I have been to Goa few times but this was my first time with my four-year old. Family travel is a different ballgame. When you are traveling with kids, there is a set criteria to book a hotel, which most parents would know.
Novotel Goa Candolim checked all the boxes for us as a perfect family hotel. Located in Candolim area of North Goa, just a few minutes drive from the beach, the hotel houses 149 rooms and suites. We loved our spacious suite- a duplex with living room and balcony on the ground floor while bedroom with walk-in closet and bathroom were located upstairs. It looked regal if not exactly reminiscent of the Portuguese era. The spacious suite was ideal for a family of four.
The check-in at Novotel Goa Candolim was contact less as they had asked us to email identity proofs and health forms soon after our booking. Post a two hour flight and an hour long drive from the airport with a toddler in tow, a smooth quick check-in is such a blessing. We were welcomed with a refreshing drink and were quickly whisked away to our suite. Our luggage reached our room after being duly sanitized.
My four-year old absolutely loved the hotel stay as it had an expansive Kids Club. The Kids club also followed all safety precautions and kids were encouraged to wear masks at all time. The hotel also has introduced cool slides at the swimming pool and once operational it will be quite an attraction for young guests.
While the food at the hotel is lip smacking, one must try the seasonal Goan dishes. Chef Alex Dias who is a local with a global exerience and heads the culinary team at the two Novotel hotels in Goa, is passionate about regional cuisine and is working to revive the lost recipes of this beach destination.
The hotel also arranges a master class if you want to learn some authentic Goan recipes. We tried the seasonal Mackerel Curry and Kokum Prawn Curry. Both were delicious. The restaurant does very good King Fish too. The all day dining restaurant- Square serves international cuisine too along with regional specialities. In the evening the weather and setting of the poolside bar- Bar Asia is ideal to grab some cocktails.
The hotel is home to the very chic Elle Spa. So while my son was busy at the kids club, I opted for an invigorating sixty minute therapy at the spa that offers Ayurveda massages as well.
At Novotel Goa Candolim, there was something for everyone and that’s why it makes for a perfect family hotel.
Location is a huge advantage too. We would spend evenings at the Candolim beach, which is about one kilometer from the hotel, and is one of the cleanest beaches of North Goa.
Book this hotel in Candolim, North Goa for a perfect family vacation!
