Goa's Paradise Found: Shantie Shakthi's Stunning Pool & More!
Goa's Paradise Found: Shantie Shakthi – My Honest Take (and a Few Rants!)
Okay, people, buckle up, because I just got back from Shantie Shakthi in Goa, and let me tell you, my laptop is still buzzing with opinions. This place… it’s a trip. Let's dive in, shall we? I'm going to be brutally honest, because honestly, that's what you need, right? Forget the fluffy marketing speak, let’s get real.
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First Impressions & Accessibility:
Finding the place, well, that was a mini-adventure in itself. Goa roads, as you probably know, are…character-building. But once you get there, the entrance is gorgeous. Now, accessibility. Listen, I have… ahem… a friend who uses a wheelchair, and I was genuinely curious. Shantie Shakthi tries. They have an elevator, which is a HUGE plus in Goa. The public areas seem okay, with ramps here and there, but honestly, I didn’t meticulously inspect every single corner. It’s Goa – things are a little rough around the edges, and I suspect the same applies here. So, while they claim to have "Facilities for disabled guests," I'd recommend double-checking specific needs with the hotel directly, because let’s face it, Goa doesn't always nail accessibility.
The Room – My Happy Place & My Minor Gripes:
We got “Available in all rooms” - Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, and let's not forget, the glorious Free Wi-Fi! (which, by the way, actually worked – miracle!) The bathtub was amazing, and separate shower/bathtub was a blessing, especially after a long day by the pool. The blackout curtains were a godsend for those much-needed afternoon naps. My room had a desk, a desk, a desk - where I could finally put that laptop to work! The bathtub was big and the toiletries were not what I was expecting. I saw slippers and towels were good, but was expecting something more upscale.
The hair dryer was decent, but the mirror was a bit far from the outlet to actually use it.
The Interconnecting room(s) available seemed perfect for the kids - next time I will drag them with me, and will definitely need to check out the babysitting service.
I felt particularly safe with the In-room safe box and the bathrobes. The mini bar had all the necessary, but I could not find some of the essential condiments.
Now the window that opens was a bit of a let down - I wanted one of those picturesque, Goa-view windows, but instead I got a generic window.
Cleanliness & Safety – The "Are We Actually Safe?" Factor:
Okay, so… post-pandemic, this is IMPORTANT. And Shantie Shakthi takes it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer everywhere you look. They also have Rooms sanitized between stays and Room sanitization opt-out available. That last one is a nice touch – shows they’re respecting your choices. The staff are definitely Staff trained in safety protocol, and you can see it. Doctor/nurse on call is a comfort. I saw a lot of Hand sanitizer, and the First aid kit made me calmer. Honestly, they’re doing a good job, but I didn’t whip out a UV light and start inspecting. Trust your gut.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking – My Food Coma Confessions:
The restaurants at Shantie Shakthi are a big draw. Let's be real, I spent a lot of time eating there. The Asian breakfast? Worth waking up early for. The international cuisine was pretty good too; not Michelin-star, but tasty. The buffet was extensive and the Coffee/tea in restaurant could be better.
And the Poolside bar… oh, the poolside bar. That’s where the magic happens. Sipping cocktails, watching the sunset, forgetting all your worries… Happy hour is a MUST. The staff at the poolside bar were especially friendly and chatty, which made my experience a lot better.
The a la carte in restaurant menu featured delicious desserts, soup and salads. The vegetarian restaurant was good too, and I wasn't missing the meat.
Room service [24-hour]… always a win. I also appreciated the Bottle of water that kept me going.
My one slight gripe? Sometimes, the service could be a little…Goan-paced. You know, things take a little longer. But hey, relax, you’re on vacation!
Things to Do – Poolside Bliss & Beyond (and a Few Misses):
Okay, the swimming pool [outdoor] is the star. Seriously. It's stunning. The Pool with view is everything you dream of. The pictures don't lie. I spent days just lounging by that pool. I read, I napped, and I drank way too many cocktails.
The Spa/sauna was nice. Massage was excellent. The Body scrub and Body wrap were…indulgent. The Steamroom was a nice touch. I did not check out the Fitness center or the Foot bath, because let's be honest, I was there to relax.
Now, the "Things to do" section on their website lists Bicycle parking and Car park [free of charge]. I didn't notice this, which made it harder to find things to do; you'll need a car to get around, although Taxi service is available.
Services & Conveniences – The Perks (and a little Goan Chaos):
Air conditioning in public area? A godsend, especially in the Goa heat. Cash withdrawal available, which is handy. Concierge helpful for booking things. Daily housekeeping was excellent. The Elevator was crucial.
Their Front desk [24-hour] staff are generally friendly, although I had a minor issue with my bill (it got sorted, but it took a while). Luggage storage was a lifesaver. The Laundry service was efficient, but a bit pricey.
Meetings are available, as well as all the Business facilities required.
They didn’t let me have my Pets allowed (sadness), so I couldn't rate this item.
For the Kids – Family-Friendly or Just Family-Adjacent?
Family/child friendly? Yes, definitely. Kids facilities are visible, although I didn’t have any kids with me. Babysitting service available (yay!). Kids meal options in the restaurant.
Getting Around – Navigating that Goan Groove:
Airport transfer is a must. Car park [on-site] is convenient. Taxi service is readily available.
The Quirks & the Chaos – Embrace the Goan Vibe:
Okay, so this isn’t a sterile, perfectly polished resort. It’s Goa. Things aren’t always seamless. There might be the occasional power outage (bring a flashlight!), a slightly leaky tap, etc. Just…go with the flow. Embrace the chaos! That’s part of the charm. If you’re looking for perfection, you’re in the wrong place. If you’re looking for a slice of paradise with a healthy dose of Goan character, you’re in the right one.
My Verdict – Worth It? Absolutely.
Shantie Shakthi is a solid choice. It's got a gorgeous pool, good food, comfortable rooms, and a genuinely relaxed vibe. It's not flawless, but it’s got heart. It’s a great base for exploring Goa, or, if you're like me, for just chilling by that pool and pretending you have no responsibilities.
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Plus, get ready for:
- Instagram-worthy pool days: Stunning views and crystal-clear waters.
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Luxury Redefined: Uncover the Majesty of Hotel Sanjary Palace, India
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't just some dry-ass itinerary – this is my attempt at conquering Shantie Shakthi in Vagator, Goa, India. And believe me, it’s gonna be a wild ride.
Subject: Goa or Bust (and Maybe a Bust-Up with My Stomach) – Shantie Shakthi Survival Guide
(Disclaimer: May contain excessive sweating, existential crises fueled by spicy food, and questionable fashion choices.)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Pool Panic
- Morning (ish): Land in Goa. Pray to the travel gods that my luggage actually made the flight. Because last time? Let's just say I spent three days in Thailand wearing a single, ill-fitting sarong that I bought from a dubious street vendor. Airport chaos ensues. Taxi haggling: round one. I'm already exhausted, and I'm just standing there.
- Mid-Morning: Arrive at Shantie Shakthi. “Ooh, pretty,” I mutter, mostly to myself, as I try not to look like I'm about to spontaneously combust from the humidity. The lobby – it’s… rustic. (Translation: a little rough around the edges, but has character, like that weird uncle everyone has.) Check-in: I'm already pretty certain my room key is going to be one of those old-school, heavy metal monstrosities.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon: The Room reveal! OMG, the balcony! It's overlooking the pool. (Cue a mini internal victory dance.) Throw myself on the bed… which, let's be honest, is probably going to be the most comfortable thing I experience today. Quick unpack (or attempt to – the mosquito net is already mocking me), slap on some sunscreen that's probably expired, and prepare for the Pool Panic.
- Afternoon: The Pool. This is where the real drama begins. First: the sheer number of people. Second: the fact that I, a person with the grace of a newborn giraffe, am about to gracefully… swim? I manage to find a decent sun lounger (hallelujah!) and awkwardly attempt to look like I belong. Water is glorious.
- Late Afternoon: Post-swim existential crisis fueled by a lukewarm Kingfisher beer from the swim-up bar. Why am I here? What am I doing with my life? Should I have ordered snacks? Yes, yes, I should.
- Evening: Dinner at the resort restaurant. Pray for good food, and even better company (if I'm lucky). Because let's be honest, I am traveling alone. Pray for no tummy trouble. Try to navigate the menu (the spice levels are a total gamble.) Maybe, just maybe, strike up a conversation with someone who also looks like they're slightly lost.
Day 2: Beach Bums and Spicy Regrets
- Morning: Okay, let's get serious. Or at least attempt to. Wake up feeling like a sun-baked prune. Head to Vagator Beach. The walk is hot. The beach is crowded. THE SAND! It’s everywhere. Embrace the sand.
- Mid-Morning: Find a somewhat shady spot (essential for my pale complexion). People-watching: the best free entertainment. Observe the surfers, the sunbathers, the aggressively tanned tourists. Order a fresh coconut (the ultimate Goa cliché, but I do love coconut water.)
- Lunch: Local beach shack, because, duh. Order something delicious (or at least, I think it will be at the time). This is where things take a turn. The spice level. Oh GOD, the spice level. My mouth is on fire, my eyes are watering, and I'm pretty sure I've just agreed to run a marathon. Regret. Pure, unadulterated regret.
- Afternoon: Beach nap (needed). The waves lull me into a blissful, sun-drenched stupor. Wake up covered in sand and feeling slightly disoriented. That's fine. Everything is fine.
- Late Afternoon: Explore the Chapora Fort. Hike up. The views are breathtaking. The sweat is copious. Take a bunch of photos (because, Instagram, of course). Contemplate the vastness of time and the impermanence of, well, everything.
- Evening: Dinner. I'm gonna play it safe tonight. Stick to something bland. Maybe a grilled fish, cooked without any… spice. The thought of spice makes me shudder. Find a quiet spot. Reflect on the day. Realize that I’m starting to love the chaos.
Day 3: Pool Round 2: Electric Boogaloo and Market Mayhem
- Morning: Pool time! Round two! This time, I know the ropes. The sun lounger is mine. The pool is calling.
- Mid-Morning: Swim. Drink. Repeat. Vow, I vow! To learn to actually swim before I leave this place. Maybe I'll try.
- Lunch: This time, before the beach. I'm smarter now. Grab a snack from the resort. Avoid anything that looks remotely enticing (lesson learned).
- Afternoon: Arpora Saturday Night Market! (If it's Saturday. If not… well, change of plans.) Dive headfirst into the chaos. Bargain like my life depends on it. Buy things I don't need but absolutely must have. The atmosphere is electric, the smells are intoxicating, the people are… a lot!
- Late Afternoon: Market exhaustion. Find a juice stall, drink down some sugary goodness. Realize I have purchased a ridiculous amount of trinkets. Feel no shame.
- Evening: Dinner back at the resort. Maybe. Or maybe I'll try to find some local food to challenge my taste buds - or maybe to send me running in search of relief.
Day 4: Yoga, Relaxation, and the Questionable Art of Doing Nothing
- Morning: Attempt yoga. Honestly, I’m more of a “stumble around and try not to fall over” kind of person, but I’ll give it a go. Try not to laugh at myself too much. Stretch. Contemplate my inner peace. Fail miserably.
- Mid-Morning: Spa time! Book a massage. Surrender to the magic. Feel the tension melt away (hopefully, before my shoulders spontaneously revolt).
- Lunch: Resort food. Embrace the convenience.
- Afternoon: Do absolutely nothing. Read a book. Stare at the pool. Contemplate the meaning of life (again). Enjoy the blissful boredom.
- Late Afternoon: Sunset cocktails at a beach bar. Watch the sun dip below the horizon. Sigh contentedly.
- Evening: Pack (ish). Say goodbye (for now) to paradise.
Day 5: Departure, and the Lingering Taste of Spice
- Morning: Last breakfast. One last glance at the pool. Check out. Taxi to the airport. Hope my luggage made the journey (again).
- Departure: Reflect on the trip. Realize that despite the spice-induced suffering and the occasional moment of existential dread, I actually had a pretty amazing time. The people, the food, the chaos… it's all part of the Goa experience.
- The Verdict: Shantie Shakthi. It's… a vibe. It's not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges, but it’s got heart. And hey, you might just enjoy the imperfection.
- Final Thoughts: I'll probably be back. But next time, I'm bringing a hazmat suit and a whole lot of Pepto-Bismol.
P.S. Don't forget the all-important mosquito repellent. You'll thank me later. And maybe a roll of toilet paper. Just in case.
Luxury London Getaway: Unforgettable Novotel Canary Wharf Experience
Goa's Paradise Found: Shantie Shakthi's Pool & More! - You've Got Questions, I've (Probably) Got Answers... and Opinions!
Is Shantie Shakthi really as dreamy as it looks in the pictures?
Okay, let's be real. Instagram lies. And even the best Goa photographers can work miracles. But... Shantie Shakthi? It's pretty darn close. That freaking pool? Yeah, it's the real deal. That turquoise water shimmering under the Goan sun... it's practically a siren song. I walked in on the first day and nearly forgot everything I knew about existing! I mean, *almost* forgot to unpack. There are a few imperfections – maybe a chipped tile here and there, a slightly wonky sun lounger – but honestly, those little things just add to the charm. It's not a sterile hotel; it's a place that feels...alive. Think 'perfectly imperfect'.
What's the vibe like? Is it a party place or more chill?
Chill, honey, CHILL. Deep breaths, yoga mats, books, and the gentle clinking of ice cubes in cocktails… *that's* the vibe. Don't get me wrong, people are *happy*. They’re on holiday, so there’s chatter, laughter… but it's not a rave. I spent three days there blissfully ignoring the outside world, occasionally surfacing for a mango lassi. One night, a couple started playing acoustic guitar by the pool and it was just... perfect. Then again, I did see one dude try to start a conga line at 2 AM and get politely shooed away by a very understanding staff member. So, yeah, mostly chill, but with a hint of potential for mild mischief (which, frankly, I loved observing).
Tell me about the food! Is it any good?
Oh. My. God. The food. I'm not even kidding, I think I gained five pounds just *thinking* about the food. The breakfast buffet? Forget about it. A veritable explosion of tropical fruits, freshly baked bread, eggs cooked to your liking (and, you know, *my* liking involved a lot of cheese – don't judge!), and delicious curries. The lunch menu had this grilled fish dish that I dream about. Literally. It haunts my waking hours. The dinner options were divine, too. They have a chef who knows what they are doing, and the staff are incredibly attentive. One tiny hiccup: the first time I tried to order a *very* specific type of coffee at breakfast, it took about 15 minutes to arrive. But hey, I was on holiday. What was 15 minutes when I had sunshine and a plate full of incredible food.
What are the rooms like? Are they actually clean?
Rooms? Yes. Clean? Mostly, yes. Okay, let’s be honest, I’m a bit of a germaphobe. I give every hotel room a serious once-over! I saw a tiny, almost invisible speck of dust on the windowsill. Like, I needed a magnifying glass to find it. Otherwise, everything sparkled. The linen was fresh, the bathroom was spotless, and the air conditioning worked like a charm (vital in Goa!). The decor is simple, elegant, and calming. The beds are comfy, the showers have great water pressure. And you’re not going to go the hotel expecting a place for a party like you would in Ibiza, it is perfect to relax and chill.
Is it a good place for solo travelers?
Absolutely! I was travelling alone. And, honestly, it was perfect. The staff were super friendly and would chat to you without being overbearing, and there are common areas around the pool and the restaurant where you can strike up a conversation with other guests if you want. Or, you can just completely Zen out, which is equally acceptable. No judgement from anyone, which is exactly what solo travel should be all about. One day, I went to the beach, I came back and everyone was chatting around the pool. Maybe I should have talked more, maybe I shouldn't have but it was perfect just the way it was. You can also go to the local market, or explore the area by yourself with the bikes they have available.
Is the location convenient? How far is it from the beach/town?
Depends what you consider convenient. It’s not in the middle of a bustling, honking, crazy tourist town. Which, for me, was a massive plus! It's in a more secluded, peaceful area. The beach is a short bike ride away. They offer these free bicycles, which is fantastic. You can zip along the coastal roads, feeling the sea breeze in your hair. Town is also accessible by local transport if you want more. It had the perfect balance of "close enough to get to things" but "far enough away to escape the chaos". Don't go expecting to be able to walk everywhere, though. Think taxi or bike. And be prepared to embrace the Goan pace – which is, shall we say, *relaxed*.
What's the Wi-Fi like? Because, you know, gotta stay connected...
Okay, let's be honest, I'm not totally *proud* of how much I rely on the internet. But, you know, work emails, checking in with family... Wi-Fi was generally decent. Not lightning fast, but perfectly usable. I managed to stream a movie one night. I also tried to upload a video of a stray dog that I had befriended (yes, I’m that person), but it took a while. However, I wasn't really there to be glued to my phone, and Shantie Shakthi gives you every excuse to switch off!
Anything I should know BEFORE I go? Any downsides?
Okay, here's the real talk. The only "downside" (and it’s not really a downside for me, but YMMV) is that it's not a budget backpacker hostel. It's a treat yourself kind of place. You’re paying for the experience, the tranquility, the service. Also, be prepared for the occasional power outage in Goa - it's just part of life. The staff have back-up generators, but sometimes things flicker. Finally, the biggest *danger*? You'll get desperately addicted to the pool and never want to leave. Seriously. I almost missed my flight. I had to physically be *dragged* away. Pack sunscreen, a good book, and a strong sense of your own need to be happy. Go. You will not regret it.
