Goa is not just a place, for some, it’s an emotion.
Since many consider going to Goa only for the shacks, casinos, parties and the beach, they end up in North Goa. Ask any millennial to go to South Goa and they’ll immediately snap at you saying, “South Goa is for families.”
Well, Azaya Beach Resort will change this perception. This property located in South Goa, known for its quietude, temples and pristine beaches, not only has a serene view of the sea and a clean and white beach but also has an upscale vibe to it. Unlike a lot of luxury hotels in the region, it has a very simple and elegant layout. As you enter, long and narrow lanes with plants on either side lead you to posh villas with a Portuguese garden forming the central courtyard.
GLAMOROUS BEDROOMS
What’s better than having a bathtub in the bedroom? Definitely having one in the balcony and what is even better is having a private plunge pool, ideal for a quick night-time soak under the starry night. Azaya offers a variety of glamorous bedrooms which have Maldivian and Portuguese vibes to them. Choose from the 114 rooms, each having its own unique character, which makes the choosing part really tough.
The rooms are pretty huge. One can have a comfortable stay and enjoy the mini-bar which is not so mini after all. Great for those who want to party in the room.
The rooms have a contemporary and minimalist feel to them with huge windows that open either in the balcony which is decked with lounge chairs or in the pool, depending on the room you choose. There are open closets and a classy colour scheme is followed.
GORGING ON FOOD
At the resort, you are spoilt for choice because of the number of places to dine at. We loved La Concha, their all-day restaurant serving everything from world cuisines to the local Goan food. The place wants to bring back the authenticity of flavours that sometimes is lost when a fusion dish is served. A personal favourite was Mrs Rodrique’s Goan Fish Curry. The king fish was tender and the curry was full of flavours - clearly something that one should not miss when in Goa.
In a mood for a quick refreshing meal by the pool? Hop into the poolside Cerulean which offers a variety of salads, burgers and sandwiches.
THE PARTY BEGINS HERE
Debunking the myth that South Goa is not a good place to party at, is Blue Iris which is a beachfront shack style restaurant. Trust us, while at this property, you are not even going to miss the famous shacks of North Goa. Blue Iris has a private cabana seating where you can enjoy the best of mocktails and cocktails with fresh grills and barbecues while enjoying live music or simply listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
After gorging these delicious starters, you can indulge in some authentic and traditional home-made Goan fare too. When we say, homemade, it is actually cooked by an aunty who lives near the property. The food that is served at the shacks is not going to disappoint you either.
Enjoy a bunch of innovative cocktails and concoctions served at the Lynx Bar and Lounge, which is the property’s New York style high-octane bar and lounge. While busy sipping the amazing drinks, do not forget to indulge in the finger/bar food served there. The food is fusion in nature — not a regular fare but a mindblowing one along with specially curated Tapas from the Spanish cuisine but with an Asian twist. Imagine minced lamb and tarts together - trust us, it is a total bliss.
A SOULFUL DAY
Goa can be a harsh experience for those who don’t like basking in the sun or walking down the beach, but the resort will take care of that too. Grab a book and go down to their library which overlooks the pool, with a clear view of the beach and the coconut trees. Take a dip in their massive pool or just laze around the pool deck while sipping on some amazing and refreshing pina coladas or the famous Goan Kings beer.
For relaxation, you have two options at Azaya — walk down to the plush spa or the spa will come to your room. They have an array of massage options to choose from, right from a Swedish massage which is a deep-tissue massage to aromatherapy which will really help one calm down.
And for those of you who like a bit of stretching even on holidays, you can have a good workout session either in the gym or go for a run on the white beach of Benaulim and come back to enjoy the comforting and happening stay at Azaya Beach Resort.
