Tucked down a coconut-fringed cul de sac in the gently-paced village of Majorda is this lovingly-restored boutique hotel in a 100 year old Portuguese mansion. Just 1km from the beach, easily reached by bicycle, or by foot.

It's the perfect place to escape the hordes of tourists who throng to Goa, to experience village life, enjoy lively conversations round the huge banqueting tables, and make friends with other guests and your engaging hosts.

There are 6 double rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms, and a self-contained cottage in the grounds. Dining is offered to guests either 'al fresco' in the garden, or in the grand dining room adjacent to the hall of the main house with an impressive 20ft long Mutti wood table which can seat up to 16 for dinner. The cuisine is modern European with an Asian flavour prepared by Keralan chef Jibby and for the more adventurous, a Rajasthan style tent in the garden. There's a graceful 12 metre Grecian pool with wooden sunloungers, and a long talcum-powder beach 10 minutes walk away.