Maharashtra Tourism gets a new destination on the map: Murbad

Who isn’t fascinated by the idea of an earth-sheltered home? Dwelling in an underground home is an aspiration, a fantasy that most of us have had while reading a novel or watching a television show or movie back in the day. 

One of the newest entrants into the SaffronStays family – SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly + Dragonfly, a Signature by SaffronStays estate, is a first-of-its-kind earth-sheltered home in the country. This unique retreat, barely 2.5 hours from Mumbai and 3 hours from Pune, takes you on an adventure into a mystical and magical world.

THE TALE OF AsanjA

The home name, ‘AsanjA’, is an amalgamation of the Sindhi word ‘Asanjo’, which means ‘Ours’ and the Punjabi word ‘Sanjha’, which means ‘For Everyone’. The two capital ‘A’s’ in the name, one in the beginning and the other at the end, denote the renowned trekking peaks – Gorakhgad and Machindragad – of the mighty Sahyadri range that form a 180° backdrop to the estate. 

Inspired by the world-famous film, theatre and novel, this remarkable retreat too unfolds its mystery just like the pages of a book. The escapade begins from the moment you take the first few steps into the premises spread over 3-acres of land. Walk along the pathway, pass by a flourishing green garden, and you uncover a rocky stairway to a hidden door.

As you open the door, heavily inspired by the fictional world, you enter an enchanted space that gives you a glimpse of inspirations sought from the Home Owners’ 15 years of experience in the interiors space and their travels across the globe. This enigmatic space, which took about six years to come by, was built by digging 15 feet below the ground to attain the organic shape we see today. Although inspired by Antoni Gaudi from Spain for the mosaic work, the true inspiration of the architectural form is Javier Senosiain.

THE UNIQUE EXTERIORS AND INTERIORS 

This 5-bedroom architectural marvel is split between, SaffronStays AsanjA Dragonfly, a 3-bedroom home, and SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly, a 2-bedroom home.

The entire home is organically shaped, including the doors and windows, and the structure in all respects is extraordinary. The interior walls, the beds, and the two pools of the home are adorned by mosaic patterns in aqua, blue, grey and orange. This earth-sheltered home has natural rocks coexisting in various sections, retaining the region’s mountainous element – from the bathroom, where the rock elements allow you to take a shower on natural boulders, to the two pools, which have been lined with natural rock to give an experience of a natural water body. Another large boulder discovered on the site has been cleverly modelled into a coffee table. 

THE TWO ARMS OF AsanjA

Built underground, SaffronStays AsanjA Dragonfly, the 3-bedroom space, has a pool, a living room, an indoor dining area and a kitchen. On the other hand, SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly, the 2-bedroom home, has a pool and an outdoor dining area. Both homes have undulating terrace gardens where you enjoy a pleasant evening watching the sun set into the horizon and even lie down on the grass and watch as the stars fill the sky.

Even though it is an underground structure, the entire home is brightly lit with natural sunlight coming through the curved windows and skylights on the roof. The pools in both SaffronStays AsanjA Dragonfly, and SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly, too, add to the uniqueness of this home. While the pool at SaffronStays AsanjA Dragonfly sports a rain shower, the one at SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly has a waterfall, making pool time an enjoyable experience.

WHY CHOOSE AsanjA?

There are ‘wow’ factors galore at this estate, making it a perfect combination of natural luxury and country leisure. In addition to the architectural wonders of this home, the Signature curated menus to leave the guests enthralled. From local food made from regional produce to an exotic international spread, both the comfort Indian selections as well as fine dining offerings leave the guests’ palate satiated. A bonfire or barbecue too can be arranged in the evening to elevate the stay experience.

With a breathtaking 180° view of the Sahyadris, an orchard with chikoo and mango trees, sighting of fireflies, rare ‘red’ dragonflies and numerous birds, a monsoon stream flowing within the premises, special appearances by rainbows and the sky painting a different picture every day, this estate is a photographer’s delight and every traveller’s retreat.

There is a complete magical melding of ideas in the creation of this unique home. From the jaw-dropping exteriors to the fantasy architecture of this home, every aspect of this home will transport you to another world. Come, and explore this magical home! 

Book your holiday at SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly + Dragonfly (5 rooms) or SaffronStays AsanjA Dragonfly (3 rooms) or SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly (2 rooms)

A Guide To Travelling In Maharashtra With Kids During The Monsoon

Planning a family holiday in Maharashtra? Looking to travel during the blissful monsoon season? You’ve picked the right time and the right place. Fueled with rain and energy, Maharashtra blooms with life. It’s the perfect time to relax amongst orchards, head for a trek in the mountains or engage in the delights of farm life. Even the kids will enjoy this holiday to the fullest! Here are a few tips on how to ensure a hassle-free holiday with children. 


1. Check The Weather Forecast 

The monsoon rains are lovely but unpredictable. If you’re travelling in Maharashtra at this time, keep a flexible itinerary accounting for delays. And stay ahead of the game by keeping an eye on the weather forecast. Light rain will add an extra dose of fun while visiting Bhilar Waterfall Point, while sunny days are best for a picnic and barbecue on the lawn. SaffronStays Aurelia, Panchgani where you can enjoy these activities, overlooks Panchgani valley — a stunning view no matter what the weather is. 

Downloading an app will pay off so you can plan out your day based on the weather. A trek to Lingmala Waterfall, barely 10 mins from Saffronstays RedFields By Venna River, Mahableshwar and Wilson Point, again close to the home, would be exciting even with a little rainfall. In case of heavy downpours, plan a fun day indoors. The kids can be entertained with board games like carrom and chess while you indulge in a hot cup of coffee and a serene view from the villa’s windows. 


2. Carry Medicines and Mosquito Repellent

Chances of children falling ill are rare but it’s best to stay prepared. Carry medicines for colds, coughs, diarrhoea, indigestion, motion sickness and allergies. Some basic requirements include a thermometer, bandages, and antiseptic wipes. While it’s imperative that you have a portable kit while travelling, our child-friendly villas like SaffronStays Horizon 360°, Mahableshwar come with their own first-aid kits so you can enjoy a stress-free stay.  

Due to the increase in insects, carrying insect repellent creams is an absolute must. Slap some on before you head out for treks, trips to waterfalls and any other nature-related activities. But there’s no need to worry about it indoors if you opt for a villa like SaffronStays Boulevard StoneHouse, Malavli, where every room has mosquito nets to keep you comfortable. 


3. Opt For Homemade Food Over Street Food

Street food is tempting but best avoided while travelling in Maharashtra during the monsoon. With the increase in bacteria growth, street food can be a source of infection — particularly when it comes to growing kids. But there’s no need to fear! If you choose SaffronStays villas, all those mouth-watering chaats and fried goodies can be found at your holiday home. 

Our talented in-home chefs craft meals with all the flavour and zest of street food. Imagine having authentic Konkani dishes at the sea-facing villa SaffronStays Crescent Bay, Palshet. You can tuck into chicken sukha, matki usal and konkan bhindi while gazing at the Arabian Sea, as boats come in and out of the port. Or you could soak in the panoramic views of Lake Pawna while dining on locally grown matki with jowar rotis and Indrani rice at SaffronStays Blue Infinitum, Pawna.


4. Get Appropriate Clothing

Chances are, you will get caught in the rain more than once during your holiday. And while the sights of the lush green hills are totally worth it, you can take a few precautions to keep the little ones comfortable. First and foremost, synthetic clothing. Cotton absorbs water and grows heavy. Synthetic clothing dries faster, feels light on the skin and will keep children in a good mood. 

Waterproof backpacks are a must for keeping your things dry. Throw in an extra set of clothes for the kids to change into after a trip to a waterfall. Get strong, durable footwear that can withstand flowing water, rocky terrain as well as wet mud. And don’t forget your swimwear! SaffronStays Kaia Waters by Kosha Villas and SaffronStays Yahvi Waters by Kosha Villa have an infinity pool with a lake view while SaffronStays Ahilya Waters by Kosha Villas has a sleek, indoor one — you definitely do not want to miss out on either!


5. Avoid Hygiene Hassles


The rainy season increases the risk of water-borne diseases, and you don’t want the kids to catch any of them. But a few simple rules can keep them out of harm’s way. Carrying your own water bottles is one of the best alternatives. Whether you’re going on a drive or trekking through the wilderness, a large 1-litre bottle will ensure you never fall short of clean water. It’s worth the extra weight!

If you need to visit public restrooms, wash your hands in a clean area. A bottle of sanitiser spray is a handy tool for situations like this. And a pack of wet wipes can go a long way. Armed with these essentials, you can stay at lavish villas like SaffronStays Tranqvilla, Murbad and head out for nearby treks like the one to Siddhagad fort, without worrying about hygiene issues. 

6. Get That Farm Experience

As the hills bloom with the coming of monsoon, your visit to Maharashtra will be incomplete without a holiday at a farmstay, in the midst of nature. Picture staying amongst beautifully rustic surroundings, helping out on the farms and getting a complete disconnect from the hustle of city life. 

At farmstays near Mumbai like SaffronStays SanvinaFarm, Karjat, you can plant samplings and milk the resident cows. Later, you can enjoy a hot meal at a set up in the middle of a flowing river — sounds magical, doesn’t it? You get to enjoy organic meals while also spending time with dogs, rabbits and geese. You can even try out a night of camping on estates like SaffronStays Rosé by the Vineyard, Nashik — a private villa in the middle of a vineyard! 


7. Prepare For Adventure Activities and Picnics

Travelling in Maharashtra opens you up to a wide range of adventure activities! They’re exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping, and usually, even the kids can participate in the fun. If your children are first-timers, ensure they know what they’re in for. Get them excited but assure them it’s safe. On the day, pick out light and comfortable clothing and their sturdiest shoes. 

Some ground rules can help guarantee their safety. Like always following the instructions and speaking up if they want to stop. Even for relatively easy beach activities like kayaking and banana boat rides, spend some time showing them exactly what to hold on to and how the life jacket functions. You’ll find these at villas near beaches like SaffronStays Sea La Vie, Alibaug and SaffronStays Minerva, Alibaug.

Our luxury villas are a great way to travel in Maharashtra and get a first-hand experience of the beautiful monsoons. From the finest standards of hygiene to impeccable food and service, you have a five-star holiday waiting for you. 

Looking for more villas for families with children? Head this way!


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Team Building Activities At Dream Villas That Will Take You From Colleagues To Teammates

Just like every machine needs oiling once in a while, every team needs a team-building retreat. Groups of people work so much better once they’ve gotten to know each other a little more. Playing games and puzzles together helps coworkers create an environment where everybody can do their best. So take this opportunity to learn about ten team-building activities that will help your team work better, smoother and faster!

1. Scavenger Hunt 

Objective: Strategy and collaboration

Time: 1-3 hours

Tools needed: Fully charged phones to record every challenge.

How to play: The group is broken up into teams and given a list of challenges to complete. They can range from finding a specific object, doing a particular craft or performative activities like singing or making a skit.

Purpose: Scavenger Hunts use fun activities to nudge people into breaking down professional walls and being more casual around each other. It also makes them practice goal setting and task delegation. Sometimes lip-syncing to the newest Ariana Grande song can be just what you need to strengthen team coordination and problem solving!

Where to play: SaffronStays Summer Salt, with its wide spaces, allows teams to strategize at their own pace, offering plenty of room to move about. This 6-bedroom property near Akshi beach also allows space for the game to spill over onto the lawn. 


2. Untangle A Human Knot 

Objective: Mind exercise 

Time: 15-20 minutes

Tools needed: None

How to play: The whole team must stand in a circle and each person must reach across and link hands with two other people, except the ones right next to them. Soon, a knot is created. The team must work together to untangle themselves.

Purpose: This game drives team members to collaborate with each other and come up with constructive strategies, while also allowing for a little awkwardness and a lot of giggling to break the ice. 

Where to play: Open-air areas like the wide lawn in SaffronStays Gardenia (a seamless garden rolling up to the first floor), are the best spots for a game like this and the cool Alibaug sea-breeze around this private pool villa will ensure that nobody has to deal with sweaty hands!


3. Minefield

Objective: Trust building

Time: 8-10 minutes per round

Tools needed: Objects like balloons, paper cups, chairs, pillows. 

How to play: Divide the group into pairs and spread a number of non-sharp objects on the floor. One member will be blindfolded and asked to get from one end of the room to the other without touching any of the ‘mines’. The other member must guide the blindfolded one only with verbal cues. 

Purpose: This team-building activity fosters communication and trust between team members in a fun and exciting way!

Where to play: Pick SaffronStays Sundowner for its wide-open lawn, elegant gazebo or elongated patio — making this 8-bedroom Karjat villa suitable for a delightful game of Minefield. Trust falls are all the more fun when you do it surrounded by hills and greenery.


4. Build A Story With 5 Keywords

Objective: Promotes creative thinking

Time: 8-10 minutes per group 

Tools needed: None

How to play: Break up the crowd into groups. Each group must make a unique story with the same 5 keywords given to everyone. 

Purpose: The activity pushes team members to be as creative as possible within a fixed framework. You’ll be surprised at how quirky each interpretation is!

Where to play: What you need for a storytelling session is a quiet spot where every voice can be heard. The gazebo on the banks of Andre Lake at SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake is an ideal place for the game and also a key feature of the sprawling 6-bedroom estate.


5. Two Truths And A Lie

Objective: Ice-breaking

Time: 25-30 minutes

Tools needed: None

How to play: The whole group must sit in a circle and one by one reveal two truths and one lie about themselves. The rest of the group must figure out which one is the lie. 

Purpose: A great ice-breaker, team-building activities like these will result in the team members knowing a little more about one another and paving the way for them to get along better. 

Where to play: A quiet, cosy nook where everyone is audible, like any of the rooms in SaffronStays Kairos Athena, which is only 1.5 hours from Mumbai. The bright and tasteful decor combined with the scenic views of Kalote Lake will set just the right mood!


6. Memory Game Relay 

Objective: Improve memory. 

Time: 30-45 minutes

Tools needed: A deck of cards 

How to play: Spread out 5-10 pairs of playing cards on the floor, face down, in random order. One by one, the players must go and pick two cards. If you get a pair of cards you win, if not you do a predetermined activity — like 10 jumping jacks! The goal is to remember the place of each card and get all the pairs as the game progresses. 

Purpose: While this game is great for testing one’s memory, it also becomes a way to foster sportsmanship among the team. It can be played individually or even in groups to get that competitive spirit going!

Where to play: A luxurious private villa in Alibaug, SaffronStays Osaree has a large poolside verandah that is the perfect spot for this game. You can even arrange for local delicacies and cocktails to make their way to you as you play.


7. Shark Tank

Objective: Cross-department interaction

Time: 45-60 minutes

Tools needed: Only a bucket full of imagination

How to play: Have groups of 3-4 people come up with an idea for a product and pitch it to a set of judges. The most investor-worthy idea wins!

Purpose: A little competitiveness can be a healthy catalyst for teamwork. Bringing Shark Tank from the screen into real life might give your team members a spark of inspiration to work harder and be more proactive!

Where to play: Large rooms with a luxurious air and comfortable seating arrangements, like those in SaffronStays Falcon Hill. The 6-bedroom property is surrounded by beautiful forest land. Wouldn’t it be nice if the backdrop behind the judges was a view of Lonavala’s gorgeous valley? 


8. Tied Together 

Objective: Coordination 

Time: 30 minutes

Tools needed: Gift wrapping paper, empty boxes

How to play: Put together pairs of people who have never worked with each other and tie one’s left hand to the other’s right. Each pair must then gift wrap a box. The best wrapped box wins!

Purpose:  This team-building activity not only cultivates communication and coordination but also teaches one about having limitations and how to work around them — something that can be directly applied to work situations. 

Where to play: SaffronStays Raanwaara and Aranya Vilaas has seating areas that are perfect for games like these. A cluster of 10 cottages, this property has gorgeous common areas for everybody to mingle. The quirky vibe of this pool villa will make sure the energy stays up!


9. ABC Hunt

Objective: Teamwork

Time: As short or long as you like

Tools needed: Objects from daily life

How to play: The host calls out three random letters and each team must bring objects starting from each of those letters. The fastest ones win! Queen of Sheba is an alternative wherein the host asks for specific objects. 

Purpose: Playing this game in teams of 3 or 4 is a good way to encourage camaraderie amongst the employees. 

Where to play: The vibrant SaffronStays Casa Manga in Karjat creates a happy vibe that will keep everybody smiling as they rush to grab AirPods, books, cameras, dice and so on. This charming 4-bedroom holiday home also has a massive swimming pool! 


10. Forensic Sketch Artist 

Objective: Communication and creativity skills

Time: 20-25 minutes

Tools needed: Laptop/tablet for the image, paper and drawing tools

How to play: Two groups play against each other. Each group assigns a forensic sketch artist. The rest of the players are shown an image of a face and must describe it to the artist who will sketch it out. In the end, the two sketch artists will compare their drawings and the more accurate one wins. 

Purpose: Rather than drawing skills, this game presents the players with an opportunity to understand how to best communicate with one another.

Where to play: Wouldn’t it be nice to play this game in decorative outdoor seating areas like at SaffronStays Aatman? Nestled in Mahabaleshwar’s hills, the jumbled shouts of hair colour and eye shape will be levelled out by chirping birds and stunning sunset.


And while there is something or the other to learn from all of these team-building activities, don’t forget that it’s just as important to have fun. Sometimes, leisure and recreation can lead to the clearest minds of them all!

10 Dreamy Luxury Villas Just Under 90 Minutes Drive From BKC

Are you putting off your holiday? Are you trying to avoid lengthy train rides and expensive airfare? We’ve got your back with these 10 villas that are just a quick drive from BKC, Mumbai. In fact, you can get to them in less than 90 minutes! The route is straightforward and our villas are super easy to find. So browse through this list of dreamy destinations, pick your fav, and get booking!   

1. SaffronStays Aura, Alibaug

Large families will love the classy interiors and playful vibe of this 5-bedroom villa. There is plenty of space for kids to run around and a game room packed with the essentials for a fun holiday. The open sky pool is attached to the main living room, creating the perfect party setting!

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Aura


2. SaffronStays Osaree, Alibaug

If you’re looking to host a reunion or large celebration just a quick drive from Mumbai, this 5-bedroom pet-friendly villa is your best bet! The villa’s key feature is the broad verandah that stretches out next to the pool. The spacious structure of the villa and its charming Colonial-style furnishings make for a chill vibe that will keep your party alive. 

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Osaree


3. SaffronStays Sea La Vie, Alibaug

One of the best sea-facing villas near Mumbai, Sea La Vie has a view that could mesmerize you for hours. You can hear the sound of the waves from any of its plush bedrooms and even enjoy the sunset with a picnic on the lawn. Only 4 km away from Mandwa Jetty, this gorgeous home is just around the corner from you. 

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Sea La Vie


4. SaffronStays Gardenia, Alibaug

An hour’s ride off the RoRo from Mumbai Port will get you to this stylish 4-bedroom villa that is surrounded by greenery. From the stunning infinity pool to the seamless garden that rolls up to the first floor, there are plenty of spots for the perfect photo op. You can turn your visit up a notch with the barbecue or bonfire services!

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Gardenia


5. SaffronStays Kairos, Karjat

Wish you could be in Greece? Now you can, in just a quick 90-minute drive from Mumbai. This 3-bedroom villa has whitewashed walls and blue doors that recreate the beauty of Greece. The cherry on top is the infinity pool, mini-bar and private butler, for when you feel like treating yourself!

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Kairos


6. SaffronStays Turquoise Maison, Karjat

Settled on the banks of Lake Kalote and surrounded by the view of the mountains, this 3-bedroom villa provides a peaceful getaway from the city. Who knew this quiet spot was so close to Mumbai? You and your friends can have a carefree pool party or a cosy bonfire night on the patio. Don’t forget to experience the jacuzzi as well as the aromatic fruit garden. 

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Turquoise Maison


7. SaffronStays Casa Manga, Karjat

Looking for a quick escape? A quick drive from Mumbai will get you to this picture-perfect villa in less than an hour and a half. The yellow walled cottage and its comfy interiors say happy vibes only. While you unwind, you can also relish the organic mangoes of the estate. Masala bhindi, lasooni aloo, and mutton curry are some of the in-house chef’s unmissable dishes. 

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Casa Manga


8. SaffronStays Roselle, Malavali

Roselle is a charming villa that is ideal for a quiet getaway or a small party. Relax and get some me-time among the bright furnishings or let your hair down with your friends in the pool. Authentic Maharashtrian delicacies will keep your stomach full. Remember to get your dog along to this pet-friendly villa!

Plan your dream holiday now: SafffronStays Roselle


9. SaffronStays Urja, Lonavala

A 3-bedroom pet-friendly villa that is a visual treat, with stone and metalwork infused in the architecture. A beautiful venue to simply take some time off, the villa can accommodate up to 11 people. Two plunge pools, a sparkling waterfall, a spa room, jacuzzi, gym room and an open sky room are right there to ensure you get the best vacation experience.

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Urja

10. SaffronStays Casa Delizia, Lonavala

Casa Delizia is a 4-bedroom villa that offers an escape in luxury. You can marvel at the beauty of art and sculptures inside, as well as the breathtaking view of the mountains outside. The plunge pool, bar-n-barbecue set-up, and a plethora of indoor games will keep you entertained. Meanwhile, our in-house chefs Dasharath and Bharti will provide fresh homemade meals. 

Plan your dream holiday now: SaffronStays Casa Delizia


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Top Monsoon Spots To Unwind At With Your Loved Ones!

Monsoons are round the corner. Enjoy a cup of hot tea lounging atop a hill station. Take a stroll among trees in a light drizzle, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful weather. SaffronStays presents you some monsoon getaway options; in and around Maharashtra.

SaffronStays Fragrant Sun, Mulshi

Perched on a hillside, this earthy home provides a view of the expansive Mulshi lake. This 5-bedroom home is made out of all natural materials. One can take a dip in the lake. Savour the lip-smacking food and unwind in the serenity, the surroundings provide.

SaffronStays River Rock, Panvel

This home boasts of an outdoor Jacuzzi and an amazing view of a bubbling river. And the best part? Its practically 2 hours away from Mumbai! This 2.5 bedroom house is an amalgamation of modern and traditional architecture. Furnished with all modern amenities, this villa gives a homely vibe to the guests.

SaffronStays Verandah By the Valley, Panchgani

Perched on a cliff edge, this home looks over the expanse of the valley in Panchgani. Watch the sun dip low in the horizon. Smell the petrichor and a splash of light drizzle on your face. One can go strawberry or gooseberry picking. Guests can also see beautiful view of the Nagewadi Dam waters from the open deck built at the house.

SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Coorg

The ambience of a colonial cottage, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bunglow, Ooty is a 6000 square feet heritage bungalow set amidst a coffee plantation. Sit back and relax with a book. Take a walk among the plantations, or just spend time with your loved one. As this home borders the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, guests have a lot of flora and fauna to explore around the home.

SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate, Ooty

Located in one of the very well known destinations for a monsoon getaway, SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate transports guests to another world with its heritage charm. This home has 4 gorgeous suites where guests experience the regal charm of the colonial era. Sit around a bonfire and savour this monsoon weather with your family and friends.

So what are you waiting for? Come, explore these beautiful villas and enjoy monsoon rains to the fullest!