It is not often that you envisage a vacation on the top of a hill in Goa. That is just the first of many singularities of a stay at Hilton Goa Resort, the brand’s third property in the Sunshine State. Set in the quaint neighbourhood of Saipem, close to Candolim Beach, the property is a departure from the typical seaside resorts of Goa. On the weekend that I arrive, the weather is balmy and the people, warm and friendly.
Out of the four blocks named after different forts in Goa, my room is housed on the second floor of Cabo de Rama. The King Deluxe Riverview Room flaunts contemporary Indo-Portuguese design elements and generous use of wood. I pull the wooden blinds and slide open the glass door of the balcony to see River Nerul and tracts of salt pans in the distance, gleaming under the afternoon sun. Closer to the eye, the property’s palms and frangipani flowers sway in the breeze.
Since the resort is designed like a fort, there are no elevators to ferry you across the floors. This makes the scenic sundowner— with views of the backwaters of Goa and the hypnotic waters of the infinity pool—set in the private balcony of the Presidential Suite on the top floor, a well-earned reward.
Continue reading your story on the app
Continue reading your story in the magazine
The Intelligent Traveller
TIPS AND TRICKS TO HELP YOU TRAVEL SMARTER
THE ROUTE TO PEACE
In a bid to relive his motorbiking days, SAMIR BHATNAGAR saddles up and sets off from Sikkim to Bhutan. On the trip, he discovers a kingdom brimming with quiet joys, untouched natural beauty, and cultural riches.
THE DAWN IS NIGH
Varanasi may be best known for its ethereal ghats and boat rides on the River Ganga, but its svelte lanes are brimming with culinary specialties and unique silk saris. On a fine morning, TARUKA SRIVASTAV samples these and discovers just how much the pandemic has affected the local businesses
Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni AUTHOR: PURVEYOR OF A NEW WORLD
She is known for retelling Indian epics from the perspective of their female characters. Currently a resident of Texas, Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni talks to ADILA MATRA about the outsider’s gaze, her latest book, feminism in Indian literature, and unique travel experiences.
Avni Doshi AUTHOR AN ODE TO MOTHERS
In her Booker-shortlisted debut novel, Burnt Sugar, Avni Doshi effortlessly weaves together complex narratives of memory loss, motherhood, and trauma. She speaks to SUMEET KESWANI about the book’s inspiration, her connection with Pune, and the evolving idea of home.
FEMME O'CLOCK
Designing a watch for a woman’s wrist needs both skill and artistry. For International Women’s Day, here are five timepieces that are stylish and technically impressive.
CELEBRATE YOURSELF
From organic coconut oil to wine-infused lip balms, here are the top beauty buys for women on the go.
Goa With A Twist
Innovative dining, well-curated high-teas, offbeat local trails, and unparalleled hospitality—Hilton Goa Resort crafts a world far removed from the Goa to which we are accustomed. By Adila Matra
BUT FIRST, SKINCARE!
This month, ace the beauty game with luxe facial lixirs, buttery foot creams, pearl-infused face masks, and more.
BORN TO PLAY
Water is a gadget’s biggest enemy. Whether it’s a diver’s watch that endures tremendous pressure in the depths of the ocean or a yachting watch that makes complex calculations, a timepiece crafted to deliver in water is a technical feat that should be celebrated.
The Rolling Stones: Goats Head Soup Super Deluxe Edition
Show of hands, please—how many of you rate August 1973’s Goats Head Soup as your favorite Rolling Stones album? Anyone? No? Can’t say I blame you.
Yes, you *can* have everything you want
It’s time to manifest your biggest dreams. Because making (and not keeping) new year’s resolutions is so last year.
Goa and Greenhouses
A well-to-do Russian tries to bring his green new ideal to life in a Russian village. Not all goes to plan.
A Fresh Space For Your Child With Special Needs
For the majority of Americans, the start of a new year means setting new goals and resolutions.
NIGHT FALL
OVERBOARD IN A DESERTED ANCHORAGE AT NIGHT, CULLY PETTIGREW IS IN TROUBLE
Top Scholars Road To Success Requires Setting The Bar Higher
The pathway to success in career and life starts with goals, motivation, and commitment. Setting the bar high academically is but one of many routes to success, as is pursuing professional experience through internships and seeking leadership opportunities.
Get Freakin' Started
This time of year, everybody loves to make wildly ambitious fitness resolutions. But the truth is, converting your body from a doughy blob of fat to a sexy slab of muscle is far easier said than done. As much as it takes discipline and hard work, it also requires a solid game plan. Here’s yours.
The Power Of Visualization
Sometimes it’s not enough to have a goal. Sometimes you have to picture yourself achieving it.
How To Help Children Set And Achieve Goals
Helping children set and achieve goals
What's Your BTS Make Over Mood?
Want an instant upgrade for the new year? Change is good—and we’re here to help with a smart, cinchy strategy for those #newyou vibes...