I don’t know about you, but my ideal holiday involves parking my little bottom on an idyllic sun-drenched sunbed, surrounded by lapping waves floating all around me, with a cool glass of vino in my hand. The Park Hyatt in Goa gave me all that and more.
Situated in South Goa, Park Hyatt hotel is situated only 20 minutes away from the airport. In a particularly quiet part of Goa; the beaches here are more secluded and serene, the air feels fresh, clean and inviting. This made it the perfect spot for our family of 11, which included 2 toddlers, an 8-year-old and grandparents. As you can probably tell, we weren’t looking for the ever-popular Goan silent-discos or raves – only peace, quiet and quality time together.
The moment you arrive at the Park Hyatt, you have entered pure luxury. Step into the large, opulent lobby, filled with traditional lounge seating, overlooking a beautiful body of water, and breathe a long, relaxed sigh. We were welcomed with refreshing cold towels, fresh coconuts and invited to sit back and relax whilst the Hyatt’s attentive staff took care of our check-in.
It was at that moment that I fell in love with the feel of the Park Hyatt. The old Goan charm and understated aesthetic whipped around me like a cloud of bliss. Next, we were cordially shown to our rooms. Although this seemed like quite a long walk in this rather large establishment, we soon got our bearing and felt like we were truly in a home from home.
The room choices at the Park Hyatt vary from standard king rooms, to view rooms (pool, lagoon or sea), to larger luxury suites, each one more elegant and spell-binding than the last. We had a lagoon view room, which was spacious and functional, with a large balcony and an outdoor shower. The luxurious indoor rain shower in a traditional sunken bathtub was a particular highlight of mine; there is nothing like Goan water! Our rooms were a 5-minute walk to the pool and spa, and closer still to the breakfast and dining area (it’s all about priorities).
The Hotel’s ‘dining village’ was perfect for a large group, as we had the choice of ordering from any restaurant (Goan, Indian, Chinese & Italian) for lunch or dinner. Their breakfast spread was excellent; with South Indian options of fresh dosas, idlis and delicious chutneys. And I’m sure that any of my fellow foodies out there will agree that their oven-baked pizzas from their palms beach eatery, as well as their butter chicken, sheekh kebabs and chicken biryani from Masala, are some of the best dishes you will eat during your time in Goa. And of course, for those of you who like to venture further afield into the real Goa to get your food, there are some fabulous local eateries to choose from, including Martin’s Corner for your local Goan style crab, to Zeebop for their tandoori lobster. The only disappointing menu in the hotel was the pool bar, where the food lacked flavour; but the area is much more suited to a piña colada and a bathing suit than a full-blown dinner, anyway.
Our days were filled with blissful lashings of pool and beach therapy, with lots of sunbathing spots to choose from. We loved nothing more than to whittle away the days relaxing by the serene pool, with lots of shallow steps and a fun waterslide for the kids and parents. The hotel also offered beach bed options and we took occasional dips in the sparkling blue sea beside us. The water was warm and clean, with just the right amount of waves!
And in the midst of all of this sun, sand and sea, I did manage to sneak out for a spa day too! Their award-winning spa has a package list to suit any taste and budget. I opted for a 1-hour deep tissue massage; the experience was revitalizing, holistic and oh-so relaxing. I would definitely recommend a visit to your own little slice of paradise at the Park Hyatt.
Our holiday ended on a glorious high, with one of the most lavish New Year’s Eve dinners I have ever experienced. The hotel created over 15 live food stations for the occasion, with a selection of global cuisines. It really was a special treat, with a magnificent set up and the highest quality entertainment. It was the perfect way to ring in the New Year and we couldn’t have asked for more!
The Park Hyatt is a great getaway and deserves a Citizen Femme Stamp Of Approval for its endless hospitality! We couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing and luxurious break away.
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