Three basset hounds waddle lazily out of the bungalow; and waddle back with you through the beautiful entrance that leads into a sitting parlour with books, and knick-knacks of the British Raj. And that's when you realize that the Vivenda Das Palacohis is a hotel like no other. Cosy, comfortable and filled with stylish antiques, Vivenda is the labour of love of Simon Hayward who runs it with his sister, Charlotte. A 100-year-old Goan bunglow, Vivenda has been painstakingly restored by Simon.
Each corner of Vivenda is a joy waiting to be discovered. Simon and Charlotte, are usually around for breakfast that is had outside on a communal dining table. Charlotte has a wealth of knowledge about the best places to eat lunch, shop at and relax and Goa and do ask for her advice before heading out.
Getting There:
Vivenda is about a half an hour drive south of Goa’s airport at Dabolim and twenty minutes from the main station in Margao, Goa. Vivenda is fifty minutes south of Panjim, the capital of Goa.
To maintain privacy, they have absolutely no signage up on the main road. The easiest way of finding the bungalow is to head for the Majorda Beach Resort. Find the junction of Beach Street and the main road, at this junction, with your back to the Majorda Beach Resort, go straight on and take the tiny little first lane on your left. Vivenda is 300 metres down the lane.
Essentials:
Have a drink by the wrought iron bar along with couple of Pizzas Relax by the pool with book under the tree Take a walk to the near-by Majorda beach