DIFFERENT STROKES

For a gentler, more soulful unconventional to deep tissue massages, try the Master Therapist Experience at Bangkok’s Banyan Tree Spa. The 90-minute body massage is a sprightly ballet of touch specially tailored using a range of massage techniques and tools, that will leave you feeling more related to your inner being and emotions.

When you arrive at the Banyan Tree Bangkok, you know it’s a beautiful property blending Thai inspired decor with modern comforts. A warm welcome greets you and it’s not long before you are whisked away to your accommodation especially if you are a club lounge guest, you can lose yourself out here for an hour, a day, a week or more with its many recreation and dining options….I decide to recharge myself after a sleepless night of flying and get ready for the next few days of holidaying!

MASTER THERAPIST EXPERIENCE

The Therapist first takes time to understand my profile before customizing a package best suited to meet my needs. The calming effect of the spa envelopes me from the moment I enter the scented chamber done up in rich tones of green, brown, red and off white. Sipping my chamomile tea in a bathrobe, I can feel my tension dissolve as a petite Thai masseuse soaks my feet in warm water and massages my calves with an exfoliating lime.

The masseuse begins with the soothing bundle of heat on my muscles in anti-clockwise circular massage strokes. The signature massage of the award winning spa (It came in first in the Top 25 International Spas on the US Celebrated Living Readers’ Choice Platinum List) encompasses smooth, recurring movements that syndicate the methods of palming, effleurage and kneading to relax and soothe me. These techniques uplift my senses and ease muscle tension, leaving me fully invigorated.

With the healing benefits of customized essential oil, the experience puts me in harmony and balance. The body is calmed, realigned and rested. Trust me, these different strokes are definite to put even the most obstinate insomniacs into a peaceful snooze, a reason why this massage is chiefly useful for those who find it hard to shut eye. Then after some steam and sauna I soak in the goodness of an uplifting Ginger Bath and stepped out with glowing skin. Refreshed, I nibble on Thai fruits and walnuts and leave the spa feeling pampered, healed and happy. Ah, the exquisite lightness of being and the excitement of the next few days of more such experiences with mommy!

FACT FILE

WHERE? Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok 21st Floor, Thai Wah Tower II Sount Sathorn Road, Tungmahamek, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

TEL:  +66 2 679 1052/4

TREATMENT TAKEN: MASTER THERAPIST EXPERIENCE

TIME: 90 MINUTES

PRICE: 6,000 BAHT

FOR MORE TREATMENT OPTIONS: https://www.banyantreespa.com/find-a-spa/banyan-tree-spa-bangkok

LIVING IN PARADISE @ THE LALIT RESORT & SPA BEKAL

Access to a clean and green environment today has become an extravagance rather than our birth right; The Lalit Resort & Spa is a boon in disguise. Located in close proximity of the Nombili River and the point where the Sea meets the river it is amongst the best beach resorts in Bekal. Away from the hurried city life, this stay is an authentic stress-buster.

We arrived at The Lalit Resort & Spa Bekal in time for dinner, after a pleasant flight with Jet Airways to Mangalore Airport and a one and a half hour drive during which I crossed the Karnataka border and found myself in the delightful green surroundings of Kerala. It was my third visit to God’s own country but the first to Bekal. Upon entering resort, you will be welcomed with sights, sounds and scents to stir your soul and replenish your spirit. The staff at The Lalit welcomed us with tender coconuts harvested from their own trees. This has to be the best welcome drink I have ever had – the water was cool, sweet-smelling and delicious.

MY ROOM

My Luxury room was on the ground floor of a two-storey unit and came with a spacious bedroom, spread out garden and bathroom.

I was ecstatic to see JBL speakers in the bedroom, an inviting Jacuzzi in the bathroom and a tranquil view of the Nombili River backwaters from the alfresco section of my room. And how can I forget the welcome cake, cookies and fruits? The room is perfect for 2-3 people as there is a comfy sofa beside the double bed which comes with an elaborate pillow menu. I had found my place to relax, revive and experience total renewal. It’s was like living in paradise!

CHILL ZONE

After breakfast the next day, we explored the resort, enjoying the freedom of riding side-by-side on the complimentary bicycles. Before heading back for the exploration, we asked our dedicated personal butler (known as the Holiday Host) to book a therapist for a pre-lunch Spa treatment.

Like other resorts, Ayurveda is the prime attraction here as well. Yoga is yet another recreational activity offered to guests in this place, but I left that for later. The spa is sumptuous; its wide range of treatments is performed in rooms with beautiful views. On offer is a widespread range of indulging therapies such as the signature Ayurveda treatments to rounded wellness packages managed by professional practitioners and their resident Ayurveda medical doctor. There are many more treatments for simply relaxing and rejuvenating too. The mission at the Rejuve Spa is to deliver spa experiences that are both unique and memorable and are very mindful to use only the most natural skin care products to balance the mind, body and emotions.

OF BOATS AND OARS

Later that evening, at the calm Nombili River, we put on life jackets and leapt into a boat escorted by a boatman.

Curving through the river’s turquoise green length was like an indulgent ushered by the throbbing lap-lap of the oars. The thick bunches of coconut trees gave way to their beautiful shadows on the water, as our boatman propelled with all his strength. Boat rides and other water activities are complimentary for staying guests. After the short boat ride, we walked down to the beach and laid-back at the lenient sand, away from the bouncing waves with revitalizing coconut water…simply awesome!

BESPOKE DINING EXPERIENCES

The Nombili Restaurant, just beyond the reception, showcases culinary art of this enchanted land at all meal times. Apart from this, sprawling on the 26 acres of land surrounded by verdant greenery and long stretches of sandy river banks, the resort offers unmatched dining experiences.

Over several dinners at several gorgeous venues aka by the Sea side, in a Gazebo by the river and by the glimmering pool, I sampled Avial; ulli theeyal, a piquant shallot curry with a hint of coconut; the crumbly and encrusted Malabar paratha, cottony appams, Payasam, Chicken Tikka with good old roti and a remarkable tender coconut panna cotta. And if you want to just chill and hang out in the evenings with then the ‘Nombili Bar’ it is or better still just order room service!!

STAFF AND SERVICE

Always happy to assist smilingly, this made my stay absolutely delightful. ….The Lalit Bekal Resort & Spa has got it right for sure!  Additionally, I had access to gorgeous views of the Nombili River and splendid amenities!

THE MUST DO’S AROUND

BEKAL FORT

The noteworthy and celebrated Bekal fort is naturally the best which this State has to offer. Situated serenely casing 40 acres of land alongside the shores of the Arabian Sea, this massive fort literally takes you down the leaves of history into the 17^th century. 

The dark brick-stone used in its round structure bids a pleasant disparity to the silvery sound of the seawaters and the delicious green of the native flora that nurtures playing in abundance.

KASARGOD

Just a twenty minute drive from the resort, Kasaragod the town is home to a special weaving co-operative society that is well-known for its elegant Sarees.  It was really captivation to watch the old-style way cotton is turned into yarn, and the many dyeing and interweaving processes which lastly significances in the gorgeous Kasaragod Saree. Of course mom and I bought quite a few! On the way back to the resort do not miss buying some fresh Hot Banana chips for friends and family.

A PLANTATION TOUR & LOCAL LUNCH

Well-known for its beautiful Muliyar forest and vapour clothed meadows; the trekking experience is unquestionably amazing, as one also gets to watch goings-on like coconut tugging as well as get acquainted with the plantation land that crops coconuts, figs, tapioca, bananas, pineapple, guavas, cacao, vegetables and spices like nutmeg, pepper and cinnamon followed by a home cooked local vegetarian lunch.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach: The closest airport is Mangalore and Jet Airways offers the best connectivity. The drive to the resort takes about an hour and a half from the airport. The Lalit, Resort and Spa, Bevoori, Bekal, Kasargod District, Kerala – 671319

Reservations and cost: Rooms begin at Rs 15,000 per night, exclusive of taxes. For bookings, visit http://www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-bekal/

Tel: +91-467 223 7777; Email: bekal@thelalit.com

Best Time to Visit: This is an all-year round property and the monsoons add to the attraction of the river and the beach.

THE LALIT MANGAR ….DISOVERING THE LUXURY RESORT!!

There is something noteworthy about slowing on the driveway sweeping you towards a weekend break hotel. Possibly the leisurelier stride permits time for a spectacle to build, for the gorgeousness and measure of a property to be appreciated. It is like the sensation of escape from the maddening world!

The Lalit Mangar is at the end of a short driveway from Gurgaon on the Faridabad road. It is a magnificent Georgian manor house that offers 35 opulent suites all with spectacular views of the valley. Conceptually, this is ‘affordable luxury’ territory; physically, it’s has a wonderful backdrop of the Aravalli, an area of outstanding natural beauty, with acres of parkland nearby. In design terms, it’s all gorgeously balanced. And the artistic punches keep on coming as you enter the lounge itself.

The interior of the main lobby is outstanding though not austere. A winding pathway led me to my room where I was staying. But I am drawn to the Tapri, where rugged cots and a sizable Tea stall combine with superb valley views to reinforce an atmosphere of repose so decided to come back after checking out my room.

I was instantly enchanted by its looks, mesmerized by its extravagant linen and furniture, and impressed with the hotel’s luxurious and traditional touches: a Nespresso machine, large flat screen Smart TV, Kronokare toiletries, USB sockets and traditional different gender pretty dolls in the bathroom and my favourite was the cutie pie ‘Bambi’ stuffed toy on my bed. Colour pops into the room thanks to the interesting reddish orange in the windows and the bathrobes, breaking the off-white almost, in an otherwise saintly space.

Plus, the room felt incredibly private and quiet. I didn’t hear any of the other guests and, which meant peaceful slumbers and very sweet dreams. The restaurant – open kitchen, large tables, and countryside vistas – feels grown-up and elegant, and the bar that has the most appealing ambience, quite like that of a country-club, with large pots and panoramic ceiling to wall glass windows. Its yellow comfortable sofas give a sense of warmth and an air of intoxication – on a number of levels.

There was nothing patronizing about the staff. Reception was cheery, welcoming and the check-in and out swift; the doormen where more than happy to be in the picture and the concierge, well, he was a fruit-burst of positivity and enthusiasm. With gusto he helped us plot the best route to the all the in and around activities at the resort, like yoga, picnics, Spa massages etc…my favourite being gazing the stars just after dinner from the Telescope with delicious masala chai on the side and later a village walk the next afternoon.

The Spa looks out through the Resort’s stunning shop and as I stood there, I distinctly felt the presence of healing through a Spa treatment as I got to know the brain behind the most amazing treatments is world renowned Dr Mosaraf Ali and I immediately felt lucky to be there. But what I liked most was that the entire staff appeared like a sincere team – as well as working with precise decorum, And I got the imprint that you’d be treated to similar high-quality service whether you were incoming with Armani luggage, or not.

All in all, The Lalit Mangar has many of the right ingredients for a tasteful, though not budget-busting, weekend. I have a feeling that all the cars dawdling on the driveway will be those of guests who can’t bear to leave just like me.

THE VERDICT

Would I go back? Yes, undoubtedly. For me, The Lalit Mangar ticked all my weekend boxes: easy to get to, a great location, memorable and unique, down-to-earth and friendly.

Where? Camp Wild Road, Near Mangar Police Chowki, Gurgaon - Faridabad Rd, Faridabad, Haryana 121001

For More Information log on to: www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-mangar

This review is a bonafide echo of my weekend here and my view of it – I wouldn’t let anything twofaced snitch onto my blog! 

INDEED A BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN @ LE MERIDIEN, GURGAON

 

In the quest to know more about Italian food, I have tried several diverse Italian restaurants in India over the years all with their individual style. I would like to share from my experience and conversation with chefs, genuine Italian cuisine is just too varied from region to region, the alterations are amazing with each Italian chef mooring his own region’s cuisine (it’s not easy to compare )and one thing is clear that Italian food is definitely beyond just pasta and pizzas !!!.

So what makes a good Italian restaurant in the Capital? Is it the authenticity, or is it merely how good you felt while eating there? I would poll for the second and say that there are many good Italian restaurants in the Capital which notwithstanding tallying that native touch, still make excellent pastas and pizzas. The winner hands down is one which is closely authentic, but there are confident tweaks here and there to suit the market (it’s purely business sense).

After all the Burrata, Handmade pastas and tiramisus galore, here’s the result of my latest tedious tasting !!

More light-hearted is Le Meridien Gurgaon’s newly opened ‘Bella Cucina’ which literally translates into Beautiful kitchen and trust me the wall-to-ceiling glass panoramic Molteni Kitchen is indeed any chef’s dream ( read it’s the Rolls Royce of kitchens); serving a pleasant contemporary Italian cuisine with a Northern touch in a fine dining setting.

The dishes at ‘Bella Cucina’ command Center-stage in its burst of colours and palates using only premium genuine produce which also means no effort has been left in the obtaining of the finest ingredients from overseas if need be for example the ‘Chilean Sea Bass’  and the ‘Australian Lamb’. The friendly chef-in charge Amit Kumar greets guests with a wide smile, offering the whole, ample Italian dining experience with an exceedingly individual touch. Chef Amit’s passion is evident as he delivers a most passionate foodie lesson of his dishes each time you are served. For example, the homemade Spinach and Nuts Ravioli served with a morel mushroom sauce is simple out of this world with its creamy cheesy flavours and the Spinach so soft and yummy, it’s unbelievable (you must dine her to understand how Chef Amit treats his spinach and I am sure he’ll share that with extreme gusto)! The Braised pork belly which comes with grilled leek, edamame beans and Washington apple sauce, is a great choice for pork lovers for its quality and affordability. 

To end on a sweet note, the decadent 8 layer chocolate cake comes highly recommended.

Italian food is generally known for its simplicity with a focus on high quality ingredients. What differentiates a good Italian restaurant is excellent execution in putting all of those ingredients together, and ‘Bella Cucina’ knows how to deliver the goods. With Chef Suprabhath Roy’s star pedigree behind it, it makes for an interesting contrast of very high-end and affordable dinner options in Gurgaon.

FAST FACTS

Bella Cucina is at, LE MERIDIEN, Gurgaon, Delhi NCR

M.G. Road, Sector -26, Delhi –Gurgaon Border

Gurgaon – 122002, Haryana, India

www.lemeridiengurgaondelhincr.com

IS SOCIAL AT CYBERHUB, BECOMING GURGAON'S LATEST ADDICTION?

‘Hang out Places’ have conventionally been the sanctuary of the really young lot, though today you need a lot more to it than it being just another drinking hole for it to become the ‘hang out zone’ for not just the youngsters but slick investment bankers and senior office goers alike. Clearly drinking is part of the culture of every city and it can bring people together. An entire cosmos of associations be it business, creative or starry-eyed can be made over a drink or two and more so if the food, ambience, drinks and service are one of a kind amazing.

At Social Cyber hub you can ferry right into the heart of the ‘cool Mumbai chawl themed hang out zone’ to the bartender, who’s quite like how Tom Cruise was as Brian Flanagan doing naff and brash in a way that only he could in the film, ‘Cocktail’, it stimulated many to prize a Boston Shaker (nevertheless traditionalists point out that Flanagan is possibly the world’s worst bartender…but at Social, the guy’s pretty good!); And just hop off and order an Old Smoke, famed for its mellow, pleasant notes of orange zest oil and the smoke. It bounces a complete fresh turn to existing in a fun way!!

To be honest, I did make a serious effort to shun this place for a while, thinking it would be just another brick in the wall amid the over hyped so called cool hang out places as discovering places that are this aggressively distinct is getting gradually tough in the capital. Particularly now, with ‘Gurgaon’ getting resolutely global and hip, as fast as it probably can. Which means it’s not so easy to find a ‘hang out place’ where you can have a conversation, have good food and drinks replete with efficient service, without being endangered to the fashion police in the formula of scrawny girls who are dressed to kill and a menu that spikes with all smoke no fire ( pun intended). Luckily, the few ‘hang out places’ around in cyber hub such as ‘Farzi Café’ and ‘the wine company’ are hugely popular that they are rousing other restaurateurs. Also Imperfecto, It’s inflexibly funky, designed to be a space for ‘hanging out’ with friends over good food and drinks.

And now the recently opened Social sitting under a roof of quirky chawl like features, cute stone tunnel passages that connect the restaurant to another seating area, which feels a bit like a secret garden is becoming Gurgaon’s latest addiction, perhaps it’s the beginning of a new trend!

All in all a destination like Social is worth walking to, so Here’s raising a toast to the coolest hang out place where you can even have a drink cross-legged on a sofa in agreeably drab jeans and have the most scrumptious Kebab platter, Parsi Dhansak, Bhai Benedict etc or even basic comfort food like Keema Spaghetti, Ghee roast mutton or aanda Bhurjee and pav!!

HOURS: 10:00 am to 1:00 am

FACEBOOK: /SocialOffline | INSTAGRAM: @SocialOffline | TWITTER: @SocialOffline

WEBSITE: www.socialoffline.in

ADDRESS: Ground Floor, Shop no. 04A, DLF Cyber Hub, Tower 08C, Cyber City, Gurgaon - 122002

NUMBER: 0124 4232734 | 0124 4232754

A WEEKEND GETAWAY AT THE LALIT MUMBAI

The sweetest welcome message :)

For me, it proved to be not just another place to stay, but a differentiate offering to weave long lasting memories as I took a weekend break with my mother!

 

Mom & me

So Mom and me planned our flights in such a way that we landed from Aurangabad and Delhi (respectively) almost at the same time which was rather exciting in its own way…like a Mom Daughter date in Mumbai, giggles and hugs later, we collected our bags and drove to the hotel.

THE LOCATION

Largest lobby in Asia

This fabulous property is idyllically positioned five minutes from the international airport and fifteen minutes from the domestic airport and is in adjacent vicinity to the busy business districts of north and central Mumbai. The moment I entered the gates of The Lalit Mumbai, I overlooked the traffic outside and I stopped taking in the bright and high airy lobby which is done up very gracefully. There is enough room for natural light that brightens up the complete area. And for those who do not know, the seven storey atrium lobby is the largest in Asia. The air of serenity set in, my check in was done in a jiffy and we were led to our room.

ROOMS & SUITES

Welcome amenities

Modern and contemporary it spells luxury and exclusivity in various facilities running through the hotel. Its 368 guest rooms & suites and meeting spaces are augmented by the up-to-date equipment and exciting eating and refreshment options. Mom had booked us in a two bed room suite which was designed with an emphasis on home-like comfort and was extremely well-appointed with the latest amenities and services and practical yet innovative! What I prized most was the sitting cum dining room between the twin bedrooms where mom and I caught up on our chatter and tea and had enough privacy to sleep as per our specific schedules so as not disturb each other (Mom is an early riser and I love sleeping at least until 9 Am on holidays).

Our ever efficient Butler

Our dedicated personal butler was super amazing and knew exactly when to turn up and when not to! Travelers today look for unique distinctive experiences. They are cultured and want the code and depth of a hotel to be realistic and have a distinctive character of its own. Impeccable, luxurious, gracious, laid back, warm, personal –I must say I had a truly unique experience living in my suite room.

DINING OPTIONS

The Food and Beverage options are aplenty; ‘24x7’is where you can have your breakfast and all meals and the Buffet with its many counters adds a measure of gustatory refinement. If you want to just hang out in the evenings with friends then a classy and elegant ‘Beluga Bar’ it is! At ‘Trendz’, ostentation is not just restricted to display, the menu is splendid and included a simplified range of cheering Italian classics using ingredients of exceptional quality.

Dal baluchi...must try!

‘Baluchi’ is a must try for its remarkable Pan Indian cuisine with an incline on Awadhi.

We the 'party animals' at Kitty Su :)

Party animals can rejoice for ‘Kitty Su’ is one of the happening night clubs in the whole of Mumbai.

REJUVINATE

One can energize at the All-day open Workout area or relax with a drink by the inviting outdoor pool. A good idea is also to rejuvenate with a pampering session in the Rejuve Spa. Mom and I tried this amazing massage at the Spa on a hydro bed… I left the spa feeling pampered, healed and happy. Ah, the exquisite lightness of being. And just before our flights we pampered ourselves completely at the salon…manicure, pedicure, blow dry et all ( perks of travelling with your mommy….) The hotels scores tops on its Meeting facilities which features a fully interactive setting and comes armed with extraordinary speed internet connectivity, state of the art audio video facilities to ensure a seamless business conduct. Softly recharge, live it up, or catch up on work. Whatever your itinerary is, enjoy the Lalit difference…just like us!!

My bedroom 

 NAVIGATOR

By Air: 8km from Chhatrapati Shivaji international airport and 4km from chhatrapati Shivaji domestic airport.

To know more or make a booking log on to: http://www.thelalit.com/hotels-in-mumbai/

GOA 3G

The age group gap doesn’t mean that you need to expense the enjoyable of a family holiday to content one member of the family. Picking the right terminus and activities to fit each generation in the family can be humble with just a wee bit of forecasting and research. Spending time with my Grandma and mom was truly inspiring. 

My take is that the age difference does not really matter, once everyone is together, on vacation, where reveries come true, magic really happens! There’s always a little something for everyone and of course there’s bonding and a whole lot of fun and certainly seeing an aspiration to make moments count! That said, we don’t take anything for granted and treasure the time we have together. 

THE DESTINATION

After a few discussions we zeroed in on South Goa for its tranquillity and also because it is clean and green and gorgeous in the monsoons. And being Delhiites distance is never a problem, we could always drive down to the North if required! Next question was where to stay, so mom booked a villa (it’s cheaper during off-season!) at The Lalit which turned out to be an excellent choice. Located on the exclusive Deep South end of Goa, the resort looked like a tropical paradise surrounded by untouched natural beauty.

OUR VILLA

We were welcomed with fresh coconut water by our personal butler Bikram who was with us throughout the stay, ensuring we were treated like ‘Queens’ right from when we woke up with Bed Tea till we called it a day. The Villa conjured up images of how the Swiss Family Robinsons could be staying after numerous generations, had they found themselves settled on a large gold deposit. Our sprawling villa had an easy access to the beach; the look was natural and understated, with elegant furnishings. There was everything I could ever need apart from some unexpected luxuries. And I enjoyed revelling in the beauty of pristine gardens and sinking into the sounds of the ocean. It encompassed four bedrooms (two on each floor) with en-suite bathrooms with shower cabins and a separate bath tub. The lavish living and dining room overlooking our private pool was our favourite hangout zone.

That evening we took a buggy ride of the property with Grandma in tow, she was happy watching mom and me play like little girls figuring out our way in the gorgeous maze gardens.  Later that evening we chilled in our villa and ordered room service.

ACTION AND RELAXATION

One can savour at The Lalit the relaxed colonial elegance of the resort, the delights of tropical ambience and recreation between palm grove and sea or the sheer joie de vivre of colourful The Lalit for a serene, energetic or action-packed holiday. The resort offers an abundance of facilities to keep everyone occupied. Offering a blend of untouched natural beauty charm and contemporary ambience, The Lalit Goa is certainly the happiest place on Earth.

So while Grandma chilled by the pool side with her fresh lime Soda, mom and I went Quad biking and cycling. Lunch was at ‘Sirocco’ overlooking panoramic views of the resort making it the ideal venue to spend a lazy afternoon.

A small nap later (Yes a good lunch makes you lazy) we headed to the Spa for our massages. The spa here crafts the model situation for ‘harmonizing senses’ as out here it is indeed a work of art that is a total mind and body encounter. It was fun chatting up later with the Spa Manager Rufus who being a local gave us insider tips on what we shouldn’t miss when in South Goa, chilling out at the Palolem Beach for example but dining at the local restaurant ‘Sumaya’ slightly away from the beach for example.

SPICE PLANTATION, CASHWE SHOPPING AND YES…A MOVIE

A visit to Goa is incomplete if you haven’t had a round of the Spice Plantation. There are two of them in Ponda, we went to Sahakari, the bigger one and it made for an interesting day out. At the plantation one is greeted with a garland and herbal tea. As Grandma can’t walk too much, we left her shopping for spices while we went in for the tour of the Plantation; we got to see spice plants like Black pepper, Vanilla pod, Cashew etc.

My favorite part was to see men climb on the Betel Nut trees, many feet above the ground, swaying from tree to tree (like monkeys) and collecting ingredients for mixes and spices. Post the tour we had a delicious local Goan meal, mom and me had a Beer Breezer, while Grandma was happy sipping her Sprite.

Grandma wanted to head straight to buy Cashwenuts on our way back at Margao (she loves shopping for her friends whenever she travels), but mom and me bullied and bargained with her that she has to watch a movie with us first, ‘Who comes to Goa and watches a movie for god sake? Let’s go to the beach instead’, said Grandma! Mom and I agreed with her in unison, but then it was an Akshay Kumar movie (he’s mom’s rakhi bro and hence my mamu), we certainly didn’t want to wait to get back to Delhi and then watch it, so Grandma gave in finally! As promised we took her to the Cashew shop post the movie and we all headed happily back to the villa with pit stops at the local market and a drink by the seaside.

BEACHES AND A LOCAL LUNCH

Grandma was getting addicted to the beaches so we planned two of South Goa’s popular ones (thanks to Rufus), Colva which was slightly tourist infested and the Cavelossim which was more private, here the three of us bought some seashell jewelry, drank fresh coconut water, made hearts in the sand and of course dipped our feet in the sea. Lunch was at Martins Corner which is known over the years for its good food, hospitality, ambience and good music. It started in 1989 by Carafina Pereira (the owner) dishing out Goan cuisine and now is a hot spot for locals and tourists alike. Getting the table was easy …thanks to Grandma (her age factor gets you all the perks and lots of VIP facilities).

We three did a little jig with live music in the background and in total Goan style replete with chilled beer and Breezer, the Sausage chilly fry had a wonderful afternoon. That evening we just relaxed at the pool in the villa (of course Grandma by the side lounging with her fresh lime soda).

SO LONG FAREWELL, I HATE TO SAY GOODBYE

Our every whim was catered by the very friendly and obliging staff, and with many dining options and activities that we were literally spoilt for choice. It was way, way, way better than staying in a hotel all cooped up indoors, and it was like we had a part of the ocean to ourselves. After breakfast we boarded our plane with heavy hearts, meaning to come back again at least once more to this Paradise on Earth. The effervescent feeling of collective discoveries, big and small. It was more than about sightseeing in Goa. It was about what nourishes our relationships. It was about earning quality time together, and all of the miniscule yet significant details that come along with that.

WHERE TO STAY: The Lalit Raj Baga, Palolem, Canacona, Goa 403702

Tel: 0832 266 7777

MUST KNOW: The network of roads is excellent however commuting can be expensive in Goa as the cabbies charge as they feel. The best option is to hire a two-wheeler or a car, get a map, and fill in fuel and Zip. Zap... Zoom.

MUST TRY: Feni, local liquor brewed from the juice of cashew apples with 42% alcohol, is definitely not for the faint hearted. Popular brands are Cashyo, Reals and Big Boss.

MUST BUY: Masala cashews from Zantye’s make for welcome edible souvenirs.