It was a tough week but one that came with a long weekend. I needed a break and my friend shared the same sentiment. So we did what everyone does when they need an escape. We booked our tickets to Goa and set off on a tropical getaway. With the sunny state seeing a rise in tourists each year, it’s no surprise that new villas and hotels open every month. But finding the right stay can really make or break your experience. We were on the hunt for a private space that was away from the cacophony of the crowd but still close enough to get to the hotspots in North Goa. And we found just what we were looking for at Amger, a luxurious 4-bedroom villa that comes with a welcoming atmosphere and lush views in Parra.
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Following a 45-minute drive from the MOPA airport, we reached our destination. Stepping inside Amger, there was an instant sense of relief that set in, as if the world’s burdens had been lifted off your shoulders. The grand villa stands proudly on a half-acre of land overlooking green paddy fields. But it’s the artsy interiors and welcoming atmosphere that add to the charm. Translating to ‘our home’ in Konkani, Amger is nothing short of a home away from home. I spent two nights at the villa soaking in its warmth, grandeur and luxurious offerings.
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The Story
Designers and founders Arun and Alok Lalwani purchased the villa in 2019 intending to create a family getaway, more like a second home. “We designed the entire place with everyone in mind, including our parents. Our goal was to create a comfortable and enjoyable space for us all to spend time together,” Arun shares. “After a year of working on it, when the project was finally finished, people who saw the villa were so impressed by how beautiful it turned out. They kept saying what a waste it would be to keep it empty most of the time. That got us thinking, and we realised maybe others would enjoy the place as much as we did. So, we decided to open it up as a homestay,” he adds.
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So they roped in Restoration Expert Nachinolkar Ketak and Architect Supriya Gandhi from ‘The Workshop’ to breathe a second life into the 130-year-old Portuguese villa. Exuding modernity, it still maintains its old-world charm – that’s how the owners intended to build this space. The villa is ideal for large groups and families who are looking for a private escape from the hustle and bustle.
What’s Inside?
The design and decor draw inspiration from a blend of Portuguese elegance and bohemian aesthetics. Amger is an extension of Arun and Alok’s personality. Each room’s decor and artwork reflect their journeys and interests. “Many pieces were sourced during our travels both within Portugal and abroad, particularly in India, where we found unique artefacts and textiles that add character to the villa. The goal was to create a space that feels both curated and lived-in, with a story behind every item you see. Every family member contributed to making our home a reflection of our shared experiences and passions. In every room, you’ll find artworks by artists from around the world, showcasing pieces that are particularly close to our hearts,” Arun explains.
The villa features huge arched windows and doors, Juliet balconies, a grand balcao and verandah, and the original Mangalore tile-and-wood roof. Statement lights designed by the owners themselves seek to add an element of being ‘larger-than-life’ to your experience. Tumbled stone flooring lends an irreplaceable earthy vibe to the space. But it’s truly the living room that takes the cake. With raffia decor, wicker wall art, crochet cushions and artefacts inhabiting the living room from the owners’ travels, Amger is reminiscent of an art collector’s home.
Beyond the living room lies a dining room featuring a massive wooden table flanked by walls with shelves bearing fascinating pottery items and wildlife-inspired artefacts, followed by a pathway filled with images of how the villa looked earlier – bridging the old with the new.
All four bedrooms come with a balcony. What I liked is how thought has gone into each room. For instance, the kid’s room and senior citizens’ room are made on the ground floor for matter of ease and convenience. In fact, the larger room on the ground floor belongs to Arun’s parents. It opens into a spacious sit-out surrounded by potted plants and trees, something my grandmom would surely like. Even the bathroom considers the needs of senior citizens with the addition of a seat by the shower so that they don’t need to stand too long. The two rooms upstairs belong to Arun and Alok respectively, and both are nothing short of a real-life Pinterest board–I got multiple decor ideas for my own room.
The Lush Exteriors
A verandah attached to the living room opens to the view of Amger’s garden (an ideal picnic spot), swimming pool and paddy fields. Here, we sunk into the cushions of the sofa with a hot cuppa while gazing at the natural beauty. The pool, however, in the bright sunshine looked quite inviting. The next thing you know, we’re taking a dip and enjoying the poolside area with some chilled beer. There’s also a bar by the pool for you and your friends to have a poolside party with a side of summer cocktails.
If you’re looking for other ways of finding respite from the heart, you can take shelter in the eco-friendly Machan in the garden made with wasted wood from the sawmill. The Machan does not only give you a closer look at the vast paddy fields but also lets you immerse yourself in greenery.
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The Culinary Programme
Amger comes with a fully-equipped kitchen; and the luxury of a chef-on-call who makes sure you can enjoy a traditional Goan meal from the comfort of the villa. We savoured everything from fried fish to poee with prawn curry and honey chilli potatoes. Alcohol isn’t available in the villa but there’s a shop that’s just 2 minutes away from the property for you to purchase liquor of your choice. You can either test your bartending skills with your friends and family or have a mixologist concoct some interesting creations – the team here will arrange this for you.
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What’s More?
Besides arranging bartenders upon request, the villa provides options for barbeques, live performances and catering services.
Looking for an outdoor experience? The villa organises a local floating fenny experience, which includes a tasting/dining experience immersed in a shallow lake. Amger’s location allows you to stroll over and explore the village. The Assagao beach is not too far either, and there are enough restaurants and stores for you to check out nearby. You can also head to the famous Parra Road for those Instagram-worthy shots.
On the wellness front, opt for a relaxing massage or re-energise yourself with a sound healing session by a wellness practitioner from Saabut. That’s what we did on our last day, serving as the perfect activity to invigorate our senses and re-energise ourselves for getting back to the daily grind.
