Most of us, at some point in our lives, have dreamed of living in Goa like a Goan. You can indulge in this daydream, for a few days at least, in a beautifully restored Portuguese colonial villa in beautiful, laidback Aldona in North Goa. 

The Only Olive is a large 18,000 sq ft estate spread on a hillock with sweeping views of the surrounding village and what a beautiful village it is! The Mapusa River flows on three sides and the green environs have ensured a healthy population of resident birds and butterflies.

The airy villa is perfect for a family getaway or for some quiet alone time. While the three bedrooms can be booked individually, the large common areas like the living room with its many armchairs, the sunny dining area with its 10-seater table or the surprisingly modern kitchen are all spacious enough and so comfortably furnished that you will feel like you have the place to yourself. The caretaker will whip up a simple breakfast and even a traditional Goan meal (extra charge) on request. But you can make good use of the fully equipped kitchen too.

The gardens with its sweet smelling frangipani trees and jasmine plants along with bamboo, mango, jack fruit trees will most likely become your favourite ‘hang out’ spot, especially considering the inviting hammocks so temptingly strung up. Do pay homage to the olive tree here that gives the property its name.

To truly feel like a Goan in Goa do move out beyond the comforts of the villa and check out the small bakeries and eateries in the local market, ask the caretaker to connect you to the local families that make and sell Goan sweets and snacks, and also visit the many well-known restaurants nearby.

Price: From Rs 4,650 per couple per night; includes breakfast

Read more: http://theonlyolive.com/

Slow Travel

The Only Olive is a restored heritage villa and is as local as it gets. By hosting guests the villa’s owners ensure the local economy and culture are supported.