Want to feel like you're in southern France, if only for a couple of hours? Hit up Rosé in Assagao, a delightfully new entrant into the restaurant space, that brings the chic elegance of French languidly to the restful quietness of Goan village life. I may have missed the official launch but avid luxury restaurateur...

Over the last couple of years, vacationing has steadily morphed – we no longer rush to airports, worry about the validity of RT-PCR tests and stress over long flights. For us in north Goa, a weekend away to the quieter parts is all that’s needed for a rejuvenating break.

I found that at Alila Diwa Goa in Majorda during a recent visit. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, beachside luxury hotel. It’s main aim is to offer world-class intimate experiences in calming surroundings while incorporating tradition, authenticity, and sustainability into every feature.

Arpora has for long been known as the relaxed, laidback village close to the beachside party strip. Still, its popularity has increased and there’s a lot of movement in the streets. As a resident, finding a tranquil spot barely minutes away seemed out of the question. Until I chanced upon Baale.

The last 12 months have made travel to south Goa – my one true love – pretty difficult so when I finally went back, I headed straight down to my favourite place for familiar faces and old friends. Kate Abramovitz has spent lockdown working twice as hard as she usually does. She expanded the Jaali brand by adding another feature to her Jaali Café cap with Casa Jaali Resort, and I was so pleased to discover a sparkling new gem in Patnem.

Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa, Goa unveiled its award-winning All-day Dining – Caravela in an all-new avatar. The Sky is Yours – A Unique Taj Dining Experience, complimented with Executive Chef Sahil Desai’s exclusively curated signature menu, the newly refurbished elegant dining promises a culinary experience like no other. As the world steps into the new normal, the spirit of Tajness stands reinvigorated at this elegant dining, driven by the supreme importance it places on the safety and delight of its guests.

For quiet seaside getaways, South Goa has always been the top choice among locals. But uber-luxurious five-star hotels often need rather deep pockets. So when a stylish, upmarket resort comes along offering all the amenities you’re looking forward to at a more affordable rate, it’s certainly an option one would jump at.Heritage Village Resorts & Spa in Cansaulim artfully combines the culture and ethos of Goa with contemporary luxuries to create a space that treats all the senses. Ably led by general manager Guitry Velho, the hotel dispenses focused attention on maintaining hygiene and providing the ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience.

The best thing about my job is discovering new places. The gems take you by surprise and I always love how many amazing spaces a tiny place like Goa has to offer. One of the most recent – and very welcome – surprises was Mojigao Wellness Village in Assagao.