Although Goa is the smallest state in all of India, its culture varies greatly based on its location. While North Goa is lively and energetic with a long list of tourist-frequented night clubs and popular eateries, the South is very different. Quiet and charming, Alila Diwa Goa represents those very characteristics. Tucked away in Majorda, Alila Diwa is a stone's throw away from Gonsua beach but it is a far cry from the typical beach side Goan resort you've seen pasted in magazines. Surrounded by manicured paddy fields and quiet village roads, it captures the old world charm of Goa with a luxurious touch. On #SheSays, a weekend getaway at Alila Diwa in Majorda led to a jam-packed list of highlights why this five star resort is where you should stay when you're in South Goa.
The Decor Is Exquisite
A reflection pool welcomes you when you check into the Alila Diwa. The walk to your room is between red brick columns; a signature of Goan architecture, under a glass roof and around greenery in every free space possible. A looming banyan tree, which has seemingly existed for decades in the soil of Majorda, sits majestically at the centre of the courtyard. The colour palette of the resort is pristine white; a Goan-Portuguese favoured shade, paired with dark brown. Large windows, cutouts and an open plan allows for natural light to bathe the spaces.
The Infinity Pool Is Incredible
There are swimming pools and there is the swimming pool at Alila Diwa. The massive infinity pool starts off shallow and graduates to a depth of almost 5 feet; with lounge seats and tables being partially immersed in the shallow end. If your strong strokes can carry you to the very end of the pool, you'll be rewarded with a view that's second to none. Endless green paddy fields and birds melodiously chirping against a backdrop of the sun dipping into the horizon is a pool view that you won't get anywhere else in the country. For younglings, there's a separate kiddy pool with a lounge area for parents to keep their eyes on them.
(Also Read: Offbeat Destination In Goa: Visit Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary)
The Sunday Brunch Cannot Be Missed
The in-house restaurant VIVO serves all meals from breakfast to dinner but their Sunday brunch is particularly notable. From noon up until 3.30pm, you'll be serenaded by the aromas, sights and sounds that Goa is so famous for. The buffet spread includes a variety of cuisines; from European small plates like beef tartare to Indian favourites like paneer lababdar. It also includes a chaat station and tempura counter to add crunch to one's platter. You can wash the delicacies down with a variety of cocktails available to order. A live singer crooning 90s favourites heightens the cheery ambience. To end the afternoon on a sweet note, the spread of desserts offer you plenty of choice. From feni creme brulee to bounty cake, every type of sweet tooth will find fulfillment here.
The Spa Is A Must Visit
The Alila Diwa Spa is like no other and that's saying something when it is coming from someone who has experienced most spa and salon treatments humanly imaginable. A short walk away from the bustle of the poolside and the buzzing restaurants, Spa Alila is located at the end of a wooden board walk surrounded by lotus leaves floating gently on water. It features a cosy outdoor garden wherein yoga is offered for guests on a bi-weekly basis. Inside, the ambiance of the spa is soothing and specific consideration is given to ingredients being used in the treatment. Whether you choose quick reflexology or a deep Swedish massage, allergies and ailments are also noted prior to it beginning. The masseuse was a thorough professional, with deft fingers plying through the knots and pressure adjustment where necessary. Surrounded by an aura of calm; which is made even calmer by the relaxation sounds, sweat it out in the sauna or rinse off in the outdoor shower attached. You'll end up going back to your hotel suite on a blissful cloud of relaxation.
The Master Class Must Not Be Missed
If you want to take a bit of Alila Diwa's Southern charm back home with you, sign up for the Alila masterclass. Spice Studio is the property's coastal cuisine restaurant, which serves as the location for the class to celebrate the cuisine of the Southern regions of India. Watch as the head chef shares their expertise to create a dish from Kerala, Karnataka or Goa and play sous chef for the hour. The meal you devour after will be more memorable than most, packed with cooking secrets you can take home with you.
The Amenities Are A Thoughtful Touch
Most five star resorts come with the typical roster of swanky restaurants, glitzy lobbies and gleaming poolsides. At Alila Diwa, luxury isn't ostentatious. It's comfortable, it's conscious and it's thoughtful. It's visible with the additions across their property. A mini theatre that screens movies twice daily is easy to embrace. Opposite it is a recreation room with a chess board, foosball table, carom board and table tennis set for those who want to indulge in a good old fashionable activity excluding a screen. The landscaped paths are blissful for evening walks at dusk and there's even a treehouse to recreate special moments. Those who want to include a beach visit in their Goan itinerary can opt for the resort's shuttle service to be ferried back and forth from Gonsua beach.
The Diwa Club Is An Exclusive Hideaway
If Alila Diwa's exquisite luxury isn't exclusive enough for you, check in at the Diwa Club. A highly exclusive extension of the resort within the property itself, the Diwa Club has its own secluded wing and private check-in. Its rooms are most spacious and its very own private pool is only permitted usage by Diwa Club members. The restaurant Bistro, which is located on the Diwa Club property, offers all-day breakfast for its top tier guests as well tea time and cocktail sundowners daily.
You're bound to experience South Goan charm and exquisite hospitality when you check in here.
(Also Read: Visit These 7 Beautiful Beaches In Goa For A Magical Monsoon Experience)
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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.
