The 100-year Portuguese house turned boutique hotel on the banks of the Zuari River redefines vacationing in Goa. Away from the holidaying hordes in shack-lined beaches and run-of-the-mill ‘beach-beer-beach’ rigmarole, this is a fresh take on a Goa getaway. Location and painstaking refurbishing apart, the personalised (not overbearing) service is the one thing that stands out for guests. As one of the best boutique hotels of Goa, House of Grace ticks the checklist of wonderfully curated rooms, an old-world charm married to modern amenities, focus on local food and keeping things simple and tasteful. 

The original home was built over 100 years ago by Casimiro Honorato de Siqueira Nazare.  Restoration work started in 2014 by Simran Kaur and it finally opened doors to guests from around the world in 2019. Comfortable nooks and corners, verandahs overlooking the river, a courtyard addressed swimming pool and the charming rooms give you ample reason to not leave the property at all. But if you do, the access to sightseeing spots in Panaji are the closest. You’re a short distance from the Latin Quarter, Fontainhas and the old churches of Goa. The beach is still a fair distance away.

Food is the biggest highlight for many guests. Fresh local ingredients turn up as tasty local and International dishes on your plate. Café Amrapali (also open to non-resident guests) have gourmet desserts from a Le Cordon Bleu certified pastry chef, Devi Heritage coffee and tea from organic tea estates in Dharamsala.