High above the azure tapestry of the Arabian Sea, Asher found himself staring thoughtfully out of the airplane window. He was en route to Goa, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, kaleidoscopic markets, and the intoxicating scent of freshly caught seafood sizzling at beach shacks. While the anticipation of the adventure ignited his spirit, the daunting challenge of solitude played on his mind. Beside him, a young woman named Mira flicked through a travel magazine, her eyes sparkling with possibility. She ventured a smile that lit up her face, releasing the tension compressed between them—a silent camaraderie formed within the close confines of a bustling airplane. Asher turned to her, and they quickly fell into conversation.

“Where are you headed?” he asked, curiosity lacing his tone.

“North Goa,” she replied, her voice as melodic as the descending sun. Asher chuckled, his laughter mingling with the rhythmic hum of the engines. “And what is it exactly that you seek in the embrace of those shores?”

With a playful glint in her eye, she replied, “I’ve always wanted to explore the serene beaches and maybe even find a soul mate while I’m there.

What about you? What is that you would be looking for in South Goa?”

He paused, for a moment. “a soul,” he confessed quietly.

This is one of the many captivating stories shared by Satish Kumar, the dynamic General Manager of the luxurious St. Regis in Goa resort. A man equally adored and respected by everyone—from the doorman to the head of the kitchen—Satish is renowned for his innovation, leadership, and, of course, his ability to share stories that are inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply meaningful.

As the saying goes, a place is only as good as its people. Despite being one of Goa’s most stunning and picturesque properties, the story of St. Regis would be incomplete without mentioning its incredible team. They are well-trained, knowledgeable, and skilled, but most importantly, much like the tale shared by Mr. Kumar, you can truly feel a soul in their hospitality—a warmth that leaves a lasting impression.

A Warm Embrace from St. Regis Goa

After a delightful hour-long drive from Goa International Airport to the St. Regis Resort Goa resort6 resort, my heart raced with anticipation. Steffen, our cheerful chuffer, was a fountain of knowledge, sharing tales of Goa’s enchanting landscape as lush tropical plant life whizzed by the windows. I absorbed every moment—the kaleidoscope of colours, the rustic charm of Portuguese-style homes, and the embrace of coconut and banana trees waving gently in the breeze.

Upon arrival, I was welcomed by the ever-smiling Ritwick, whose spectacles seemed to reflect the joy he brought to the guests. A refreshing coconut water was handed to me, a sweet taste of paradise that marked the beginning of my stay.

“Welcome to St. Regis Goa resort! I’ll be your go-to person for anything you need,” he offered, his demeanour embodying the warmth of Goan hospitality. Indeed, he turned out to become the most innocent-looking genie ever who never wasted any time to fulfil all our wishes during the time of our stay in this magical place.

 

As I sank into the plush cushions of the grand lobby—referred to as the Great Hall—a gong echoed through the space, bathing us in its enchanting resonance. Ritwick along with the Director of Marketing shared insights on the enticing itineraries filled with excitement planned for the next two days. I couldn’t help but feel that I had stepped into a world where every corner held a story, every staff member a treasure trove of knowledge.

In a verdant buggy, Ritwick led me through the lushness of the resort. “Just look around,” he said, his pride in the property evident. “You have the Arabian Sea to one side and a river to the other. Our resort sits on the peaceful shores of Mobor Beach, surrounded by over 300,000 tropical plants—a sanctuary for every kind of traveller.”

The ambiance was mesmerizing—serene yet vibrant, drawing me deeper into its embrace. Each pathway whispered secrets of relaxation and joy. The vastness of the Great Hall transitioned into the enchanting paths leading to my suite, which was a personal oasis waiting to be discovered.

As I arrived at my Suite No. 302, I stood amazed before the spacious, elegantly decorated room. The decor was tasteful and inviting, graced with outdoor space that offered calming views of the greenery that surrounded me. It was more than just a suite; it was a sanctuary designed to cradle my soul.

“Here, every desire is taken care of, and every moment turned into a treasured memory,”

With each unfolding moment at St. Regis Goa, I felt like I was already finding a piece of my soul—a journey of discovery was just beginning, and perhaps Goa would indeed reveal more than just the landscape. It echoed with the promise of connection, invitations to embrace the unknown, and opportunities to uncover the essence of what I unconsciously sought.

The sun hung low in the Goan sky as I pedalled my way along the sun-dappled paths, feeling the gentle breeze caress my skin. With each turn, the beauty of the grounds unfurled before me—a lush 49 acres of verdant greenery, punctuated by serene lakes and elegant accommodations.

It was during one of these languid rides that I met the cheerful housekeeping girl, who laughed as she recounted her own journey of navigating the sprawling campus, her smile infectious. “Miri is just past the Orchidarium; you can’t miss it!” she said, as I thanked her for the directions. Her warmth seemed to echo the spirit of St. Regis, where hospitality permeated every interaction. Choosing the bicycle over a buggy had been an instinctive decision; I craved the quiet comfort of exploring this mini paradise at my own pace.

“And do not miss the Lillies here, they open their petals at dusk”, I heard her adding.

As I cycled, I felt enveloped in a serene atmosphere—birds chirping, leaves rustling in the gentle wind, and the distant sound of water trickling from a nearby fountain. My accommodations, the magnificent Manor Pool Suite, were but a short distance away. Once inside, I paused to appreciate my surroundings: the luxurious décor, the expansive living room, and a complimentary bottle of wine waiting with open arms.

I stepped outside into my private sanctuary, where the inviting waters of the private pool sparkled under the afternoon sun, creating an irresistible lure. As I sank into the crystal-clear water, the soothing sensation washed away the fatigue of travel and life. It was here that I met my unexpected companion—a curious egret who, with surprising boldness, decided to keep me company. I couldn’t help but smile; something about this spontaneous bond felt like a good omen for the days to come.

Nature’s Artistry

The following day unfolded like a beautifully crafted tapestry of experiences. I joined Mario, the resort’s dedicated horticulture manager, for a guided nature walk through the flourishing landscape. His passion for the environment was contagious, and as we ambled through pathways bordered by 300,000 plants and 2,000 coconut trees, I was entranced. We stumbled upon the enchanting green canvases where countless medicinal varieties danced in the light, and I even witnessed the intricate process of bee harvesting. It was astounding how the St. Regis harmonized luxury with sustainable tourism.

Later, that evening, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. As dusk settled, I found myself on the beach, where the tradition of champagne sabering added a dash of excitement to our sunset celebration. The golden orb of the sun slowly retreated into the horizon, casting splendid hues across the sky as we raised our glasses. With the fishermen’s boats casting silhouettes against the vibrant backdrop, there was a magical allure to the moment.

Our destination for dinner was the luxurious Susegado, where we indulged in coastal cuisines inspired by various regions of India. The live music floated around us like a soft caress, setting an idyllic backdrop as we feasted on modern dishes—each bite an exquisite journey for the palate. To elevate this memory further, we were led to our private dining pod on the beach, heretofore known as the ‘Celestial Dining’ experience. Adorned with candles and artisanal floral arrangements, the ambiance felt like a dreamscape, a place where time slowed down and every detail was tended to with care.

Culinary Delights

No visit to Goa is complete without embracing its rich gastronomic heritage, and my experience at St. Regis Goa Resort was no exception. The culinary journey at this luxury hotel was nothing short of exceptional, marked by a harmonious blend of exquisite flavours, stunning ambiance, and a remarkable variety of dishes that celebrated both local and international cuisine.

As I settled into the welcoming atmosphere of Oliveto, the Italian restaurant, my senses awoke to the promise of delectable fare. I could hardly wait to indulge in their famed Pescatora pizza, a masterpiece crafted by the talented Italian Chef Silvio Zaccareo. The pizza arrived, thin-crusted and adorned with creamy mozzarella, plump prawns, and succulent squid. A drizzle of garlic-infused oil, a sprinkle of chili flakes for a gentle kick, and a scattering of parsley sauce completed the dish, creating a symphony of flavours that danced on my palate.

The moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for an extraordinary culinary experience—one that perfectly encapsulated the art of Italian cooking, enhanced by the vibrant spirit of Goa.

The lunch at the serene Riverside, the Pan-Asian restaurant that stretched along the tranquil banks of the River Sal. The setting was idyllic, with the gentle sounds of the flowing water and fishing boats gathering to set off their next adventure, providing a soothing backdrop to my meal. Here, thanks to the wonderful and soft-spoken chef from Darjeeling, I treated myself to a selection of mouthwatering dishes that exemplified the beauty of Asian cuisine. The Pan Seared Char Siu Pork Bao arrived, its fluffy buns encasing tender, flavourful meat that melted in my mouth. I paired this with Chicken Goyaza, the delicate dumplings bursting with savoury fillings, and loved every bite. Then, to complete my gastronomic journey through Asia, I indulged in Unagi sushi—an exquisite presentation of freshwater eel sushi that was simply divine. Each dish was a testament to the culinary expertise that the St. Regis is renowned for, leaving me enchanted with every morsel.

Mornings were equally delightful, beginning with breakfast at the exclusive Manor. Accessed only by guests of the Manor Suites, this luxurious dining experience was a lovely memory in the making. The air was filled with the intoxicating aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods, while a spread of continental breakfast delicacies awaited my eager appetite.

One of the highlights of my culinary exploration was the live cooking workshop organized by the hotel management, led by seasoned senior chefs. This interactive experience enriched my understanding of the culinary arts and provided a unique insight into the meticulous preparation behind the exquisite dishes I had enjoyed throughout my stay.

Monsoon Magic at St. Regis Goa Resort?

The moment I stepped into the St. Regis Goa, I was enveloped by an aura of serenity that seemed to whisper promises of unforgettable memories. Nestled in a more than ideal location, the resort felt like a dream crafted exclusively for couples seeking to make their destination wedding truly special. The lush greenery, the gentle rustle of palm trees, and the distant murmur of the Arabian Sea created a symphony of tranquillity. But as I wandered through the property, my mind began to wander too—what would it be like to experience this paradise during the monsoon?

The thought lingered, growing stronger with every step. The resort, already breathtaking in its elegance, seemed to transform in my imagination under the spell of the rains. I pictured the monsoon clouds rolling in, heavy with promise, their silver linings reflecting off the Arabian Sea. The rhythmic patter of raindrops on the resort’s pristine pathways would only add to the magic, turning every corner into a scene from a romantic film. The river, winding its way through the landscape, would swell with the season’s bounty, its waters mirroring the moody skies above.

And then there was the cuisine. The thought of savouring the resort’s delectable dishes while the rain danced outside was almost too delightful to bear. Imagine sitting by a large window, a steaming plate of Goan delicacies before you—spicy vindaloo, fragrant fish curry, and perhaps a slice of bebinca for dessert. The aroma of the food mingling with the petrichor of the monsoon would create a sensory experience unlike any other.

As I stood there, gazing out at the horizon where the sea met the sky, I couldn’t help but smile. A monsoon holiday at St. Regis Goa resort would be nothing short of magical.

Warm Goodbyes

As the days slipped by, I found myself reluctantly standing at the threshold of departure. The farewell was unlike any I had ever encountered. With their signature warmth, the staff made the check-out process feel like one last cherished experience rather than a final formality. Everywhere I turned, kind faces and heartfelt smiles reminded me of the genuine connections forged during my stay.

Though it was time to leave, I promised myself I would return to this slice of paradise, where opulence, authenticity, and a rich sense of connection entwined beautifully. As I stepped into the black BMW, I felt a lingering warmth—the echoes of laughter, the whispers of the waves, and the promise of future adventures. St. Regis Goa resort was not merely a destination; it had woven itself into my heart, forever dancing in the backdrop of my memories.

Goodbye to my winged room partner too, till we meet again.

The St Regis® Goa Resort

438 1 34 Mobor, Salcette Cavelossim, South Goa,

Goa, India, 403731

www.marriott.com

Written by Anirban Dasgupta 

Author: Anirban