individually designed resorts. Of all the recognisable international hospitality brands, Grand Hyatt Goa stands out as one of the best properties in the north. Set on beautifully manicured grounds of 28 acres directly on the beach, in a prominent position overlooking the gulf of Bambolim, and benefitting from panoramic vistas across the bay, Hyatt's sprawling Goan resort is something of a departure from what one might expect of the global American hotel brand. Inspired by the grandeur of 17th century Indo-Portuguese palaces, Grand Hyatt Goa has been skillfully designed to be open, accessible and relaxed. At no time did I ever feel like I was staying in a hotel of more than 300 rooms. Everything felt personal, connected and warm. The hotel’s enclave of seven detached, low-rise guest houses with whitewashed stone walls topped with steep, terracotta-tiled roofs, that are dotted around the much larger, palace-style main building, lend a sense of structure, calmness and tranquility to the entire place. Teak shutters, recessed balconies, winding pathways, reflecting pools, trickling fountains and an abundance of lush botanicals add to the charm and character of the hotel. Whilst rambling lawns, a scenically ruined moss-covered 17th century chapel, and towering ancient banyans give the
surrounding gardens an established and exotic feel. Special hotel suites come in all shapes and sizes, and it has to be said that the word ‘presidential’ is sometimes misplaced. I’ve stayed in some suites that felt distinctly less than regal in hotels that were otherwise virtual palaces. Sometimes the room just doesn't do what it says on the tin. A suite labeled as ‘presidential’ infers the best accommodation in the building, super-attentive service, extra facilities, exceptional attention to detail, and a host of other services associated with residing in a hotel’s most expensive lodgings. More often than not, a fancy suite can feel vast, impersonal and unloved, but I can honestly say that Grand Hyatt Goa’s Presidential Suite completely lived-up to the hype. For starters, an Audi Q5 and driver were provided 24/7 at no extra charge. Particularly when visiting India, a car and chauffeur really is rather handy for a tourist. Then, there was the personalised butler service, on call via WhatsApp. Not to mention a whole host of other staff offered at no extra cost and dedicated to making my stay as presidential and fuss-free as possible, including a dietitian, chef, security officer, trainer, therapist, Ayurvedic doctor, yoga instructor and IT geek. I only took advantage of the butler service and yoga instructor, but it was good to know
Dec-Jan 2016-17 The Cultured Traveller 71