped with all the amenities that will make your Goan holiday just perfect: a spacious living room and a society swimming pool. The home is located on Fort Aguada Road, a 5 minute walk from the Candolim beach, near some of the best restaurants, nightclubs, confectioneries and beach shacks in North Goa.

Price: INR 4,850 (+GST) for 2 guests

Book Now: SaffronStays Saanuki, Candolim
Call: (+91) 8424 040 040
Mail: book@saffronstays.com

 

Situated near the mighty Mandovi river, SaffronStays La Patio, Nerul – a 2-bedroom art-deco apartment with its shared swimming pool, vibrant interiors and excellent views is a steal. Housed in a condominium of 25 apartments, located in Reis Magos in North Goa, the home is based in one of the focal points of a tourist’s itinerary of Goa. The home is a hop-skip-jump distance away from major Goan attractions including Fort Aguada, Candolim and Coco Beaches, Cafe Chocolatti and SINQ.

Price: INR 5,900 (+GST) for 5 guests

Book Now: SaffronStays La Patio, Nerul
Call: (+91) 8424 040 040
Mail: book@saffronstays.com

 

SaffronStays Villa Amelia is a typical Goan home, renovated to its glorious past and is an excellent merger of traditional architecture and new-age amenities. From the high ceilings to the pop furnishings, from the quaint architecture to the funky artifacts and from the restored antique furniture to the plunge pool.

Price: INR 22,497 (+GST) for 6 guests

Book Now: SaffronStays Villa Amelia, Assagao
Call: (+91) 8424 040 040
Mail: book@saffronstays.com

 

Pool Villas by the Beach in South Goa

Lounge by the sundeck of this gorgeous, community infinity pool or savor the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea from the luxurious comfort of SaffronStays Cabo de Goa – a plush, Portuguese-styled duplex apartment in upmarket Dona Paula. With a shared infinity pool & unbeatable sea views, you’ll never want to leave this Mediterranean paradise.

Price: INR 4,900 (+GST) for 2 guests

Book Now: SaffronStays Cabo de Goa, Dona Paula
Call: (+91) 8424 040 040

Mail: book@saffronstays.com

5 Ways Your Vacations Can Benefit The Environment

Are you a nature lover? Wish to contribute to environment protection? Well, there is an exciting way to do that – make your holiday eco-friendly. How? On World Environment Day we show you how to contribute to the environment while enjoying the abundance of nature.

Plant Saplings: One Seed Bears Many Fruits

Whether by a beach or in the mountains, everyone loves to rest and relax amidst abundant flora. For those escaping the crowded metros of our country, a dash of green is always more soothing than the dull greys that surround us. So, while armchair activism about fewer trees in the vicinity may provide temporary respite to the weary mind, planting saplings, especially of indigenous plants, would be a perfect long-term answer for the greater good. Take Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal for example: This lovely heritage property sits nestled in the midst of an award-winning garden, a percentage of which is the fruit of all its guests. How, you ask? Every guest SaffronStays hosts is gifted a sapling before check-out and can place it anywhere they like on the 9-acre property. Inclusion at its best, innit?

Harvest Water: Each Drop Counts

The fact that our country has to face water scarcity every summer is no news. Interior Maharashtra, the Himalayan region and Central India are some of the worst hit. But you can do your bit by saving your usage of water, and recycling what you can. While lush lawns may look visually appealing, sometimes less is more, and in case of water scarcity, absence can be sweet. The charming owner of L’attitude, Kamshet forfeit the traditional water-guzzling, ecologically disruptive short-grass lawn and planted 108 drought-tolerant trees around the home. Practicality and presentation can always go hand-in-hand. After all, 8th Grade Environmental Studies was taught for a reason, right?

Create Indoor Gardens: True Beauty Is On The Inside

Remember when your mother said ‘Looks don’t matter till you are actually beautiful from the inside’? While an acne-ridden face could not digest this statement, there is no truer line for a home. Imagine waking up to a stunning garden inside your home, rather than just around it? Fresh air, cool ambiance, branching shade and gorgeous flowers, literally at your doorstep is a perfect setting to grab your morning cuppa. While Master’s Coutryard, Gholvad has a central aangan with bed of trees, the various indoor plants sprouting within Cabo de Goa make both these holiday destinations

Source Locally: Nobody Likes A Foreign Body

Being different and trying to push an exotic concept, be it through architecture, materials or plants may not be the best approach to creating a home. Villa 270°, Dapoli is the epitome of inclusive creation: terracotta tiled roofs, structures made of local laterite stone, vernacular architecture that make the cottages charming, yet conserve the environment.

Ventilate Organically: Natural Is Normal

Summers in India are nothing short of harsh. Imagine planning a getaway and then facing the horrid heat, where even an Air-Conditioner is a mere tool against the forces of nature? But, there is a way to beat the blues organically: Create using the natural pattern of wind to maximise the breeze through windows, and curate using natural plant-based materials like Vetiver (Khas) that can provide a day’s cooling on a few drops of water. Simple and easy, right? The owner and the architect at Maya, Khadakvasla got this formula absolutely bang-on.

 

So get going, and let’s save the environment!

When in doubt.. go Goa!

Everyone talks about, “When in doubt, travel..,” but wonder how many of them have actually implemented this quote for real! There comes a time where we are all in a fix & and the only thing that saves us from feeling numb is to travel. To be more precise, travel to Goa. Because Goa is the ultimate soul remedy, right? The only destination that serves multiple callings, be it yoga, beach parties or some lone time!

This time, instead of booking a hotel in Goa, why not try renting out a gorgeous beachfront villa? Here are 5 beautiful Goan locations to visit when you’re in doubt!

#01. Let the Yogic energies flow or treat your body with a Spa

Pool Villas in Goa
Inner Temple, Goa

When the sun goes down remember to look up because you’ll notice the beautiful crimson sky like never before! The rich deep red inclining to purple will mesmeriize your soul. Inner Temple is magnificent yet warm and pleasant. Several sit outs have been created in various parts of the house for you to have a tete-a-tete with loved ones, enjoy the cool breeze while relaxing with a book or simply sit by the pool while it is raining and all you’d want to do is meditate.

#02. Allow the vintage vibes to take you back to the good old days

Goa Holidays
Charming Portuguese Villa in Goa

Located very close to Mandovi river is Casa Susegado, a 3 bedroom bungalow in Ribandar, Goa. A blend of vintage styles that this house is, it embraces the carefree, the relaxed and the unusual. To add more to the chilled out aura of this bungalow, there is a hammock right at the entrance. Overall, this harmonious bungalow stirs you up visually with its clean and simple interiors.

#03. To feel more light, just go with the flow!

Beach Villas
Sea Views over Coffee

Pleasuring you with the panoramic view of Zuari bay and Arabian sea, Cliff Haven is a 3 bedroom apartment with a shared infinity pool that overlooks the sea. So while you lounge by the sundeck of this plush pool villa, allow the breeze to sway away the worries & just go with the flow! Also, the villa has a beautiful portico overlooking the sea, with comfy seating. This is the best vantage point for watching the sun go down!

#04. Sometimes all you want is to spend good time with your people

Baga Beach Goa
Aqua Villa, Goa

Located in close proximity to Baga beach, Aqua Villa is a two bedroom pool villa decorated with interesting wooden picture frames and curios collected from  across the globe. The place is best suitable for a small group gathering. The highlight of the villa is a lovely, shaded porch from where one can spend afternoons reading a book, and take a dip in the pool thats just 5 feet away.

Surrounded by greenery all around, Coco Palms is a cosy & welcoming 3 bedroom villa in Arpora. The minimal decor in this house brings a subtle earthy vibe to a neutral room. And one of the most beautiful natural element that this bungalow adorns is the sunlight. The place is make you feel very close to your own home.

Click here for booking details

Coming back to beating the blues, have you ever travelled when in doubt? If not then you must because to travel is to create your own sunshine. So let the countdown to the beach begin!

8 Secret Best Friend Getaways Near Mumbai

Wanderlust is a beautiful thing. You never know where it will take you, especially when you travel with your best gal pals. Because besties who travel together stay together, right?! And literally EVERYONE thinks their group of friends is just like that of a legendary sitcom. So do you, we know it. Friends? Sex and the City? Or may be Gossip Girls? Oh no wait! Vampire Diaries or Desperate Housewives?! With them, we have  those inside jokes & one too many anecdotes  that our significant others just don’t get! So grab your hipster t-shirt,  rent a beachfront villa or go where the wind takes you! Here are some ideas. Pick your favorite destination  & get ready to annoy your friends because every moment of the trip will be about ‘You & Your Girls’!

#01. Murud

Believe it or not, but the best conversations happen at the most random places. Known for a notable beach, and for its proximity to Janjira off the coast of Rajapuri, a sea fort, Murud is the place where the only sound that disturbs & interrupts your conversation is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores. Murud-Janjira is the local name for a fort situated at the coastal village of Murud, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India.

Enjoy your best friend's company at this beachfront villa in Murud
Enjoy your best friend’s company at this beachfront villa in Murud

#02. Dapoli

Located at 700 to 800 feet above sea level, Dapoli is a beautiful town and is widely known as Mini Mahabaleshwar. If you want to taste the real village life in konkan, this is an ideal place in Ratnagiri to visit with your friends.

Let the breeze at this sea facing villa in Dapoli calm your soul.
Let the breeze at this sea facing villa in Dapoli calm your soul.

#03. Goa

C’mon! Who doesn’t know what’s & if’s about GOA! It is the ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ destination. That one place where you can travel time & again and it will never fail to amaze you with its serene beauty. When on a trip to Goa, you’d want to do everything a bit more, such as sing some more, gossip till you run out of thoughts, drive till you’re hungry, make crazy confessions & fight over it, & this can just go on! It is going to be an unbelievable  entertainment.

Who doesn't wish to rent a pool villa in Goa? Especially when it's this beautiful!
Who doesn’t wish to rent a pool villa in Goa? Especially when its this beautiful!

#04. Korlai

Watching the Sunrise & Sunset with your best friend has been your dream for the longest time? Korlai is an ideal place to fulfill your forever pending dream! A beautiful location, hidden from a lot many tourists, is a home to Korlai fort which offers panoramic views of natural surroundings.

Bare your soul, share your dreams & hopes at this charming beach facing villa in Alibaug
Bare your soul, share your dreams & hopes at this charming beach facing villa in Alibaug

#05. Gholvad

A classic case of journey being better than the destination. After all you have the best people with you. If you’re a foodie person & love to try new recipes with your friends, then you must visit here for lip smacking Parsi food. Famously known as the ‘Chikoo Bowl’ of Maharashtra, the history states that it is here where the first sapling of chikoo was planted by an Irani family in 1901. And thus the name Gholvad meaning a ‘round tree’.

Tag along with your foodie friends & explore the Parsi cuisine in Gholvad, very close to Bordi!
Tag along with your foodie friends & explore the Parsi cuisine in Gholvad, very close to Bordi!

#06. Matheran

There are so many adventure along the way that you want to share with your bestie. Walking amidst the jungle? Trekking? Enjoying the sunset valley views? Your first horse ride? Yes! Matheran is an answer to all of these adventure list that you’ve been creating since a long time now.

Rent this heritage villa in Matheran hill station to experience what it's like to live in a jungle.
Rent this heritage villa in Matheran hill station to experience what it’s like to live in a jungle.

#07. Panchgani

You always wished to witness the first rays of sun early morning, or sleep to the sound of flowing water; But you were too shy to share this with your friends? Do not worry. This place will make your friends wish for the very same. So get ready to fulfill your childish dreams!

This beautiful bungalow has been hiding next to table land for quite sometime now.
This beautiful bungalow has been hiding next to table land for quite sometime now.

#08. Khandala

If no other plan works, one can always rent a bungalow in Lonavala for a house party!
If no other plan works, one can always rent a bungalow in Lonavala for a house party!

Everything can be too far but not Khandala. You could be too busy to take a break even on a weekend but not when its about a short drive to Khandala! Open roads, getting into trouble with your partner in crime, the endless selfies that you will click, some good tunes and deep conversations; There could be nothing like this! Agree much?

So what are you waiting for? Friendships Day is not too far & now is the time to explore off beat destinations, rent a villa & party like a hipster, go beach walking with your girlfriends or simply go on a long drive.

About the Author: Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!

Goa – Portuguese way of life

Bound by the Arabian Sea, Goa shares a tiny piece of India’s land. Palm trees, never ending stretch of soft beach sand, sparkling water, crazy night life, tasty food and Portuguese-colonial architecture sum up the essentials of Goa. Yes, you cannot miss out on the beautiful Portuguese influences and the heritage remains of their culture, be it architecture or food.

The blazing sun lights up blue houses with pastel doors, and the breeze that cross ventilates through the tall-arched windows. With pastel color walls like mustard, pink, orange, to blue, Goan homes are a sight to see.

Goan food shares a rich cultural heritage (yes, it goes beyond Goan prawn curry and rice), and shares many similarities with Portuguese food. You’ll notice that authentic Goan food is a potpourri of flavours; beef, pork, coconut milk, jaggery, cashew and an endless variety of seafood. From Rechado masala and pork sorpotel to jackfruit and cashew veggie preparation, try it all! Finish it with a generous helping of Bebinca or Dodol. Some of our favourite places to enjoy these are Mum’s Kitchen (Panjim), Martin’s corner (Benaulim), Britto’s and of course Susan Lobo’s. Mum’s Kitchen uses a special ingredient called ‘bimli’; a fruit used to add ‘sourness’ to the curries (often substituted by tamarind or kokum), adding to the authentic flavours. One of the most authentic bebinca and dodol is sold in a small little bakery called Jackris in the sleepy town of Madgaon, but be sure to reach before noon or face a shut door (afternoon siestas is a religion!).

From trance parties, Casino’s and even Sunburn, you must have explored it all and still you crawl back to this place at least once a year! And yet, we are sure you have missed out on one thing, i.e. a typical Goan home. So, kick off your shoes, sit back and relax; live the Susegad life of a true-blue Goan.

#1 Live at Saligao, once a home to a famous Artist!

Situated in the heart of one of the prettiest North Goa villages, Saligao is believed to be a home to  the world famous artist Francis Newton Souza and once you are here, you realize what could have brought out the artist in him. This heritage home is close to the famous Calangute, Candolim and Baga beaches. It is a 15 minute ride to Anjuna & Vagator beaches. Thalassa might be your favorite eat around the corner when at Vagator beach, but for once give the greek food a pass, and enjoy delicious home cooked fish curry & rice, a staple food of Goa. Because when in Goa, you must live like a Goan, right?

#2 Charming country home in Colvale

Colvale villa Goa

Situated in the dreamy village of one of North Goa’s most unadulterated villages, Colvale, this house reflects the Portuguese influence and subtlety of art, on the outside and on the inside. If you are looking for a holiday with both, nature & sand, this is the place to be! A trip to this place can cure your bad mood.

#3 Let the traditional music at Bodiem get you on the dance floor!

Living in a Portuguese style home is a must experience when in Goa. Enjoy the laid back village life, leisure activities like walking around in the village or fields, swimming in the river, boating, fishing, bird watching or just simply laze around on the hammock, swings or in the pool and lose yourself to the music. They say, Goans are born musicians, and that music streams through their blood from a very young age. May be that’s the reason why Music can be heard here, both day and night! When at Bodiem village, you cannot escape the foot-stomping goan mandolin which was brought to Goa by Portuguese. When in Goa, you will find various music from traditional Konkani music, to Western, indigenous, to trance. Goa shares closer connection to western tunes due to the Portugal rule until mid 19th century.

Goa homestay villa

#4. Because South Goa is about paddy fields!

Surrounded by a Teak forest with a view of the fields this furnished house is a well maintained, 100 year Old Portuguese Goan home . The house has a balcony running around two sides and a Covered deck facing the 12000 sqft garden and Swimming Pool. The outdoor covered deck attached to the house is large and has an antique dining table for outdoor dining.

# 5. Explore the interiors of Ribandar, North Goa

Goa was the only overseas State of Portugal known as “Estado da India” and most of the history lies in this city of Old Goa. This is a location having world famous historical sites. The house is designed so that the view of the river, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and adjacent islands are prominent from every location in the house. One of the lasting Portuguese influences is seen in Goan Cuisine and the craftsmenship.

# 6. Experience the Old European Portugal Architecture at Siolim

The cottage exposes to its guest a true Indian-cum-Old European Portuguese culture through its warm hospitality, old unbroken portugal trends of architecture and delicious local cuisine. The house is perfectly placed for the lovely beaches just to the north of Morjim, Ashwem, Arambol and Mandrem beaches and the action of the Candolim – Calangute – Baga – Anjuna beaches to the South. Goa offers a beautiful amalgamation of local markets  from Anjuna flea market, Mapusa market, Baga beach; Calangute market square and even Mackie’s night bazaar! You will get everything at these markets, chunky jewelry to Bohemian clothes; but the only thumb rule for shopping here is – bargain as much as you can.

#7. Immerse yourself into meditation at Mandrem Beach

The Portuguese colonisation played a major role in the development of the exquisite furnishings and decorations used in residential houses. And one can see the architectural influence in Goa even today. Located exactly by a riverside at Mandrem beach, the villa gives the guest the best of both the experiences of the beach which is just a wooden bridge cross distance as well as of the river which flows exactly through the house. For people who are on a laze around and do nothing sort of vacation, then Mandrem offers you just that. Chill around, eat at the seaside shacks, sink your feet deep into the golden sand, hear the waves beating on the shore, and just forget the world! You can even sit and meditate, its that peaceful.

It is difficult to imagine Goa without its Portuguese connection. The people are so imbibed in the foreign culture that this blend of east and west has now become a trademark of Goa. This unique blend is apparent every where, from art and architecture to food and music. It is clear that Goa has derived its modern-pop yet rich and traditional mix of culture from its shared past!

Cover Photo Credits: en.wikipedia.org

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!

Goa: been there, done that? Well, not this Goa…

Goa offbeat stays

Goa is synonymous with the stereotypical beaches, shacks, seafood, sun and all-night parties (ahem, sunburn). It is the ideal location to just let go and have some real fun.  Sure, Goa photos also make for some great profile pictures! But, we have all been there, done that.

So, this time, soak in the real Goan atmosphere at these stays, and wonder, why is this side of Goa not always the talk of the town! Go on, brag about it to your friends…

#1. Inner Temple in Moira

The house is magnificent yet warm and pleasant. Here you can spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy complete privacy. The décor is a stunning manifestation of elegance and simplicity. Every piece has been carefully selected and aesthetically placed. Every element of the house brings a sense of peace and calm. Several sit outs have been created in various parts of the house for you to enjoy a tet-a-tet with loved ones.

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#2. Aqua villa in Arpora

The villa is decorated with interesting wooden picture frames and curios collected from the Owner’s travels across the globe. Pictorial frames on the wall give you a flavour of street art from Greece to Paris and all somehow comes together in this Portuguese little home. The quirky furniture gives a cheerful, warm feeling to the entire house. The rooms are well lit and tastefully furnished; it’s a perfect stay for young families with children. The highlight of the villa is a lovely, shaded porch from where one can spend afternoons reading a book, and take a dip in the pool thats just 5 feet away. It is the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a cool drink outside. Or simply take long naps, like the Goans do.

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#3. The Cliff Haven, Dona Paula

This duplex flat of over 3000 sq ft built area in a gated community is situated on a hilltop in Dona Paula which is like Malabar hill of Goa. Designed and furnished to truly echo the tropical setting, the villa is dressed in a neutral palette of earthly tones, brought to life with bursts of warm colours reminiscent of the typical Goan-Portuguese style. The Cliff Haven consists of the living room, the dining area, bar counter, a fully furnished kitchen and three fully air-conditioned master bedrooms with individually connected private balcony, pleasuring you with the panoramic view of Zuari bay and Arabian sea.

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#04. Villa in Ribandar

This gorgeous wooden chalet, built in 1730, underwent major restoration works which were completed in 2012. The Ribandar church, which was the first resting place of St. Francis Xavier is close-by, and so is the Salem Ali Bird Sanctuary which is right across, is visible from the rooms of the villa. The lower deck of the villa opens onto a paved patio which is on the river edge. It has docking facilities for a reasonably sized yacht.

In the evening, savour a pint of chilled beer and smoking barbecue on the deck, with your feet dipped in the calm river and watch the sun melt into the water. C’est la vie, right?

Villa in Ribandar

Villa in Ribandar

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#5. Wooden cottages in Candolim

Set on a hilltop in Saipem, a quiet neighbourhood close to Candolim, these twin cottages offer an incomparable, mesmerizing view of the small rivulets, paddy fields and the greenery below. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping and marvel at the beauty of the rising sun and kaleidoscopic butterflies flitting around. These cottages also boast a private jacuzzi where you can let those tensed muscles loose, with soothing house wine. Sounds like heaven on earth, no?

Wooden cottages in Candolim

Wooden cottages in Candolim
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#6. Cottages in Morjim

Constructed amidst coconut and palm trees, a mere walking distance from a sparsely populated North Goa beach (one of the rare ones in North Goa). Its very close to the breeding site of Olive Ridley turtles, its a nature lover’s delight. This place is ideal for loosening up and spending some quality time with your friends and family. Oh, and be sure you don’t leave those DSLRs at home!

Cottage in Morjim

Cottage in Morjim

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#7. Chalet by the river, Old Goa

Situated by Goa’s largest river, Mandovi, you can experience a breathtaking scenery of the river and the mountains beyond during the monsoons. It is provisioned with all the requisites that you would want in your home. The restaurant nearby is a locals and tourist favourite owing to the lip-smacking seafood preparations. Yacht owners can go on short ferries across the river and then anchor it at the wooden jetty outside the house.

Villa by the riverside

Villa by the riverside

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#8. Boutique homestay in Bodiem Thivim

Constructed in the tranquil village of Thivim, this homestay is surrounded by lush green fields and a closeby river. This is the perfect example of a Portuguese house. Away from the busy towns, this lazy village is perfect for the worn-out city dwellers. If you’re travelling as a close group, the Calangute and Arambol beaches are about a half-hour drive away. You can also take a nice boat ride across the river. Splash about in the pool or simple just laze around during the day and give yourself a much-needed break. The Aravale waterfalls is close from the homestay and sight-seeing tours can also be arranged.

Boutique homestay in Bodiem Thivim

Boutique homestay in Bodiem Thivim

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About the Author: Aatreya Bhat spends a major part of the day reading, writing and jamming. The rest of the day, he spends explaining his name to others. He loves reading political books and is a big fan of the caped crusader. Skydiving and experiencing a Manchester derby at the Trafford will always top his bucket list.