Spectacular beaches, hidden lakes, beautiful Portuguese architecture, uninterrupted blue skies and living the shack life. Goa for me isn't just a place, it's an emotion. Forgive me for sounding like an over-enthusiastic, slightly deranged Dil Chahta Hai fan only because I really am one. One thing that Goa isn't is overhyped, my two visits in the last two months have thoroughly confirmed this. Out of the all places I've visited in India, it has been the most un-Indian {in a good way}. 'Going into vacay mode' is a phrase I understood only here, without having to watch my back {or my phone} continuously, or giving a second thought to what I'm wearing. Man, everywhere you go, people just want to have fun, whatever it may mean to them. And I think Goa's chill vibe is basically fueled by this single, collective motive: having fun.

While the place in itself {and knowing your way around it} makes sure you have a stellar time here, having a beautiful property to stay in is just a delightful cherry on top. Novotel Goa Resort and Spa, a gorgeous 5-star property in the heart of Candolim was our luxurious oasis in the middle an oasis. With one of the most lively beaches of Goa at just a stone's throw away and several happening pubs right round the corner, the resorts location is one of the many things that work in its favour. Coupled with the unparalled Accor hospitatilty, ultra-modern aesthetics and an overall exotic vibe that transports you into a tropical dream each time you step out of your room, it's no surprise that this is one of the most sought-after property in the sunshine state.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mahima | Sequins and Sangria (@whimsytales) on Oct 27, 2019 at 11:15pm PDT

Speaking of the room, our duplex accommodation was one of the most comfortable, functionally-designed and visually pleasing spaces I've ever stayed in. It was more than sufficient for four people {we were three}, complete with a small kitchen area and plenty of closet space. The living area had the comfiest couch-cum-bed along with a work desk, a balcony, a television and a mini bathroom. An internal staircase connected the living room to the master bedroom upstairs that had ample sitting space, a second balcony, another television and the main bathroom whose glass wall overlooked the living area. The rooms, and the property in general, is built to let in the warm sun from every corner and create a bright, happy space for you to stay in. It is dreamy and modern, yet extremely homely.

While the overall hospitality constantly blew my mind, I was slightly unimpressed by the culinary fare at the in-house restaurant Food Exchange and was happier exploring the local food scene around the property. There is a complimentary pick and drop taxi service to Candolim beach and I suggest that you make full use of the same to shop, eat and party around this hip area.

After settling in and gorging on the delicious welcome drinks and desserts, we made our way to magnificent pool area. I'll let the pictures do the talking for this one! A beautiful alleyway lined with big palm trees led us to the spa in the hotel managed by Warren Tricomi. The whole vibe of the spa and area around it is very minimal and zen. I opted for a 60-minute signature massage and felt an instant release after the therapy. Would definitely recommend it.