Ironically, my latest visit to Goa made me feel I was finally growing old. These words may not suit someone in his early 20s, especially if he’s travelling everywhere and living the life of Riley, but all I did there was laze around in my room—and gladly so. Such is the comfort of Park Regis Goa, StayWell Hospitality Group’s new property in the northern part of the state.
At first glance, it resembled a mansion, with massive bronze-coloured gates giving way to a primarily white rear. But the moment I saw it from the pool side, it became the grand resort it is—a circular building dotted with overlooking balconies and a pool bar I couldn’t stop staring at. But it was on stepping indoors that everything became spacious and oh, so white.
I stayed in one of the colossal pool-facing premium rooms, balconied, bathtub-equipped and comfortable. I dived times over onto the huge bed, which seemed to resemble a traditional Goan four poster. And then the grand discovery—the mini bar was priced cheaper than any hotel I’ve ever stayed in; a 90ml miniature of Old Monk worth ₹29. Rum and coke, the palatial balcony and a comfortable chair became my companions for two days.
As for the restaurants, Spice’d Coffee Shop is elaborate in stature but minimal in look—a theme prevalent across the property. I enjoyed some nice Chicken Xacuti during one of the dinners, which tasted even better with a Margarita from Piano Bar, Park Regis’ elegantly-designed bar with denim-patterned chairs.
You might think that this property has everything to lose by not being at the beach, but its free and efficient pickup-and-drop service will have you change your mind. I spent an hour or two dancing to psychedelic trance at Curlies in Anjuna beach, where I reached in just ten minutes after stepping out of my room.
Otherwise, Park Regis Goa has everything else a resort should have—a spa, a gym, a conference room, many sitting areas and a kids’ recreational area. But I seemed to be more interested in the many beautiful paintings, the comforting minimalism and my room. It felt petutlant to leave. Ah, old age.
The Information
Where: Park Regis Goa, Saqwadi, Arpora, Bardez, Goa 403516; 1hr from the airport
Accommodation: 70 rooms: 20 Deluxe, 39 Premium, 11 suites; 26 more opening soon
Tariff: Deluxe: ₹13,000; Premium: ₹16,000; Junior Suite: ₹18,000; Royal Suite: ₹22,000; Presidential Suite: ₹30,000
Contact: +91-832-674067; parkregisgoa.in