Goa. At the very mention of it, one thinks of sun-soaked beaches, palm trees swaying in the wind, and rounds of endless cocktails. But what if one craves an opulent getaway that isn't about beach-bummin' vibes? Enter The Westin Goa, a breathtaking property that fuses modern comfort with Goan hospitality making it the perfect destination for your next vacay. From a foodie's paradise to Insta-worthy rooms and an in-room breakfast spread that'll redefine #adulting, here are five reasons why The Westin Goa should be your next travel obsession.
1. Because There Are Not Two, Not Three, But Four Restaurants To Dine At
Gone are the days of agonizing "Where do you want to eat tonight?" The Westin Goa has four restaurants - each one a different world altogether. The fact is, I found myself returning to The Market every day. It was an animated place full of cooking stations, lots of live stations with food from all over the world, twirling with Goan specialities. There was freshly baked bread, steaming curries, and exotic salads for not just a feast of the mouth but all the senses. Then there was Drift, a poolside haven where one can while away lazy afternoons, indulging in light bites and heady cocktails. A Passionfruit Mojito sipped with the sun going down over the horizon? Pure. Vacation. Bliss. For that touch of fine dining, I went to Thyme & Ash, where the European influence interweaved beautifully with fresh local produce. And who could forget Anjana Coffee & Co., my morning saviour? Rich, aromatic coffee kickstarted my day, perfectly complemented by their melt-in-your-mouth pastries.
Thyme & Hash
Drift
2. Because Breakfast In Bed - Why Not!
Who needs room service when you can have a breakfast spread fit for royalty delivered straight to your bed? Seriously, The Westin Goa in-room dining redefined the concept of pampering. Scene: I would wake up with the light ocean breeze blowing, scattering the sweet scent of plumeria flowers, and with a sleepy smile, would call for breakfast. What seemed only moments later, there was a knock at the door, and poof! There was a three-tiered symphony for breakfast: fresh tropical fruits, buttery croissants, local specialities such as fluffy poha, and piping hot masala chai. Every bite reminded me of the vacation I was on the ultimate luxury of having breakfast in bed.
3. Because You Have Gorgeous Rooms With Plush Views
The room at Westin Goa understands that after a day out, you need your private sanctuary. Theirs are designed to be sanctuaries of comfort and style. Plush beds dressed in crisp linens seem to invite you to sink into them, while the large windows allow natural light to fill up the room. But perhaps the real showstopper is the porch-spacious and ideal for a morning cuppa or an evening cocktail, with views over lush foliage or the shimmering pool. Some rooms even had direct pool access, how luxurious for taking a dip!
4. Because Of That Goan Hospitality That'll Warm Your Soul
The minute you enter the premises, you'll be smothered with oodles of Goan hospitality, and the staff at The Westin Goa are genuinely friendly and always looking out for you. From helping you navigate local hotspots to fixing up that special cocktail, their smiles and genuine interest in you will make you feel at home but with way better food!
5. Because You Are A Stone's Throw Away from the Action (or Relaxation)
The Westin Goa's location is the ultimate "choose your own adventure" situation. Close by is Anjuna Beach, with its nightlife and water sports, where I could get my fill of Goan party energy. But when relaxation was what one was thinking of, the hotel itself provided an oasis with its beautiful pool and lush gardens in which to melt away stress.
The Westin Goa left me feeling truly refreshed. From the delicious food at every turn to the most attentive staff and the simply beautiful setting - every nook and cranny-it was a Goan getaway that exceeded expectations. Now, all I want to do is go back and spend another lazy morning with breakfast in bed, followed by unwinding on that private balcony. Sounds like a plan, doesn't it?