Goa's Hidden Gem: Uncover the Magic of Martins Crest!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into Goa's supposedly "Hidden Gem": Martins Crest! And let me tell you, after my recent trip, I'm ready to spill the (sometimes lukewarm) tea. Consider this less of a review and more of a chaotic, honest, and hopefully hilarious recount of my experience. Brace yourself, because it’s gonna get messy.
First Impressions and Getting There (Accessibility – Mostly Good, With a Side of Goan Charm)
Getting to Martins Crest? Easy peasy. The airport transfer they arranged felt a little…rustic, to put it kindly. My driver, bless his cotton socks, seemed to think the horn was a permanent fixture on the steering wheel. But hey, it’s Goa! You roll with it. Accessibility-wise for actually getting to the hotel? Generally good. I saw a few ramps and elevators, so good for those with mobility issues. Inside the grounds it's pretty navigable. However, if you're really, really relying on top-tier accessibility, maybe double-check those specifics beforehand. Goan charm can occasionally translate to "things that aren't quite perfectly finished."
The Room: My Sanctuary (or, My Fridge-Less Paradise)
Okay, the rooms. They’ve got AC, which is a GODSEND in Goa. And the bed? Huge. Like, "I could get lost in here" huge. Linens? Clean enough. They have all the usual gadgets, like a digital alarm clock; however, mine didn’t work. The coffee/tea maker situation was a lifesaver for those desperate morning caffeine fixes.
The Big One: Food, Glorious (And Sometimes Questionable) Food
Let's get real. Food is IMPORTANT. And Martins Crest…well, it's a mixed bag, the kind you find on the beach.
- Restaurants: They boast a few. The "a la carte in restaurant" was great, and the "buffet in restaurant" too. The Asian cuisine was a highlight - truly a culinary adventure!
- Breakfast Blunders: The Western breakfast was, let's just say, not their forte. The "buffet" offered a decent variety, but the scrambled eggs tasted suspiciously of…nothingness. I am a vegetarian, and I do have to say there were several options.
- Poolside Panic: They had a "poolside bar," which, in theory, sounds amazing. In practice, it meant waiting an hour for a lukewarm beer and watching the staff casually wipe the tables with questionable rags. But hey, views are views. (And, okay, the "poolside bar" offered a reasonable happy hour, which I may have exploited on more than one occasion. Judge me.)
- The Snack Attack: They had a Snack bar, which didn't provide a varied selection, but it was an absolute lifesaver when you're peckish between meals.
Relaxation Station: Let the Pampering Begin (Or, Attempt to Begin)
- The Pool is the Prize: Now, the "pool with a view?" That's where Martins Crest shines. Seriously stunning. I spent hours just floating, staring at the horizon, and pretending I was a wealthy socialite. A total escape.
- Spa Shenanigans: They have a spa! Or, at least, the idea of a spa. I indulged in a massage. The masseuse? Sweet woman, but she seemed to be fighting the urge to fall asleep herself. I've had better, I've had worse. It was fine, but I have to say it was just a massage.
- Gym/Fitness: Yeah, Nah. Their "Fitness center" really didn’t quite feel like a gym. Felt more like a room with a treadmill from the 1980s. (I think it was supposed to be a gym? I wasn't quite sure.)
Cleanliness and Safety: Did They Actually Do Anything?
Okay, this is important. Given the current climate (and my own hypochondriacal tendencies), I was constantly on high alert, and I can tell you, Martins Crest has been working hard. No complaints. You can opt-out of room sanitization, and I like that.
Services and Conveniences: Hits and Misses
- Helpful Staff: The staff were generally helpful.
- Free Wifi: The "Wi-Fi [free]" worked pretty much everywhere I went. It was pretty easy to use, so no complaints about it.
For the Kids and Lovers
- Family-Friendly? They mention being "Family/child friendly", however, no children were seen during my stay.
- Room Decorations. Nothing fancy.
Getting Around: The Goan Way (Prepare for Chaos)
- Airport Transfer: As I said earlier, they provide an "Airport transfer;" however, plan for a chaotic ride.
- Free Car Park: I was pleasantly surprised by the "Car park [free of charge]".
The Verdict and the Not-So-Subtle Sales Pitch
Okay, look. Martins Crest isn't perfect. It has its quirks, its imperfections, and its moments of "What is that smell?". But it's also got a charm, a soul, a certain je ne sais quoi that I found utterly captivating.
Here’s what I'm saying: Goa is about letting go, embracing the unexpected, and finding joy in the little things. And Martins Crest, while not always perfect, does a pretty darn good job of facilitating that.
So, here's my pitch, folks.
Tired of the same old vacation routine? Yearning for an escape that's more 'authentic' than 'Instagram-worthy'? Then ditch the pretense and dive headfirst into the magic of Martins Crest!
- Unwind by a pool with a view that will steal your breath (and possibly your phone).
- Feast on flavors from around the world, even if some of them might be a bit…adventurous.
- Embrace the Goan charm, even if it involves a few bumps along the road.
- Get a massage - or at least the attempt of a massage.
- Just relax.
Book your stay at Martins Crest NOW! Because, let's be honest, life's too short for boring vacations. Plus: They offer an unbeatable price for this level of comfort in this area. What are you waiting for? Click that button and get packing!
Escape to Paradise: Amar Bagh Resort, Pushkar's Hidden Gem
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. You're about to embark on a rollercoaster of a Goa trip – through my brain, at least. This isn't your perfectly curated Instagram travelogue. This is the truth, warts and all, Goa style. And, specifically… Martins Crest. God help us.
Martins Crest, Baby! (A Messy Itinerary)
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Regret (Just kidding, mostly.)
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Arrive at Dabolim Airport (GOI). Oh, the humidity hits you like a wet, hairy hug right off the bat. Immediately regret my decision to wear that travel outfit (denim anything in this heat is a crime against humanity). Taxi to Martins Crest. The driver gives a running commentary on the "real Goa" and how I need to try the "local feni." Already suspect this is going to be a slippery slope.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Check into Martins Crest. Let's be honest… the online photos were definitely touched up. The "rustic charm" is a polite way of saying "slightly crumbling." But the staff! So sweet. This guy with the perpetually sleepy eyes offers me a welcome drink, which turns out to be… a very sweet, very brightly colored concoction. He says it's "Goan Welcome Juice." I drink it. Immediately feel like I could wrestle a cobra. Okay, Goa, you've got my attention.
Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM - Until I Pass Out): Explore the immediate area. Attempt to find some dinner. Get lost in the labyrinthine streets. End up at this little shack that’s barely holding together, but the aroma of the grilled seafood is intoxicating. Order everything. The owner, a woman with eyes that have seen things (and probably a lot of tourists), gives me a sideways glance and says, "You hungry, yes?" Yes, I am. And the food? Dear God. The BEST garlic butter prawns I've ever had. I basically lick the plate clean. Wash it all down with a Kingfisher. The first one. (Spoiler alert: not the last).
- Anecdote: While waiting for the prawns, a stray dog with one ear missing saunters up and plonks himself at my feet. He proceeds to give me the most sorrowful look I've ever encountered. I'm a sucker. I feed him some of my prawn scraps, and he suddenly perks up. Named him Bruce. I swear, I'm going to adopt him. (Probably not, but the thought is nice).
Night: Return to Martins Crest. Stumble over a rogue palm frond. Collapse into bed, already dreaming of garlic butter prawns, Bruce, and the questionable "Goan Welcome Juice". Expect to wake up at least once with a vague sense of unease and a slight buzzing in my head.
Day 2: Beach Bliss (and Battling the Sun)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Attempt to be a productive human. Fail. Wander down to the beach (probably Baga, since it's close… but I am dreading the crowds.) First impression? Holy moly, it's gorgeous! Golden sand, turquoise water… pure postcard material. However, the sun is already trying to melt my face off. Sunscreen, people. Lots of it.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Beach time! Find a shack. Ordered a ridiculously potent cocktail. (Okay, maybe more than one). Watch the waves. Get mesmerized by the rhythmic crashing. Lose track of time (and possibly my sunglasses).
- Perfection: I end up ordering grilled fish from the shack, which is brought out by a boy with the sun-kissed skin. He smiles at me. Pure, simple happiness.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Start the long (and sweaty) slog back towards Martins Crest. Realize I am terribly sunburned. Curse my past self for thinking a "light tan" was a good idea. Stop at a local shop and buy an enormous bottle of aloe vera gel. Apply religiously.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Whenever): Dinner at a different shack. (There are so many! I'm overwhelmed, and possibly a little buzzed still.) Attempt fancy cocktails. Fail. Stick to the Kingfisher. Hear live music, maybe dance. Spend the next few hours on the beach.
- Emotional Reaction: Feel a deep sense of peace. The sound of the waves, the warmth on my skin, the freedom of being in a new place. This is what I needed. This is… almost perfect. Except for the sunburn. And the mosquitos. Seriously, where do THEY come from?
Day 3: Heritage & Hangover (Maybe Both)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Wake up. Regret many things. Head throbbing. Aloe vera application intensifies. Stumble out of bed. Find some semblance of food.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Explore Old Goa. Visit the churches. All that history! Really impressive. Feel a pang of cultural ignorance. Attempt to learn something (while battling a hangover, let's be real).
- Quirky Observation: The architecture is incredible. The colours are vibrant. However, the sheer number of tourists, makes me feel like I'm trapped on a Disneyland ride.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Relax. Read a book by the pool (finally!) if Martins Crest has one (crosses fingers). Maybe take a nap. Definitely apply more aloe vera.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Whenever): Dinner. If I can move. If I'm feeling brave, attempt to explore some more local food, or maybe venture out further than my immediate vicinity.
- Opinionated Language: Okay, I’m going to be honest. By day 3, the whole tourist scene is starting to wear me down. It's all a bit… much. However, this is Goa. You have to embrace the chaos. And the feni.
Day 4: The Big Dive (or Trying To)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Today… diving? Maybe? I booked a day trip on a whim. I'm slightly terrified. Hopefully, it's not too rough getting into the water.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): DIVE TIME! (Or at least, snorkeling… baby steps). The water is warm. The fish are colourful. I almost panic when a giant turtle swims past. Eventually, the fear subsides and I (almost) enjoy myself.
- Double Down Experience:
- The Water is Calling. I had initially booked for a snorkeling tour. But as the boat started to go offshore, I realised how much I was yearning for the deep sea. I spoke to the instructor, who was happy to help me. With the help of my instructions, and a bit of encouragement, I went deeper. The experience was a sensation, the colours more intense, and the sensation of being in an entirely different world was exhilarating. Even the brief instances of anxiety vanished in the face of such beauty. I felt alive.
- The Deep Blue It was a transformative experience, the weightlessness, the beauty, the utter silence broken only by my own breath. I am changed.
- Double Down Experience:
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Return to Martins Crest. Exhausted but exhilarated. Shower. Put on my comfiest clothes. Collapse on the bed.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Whenever): Dinner. This time, I swear, I'm going to try some actual Goan cuisine! Maybe a proper fish curry? Or at least, I'll attempt to order something new and interesting.
- Messier Structure and Occasional Rambles: Oh, and I almost forgot! There was this vendor on the beach who kept calling out, "Ice cream! Ice cream!" It was relentless. But eventually, I caved. And it was the best coconut ice cream I've ever had. Seriously. It reminded me of my childhood. And now, there are some memories that will always be etched in my head.
Day 5: Departure (and Tears, Probably)
- Morning (Whatever Time I Wake Up): Pack. Try to ignore the rapidly approaching reality of returning "home."
- Afternoon (Check-Out and Taxi Time): Check out of Martins Crest. Say goodbye to the sleepy-eyed guy, and give him a big tip. (He deserves it).
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Travel to Airport.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Whenever): Depart from Dabolim Airport (GOI). Reflect on all the moments. The heat, the beauty, the food,
Okay, Okay, Martin's Crest... What IS it, REALLY? Beyond the Hype?
Alright, lemme level with you. Martin's Crest isn't some sparkly, perfect Instagram-ready paradise. It's… well, it's more like Goa, only dialed up to eleven. Picture this: a super chilled-out, almost surreal, little hillside village with views that could make a grown man weep (in a good way!). It's supposedly a "hidden gem," but honestly? It's more like a well-kept secret whispered among those who actually *live* Goa, the ones who've escaped the throngs of tourists and discovered something truly special.
You’re talking tiny, winding roads where scooters occasionally bump into each other (and thankfully, no serious harm done… *usually*). You've got these quirky little guesthouses, often run by families who’ll treat you like you're one of their own… for better or worse! (More on that later!). Think authentic Goan life, a slow pace, and the kind of sunsets you'd sell your soul for. I mean, it's *that* good. Forget the generic beach clubs; this is where the real magic happens.
How do I *actually* get there? GPS won't help me, will it?
Oh, honey, GPS is your *enemy* here. Well, not entirely, but... it’s unreliable. Your best bet is to rent a scooter (the Goa way!). Head to the hills, following the signs (or lack thereof, because things gets confusing) towards Porvorim. Then, ask a local. That's key. See a friendly face? Stop and ask for directions to Martin's Crest. The locals know *everything*. Be prepared for a slightly adventurous ride, some hairpin turns (and holding your breath a few times!). And if you get lost? Well, that's part of the fun, right? I once got hopelessly lost for like, three hours, ended up in a rice paddy, and still, in retrospect, it was amazing!
Accommodation: What’s the deal? Luxury or… Rustic?
Definitely leaning towards the "rustic" side, darling! Don't expect five-star resorts. You’re more likely to find charming guesthouses, family-run places, and maybe a few villas. The charm is in the simplicity. Expect ceiling fans, maybe a mosquito net (essential!), and wifi that disappears at the worst possible moment. But honestly? That's part of the appeal. It's about disconnecting and reconnecting. One time, I stayed in a place run by this amazing old woman who would bring me breakfast every morning. The food was fantastic, the conversations more so. The wifi was terrible, but who cares? The world felt a lot calmer then.
Food, Glorious Food! What can I expect (and where should I eat!)?
Oh, the food! Prepare yourselves to be obsessed. You have your options. Local shacks serve up authentic Goan fare, usually with a view that's priceless. Think fresh seafood, spicy curries, and the best vindaloo this side of… well, everywhere. I will shout it from a rooftop; The fish thali is a must. Don’t be afraid to try anything. Just remember, the spice level is often dialed up (prepare for some fiery tears!), so start slow. The real magic is in those unassuming little places. I found the *best* prawn curry at a place that looked like it was on the verge of falling apart. Seriously, it was the most incredible meal of my LIFE.
Is Martin's Crest Actually Kid-Friendly?
Hmm… it depends. There's no dedicated kids' club. There aren’t many "attractions" designed for children. But, honestly? It *can* be. If your kids are the adventurous type, who enjoy exploring, splashing in the pool (if your accommodation has one), and experiencing a slower pace of life? Absolutely! It’s a great place to just *be*. Just keep an eye out for the cliff edges (there are some gorgeous views… but a little dangerous!). And maybe pack some snacks.
What about nightlife? Am I in for a party?
Nope! Martin's Crest is not the place for wild parties. This isn't the rave scene. It's all about chilling out, enjoying the sunset, maybe a quiet dinner at a restaurant, and maybe a late-night chat with your travel buddies. It's about finding serenity . You'll find a few bars that serve drinks, but don't expect mega clubs with flashing lights. It’s more like a night under the stars, a bottle of wine, and some friendly conversation. (And, if you're lucky, maybe a bonfire!).
What should I pack? Beyond the obvious?
Okay, the basics: lightweight clothes, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent. But here’s some insider tips: a *good* book. A journal (you *will* want to write about this place). A universal adapter. And *most* importantly… an open mind. Be prepared to embrace the chaos, the imperfections, and the unexpected. You never know what kind of adventure will find you. I always pack a small first-aid kit, you know, just in case. And flip-flops. Lots and lots of flip-flops. A sarong is also great; good for the beach/pool and as a makeshift evening coverup. Oh, and if you're a coffee addict, bring your own instant coffee! You may be hard-pressed to find a decent latte.
The "Downsides" - Let's Get Real. What’s *not* perfect about Martin's Crest?
Alright, let's be honest. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The roads can be… challenging. You might lose the wifi. You might have a grumpy encounter or two (it happens!). Power cuts are a possibility (pack a portable charger!). There's the occasional rogue dog (they're usually friendly, but still). The local stores might not carry everything you're used to. And, let's face it, getting there from the airport can be a bit of a schlep. Also, you may have to learn to love the sound of roosters crowing at 4 am. (It's character-building). But honestly? For me, the good *far* outweighs the bad. Because… well, because.
Okay, I'm intrigued. When's the best time to visit?
