Goa as a holiday destination for both Indians and foreign tourists has held an irresistible mystique, an X factor, the exact reason for which is hard to pinpoint. Everyone from celebrities to the common man, to those in search of spiritual enlightenment seem to find solace in this holiday location which takes one of the top spots in India’s tourismscape. Some of the best hotel brands in this country have opened shop here giving a guest several options to choose from. The latest hotel to make a grand entry is W Goa located near the Vagator beach.
“It’s hard to imagine a more perfect setting for our newest W Escape than Goa, with its electrifying nightlife, vibrant fashion scene, and colorful culture,” said Anthony Ingham, Global Brand Leader, W Hotels Worldwide. “As our first location in India, this highly anticipated debut from the W brand promises to be unlike any other hotel in India, combining the bold design and dynamic lifestyle programming that W is known for with a uniquely Goan-twist.”
Situated between the verdant jungle and the stunning coastline of Vagator Beach, W Goa features 160 vibrant guestrooms, including Villas, Chalets, a Marvelous Suite and an Extreme WOW Villa (the brand’s take on the Presidential Suite). A one hour flight from Mumbai and a 90-minute drive from Goa International Airport, this W Escape overlooks the Arabian Sea and spans 25 acres of exotic sandy beach set against the backdrop of a 500-year old Portuguese Fort.
“With a rich natural environment intertwined with its strong cultural roots and eclectic scene, Goa remains a favorite destination for the Indian community; while at the same time continuing to garner international spotlight,” said Rajeev Menon, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “W Goa is set to inject a fresh vibe into the local hospitality scene with the brand’s game-changing style, modern guestrooms, amplified entertainment, and innovative cocktails– all infused with the irresistible mystique of Goa.”
From the eye catching gold installation of W at the entrance, the ropes that form a part of the design feature in the lobby to the colorful artwork in the lobby all make for a unique design, a visual treat. The reception area called the Living Room, opens up to W’s signature Woo Bar, a perfect spot to unwind what with expert bartenders, fabulous food and music. W Goa marks the debut of Clarin’s first spa in India, a huge facility complete with a vitality pool where a g uest can spend almost the entire day just relaxing and rejuvenating. Nestled in a subterranean space, the spa boasts 14,000 square feet of total relaxation, with each detail inspired by the great baths of Pompeii and a labyrinth of corridors leading to private rooms. The spa includes an Oxygen room, eight treatment rooms, a heated vitality pool, steam room and sauna. It was fascinating to be informed of W Goa’s iconic Whatever/Whenever® service that delivers guests whatever they want, whenever they want it, often facilitated by the W Insider, who shares with guests the inside scoop on what’s new/ next in Goa.
The grand entrance features huge, unframed doors that are perpetually open and adorned with art by Goan artist Subodh Kerkar, representing the lunar phases. Behind the reception pods adorned with simmering white Capize shells is a massive street art mural by Indian artist M. Narayan featuring gutsy, raw imagery that celebrates the melting pot culture of Goa, as well as the spectrum of color one can see through divine meditation. I was hosted in one of their rooms where Goa’s Bohemian spirit comes alive along with a lot of Indian influence on the cushions such as auto rickshaw art, interesting décor on the walls, a beautiful chandelier, a lounger in the shape of a tepee, spacious bathrooms with a lot of blue and purple notes. Each guestroom in the hotel is drenched in a psychedelic look and feel with trippy hues of purples and blues. Foggy metal closet doors to the “beaten” metal drawers in the bathroom are so designed so that guests cannot clearly see themselves, but rather just their shape and movements. Each guestroom features a chandelier that looks as though the lights are melting from the ceiling, and each bathroom features a mirror adorned with the shape of the Bodhi Leaf which is often associated with enlightenment.
“Goa is not just a place – it’s a state of mind,” said TJ Joulak, General Manager, and W Goa. “Travelers from around the world are drawn to Goa’s irresistible siren song, to delight in Goa’s spirited scenes and rich fusion of global cultures. This energy comes to life at W Goa, where the brand’s passions for fashion, design and music fuel an intoxicating energy that renders each stay an unpredictable, exhilarating trip.”
The hotel’s restaurants and bars each with a distinct charm of its own add to the hotel’s appeal in many ways. Spice Traders offers Pan Asian epicurean flavors amplified with sumptuous ocean views and al fresco dining. The Kitchen Table, an all-day restaurant serves popular local classics and modern interpretations of international favorites. The WET deck bar refuels guests with healthy snacks and delicious cocktails, while the Living Room and Woo Bar transform from comfortable hangout by day to buzzing lounge by night. During my stay Executive Sous Chef Rajdeep Singh created Spice Trader’s signature dishes such as black and white prawns, baked Singapore chilli crab, Chilean seabass and Truffle Tuna Tostada. The Kitchen Table serves delicacies such as Nalli Nihari and Rassa Omelette for breakfast along with the regular favourites. While at The Kitchen Table it is a good idea to try a Goan thaali which consists of all the local specialties dished up Chef Rajdeep Singh.
W Goa is a destination in itself and while I was there, I didn’t feel the need to step out at all as W Goa offers the best of Goa whether it is the local food, the nightlife, the entertainment, fantastic views of the beautiful beachside, a friendly team and relaxation at the Clarins spa. There is enough happening in this vibrant and fun hotel to keep one busy, an absolute must visit when in Goa!
Address: Vagator Beach, Bardez / Goa 403509, India
Phone: +91 832 671 8888
