Taj Holiday Village Resort & Spa

Expansive greenery here refreshingly contrasts the nearby hustle and bustle, and a village-like spread of 142 units dot the 28 acres (11.3 hectares) of lawns, palms, and exotic foliage. Well-lit paths divide family-oriented amenities -- like a family pool and kids' club -- and the occasional active atmosphere may deter couples, although dining terraces overlooking the beach are romantic. Galleried courtyards and white-and-yellow-painted exteriors show the region's colonial Portuguese heritage, as do the open-air lobby's stained-glass windows, exposed wood beams, and rattan furniture with floral-print throw pillows. Most guests enjoy the traditional decor and architecture, as well as the many outdoor areas. A restaurant built around a 300-year-old banyan tree is particularly atmospheric. Expect a fair bit of walking, although free buggies chauffeur guests to farther venues, like the spa and gym. 

The hotel sits right on Sinquerium's main Aguada-Siolim Road, although the resort feels peacefully removed from stall vendors, shops, and bars, as they're a 10-minute walk away. Palm-fringed Sinquerium Beach is just two minutes away on foot. Sands here stretch for miles, joining busier Candolim Beach to the north. The 16th-century Fort Aguada is a six-minute drive, as is the Shanta Durga Temple, and Reis Magos Fort is 10 minutes farther. Taxis are available, although scooter rentals are popular for nearby exploring. Goa's capital, Panjim, is an hour's drive. Goa International Airport (Dabolim) is a similar distance.

Facing gardens or the ocean (in upgraded categories), rooms in multiple structures accentuate the village feel, and their terra-cotta roof tiling is attractive amid surrounding greenery. Decor varies between eight room categories, though all have at least some traditional colonial accents and an elegant feel. Expect lots of carved wood and rattan furnishings, patterned tile floors, mostly neutral-tone linens with some pops of yellow, green, or blue, and nature-themed artwork. Lower-category rooms share furnished balconies, and many past guests agree villas with private gardens, hammocks, and parasol-shaded dining furniture are worth the upgrade. Beige marble bathrooms have shower/tub combos in entry-level units, and separate tubs and showers in pricier options. All have free toiletries and hairdryers. Note that some wear and tear is visible, and upper-level rooms are reached by stairs. Standard amenities include AC, phones, cable flat-screen TVs, Himalayan bottled water, and kettles for tea- and coffee-making, plus minibars, desks, seating areas, and wardrobes with safes and slippers. Upgraded units add Lavazza coffeemakers, robes, and/or dining areas.Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

Alongside lush settings, it's the wide array of features that make this hotel a popular family pick. There's direct access to the beach, while on-site fun includes a pool with lifeguards and kiddy section, rock-climbing wall, tennis and squash courts, and colorful kids' club with supervised activities and toys. Indoor ping-pong tables and the Indian Carrom game are also available. The property's five-hole golf course with beach views is a popular activity. Four dining options include gourmet Thai at Banyan Tree, Goan specialities at The Beach House, and all-day international buffets at Caravela. The ocean-view Drift has a wide drinks menu and tapas, plus there's a swim-up bar at the lounger-surrounded pool. Featuring a fully equipped modern gym, the spa offers a huge array of relaxing treatments and massages, as well as yoga and meditation classes. Loungers adorn ocean-view lawns here, and Indian music is soothing. Terrace spaces and a meeting room can be hired for functions, and a free-to-use business center with PCs and printers accompanies a souvenir shop. Parking and Wi-Fi throughout are free.