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Unveiling Goa: A perfect blend of relaxation, cuisine, and hidden wonders
Goan diaries
Almost everyone around us has dreamed of a GOA getaway, inspired by the iconic movie Dil Chahta Hai. While some proudly share stories of their first trip to Goa, others, like me, have had their fair share of “maybe next time” moments.
But as they say, good things come to those who wait. After all the planning, the waiting, and the “MAYBE NEXT TIME” moments, I FINALLY got the opportunity, and this time, there was no turning back.
Yes, I visited Goa for the first time! Trust me, the experience was beyond anything I could have imagined. You’ll see what I mean as you read on.
As I stepped onto Goan soil for the first time, I realized how perfectly those words (“Goa is not just a place, it’s a state of mind”) fit. The relaxed vibe, the charm of the beaches, and the laid-back atmosphere left me completely in awe. And if I’m being honest, South Goa, in particular, is where the magic really happened.
A Slice Of Paradise
For my long-awaited trip to Goa, I boarded my flight from Delhi to Goa on a Tuesday morning in December. I wasn’t just looking for a place to visit—I wanted an experience that would refresh my soul and provide the perfect balance of relaxation and indulgence. Little did I know, my stay at Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere in Palolem would exceed all my expectations and offer me a slice of paradise.
The hotel, about 62 km from Dabolim International Airport, was along a beautiful, peaceful route that set the mood for my entire trip. Located in the Canacona Valley, the luxury hotel was the perfect getaway. Upon arrival, I was greeted with a refreshing welcome drink, and as I checked in and entered my room, I felt like I had stepped into a utopian world. The room was so well-equipped with modern amenities, ensuring that I had everything I needed for a comfortable stay—from a flat-screen TV and high-speed internet to a mini-bar and a luxurious bathroom. On top of that, I chose the ocean-view room from the 160 rooms and suites available. The tropical vibes, soothing decor, and calming atmosphere made it obvious that this was going to be a stay I’d never forget.
Discover The Essence Of Goa Through My Eyes
As a vegetarian, my experience at Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere in Goa was truly exceptional. I had the pleasure of dining at Trophe, the hotel’s multi-cuisine restaurant, and was pleasantly surprised by the wide variety of vegetarian dishes, many with a delightful Goan twist. I savored everything from rich soups and dim sums to the refreshing taste of virgin mojitos, finishing off with a traditional Goan dessert. However, if you’re a non-vegetarian, you’ll be in heaven (just like my friends), as there were so many mouth-watering dishes that I lost count of them all.
Don’t worry, even if you indulge in a lot of food, the Elysium gym is right in the hotel. So, just eat and burn off those calories!
For an even more unforgettable dining experience, I visited 74° NE, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant. As the sky transitioned into stunning shades of orange and pink, I sipped exclusive drinks and cocktails while soaking in the breathtaking Goan sunset. The combination of delicious drinks and the incredible views made for a moment of pure joy—one I will never forget in my entire life. It’s true what they say, “With a drink in hand and a view like that, what more could you ask for?”
But wait… there’s so much more than just the delicious food!
The SÃO JOÃO Festivak Experience
The best part of my stay was being part of an event that truly captured the lively spirit of the São João Festival, which honors Saint John the Baptist with lively celebrations, including music, dance, and symbolic water-jumping rituals. Coming back to the festival-like setup at the hotel, I must say… the atmosphere was buzzing with energy as we enjoyed fresh fruits, drinks, and mouth-watering Goan dishes. We couldn’t help but dance along to the live Goan music, and let me tell you, it truly felt like the heart of Goa was alive at that moment.
The Relaxation Retreats Of Goa
The next day, I enjoyed a spa session at Hebe, the hotel’s spa center. The exclusive oils and treatments were incredibly relaxing and left me feeling both refreshed and recharged. Honestly, it felt like all my stress just melted away. After the spa, I relaxed by the poolside with a drink, soaking in the stunning view. Trust me, it was one of those moments that words can’t fully capture.
Then, we decided to go shopping—after all, we are girls! We had the opportunity to visit a nearby street market in a Mini Van (provided by the hotel, free of charge). Then, we headed to Palolem Beach (which is just a walk away) to feel the soft sand beneath our feet. It was truly an unforgettable experience!
Now, I completely understand the meaning of this phrase, “If you didn’t feel the sand between your toes and the rhythm of the waves, did you even go to Goa?”
Exploring Hidden Gems
While there were many other amazing spots to visit, like Patnem and Raj Bagh Beach, the Malika Arjun Temple, and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, all of us decided to take a different route and discover a hidden gem with the help of the hotel’s staff—a waterfall deep in the Netrawali Jungle. I know its name, but let’s keep this beautiful secret between us for now.
Coconut Water Or Cocktail?
To sum up my Goa experience, I have to say that throughout the trip, I couldn’t decide whether to enjoy a refreshing coconut water or treat myself to a cocktail by the sea. It’s one of those little dilemmas that make a Goa getaway so memorable.
Goa is truly a place where every moment feels special and every experience unforgettable. Whether I was relaxing on the beautiful beaches, savoring delicious food, or just soaking in the vibe, it was a trip that left me with countless memories.
Now that you know where to stay, it’s time to book your tickets and make your way to Goa!
