Envision a vacation in Goa and more often than not, it will include sunsets on the beach, seafood at the shacks and raging all-nighters that stretch until dawn. Exciting while all of that is, there's a depth to Goa that goes beyond the stereotypical to-do list you've seen splashed across social media. As a South Goan through and through, it's refreshing to see Alila Diwa Goa showcase a different side of the state as it has come to be known; one that's delightfully soothing and subtly opulent with the warmth and charm of South Goa only few know about. On #SheSays, my getaway to Alila Diwa Goa throws a spotlight on its exclusive offerings and luxurious ambiance.
(Also Read: 8 Reasons Why You Cannot Miss Staying At Alila Diwa When In South Goa)
Location
Nestled in the quiet by-lanes of a waddo in Majorda, Alila Diwa is situated right off the main road. Its location is easily accessible from Madgoan train station or Dabolim airport by road within 40-50 minutes.
Ambiance
The lobby is a glimpse into what one can expect from the decor in the rest of the resort. High red tile roofs are pitched with beams and supported by red brick columns; which are signature facets of Goan-Portuguese architecture. The resort is divided into Southern and Western wings, both of which are washed in pristine white; yet another nod to traditional Goan decor. Accenting structures are wood paneled, giving the space a warm and sunny presence. What also added literal sunshine to the decor were glass roof lights, which bathed even enclosed areas in vitamin D. Their premises also included the usage of solar panels, which is an incredible move for environmental consciousness on a scale like this.
A stroll around the resort revealed its deeper commitment to the cause. Tiled paths wind their way over lush green lawns which are bordered with stunning bushes and shrubs, maintained exquisitely by the careful hands of their gardening staff. Within the outdoor area also lies a large wooden treehouse, which one can book for special occasions or romantic surprises.
The Suite
Our suite opened to the same shade palette of white and brown, also paired with wooden floors. A spacious family room opened to a sunny balcony that overlooked the pool and paddy fields beyond. Inside, the roomy bathroom came with an even roomier bathtub that could easily house 2. Those who prefer bathing firmly on two feet would appreciate the spacious glass-fit shower that featured safe anti-skid flooring matching the surface. My room tour didn't end there, though. The expansive suite also featured a vanity table to dress up at, a wardrobe large enough for weeks of clothing and a changing room surrounded by mirrors that was private from other areas of the room.
Amenities
The most notable of all of Alila's luxury amenities is its infinity swimming pool. A rarity in the country; let alone the state, it overlooks vibrant paddy fields in various shades of green, dotted with cattle lazily grazing. Accompanied by a kiddy pool and a lounge area; if you're anything like me, you might find it tough to get out of here.
Their recreation room is well-stocked with carom, table tennis, chess and foosball for adults while kids have a special area to keep them occupied through the day. Those who'd like a big screen experience while in the resort can head to the mini-movie theatre which screens feature films twice daily.
For a space as serene as this, the spa is on a whole other level. Tucked away from the bustle of the resort's outdoor area, Spa Alila is surrounded by lily pads floating on water and offers every kind of spa and salon treatment one desires. Stepping inside is like taking a therapeutic trip to Bali without moving out of the borders of Goa.
Facilities
Alila Diwa Goa's facilities are finessed and attentive to detail, making one's stay not just convenient but completely cherished. To reach the five-star property, pick-up and drop facilities can be availed from the hotel on a chargeable basis, which will make transporting within Goa significantly easier.
Those who'd like their Goan trip to include a beach visit can avail of the resort's shuttle services to and from Gonsua beach, which is situated minutes away. The service is available from 7am to 7pm.
If you'd like to host an occasion at the resort, book their indoor banquet hall or outdoor venue space with catering for corporate and personal events.
Yogis will appreciate that, besides wellness being factored in at the spa, guests can practise yoga twice a week under the guidance of an instructor in the stunning scenic beauty of their private outdoor garden adjacent to the spa.
Food And Drink Locales
There's a food and beverage option for your every mood at Alila Diwa. Choose from a cafe, speakeasy-style bar, multi-cuisine buffet or coastal restaurant within the property for your next meal. Start the day by tucking into VIVO's widespread breakfast buffet with Indian, Goan and continental specialties; from poie and puris to scrambled eggs and freshly-squeezed juice. Lunch time can be spent at Edge; the aptly-titled poolside restaurant for gourmet snacks with a view of the water. At the stunningly decorated Courtyard bar adjacent to a gloriously large banyan tree, cocktails and appetisers are a perfect choice while the sun goes down. Spice Studio is a wonderful dinner option that serves authentic coastal cuisines from Goa to Kerala to Karnataka, surrounded by the strains of live music.
Alila Diwa Goa is the luxury South Goan experience like nowhere else. With its paddy field periphery, lush amenities in every corner and nature in its most spectacular scenic beauty, you'll be spoiled to the hilt enough to think about making your next reservations when checking out of the hotel itself.
In #SheSays, Dayle Pereira explores the sights, sounds, experiences and tastes offered up at hotels and resorts, restaurants and home stays all over the world.
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