As of July 2 2020, Goa Tourism announced that our favourite sunshine escape would be open to tourists. With some routine procedures in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in Goa, of course. This includes a mandatory negative test (either done at your home state or upon arrival at the Goa airport), pre-booked accommodation, and 24-hour self-isolation at your hotel while waiting for test results (in case you choose to do the test at the airport). If test results are positive, travellers must agree to either return to their home state or undergo treatment in Goa. If you do decide to take the plunge and travel, we’ve lined up some beautiful long-stay rental options in Goa. You can expect negotiated rates if you plan to stay for 2 weeks or longer. Many boutique hotels and villas prefer long-stay guests at this point as well.
Bate Papo Goa is a gorgeous four-bedroom property in the heart of Saligao. Creative couple Baneen (who we’re lucky to have as an Urbanaut contributor) and Rohit have lovingly restored this heritage Portuguese bungalow. While Rohit is the chef extraordinaire, with many years in the hospitality and restaurant business, Baneen has overseen the renovation of the space. All bedrooms have gorgeous four-poster beds and nature inspired wall-art. You can rent out the entire property, with the option of housekeeping as well as meals. You also have the option to rent out parts of the property. Ideally the couple would like to rent out to one group or family, to minimize risk of exposure to other groups. We’d recommend parking yourself here if you like quiet simplicity, the option of great (read: experienced chef status) meals and a home away from home, cozy environment.
Lohono Stays by Isprava is the definitive last word on luxury villa accommodation in Goa. These fully-serviced, stunning bungalows all have private pools, are situated in the heart of North Goa (in areas like Vagator, Assagao, Siolim etc.) and follow the highest standards of hygiene and service. Lohono villas are perfect for families or a small group of friends. The many amenities available make these villas a very convenient place to work out of as well. We love heading out to Goa during the monsoon and staying in these villas during a regular year. Throw in a pandemic and months of being holed up in our small apartments, and a long break at one of their havens seems like a no-brainer.
Mojigao, a wellness cafe surrounded by greenery and lush forest, is already a popular retreat for hipster locals. They’ve recently opened six stand-alone cottages on their property. Each comes fitted with modern conveniences and wooden verandahs that overlook lush gardens and forested slopes. Perfect for nature-lovers and wellness seekers – guests will have access to the on-site Mojigao cafe as well as the ever popular Artjuna Cafe, started by the same owners.
The exquisitely designed Amrapali – House of Grace will open to visitors in the third week of July. This pet-friendly, riverfront property with a glorious courtyard pool always has us dreaming. Now that they’re welcoming long-stay guests (in fact, that’s what they prefer), we’re ready to park ourselves there. Extra points as they’re also pet-friendly so you can take your furry friends along for your stay.
We expect some of our other favourite hotels, homestays and apartments will open for business from August 2020. Be sure to download the Urbanaut App when you’re ready to travel to Goa. We’ve got the best places to stay, and all the coolest options for things to do – as recommended by creative locals (who only share their secrets with us)! Stay safe if you choose to travel now. And make sure you’re looking out for your fellow travelers as well by masking up!
Main Featured Image: A villa by Lohono Stays in Goa – one of our recommendations for beautiful long stay rental options in Goa.
