Discover Tranquility at Kaia Goa: A Retreat for Those Embracing the Art of Slow Living
Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar joins forces with Chrome Hospitality to unveil Ashwem village’s serene Kaia
Italians may have dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing), but Goans swear by susegad – a state of being that has no perfect textbook definition. It’s a mindset steeped in an easy, relaxed approach to life. It’s this very spirit that Goa’s latest boutique property Kaia aims to capture. Located in the village of Ashwem, it’s far from the thronging crowds of Assagao or Candolim, promising a quieter getaway.
The hotel – high on raw, rustic charm – sits right across the road from a sleepy stretch of the beach. The foundational idea is to bring back the ambiance of the Goa of yore – untouched, unhurried and easy-going. You’ll notice this relaxed air as soon as you step in. No formal reception or check-in counter, the entrance opens to the all-day al fresco restaurant.
“We want to take guests on a journey back to the roots of Goa while providing a wholesome experience,” says Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar. Mumbai’s Chrome Hospitality (co-founded by Nikita Harisinghani, Dhaval Udeshi and Pawan Shahri) have worked closely with Bhumi to bring Kaia to life. Goa had a special draw for the star. “I have been travelling to Goa for many years now. My ancestral place, Pedne, is also in Goa,” she tells Bazaar Arabia.
Kaia packs a punch by maximising the intimate space it is housed in. Those who frequent Goa will recognise it as the same spot that was once a surfing school and organic café. The 10 rooms spread across two levels thrive on comfort and simplistic charm, with Instagram friendly whitewashed bathrooms and artwork made from recycled materials. The four bedroom villa sits right across the road from the main hotel, with an infinity plunge pool that gives you direct access to the beach. The aesthetically designed haven is one you’ll not want to step out of.
The two-storey, 30-foot hourglass-shaped bar extends from the ground floor all the way to the soon-to-open terrace, and took eight artisans over 400 hours to create. The menu is all about hearty comfort food with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Think favourites like Mexican and Buddha bowls, a South Indian breakfast, woodfired pizza and regional cuisine. The ‘root to fruit’ philosophy is also all about drinks made using herbs, fruits, and edible flowers grown on Goan land. Pro tip: ask to get behind their bar for a fun mixology 101 with the team.
A home-style coffee bar sits on the first floor, and the lounge area is stocked with board games, books and a welcoming vibe – chill, read or grab a high stool and get some work done. But these aren’t the only activities that beckon at Kaia. Their menu is focused on wellness experiences that let you shut out the outside world and revel in the beauty of the present moment. We tried the sound healing meditation, handpan music workshop and bio-energy meridian massage (all in the comfort of our room), and came back abundantly refreshed. The ever-smiling team will also readily organise kayaking, cycling, or fishing with locals should you wish to immerse yourself in the local landscape too.
Mindful design is an important part of Kaia’s philosophy, also keeping Pednekar’s own climate-conscious lifestyle in mind. This is evident in the design elements too – locally sourced materials, bamboo, driftwood, and recycled materials, all designed by Spiro Spero that is partially headquartered in Goa. “I want to do everything in my capacity to drive awareness, ignite conversations and create real change to build a sustainable environment. And Kaia is a harmonious blend of luxury, culture, sustainability; embodying the spirit of slow living,” says the actress.
Goa is India’s golden holiday destination with as many moods and personalities as one seeks – five-star hotels, best-kept party secrets, family getaways and wellness retreats. If it’s a taste of that susegad life – impossible to access in our fast-paced lives – you’re after, then Kaia really does deliver. Untouched by what many consider the post-pandemic gentrification of Goa, the days here linger on endlessly in the best way possible. Allowing you to just be without being consumed by the trappings or trials of urban life. Ultimately, your time at Kaia will be a reminder to slow down. Take a deep breath, there is no need to rush.
For more information, please visit kaiagoa.in.
Photography by AXP P
From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s January 2024 issue.