It felt surreal. Where on earth does the sea, in all its might, decide to hush its own waves? Where birds hover above you, graciously allowing you to be, without their usual boastful commentary, and the Sahyadris stand tall like a strict school teacher, silently commanding, “Class, settle down.”
I have never, ever, been to a place in my life where I could actually hear silence.
Araqila, a boutique resort tucked away in the unassuming locale of Vengurla, is a quiet jewel. A must-visit if you are searching for a world within the chaos we live in – where silence is not emptiness, but luxury.
The architecture defines Araqila’s DNA. The moment you enter the lobby, the view hits you – no, not gently – more like a polite but firm slap of beauty. A complete showstopper. Once you recover from this visual ambush and, still slightly disoriented, collect your keys, the journey begins.
Smooth, curvilinear walls guide you to your room, while the landscape keeps sneaking in through carefully crafted openings, like an uninvited but very welcome guest, carrying with it a soft, persistent breeze.
And then, the room. It doesn’t try too hard – it doesn’t need to. Minimalist, functional, almost humble, until you notice that it has quietly handed over the spotlight to a view that is nothing short of spectacular. You realise the room isn’t the star – you are, with nature as your backdrop.
The 23 rooms follow this philosophy – restrained, elegant, and thoughtfully designed to let the outside in. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Araqila decides to surprise you again.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Araqila decides to surprise you again.
The infinity pool is positioned with a sense of drama and playfulness – a clever circular opening in the roof frames a perfect slice of sky above you. Floating there, you’re not quite sure whether you’re in a pool or part of a well-composed architectural photograph.
Read the full article in the latest issue of Viva Goa Magazine. Pick your copy from the nearest supermarket/bookstore today.
