Situated in the Indian state of Goa, famous for its coastlines stretching along the Arabian Sea and its long history as a Portuguese colony, Alila Diwa is a five-star property offering the perfect South Goa holiday stay.
Alila Diwa, the first Indian property for the luxury chain, is nestled among lush rice fields only a 20-minutes drive from Goa Dabolim International Airport and minutes from Gonsua Beach in Majorda.
With 153 guestrooms and suites, this unique Goan resort is completely surrounded by nature providing a secluded and tranquil haven for both families and couples.
The reception area is majestic with its contemporary Goan architecture including high pitched roofs, teak details and local red laterite stone. The common areas throughout the resort feature ponds, gardens and nice walkways. There is a private path from the hotel to the beach but it is also possible to use a complimentary shuttle service from the hotel and back.
When the hotel was built in 2009 the trees around the area were left untouched, including a 200-year-old mango tree, which is a testament of the hotel’s respect for the local nature according to General Manager Mr Siddharth Savkur.
Terrace Room
The 44m2 Terrace Room has a comfortable and warm feel with interior colours such as pale wood, cream, brown and russet being used to represent the nature of Goa.
The king-size bed is comfortable with several lighting options including sleeping, reading or relaxing placed over each bedside table.
The spacious balcony overlooking the garden adds to the room’s airy feel and business travellers will be pleased to find a separate work area as well as complimentary wifi.
The room’s biggest draw is the spacious bathroom boasting an enclosed shower, a large bathtub, a double sink and a walk-in wardrobe neatly closed off with wooden mirrored sliding doors.
A great plus is how Alila Diwa complies with ‘earth-check’ by using large refillable bottles for shampoo, conditioner and shower gel instead of small plastic bottles.
The infinity pool
A resort stay isn’t complete without a pool and Alila Diwa does not disappoint in this department.
Surrounded by comfortable sun lounges and crisp white umbrellas the infinity pool area is the perfect place to put the feet up with a good book under the warm Indian sun.
It is particularly spectacular to enjoy a swim around dusk whilst witnessing the light slowly transitioning from day to night.
The Edge Bar overlooks the infinity pool and offers a stunning view over the green paddies and is the perfect spot to enjoy an evening cocktail and a light snack.
Dining at Spice Studio and VIVO
The breakfast is served at VIVO which is also open for all-day dining. The restaurant is overlooking the resort pool and offers both indoor and Al Fresco seating options.
The elaborate breakfast buffet consists of Oriental, Indian and Western food. There is an ‘egg-station’ for omelettes and poached eggs and an open Indian kitchen where roti bread is made-by-order.
There is plenty of fresh fruits, yoghurt and muesli as well as European style patisseries and baked goods which can be enjoyed with a large selection of teas and Alila’s own special coffee blend. The espresso coffee is especially nice.
The award-winning Spice Studio is a fine-dining restaurant open for lunch and dinner. This is where traditional Indian food is prepared, with the well-known Goan fish curry being the most popular dish, by using fresh produce and spices from not only the Goa region but from several Indian regions. The classic Indian dishes are tasty especially the Dal Fry and the local organic red rice.
Wellness focus
Alila Diwa has not been late to the party when it comes to meeting the demand of the growing interest in wellness among luxury resort guests. By introducing a Detox Detour program the hotel is offering guests a luxury stay whilst restoring the balance between mind, body and spirit.
Developed by Dr Arjita Kumari, the resort’s permanent in-house expert, the program has been designed to cleanse, restore and nourish by using a holistic approach based on ancient Ayurveda principles.
Who is this hotel for?
Families who are looking for a relaxed and quiet holiday not too far from the beach as well as couples who are looking for a secluded escape. Given the peaceful environment, location and facilities, the hotel is also a suitable option for older couples.
Don’t be surprised if you run into a large group of doctors or other professionals – the hotel is also a popular conference resort.
Room rates start at $300/per night
0091 832 274 6800 www.alilahotels.com
