Santiago Tranquillity

The tranquil tropical setting of Santiago, Goa lends itself perfectly to a romantic rendezvous, family holiday or even a wedding says Sunil D'costa

Location and atmosphere, Santiago Resort has got both and more. The three star property situated just off the pulsating stretch of the main road to Baga and a short walk away from Calangute, the two most popular and happening beaches in Goa, is nestled among lush tropical surroundings, an ideal retreat for a quiet laid back holiday.

Part of de Souza Hotels & Resorts - a chain of luxury hotels and resorts in Goa, the palm fringed resort has 76 luxurious, air-conditioned rooms, with each unit offering a separate living area and a balcony or terrace. Recently refurbished and upgraded, the resort exudes a cosy charm and luxury. Each room is well equipped with twin or double bed, wardrobe, fridge and all other requisite modern creature comforts.

Apart from the well-appointed rooms, Santiago believes in pampering its guests through their stomach. The resort has four in-house restaurants to cater to all kinds of taste buds. `Bamboo Bistro' by the pool offers varied snacks, mini-meals and beverages right through the day. For dinner, one can choose to pig out on either Thai and Oriental cuisine at `Thai Bazaar,' or on an intriguing combination of Spanish, Continental, Mediterranean and Indian dishes at `Las Masalas.'

If you are in mood for a late night, head for Rendezvous, the rooftop lounge bar. It is a good place to unwind with couple of drinks and good music. Gastronomic experience is also enhanced further by the theme nights organised from time to time by the resort which generally lays out a spread of sizzlers, barbecue, `balti,' or seafood. The swimming pool and host of indoor games provide succour from the excess calories you may have put on at the restaurants. Alternatively, one could also visit the massage and ayurvedic room at the resort for rejuvenation.

Getting to the resort is easy - it is 45 minutes from both the airport and Thivim railway station. This tranquil, tropical oasis of luxury may just tempt one to stay on forever.