Review: Alila Diwa Goa – Delivered in all areas!

At a glance:

The Alila Goa offers a peaceful getaway in Central Goa for those looking just to relax or also explore Goa’s tourists attractions. With a main hotel and separate exclusive area called the Diwa Club with its own check-in desk and amenities, it doesn’t feel like a large crowded resort. The resort has a fantastic resort onsite that serves up Goan food, like thalis in a unique setting.

What is actually is: A resort with 2 hotels that offer similar but different experiences.

What it is not: A beach resort in Goa, as the beach is 300 metres away down a first road.

Time of year: Fall

Room Type: Diwa Club Premium Room with Pool View and Balcony

Scores:

Hotel Design: 91 – The hotel property is divided up into the main hotel and the Diwa Club on a somewhat compact lot that still manages to feel spacious and serene for its 153 rooms. The larger event spaces, like the meeting/ballrooms and the main restaurant are located centrally closer to the main hotel. The style itself is minimalist but with some local touches that are done in a stylish way with some more earthy tones. You get some Bali vibes due to the nearby rice paddies and palm trees and some of the brick accents.

Location: 87 – The hotel is not located on the beach, it is about a 10 minute walk or 5 minute shuttle ride. The surrounding area is more of a rural area with some local farms, and small local shops and services geared to tourists around (mini mart, massage, etc.). It is about a 45 minute drive to Panjim and Dabolim Airport. It is a quiet area with not too much around if you are planning to walk, but local favorite Martin’s Corner is within walking distance and worth a visit!

Sleep: 91 – The bed was not our favorite of the trip, but very decent. The hotel was very quiet and soundproofing between rooms was good.

Service: 95 – Service here was great! It had a more casual and less scripted style than some of the other spots we stayed at.

Room Design: 95 – The room layout was quite spacious and while there isn’t a spectacular view, the bed faced outwards towards the forested area. There were cozy spots to sit and relax inside in the living area and on the large balcony with comfortable furniture. There were two closets, an area for suitcases, and a large bathroom with a soaker tub, shower, and separate toilet room.

Room Amenities: 95 – Above average, but expected for this caliber of hotel: robes, slippers, mini fridge, mini bar, bottled water, a separate shower and soaker tub.

Hotel Amenities: 92 – As Diwa Club guests, we had access to amenities at both parts of the hotel and some of the exclusive perks were great. We could have breakfast at the main restaurant or the Diwa Club restaurant all day. We had access to the main pool and the exclusive Diwa Club pool. We had a daily chai pani (tea and snacks hour), and cocktail and snacks hour. The hotel also has a pool, spa, bar, and 2-3 restaurants. Food and drink prices at the restaurants were reasonable, especially Spice Studio, which has Goan thalis and ended up being our favorite meal while in Goa. The front desk can also help with tours and transportation.

Vibe: 88 – There isn’t really a vibe here, which for us, is a good thing. During peak wedding season, it would most likely have a different vibe.

Cleanliness/Maintenance: 87 – The hotel common areas and amenities were clean and well maintained. Our room is a little older and is showing signs of wear and tear. Our balcony furniture could have been cleaner, as some pillows were covered in dog hair.

Value / Extras & Perks: 94 – At check-in, we received a complimentary beer and local juice, and we received a room on a higher floor. What really cannot be beat though, are all the perks associated with the Diwa Club part of the hotel, especially when you compare to our mediocre experience at the St. Regis Goa.

OVERALL: 91.5