It’s galloping towards that time of the the year again--when all anyone wants is a belly full of prawn curry and rice and some cold Kings beer to boot. Some sun and sand between the toes wouldn’t hurt either. Goa season is finally upon us again, which means it’s time to tally up our options and see just how we want to live while we’re there.
Between those end-of-the-year cash woes that always niggle their way in, or the mountain of options we have to sort through, we’ve all learned the struggle is far too real when it comes to finding that perfect, yet affordable place to stay. So we took it upon ourselves to ease your efforts and decided to scour the length of AirBNB for the best places to stay across Goa under INR 7000. From sleeping in a European style hostel, to an uber chic eco-teepee and a fully wooden cottage on the banks of the river, we’ve got something for everybody.
Where: Little Vagator, Goa
Separating the traveller from the tourist, the Jungle Hostel comes with a rare blend of a sense of adventure, that still manages to provide you with a cosy and safe place to come back to at the end of the day; if these seem like great bedfellows to you - you’ve just stumbled into the backpackers’ paradise. Crafted like any European hostel, you can spend your days here meeting new people and chatting with them under coconut trees in the jungle adjoining the premises, or maybe you’d like to get some quality downtime in one of the numerous hammocks, swings or cane chairs scattered in the outdoors? The Hostel is resplendent in wood and bamboo, a tip of the hat to nature and their philosophy of sustainable development, and there is free wifi everywhere, plus you get breakfast. It’s listings like these that make us wish we could teleport.
Price: Rs 1226 per night
II. The Garden Room
Where: Bardez, North Goa
On the gorgeous upper floor of Marbella Guest House, the Garden Room is surrounded by lush vegetation and a footpath leads out from the headlands to a 16th century fort with its lighthouse right at the mouth of the Mandovi river. Overlooking the the lush tropical courtyard and the hill behind, this is a tastefully-done up Portugese style house that comes furnished with a cane double bed, an antique wardrobe, a colonial style marble coffee table with matching chairs and a writing desk; all set on original Portuguese floor tiles. There’s even an adorable al fresco area to have a couple of drinks in the evening. Air-conditioned with a television set to boot, we suggest you forsake both and head down to the beach that’s 15 minutes away and indulge in some water sports. There is also a gourmet restaurant that offers different cuisines, with chefs who are happy to oblige personal preferences.
Price: Rs 1771 per night
III. Villa Anjuna
Where: Anjuna, North Goa
With a double bed on the ground floor and a single one on the second level, this vibrant getaway is just right for three people to fit comfortably. The garden is spacious and teeming with greenery, and our favourite thing about this cosy restored Portuguese villa is really the sheer number of chill out spaces it has outdoors, especially the open bar-style arrangement in the garden which is perfect for the evenings. Just 10 minutes from Anjuna beach, here’s the respite tucked away in a quiet street that you’ve been looking for, away from crowds thronging the area.
Price: Rs. 1907 per night
Where: Canacona, South Goa
Feel like camping, but don’t want to deal with the hassle of pitching a tent, using sleeping bags and peeing in a hole in the ground? Say hello to this camp that is the epitome of Glamping - the ideal blend between luxury and camping. This camp is the perfect getaway for a romantic weekend and some much needed downtime - think white sand and gentle waves and all that views of the sea from bed. Located in South Goa, these tents come fully equipped with a fan, hot and cold showers, dressers and a double bed. The camp even has wifi for all those who can’t afford to get away completely.
Price: Rs. 2523 per night
V. Apartment #6
Where: Reis Magos, Goa
Apartment #6 is a great place if you want to get away with a friend. Spacious with a lovely garden, it is located in the quaint neighbourhood of Reis Magos, and comes with a pool table, lap pool and friendly housekeeping who drop by daily to clean up. The garden’s a great place to unwind, and soak up the sun, plus once you rent a bike or car, there are several options nearby that open up to you such as the House Of Lloyd for the yummiest cocktails or the casual and cosy Bhatti village for some sensational Goan food.
Price: Rs. 2792 per night
VI. Namaste Jungle
Where: Assagao,North Goa
Namaste Jungle is the perfect for when you want to switch up between beach and jungle time. Located in the Assagao valley in North Goa, this resort has wooden cottages to offer. They have a restaurant that makes breakfast for guests, a natural pond, a fresh water stream and a jungle for a backyard. It is very well connected, with taxis available right outside and scooters can be arranged on request. You can reach Vagator Beach and Anjuna beach within 10-15 minutes on bike to satisfy all sorts of food cravings. For all the yogis out there, Namaste Jungle is right next to one of the best yoga academies in Goa, Purple Valley Yoga Retreat Centre.
Price: Rs. 2796 per night
VII. Villas De Madeira
Where: Saipem, Close to Candolim, North Goa
Run by a couple, this lovely property is tailor-made for those who want some quiet and privacy, with a spectacular view to boot. Cozy little wooden cottages adorn the premises perched on a hilltop and rivulets and lush paddy fields populate the scenery as far as you can see. Mesmerisingly serene, this hilltop is home to the rustling of trees, a bursts of multi-coloured butterflies and come dawn, you’ll be treated to a majestic sun rising from the mountains. This is where you need to be if you want to forget about the rest of the world for a while.
Price: Rs 3500 per night
VIII. La Mangrove Goa
Where: Canacona, South Goa
Goa in the 60’s was hippie paradise - communities living in the outdoors and embracing life by the water. La Mangrove is the chic, modern version of that Goa we all dream of. This spot is an eco-chic teepee accomodation, surrounded by water and quiet - the best way to disconnect from big city life. The whole resort has just four teepees, and these come with beautiful private outdoor showers to soak in that Goa sun. The resort also has a beautiful common area that overlooks the Galgibag river. These guys have their customer service sorted out - they can organise everything from scooter rentals, taxis, day trips to spice farms and waterfalls, and even flea markets. It is located 2 km away from one of Goa’s last remote beaches - Galgibaga beach or Turtle Beach. Palolem beach, one of the more famous beaches down south, is 13 km away, and Agonda and Cola beaches are about 20 km away. The bus stops right outside of La Mangrove making commuting really easy if you don’t want to rent a scooter. If you’re one for rustic luxury, this is the spot for you!
Price: Rs. 4018 per night
Where: Panjim, Central Goa
This house is perfect if you’re going to Goa with a group of friends with nothing but chill on your mind. Located in Panjim, it is bang on the banks of the River Mandovi, one of Goa’s largest rivers. The house is very centrally located, it is just 10 minutes away from the Panjim bus stop - making it equidistant from North and South Goa. The chalet comes fitted with all the amenities one could need, plus an in house convenience store! Yep - you don’t ever have to worry about munchies while you stay here! It can easily accomodate 8 people, and there’s plenty of room for couch surfers should the need arise. There is domestic help who comes in everyday who also comes with a title of being a great cook - should you need all your meals sorted in house, she is more than willing to help. The upper bedrooms have a large wooden deck that overlooks the river and a little kitchenette. There is internet connectivity throughout the house, and a music system in place for your tunes. What are you waiting for?
Price: Rs. 6743 per night