By Anirban Dasgupta
Goa is not merely a destination; it is a mood, a symphony in itself.
All that is required is to immerse oneself in the perfect melody at the opportune moment.
As you meander through the winding alleys, flanked by exquisite heritage structures and venerable churches, the old railway station where no train stops anymore, past the spirited youths engaged in casual conversation at the neighbourhood tea shop, you will find yourself drawn to the grand entrance of the Heritage Village Resort and Spa at Arossim. Beyond that threshold, you shall be transported into a ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’, in perfect tune with a flute of life, called Goa.
As we approached the Heritage Village Resort and Spa in Goa, the anticipation was palpable. The tropical breeze greeted us, swirling with the vibrant scents of the lush surroundings. Upon entering the lobby, the warm smiles and soulful welcome enveloped us like a hug, instantly making us feel at ease. Ganesh, the Director of Room Service and Vikram the Food and Beverage met us with heartful gesture. The reception staff headed us through the formalities with effortless grace, sharing exciting itineraries and activities waiting for us. As we settled into the plush lobby, sipping Coconut Water, I sensed we were in for a day brimming with excitement, luxury, and unlimited fun.
When we finally made our way to our room, I was taken aback by the beautiful surprise waiting for us—an exquisite welcome arrangement, complete with flower petals and a heartfelt message celebrating our special day. It was these personal touches that truly made the experience feel intimate and meaningful, assuring us that we were revered guests. The ambiance was soothing, our worries washed away, and we could sense the soulful wishes that the staff extended, making our hearts swell with joy.
Eager to indulge, we headed to Chutney, the resort’s contemporary multi-cuisine restaurant for lunch. With Goan tropical and Portuguese detailing, the ambiance offered a perfect blend of elegance with a casual vibe. Vikram, the genial head of Food and Beverage, introduced us to the culinary marvels awaiting us. As a passionate non-vegetarian, my heart raced at the menu—Rawa fried prawns, Goan fish curry, and Chicken cafreal beckoned, while I couldn’t help but tease my vegetarian wife about the deliciousness she was missing. We savoured each dish, the flavours dancing in harmony and my favourite mocktail, the pineapple basil cooler, offering a refreshing reprieve from the warm afternoon.
Post-lunch, we lounged by the stunning swimming pool, dipping our toes into the cool water and basking in the sun—pure bliss! The laughter of children splashing nearby and the gentle sound of water cascading from a fountain sang the soundtrack of relaxation.
As the sun dipped low, we embarked on an unforgettable afternoon picnic to Arassim Beach, where the sky was painted in hues of orange and lavender. The sunset was nothing short of ethereal, casting a warm glow over the landscape while waves lapped gently at the shore—a perfect encapsulation of Goan tranquillity.
Later that day, we discovered the rejuvenating oasis of Aruna Salon and Spa—a sanctuary of serenity tucked within the resort. We indulged in soothing wellness services, pampered under the watchful eyes of trained Ayurvedic specialists. The state-of-the-art facilities and calming ambiance provided the perfect retreat after our day of exploration.
That evening, a surprise dinner awaited us back at Chutney—a delectable spread bursting with delicious flavours and a beautiful cake to celebrate our special occasion. With live music serenading us, the atmosphere felt magical. We shared laughter, stories, and made memorable vows amidst the fragrant breeze—a fitting ending to a lovely day.
As tired as we were, I found it hard to resist the cozy embrace of our plush bed that night, eagerly anticipating all the adventures that lay ahead.
The morning embraced us with a surprisingly peaceful ambiance. Inside the resort, the tranquil essence of Goa merged beautifully with vibrant energy. Over a quick breakfast of fresh fruits and baked goods, we prepped for the day’s exploration.
Led by our jovial guide, Nilesh, we hopped on bicycles to immerse ourselves in the charm of Arassim. Pedalling through quaint historic streets dotted with colourful Portuguese houses, I felt as if I had melted into a postcard. Each turn revealed hidden gems—locals chatting over tea, lush greenery, and vibrant markets—each sight more captivating than the last. Our ride included an enchanting stop at a 400-year-old chapel and a mysterious railway station, bursting with stories.
As the ride culminated, Nilesh led us on a hilly trek to a stunning church, famed for its haunted tales. We stopped for snacks, nestled among the whispers of nature, singing birds, and the ocean breeze—truly a slice of paradise.
The gastronomy at Heritage Village Resort and Spa is a feast for the senses. Besides Chutney, we discovered Blue Lagoon, one of South Goa’s best pubs, where contemporary decor met luxurious comfort. Mama Miso quickly won my heart with its phenomenal Pan-Asian cuisine and vibrant ambiance. The crispy pork belly and grilled prawns sang in harmony with the live music, making our last evening anything short of unforgettable.
Culinary adventure at Heritage cannot be complete without mentioning Bonita, where we relished globally inspired dishes. The beef steak and prawn turned out to be a gourmet revelation, paired beautifully with the Jalisco Cooler cocktails that accentuated the meal.
Heritage Village Resort and Spa isn’t just a destination; it embodies the very spirit of Goa in its rich ambiance and plethora of activities—from city exploration, culinary workshops, and sunset high tea at Arassim beach, to simply lounging by the central pool with a glass of wine. As I reflect on my two-night stay in this beautiful oasis, I can’t help but promise myself to return, for there is so much more of this enchanting place to explore and cherish. This experience has captivated my heart and soul, and I left with memories that will forever linger in my mind.
