We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there.
Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!
Dehradun has been a holiday destination for years. The beautiful surroundings and its proximity to the hills have been major advantages for this city. The gorgeous spots of Rishikesh and Mussoorie are not too far from here, and Dehradun too has unique experiences for its guests.
About 6-7 hours away from Delhi by road, and only an hour by air, Dehradun is the perfect holiday destination for those who don’t want to travel too far. To make your holiday memorable, we’ve listed 6 of the best places to visit and things to do in Dehradun. So go ahead and book your tickets. Your itinerary has been set.
Venture into Robber’s Cave
A river cave formation in the Garhwal Himalayas, Robber’s Cave is a delight for those who like some thrill. This cave is about 600 metres long and has a river flowing through the central part of this natural formation. It’s only about 8 kilometres away from the city centre so the drive here won’t take too long. Start your Dehradun trip with this dose of adventure and take pictures that are bound to induce envy in your friends.
Take a dip at Sahastradhara
Near Robber’s Cave lies Sahastradhara, a collection of sulphur springs. Located about 14 kilometres away from the city centre of Dehradun, Sahastradhara is the ideal place to spend a few tranquil moments in the lap of nature. The water here is known for its medicinal properties but even if you don’t go for its therapeutic value, you’ll want to spend more time here just to take in the unique surroundings and fresh air.
Get your dose of Bollywood at the Forest Research Institute
Not many people know that the location for the popular Bollywood film Student Of The Year was in Dehradun. The Forest Research Institute doubled up as the famous school where the three protagonists studied. For your very own experience with Bollywood, visit this landmark of Dehradun and spot the familiar places from the film. The Forest Research Institute is also known for its unique architecture which makes it stand out among the other structures of the city.
Fill up on all kinds of momos
If there’s one thing you must not miss eating in Dehradun, it’s momos. With a distinct Chinese and Tibetan influence here, the momos here are authentic and heavenly for the taste buds. While good momos are not difficult to come by, there are a few places which stand out. Kalsang on Rajpur road is one of the most popular restaurants in Dehradun and is known to have some of the best momos in town. Some of the places known for great food are Cafe Marigold and Orchard.
Find serenity at Mindrolling Monastery
Located in the picturesque Clement Town, Mindrolling is a prominent Buddhist monastery. It offers a great view of its surroundings along with spiritual serenity. If you want to find a quiet spot in the hustle and bustle of Dehradun, this is where you’ll find it. The monastery is also an architectural marvel and stands out in the distance. The premises of the monastery also houses one of the tallest stupas in the world. Surrounded by greenery and large gardens, this monastery is truly a spiritual paradise.
Explore the jungle life at Rajaji National Park
If you’re travelling with family, spend a day at the Rajaji National Park. The wildlife park opens at 7 am and closes at 10 am. It opens again at 2.30pm and closes for the day at 5 pm. Depending on which time of the year you choose, you have a good chance at spotting several wildlife species. You’ll get a great day with the family and some unique experiences at a national park, all for a nominal price. The Rajaji National Park is xxxx kilometres away from the city centre of Dehradun.
So go ahead and book your summer trip to Dehradun. And to make your holiday even better, book an OYO Home where you can enjoy unmatched privacy and the comforts of your own home.
The transition from spring to summer brings the traveller in us out of hibernation. Maybe it’s the nostalgia of those vacation weeks in school, or the promise of breaking away from the routine and doing all those things we’ve dreamt of all year. It is truly a magical time.
Now, years later, we find ourselves losing out on the romance of the season, giving in to the hustle of daily life. Still, the inner wanderer yearns to break free, to discover the world around us – as we did when we were young.
This summer, we pay tribute to the season of the sun and the beauty it brings. Summer is in the great things, like a sunset burning the sky tangerine, or a mountain shrouded in the distant mist. But it’s also in the quieter things, like a hammock swaying under the palm trees, or chocolate ice cream dripping down the side of your favourite cone.
Summer Is At OYO
This is our tribute to summer, and our invitation to you: head out and rediscover the season that sparked your love for travel. We share this love, which is why we want you to see these stunning sights – and more – by yourself.
All through the summer, our stays are waiting to welcome you at 50% off.
We hope you find everything you seek – everything under the sun.
Games from our childhood, like Mario and Pac-Man, made us want to live in a world where one could play these games anytime, anywhere. However, we always had to get back to reality as soon as the game ended. But what we didn’t get as kids, we can now get as adults.
This home, created by our in-house design experts at OYO Home, has made the gaming world come alive.
Designed with different games in mind, this house has a distinct identity in every corner. While the living area pays tribute to classics like Pac-Man and Tic Tac Toe, the bedrooms are a Mario and Tetris lover’s dream come true.
“I was so excited for the entire duration of working in this house,” Smriti, the designer of this house, says. “I used to be working closely with elements that were not only fun but also brought back tons of childhood memories.”
“I made sure that the interface of Mario was not only used as a wallpaper in this room,” Smriti says. “Different elements of the game serve different purposes and functions. Mario and the mushrooms were designed as lamps. The ‘lives’ in the game were used as clothes’ hooks in the open wardrobe, and some of the furniture was wrapped in decal to represent different parts of the game.”
The second bedroom in this house is an ode to Tetris, the classic game we were all addicted to as children. Apart from the wallpaper, the patterns of Tetris have also been incorporated into the bedside lamps and the mirror in this room.
You might also notice an apt inspirational quote just above a giant remote control which is all part of the open wardrobe in this room.
“We experimented with decals and interactive furniture for the first time with the design of this house,” Smriti says. “We didn’t want to overdo the gaming elements and colours so that our guests don’t get overwhelmed, and we also wanted the furniture to be aesthetically pleasing and functional at the same time.”
If you thought the gaming dreamworld was limited to the bedrooms, you’re wrong. It extends into the living room, balconies, kitchen, and dining area as well.
Not only is the Pac-Man decor in the living room really fun to look at, it serves a purpose too. It’s a bookshelf and a beautiful piece of decor as well.
In the dining area, the table also has an interactive game which you can use to kill time while waiting for your meals.
“The dining table has been designed with coasters in the centre, arranged in a manner that you can play Tic Tac Toe at the table,” Smriti says. “The coasters have magnets which stick firmly to the table centre while playing. The coasters can be used around the house as well.”
The dining table also has mats which have snippets of information about Goa and its culinary history.
“The balcony is multi-functional and also takes part in the gaming theme,” Smriti says. “The individual elements of the balcony table can be used as stools or coffee tables. Their shape is such that the pieces come together to form one unit, like a puzzle.”
You will also see a blackboard on the balcony wall which is a functional and interesting part of the decor. You can scribble on it, write fun stuff for the other members of the house, or practise your drawing skills with chalk. And this time, no one will scold you for writing on the wall!
One of the big advantages of this house is that it will appeal to people of all age groups. Not only will kids enjoy the colours and unique decor, adults too will enjoy the nostalgia that this house brings. And we won’t be surprised if you can’t pick just one favourite spot.
“Every corner unwinds like a little surprise,” Smriti says. “I worked on this house for over a month and I still can’t decide which is my favourite part of the house. But I think the blackboard wall is a strong contender.”
The adventure with this house begins with your drive here. It’s nothing short of spectacular, with a significant part of it taking you right next to the Chapora river. On your way here, you will cross a number of small villages which will give you an insight into the simple Goan life, a vastly different experience from what the tourist spots offer.
Siolim has its own spots and corners if you’re looking for a hearty meal and a drink. Manila Bar & Restaurant is only 210 metres away from this complex, and Amancio, known for its authentic Goan food, is about 1.4 kilometres away.
One of the most peaceful and scenic beaches in Goa — Morjim — is about 20 minutes away by car. The serenity of this beach and the dreamy sunsets make the drive completely worth it. Vagator Beach, famous for hosting several events especially during the tourist season, is about 9 kilometres away so you’re not too far from all the action.
Book this OYO Home and you’ll guarantee yourself an unforgettable adventure. Get clicking!
You have always dreamt of your “wedding day.” Fortunately, the day has arrived. A different chapter of life is soon to strike with surprises. The wedding memories are always pristine and beautiful. Every couple has a story to recite, with million awestruck moments. It is the time of your life which can be made worth remembering with careful planning.
Here is a comprehensive guide on how to plan an Indian wedding and avoid last-minute glitches.
Plan Ahead to Reduce the Stress
Set A Budget & Stick to it Before Planning an Indian Wedding
Wedding Timelines and Booking Schedules
Venue Selection and Guest Accommodation
Choose an Invitation Style
Wedding Theme and Flower Arrangements
Gaming & Fun
Food and Catering Services
Candid Moments and Featured Photography
Entertainment and DJ Services
1. Plan Ahead to Reduce the Stress
Already feeling exhausted and overstressed? Don’t know where to start?
No worries 🙂
“Planning” could be the ultimate stress removal therapy. You have always referred to guides to solve intricate questions. Didn’t you? So, why not refer to a small wedding planning guide to simplify the procedure. Follow these sure shot wedding planning tips. The following tips will guide you through the whole event.
Decide whether you want a traditional wedding or a conventional wedding with glamour elements.
Use email invitations instead of wedding cards.
6 Months of Pre Planning will help you deal with logistics, music, and decorations.
Be pragmatic and flexible while taking investment under consideration.
2. Set A Budget & Stick to it Before Planning an Indian Wedding
People tend to spend a lot without designing a budget. A wedding is not a single day celebration. It comes with lots of events. Plus, there are equal investments in outfits, jewelry, gifts and more.
The list is vast so, it is advised to have a budget. Don’t end up messing with all; sit, relax and understand.
Take help of the experienced specialists. There are many informative sites and articles on the Internet which can guide you on how to plan an Indian wedding. You can always ask for the assistance of wedding planners to design your budget. Under normal circumstances, the actual cost may shoot up by anything between 10-30%. So keep a buffer working on the budget.
3. Wedding Timelines and Booking Schedules
Managing wedding timelines means making a closed loop of different ceremonies and guests. Guests invited to a wedding should be intimated well in advance. It should be anything between three to six months before the wedding day.
This will help guests plan their trips accordingly. The wedding guest list consists of some confirmed attendees along with a few dicey ones. It is done to make sure you don’t end up expanding budget with any additional arrangement. Then comes the task of listing the number of functions such as Mehendi, Haldi, and Sangeet.
These days cocktail parties are also organized frequently. Plan the space according to different functions and events. You may want to book separate spaces for three different functions. So, it is suggested to see if a particular venue offers flexible space for various big and small functions.
4. Venue Selection and Guest Accommodation
Selecting a wedding venue in India may be overwhelming. Here are few important points which would ease the process of venue selection:
Venue Location: Site inspection would solve the problem of location. Understand the locale to attract the guest with a great first impression. A lush green open space would be best to engage the guests.
Capacity: Availability of flexible gathering space is essential for various events. A simple social gathering might involve 200 guests. However, a big wedding event might be crowded with more than 600 guests.
Type: Check whether your event would need a Banquet, Marriage Hall or outdoor space.
Availability: Availability of wedding space depends upon the status of wedding season. Make sure that the desired space is available on your wedding date.
Rates/Negotiations: Rates and Negotiations also depend on the seasons. The early you will book the space the better deal you may get.
Safe Parking: Parking is a great concern for wedding guests. Wedding means a lot of attendees and all commuting with different vehicles. Understanding parking concern means making your guests comfortable. Once their parking concern is solved, they would be able to enjoy the function.
Accommodation: Most of the Banquets and Hotels usually have a full arrangement of a comfortable stay. Wedding guests would need night stay facility. So, the hotels are facilitated with both “Deluxe” and “Standard Rooms.” Rooms should have WiFi facilities, a hot and cold supply of water with regular food supplies. Packages can be customized with breakfast lunch and dinner itineraries.
Extra Services: Extra services include power backs, extra food for unplanned guests and additional space for small events.
Food And Catering: Check whether the venue has food service included.
Reviews and Rating: You can always check the ratings of Banquets to make wise selections.
5. Choose an Invitation Style
This is one area where you can save a significant amount of money. Many people spend a lot on wedding invitations in India. However, you can save a lot by adopting a more practical and technological approach.
Get some copies printed for the near and dear ones or the local family and friends.
Use E-Cards for volume invitations.
Recently, e-cards are gaining tremendous popularity among urban youth and environment conscious couples. Plus, it would be a meaningful effort toward saving paper.
E-cards can also be designed with one of your customized candid couple shot. So, what are you waiting for? Get your candid shot clicked and let the designer do the rest.
6. Wedding Theme and Flower Arrangements
Wedding themes lay the foundation for a wedding decoration. Any decoration including stage setup, backdrop, entrance, flowers falls short without a stated theme. Even the food representation style is aligned as per the wedding theme. Quickly take a look at some themes that can be selected while planning an Indian wedding.
Exotic Flower Based Theme: Jasmine, Rajnigandha, Marigold, and Rose all are made available for exotic flower theme. All these flowers add multiple pops of colors in the decoration. Flowers can be a part of centrepieces, stage, mandap, and entrance. Carnations can also be a part of various events like Mehendi, Haldi, and Sangeet. Flower arrangements enhance the look and feel of the event. Exotic flower theme is always the first choice because of its simplicity and freshness.
Royal Theme: They say marriage is a divine bond, so why not design it in golden words. A Rich Royal Theme captures the epitome of Treasured Indian Traditions. It is for those who are looking for an event other than the usual self. The Rajwadi style is captured flawlessly in the wedding event with possible royal decorations. A royal theme is inspired by gold jewels and ornaments. Over the top decorative artifacts is the real charm of this theme. Booking a palace for the wedding could be expensive but having a similar feel on the day is easy. You might not get elephants on the venue, but an antique car would solve the purpose. The bride can commute on a royal palki to the stage. The guest would long remember your royal affair.
7. Gaming & Fun
No wedding is complete without gaming or some quirky stuff. You should plan your fun time separately but the budget should be in your mind. This part of the night will lit-up your memories and brighten your wedding functions even more. Musical game, pool side fun games, or doing some acting, to relive your love story or first meeting or the time you spend with your parents will definitely bring tears in your eyes. Relive those moments and capture it in the camera so that you can cherish it forever.
8. Food and Catering Services
Food is something that can make or break the reputation of any marriage party. You need to be extremely careful and sensitive towards the taste of your guests. Choose banquet halls that are known to serve excellent and exotic dishes. The menu should reflect the marriage theme and local culture. Also, the food served should be enough to tempt the taste buds.
9. Candid Moments and Featured Photography
Weddings are about special picture-perfect moments. The representation of each moment is made possible with excellent photography. With family and friends all around, wedding photos could be snapped in candid shots. Candid photography captures real and natural moments.
Featured photography is also very popular nowadays. It is a glamorous version of traditional photos. It consists of tailored shots which feature real emotion. Both Candid and Featured photography should be included in the wedding event.
10. Entertainment and DJ Services
An Indian wedding is more like a festival, with songs and beats audible from all corner. People gather to dance in their best moods. In a nutshell, weddings are high on fun. Therefore wedding event should blend excitement with unmatched entertainment services like DJ Services, Punjabi Dance, Ghoomar Dance, Folk Dance, Dance Floor Fun and more.
Wedding venues also come with entertainment packages. The entertainment packages have DJ services. Ask the management to arrange the best DJ artist who could understand the music demands of your guests. The Dance floor should be equipped with light and sound arrangements. Jumbo Boofer and Speakers are a ‘must’ on the floor.
Celebrity DJ Artist: Depending upon your budget scale, the DJ artist can be selected. Celebrity DJ artists are engaged during wedding peak seasons. So, it is suggested to ask for their availability. The wedding specialists would be able to do bookings in advance with prior knowledge.
Dance Artist: Bhangra is an epic hit in desi Indian weddings. The Bhangra dancers woo the guest with their explosive dancing which is high on energy. Professional Bhangra dancers compel the crowd to shake their heads. So, you can always book a troop of bhangra artists to impress your wedding guests.
Folk Dance: It is popular in the Royal wedding setups. Folk dancers dress in regional attire and perform various dance forms. These dancers could be a group of Rajasthani, Gujarati or Marwari folk artists. You can choose your favourite folk dance form for your Indian wedding. The wedding management team will arrange the artists as per your demand.
Conclusion
Planning an Indian wedding in advance helps in eliminating shortcomings and last minute confusions. Hook on the net to get jaw-dropping deals on banquets, wedding venues, and marriage halls.
It is always good to create a checklist of all small and large activities mentioned in this Indian wedding planning guide. It will not only help you plan a fascinating Indian wedding but also help you save on a lot of unnecessary expenses.
Goa is all about colors, happiness, and an easy existence. All of these factors come together in this gorgeous OYO Home near Siolim. The location is serene, far enough from the crowds of North Goa, but close enough to experience the charm of Goa in all its glory.
This home is a marvel for more than one reason. Not only is it a beautiful design, it was executed within a minimal budget and really tested the innovation of our designers – a battle that was won skilfully.
The budgeting constraint meant that our design team faced a constant challenge throughout the design and execution process. From the furniture which had to be made from scratch to the artistic design elements, everything was done without compromising on quality.
“The motive of undertaking this project was to completely furnish a 2BHK in a surprisingly low budget,” Tuhin, the designer of this house, says. “Due to this constraint, almost all the furniture had to be made locally without compromising on the durability or quality of the product.”
“Space did not come together until the last day because the furniture was made off-site,” Tuhin explains. “So when everything reached the site, and we started getting everything together, it was the best part of the project. No one, except the people who had conceptualized the space, could imagine what the house would look like before it all came together.”
The design of this property was unique in another way. The furniture in the bedrooms and dining area was a combination of mild steel and pinewood while the living room furniture was made entirely of pinewood and acacia wood. The minimal, contemporary design of the furniture gives the living room a neat, clean look which will appeal to everyone who dislikes a messy house.
The lighting in this house is another unique feature of this house. “All the light fixtures were custom-made from locally available material,” Tuhin says. “It was inspired from the idea of using the same set of lights for general as well as ambient lighting. They also double up as decor elements.”
The limited budget also presented a chance to showcase one of OYO Home’s main missions – to upcycle and reuse without breakage. As Tuhin explains, the decor elements in this home were a result of innovative upcycling which gave this house a more homely vibe. For example, the wooden panel in the dining area serves three purposes – it provides ambient lighting, it’s a quirky decor feature, and it’s a functional piece of furniture.
“This panel is unique in so many ways,” Tuhin says. “Not only does it look great, it’s a result of using salvaged material and successful upcycling. Everyone was quite surprised about how something so beautiful came out of a tight budget.”
While admiring the decor, the bar-style dining table will also catch your eye. Instead of having a conventional dining table with four chairs around it, Tuhin used a high table and chairs that look like bar stools but are way more comfortable.
While making the house comfortable for our guests was our main focus, we couldn’t ignore Goa’s love for colours. So every room in this house has a wall which stands out and brings a bright splash of colour to the area.
“The overall design language of the house is contemporary and follows the principle of straight and clean lines,” Tuhin explains. “There are elements of surprise here and there, including the bright walls which break the monotony of wood. The fact that so many elements were possible in a low budget is proof of how design can work wonders even when resources are limited.”
Step into the balcony and you will find another surprise waiting for you. The calming view of the trees, and seating which is inspired by the abundance of nature around you, can make this spot a favourite with all the travellers in your group.
“This house is surrounded by dense greenery on three sides which makes it feel like you’re living in the wild,” Tuhin says. “That adds a sense of adventure to the house. Complementing this is the grass bed in the balcony along with a breakfast counter which makes this the perfect spot for your morning coffee or the first meal of the day. This is my favourite part of the house.”
Located in one of the most beautiful parts of Goa, the surroundings of this house have a lot to offer. The gorgeous Morjim beach is only 8 kilometres away from here, so you can spend all day at the beach every single day. But don’t let the beach distract you from the other gems around this area. There are some wonderful boutique restaurants in the vicinity which serve exceptional Goan and Italian food. O Papagaio Bar and Restaurant in Mapusa is only 550 metres away, so you can stroll your way to a delicious meal.
Book this cozy, colourful OYO Home on your next trip to Goa and discover the hidden gems of this charming state.
Whether you’re looking to party or enjoy a siesta on the beach, Goa has something for every kind of traveller. And for those with a love for everything tropical, we offer this adorable OYO Home which will steal your heart.
As soon as you enter this house, you will know that you’re in the tropics. The decor takes inspiration from all things fruity and floral. The Goan vibe is unmistakable.
“The design of this house was meant to be lively, fresh, playful, and full of bright colours and fun artwork,” Harjot, the designer of this house, says. “The colour theme of the living room is yellow, green, orange and blue, with plenty of white. Most of the wooden furniture is white with yellow highlights. The sofas are green and orange, and the walls are highlighted with yellows.”
One of the most interesting features of this house is the hand-painted artwork on the walls.
“Instead of wallpapers, I hand-painted the yellow walls and coves with sponge and made lively floral patterns,” Harjot says. “This covers the entire corridor as well. Even the yellow brick wall has temple tree leaves drawn all over it with a whitener.”
The living room balcony is the perfect place for you to chill for hours, play games, read, or even take a nap. With a stunning view of the pool, sitting in this balcony may also tempt you to go downstairs and jump into the water.
“The living room balcony has a lot of life,” Harjot says. “There is a swing to hang out on and a low table with floor cushions which adds a playful side to the house. In fact, this balcony with its view and comfortable seating, can easily become a favourite with our guests.”
The bedrooms have a completely different feel. One bedroom is colourful and full of interesting artwork, and the other has large windows which open out into a massive balcony.
The colourful bedroom, with its artwork and contrasting curtains, is the ideal room for kids. The wall behind the bed will intrigue people of all ages, but it will especially interest children because of the varied designs and colours of the artwork.
The balcony attached to this bedroom offers a gorgeous view of the surrounding areas. Feel the morning sun pour in through the windows, and enjoy the fresh breeze of Goa as you enjoy the luxury of laziness.
This bedroom also has an open wardrobe which adds to the openness and spacious vibe of the room. Created for sheer convenience, the wardrobe and mirror make the perfect, compact space to get ready without spreading out too much.
The second bedroom in this house is ideal for those who hate being closed in. With two massive full-length windows opening out into a balcony with a view of the pool, it’s impossible to ignore the airy vibe of this room.
This bedroom also has an open wardrobe but it’s a completely different design. Instead of closed drawers, the storage area in this room is more open.
No matter where you are in this room, you can’t escape the view. On one side of the balcony, you see the serene, tempting swimming pool. On the other side, you see the greenery of Goa which can make the saddest soul jump with joy.
Apart from the views, this balcony offers a lot more. “The bedroom balcony has bright yellow stools and two tables resting on the railing,” Harjot explains. “These can be moved around to different parts of the balcony according to convenience. It can be used for morning tea, a light breakfast, or even to work on your laptop.”
This beautiful, tropical paradise is located in Siolim near the Chapora river. While on your way here, you will be treated to a beautiful view because of this river.
Siolim is away from the noise and crowds of north Goa but still close enough to some typically Goan spots to keep you entertained. When you’re on your way here, you’ll see some of the most beautiful, untouched spots of Goa. Driving along the river, you’ll cross a number of small villages which seem like a mirage in a place that attracts thousands of tourists every year.
You’ll also have the chance to discover some local gems in Siolim. Manila Bar & Restaurant is only 210 metres away, so a good meal and drink is just a few steps away. Amancio, known for its authentic Goan food, is about 1.4 kilometres away.
One of the best beaches in Goa — Morjim — is about 20 minutes away by car. The serenity of this beach and the dreamy view of the sea make the drive completely worth it. Another beautiful place that you must visit is the Sunset Uddo Beach, about 12 minutes away by car, which offers the best view of a Goan sunset.
Come to Goa, book this beautiful OYO Home, and make a lifetime of memories with your family and friends.
If you thought the festivities in Goa ended with New Year’s Eve, you’re wrong. What started in December will end in a mega finale in February with the 4-day long annual carnival in Goa. It’s colourful, vibrant, loud, full of happy people, and a celebration of everything that Goans hold dear about their hometown.
Witnessing this carnival in all its glory is an unforgettable experience and a unique part of the diverse Indian culture. This year, the Carnival is being held from 10th to 13th February. If you haven’t seen the Goa Carnival yet, here’s why you need to book your tickets for it this year.
The parades are unlike any you’ve ever seen in India.
When you see a burst of colour on the streets of Goa, you know you’re in the middle of the annual carnival. You’ll be tempted to hop on to one of the gorgeous floats in the parade, but even watching from the crowd is great. Also, it is imperative that you cheer at the top of your voice and dance around wherever you are when the parade crosses in front of you. It’s almost the law.
Ever since we’ve heard of Mardi Gras, we’ve all wanted to go to Brazil. But did you know that India has its own version of Mardi Gras? The parade has dancers performing to all kinds of music, there are celebrations all over Goa, and there are wonderful masks that you can wear all the time and feel a part of the festivities. So if you’ve always dreamed of Brazil but don’t have the money for it, go to Goa for the carnival.
When in Goa, drink and eat like the Goans do. While the Carnival is on, it is the best time to sample local delicacies like Feni which can make you feel “happy,” and local seafood preparations which you won’t get anywhere else. Drink and eat all day and night because that is the norm during the Goa Carnival.
We have the Portuguese to thank for the wonderful tradition of the annual carnival. It’s held just before the period of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, the day after the Carnival ends. During this period, Catholics fast and abstain from festivities. So before this 40-day period starts, Goa refuses to sleep and celebrates from morning to night for four days. Reason enough to party, don’t you think?
If you pride yourself on being a “citizen of the world,” Goa is where you can test yourself, especially during the carnival. You’ll land up having interesting conversations and really interesting meals with people from across the world.
The carnival travels across Goa and covers a vast distance from Panjim to Margao, Vasco and Mapusa. So if you follow it around, you’ll also get to explore various parts of Goa which you may not do on a regular lazy holiday to Goa.
From kids to teenagers, young adults, and people of our grandparents’ age, everyone finds something to enjoy at the carnival. It’s truly a family activity unlike any other. So if you’re thinking of a family holiday with your parents and/or kids, head to the Goa Carnival. You will never have to worry about them getting bored.
The best way to enjoy Goa is by staying in a holiday home, which gives you the privacy and space that hotels lack. Book an OYO Home so that all of you can stay together and really enjoy the vibe of the Goa Carnival. Don’t wait, an OYO Home doesn’t stay vacant for very long.
Located just a 20-minute hustle free drive away from Gurugram, lies your mini royalty with a to-die-for view direct from the comfort of your bedroom. The place has an art gallery, decorated with the most aesthetic paintings and artifacts from all the regions of India.
OYO 2944 is not far from the loud and happening nightlife of Delhi and Gurugram. But the beauty and grandeur of the hotel will surely make you to drop all your plans and submerge in serene and royalty.
Sit beside our royal pool or have a rejuvenating walk through our history and culture, which is depicted through all the paintings and artifacts displayed in the art gallery.
All the art will make you believe, that we have digged out gems and displayed for you.
Apart from that, this regal hotel offers sumptuous breakfast straight from its kitchen, that caters different mouthwatering cuisine. Personally, we love the rooms with a hint of royalty and a peep of history. Simple wooden interiors along with bright contrasting linen, now that is just classic!
Earthy colours, an elegant finesse to the decor, and pure serenity will greet you as you enter this beautiful apartment. This 2BHK house is perfect for your trip to Goa with friends or family and to spend some quality time with them.
Walking into this house, you’ll notice a traditional Indian touch in a modern apartment. “The idea was to create a space which is Indian but has a contemporary feel to it,” Harjot, the designer of this apartment, says. “I kept all the elements and the layout simple and clean. That’s also why I chose earthy, soothing colours with highlights of blue.”
The furniture in the living room was carefully chosen to be a part of the decor but, at the same time, each piece has its own story and individuality. The tables in the living room are antique pieces, and the sofa set is a replica of an antique.
“I chose the floral print on the sofa to add a pop of colour to the living area,” Harjot says. “It adds life to the space without making a sharp contrast and connects to the ethnic theme.”
Adding to the individuality of the house, the masks on the wall and the suspended wooden lamp draw you in and make you want to know more about their origins.
“The masks and the carved panels on the walls are antique artefacts from Nepal,” Harjot explains. “They have such a unique personality and each one adds to the story of the house. I used the carved panels to make the frame for a large mirror as well.”
“I made the suspended wooden lamp out of small channapatna lamps and toys,” Harjot says. “All the other lamps in the house are made out of terracotta, and the wall mounted ones are made out of terracotta bells.”
The wall art too is unique in this house and, according to Harjot, was quite easy to do.
“I created the wall art by using an old metal and wood printing block,” she says. “The coves and brick walls are painted in the terracotta colour, and over it, I used white paint and made block print patterns. Later, I used the same block to create a ledge under the plug point to keep electronics.”
The sunlit, welcoming balcony is about more than just the view. While you can see the swimming pool from here, there is something in the balcony that will catch your attention first.
“The table in the balcony was a lucky find in an antique shop,” Harjot says, reminiscing. “After hours of exploring, I found this gem in a small shop. It’s made out of an old milk can and reclaimed wood. The balcony stools too are special. They’re made of cane and are quite delicate, something which shows in their design.”
Moving back indoors, you’ll see that the dining table is like a picnic table instead of a formal one. It has enough seating for four people and will instantly bring the holiday spirit into your meals. The dining table also has unique table mats which tell you a little bit about Goa’s culinary history. Explore the origins of Bebinca, Feni, and other Goan favourites while enjoying a scrumptious meal.
The bedrooms have a spacious, ethnic vibe which is an instant mood lifter. Both rooms have open wardrobes which adds to the unrestrained, easy design flow of the house.
Decorated in shades of blue, the first bedroom represents the sea which is an integral part of the Goan experience. The lighting and the furniture, including the wardrobe rods, bring in the typically Indian twist to the design.
The view from the balcony here is also spectacular. Till as far as the eye can see, you’ll see greenery. While the blackout curtains will keep the sun out for as long as you want, we suggest throwing the curtains wide open and letting the gorgeous Goan sun warm your soul in the morning.
The second bedroom, with its own play of colours, has a bright, sunny feeling even when the curtains are closed. With similar lighting and furniture as the first bedroom, you don’t have to worry about anyone fighting over their choice of room. However, this bedroom does have something special which you will notice as soon as you see the open wardrobe.
The artwork in the open wardrobe here is unique and unexpected. And it was also created in a unique manner.
“To create this artwork in the wardrobe, I used the back of glass bottles and cotton balls,” Harjot says. “It created a different texture for block printing in the wardrobe cove which came off looking really nice.”
This property is located in Siolim near the Chapora river which makes for interesting views on your drive here. It’s away from the noise and crowds of north Goa but still close enough to some typically Goan spots to keep you entertained.
When you’re on your way here, you’ll see some of the most beautiful, untouched spots of Goa. Driving along the river, you’ll cross a number of small villages which seem like a mirage in a place that attracts thousands of tourists every year.
While you’re here, you’ll have the chance to discover some local gems in Siolim. Manila Bar & Restaurant is only 210 metres away, so a good meal and drink is just a few steps away. Amancio, known for its authentic Goan food, is about 1.4 kilometres away.
One of the best beaches in Goa — Morjim — is about 20 minutes away by car. The serenity of this beach and the dreamy view of the sea make the drive completely worth it. Another beautiful place that you must visit is the Sunset Uddo Beach, about 12 minutes away by car, which offers the best view of a Goan sunset.
Come to Goa and stay in this beautiful, elegant, gem of an OYO Home in Siolim.
Most of us think of Goa as a paradise for the laziest ones among us and for those who don’t want to move a muscle ever. But it’s also heaven for those who want their fill of adventure and don’t want to sit still. And one of the best ways to be adventurous in Goa is to explore the world beneath the sea.
Welcome to this gorgeous 3BHK OYO Home in Dona Paula, Goa, which will inspire you to get up and go diving!
The colours on the wall and the interesting, unique design elements in this house will make you curious about diving, even if you didn’t come to Goa with the intention of going underwater.
“The design of this house draws all its elements from diving,” Harjot, the designer of this unique apartment, says. “You’ll feel a sense of neutral buoyancy in the decor. I’ve tried to create different levels around the house. Being underwater, you see so many things at eye level and above you, so I made the suspended lamps a part of it and even painted the ceiling blue in one room to make you feel underwater.”
If you’ve ever been on a dive, you would’ve noticed the strange effect that light has on water when you’re beneath the surface. That’s another feature that Harjot drew inspiration from while designing this house.
“The play of light in water is very interesting, and it’s an element that I really wanted to use here,” she says. “I interpreted it through tie-and-dye fabric. The colours and textures simulate the way light travels through water. It looks gorgeous and adds a lot of life and brightness to the space.”
The living area of this large 3BHK is spacious and welcoming. It has several design elements that are one-of-a-kind but it doesn’t feel crowded in any spot. Bringing the vastness of the sea into the house, the living room has been designed in tones of blue and has lots of open space.
The seating in the living room has been designed carefully to simulate a specific and special part of a diving experience.
“An interesting aspect of diving is the surface interval,” Harjot explains. “It is the break time between two dives to allow nitrogen to release from the body. This time is generally used for eating, drinking a refreshing beverage, sunbathing, listening to music, enjoying the view, and talking about everything the divers saw. I have tried to simulate this culture in the living room by creating sitting spaces which are like the spaces on a boat. The raised deck which acts as the backrest for the sofa and the large square bed in the living room are part of this.”
The dining area is unique in its own way. The dining table has been suspended from the ceiling which gives it the look of being upside down when the chairs are removed around it. The colour scheme of the dining area and the table are similar to the rest of the house and blends in with the diving theme.
“The dining table was an interesting design challenge,” Harjot says. “While we could’ve gone the conventional way, this dining table adds one more talking point to the house and it makes regular meals so much more interesting when the dining table literally has no legs.”
Keeping this home’s individuality at the core, the rooms have been designed in a manner that makes them all stand out. They incorporate various aspects of diving, including the time spent on the surface.
The first bedroom has the feeling of being in a submarine underwater and will inspire your creative instincts if you’re a water baby.
“This bedroom has a dark blue ceiling which becomes lighter in colour as it moves down the wall,” Harjot says, explaining the design philosophy in this area of the house. “The suspended lamp makes it look like a sea creature is floating above you. Even the wardrobe rods are suspended to look like they’re floating.
In Harjot’s words, this bedroom is playful. Not only does it have enough space for you to goof around, but it also has enough seating for your entire group of adventurers to converge for a game or two.
“The room has been designed in a way that it lets you hang your feet from the really high bed or lie on a hammock bed woven out of cotton ropes,” Harjot says. “This room is the best example of different levels in the house. On the bottom is a single platform bed and then there’s a hammock bed with a platform in the middle and a five-foot high bed on top of it. The railing of the high bed is also made out cotton ropes.”
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to float on a raft on the high seas? Before you run out towards the water, try the experience in the third bedroom where the floor looks like the sea and the bed floats in the middle of it.
“This bedroom will make you feel that you’re afloat,” Harjot says. “The floor is soft and blue, and the bed just floats in the middle like a raft. The windows will make you feel like you’re in a sea vessel just drifting off to an exciting, untouched land.”
The diving theme takes on a different persona in the bathrooms. Instead of being decorated in the colours of the sea, the bathroom ceiling depicts a school of fish above you, providing a view similar to when you would be underwater looking up at the surface of the sea.
While designing this house, Harjot stayed true to OYO Home’s principles of upcycling. While several pieces of furniture were made from scratch, there are a number of elements that were recycled and reused to fit the design theme of the house.
“All the suspended lamps are made from scrap water filter frames which have a very interesting form like an extruded cycle wheel,” Harjot says. “The shadows which they cast on the ceiling compliment the tie-and-dye curtains. Several lamps have been made out of GI plumbing pipes which also ties the whole diving theme together.”
“I used a beer keg from the scrap yard to create a table for the balcony,” Harjoy further explains. “The keg looks like a diving cylinder and worked as a lighter substitute for the same. Even 75 percent of the wood used to make the furniture came from old, dismantled furniture pieces.”
The balcony of this apartment wraps around the house in an L-shape. Instead of having different balconies for different rooms, several doors open out on to the same large balcony which has swings, a hammock, and stools so that you can lounge there for hours.
“I deliberately placed two swings together so that people can swing and chat, and enjoy the gorgeous view of the sea,” Harjot says. “Also, a great advantage for parents is that the kids won’t fight for the swing when they have so many options.”
Image Source: http://bit.ly/2roKqVE
The famous Dona Paula View Point is about 2 kilometres away from this apartment. Named after a historical Portuguese figure, this spot attracts thousands of tourists every year for its spectacular view of the sea.
If you want to relax by the beach, head to Dona Paula beach which is about 1.4 kilometres away from this house. But since this is Goa and there’s no shortage of beaches, you can also go to Dias beach, Marivel beach, or Caranzalem. Try a new beach every day on your holiday.
