There is a certain enchantment that settles over Goa as the festive season approaches. A subtle shimmer in the air and a feeling that joy is not an addition to the landscape, but part of its very essence. Across North Goa, this spirit finds its most evocative expression at two distinctive IHCL SeleQtions addresses: the contemporary, sun-soaked calm of La Estoria IHCL SeleQtions and the heritage-wrapped warmth of The Yellow House IHCL SeleQtions. Though different in character, both become luminous canvases for celebration elegant and undeniably Goan.
At La Estoria, festivities unfold with modern elegance. The property is all clean lines and warm, natural light that exudes a serene sophistication that feels refreshing in a season often defined by excess. Reimagined and mindful sensory experience that is intentional and uplifting. As you walk through its contemporary spaces, the ambience feels like an invitation of relaxed indulgence.
By evening, La Estoria transforms into something even more magical, especially around its poolside restaurant, Tropics. This breezy, chic alfresco space becomes the epicentre of the hotel’s festive charm.
Lanterns cast soft glints across the water, fairy lights shimmer against the night sky, and the air carries subtle notes of citrus, spice, and tropical warmth.
Tropics is where pleasant evenings stretch beautifully and the handcrafted beverages meet the glow of candlelit tables. The rhythm of live music blends seamlessly with slow, joyful conversations. It feels unpretentiously glamorous where the holidays unfold with relaxed sophistication.
This year, La Estoria elevates the season further with its elevated Christmas Eve Dinner menu at Trattoria during the festive period. A specially curated culinary experience designed for those who appreciate refinement in every detail. The menu reads like a celebration in courses: festive flavours reimagined with contemporary artistry, plated with precision and infused with comforting warmth. Each dish feels indulgent without overwhelming, the kind of dinner that becomes the centrepiece of a holiday evening, leaving guests wrapped in the glow of flavour, company and anticipation.
Just a short drive away, the festive season takes on a more nostalgic rhythm at The Yellow House IHCL SeleQtions — a century-old sunshine white manor bathed in bougainvillea, memory and unmistakable Goan heritage. The home seems to come alive at this time of year, as if the festive warmth gently awakens stories hidden within its walls. And here, the most magical moment of the day arrives at twilight.
The Yellow House is renowned for its sunset high tea, a ritual that captures the poetry of Goan
evenings. As the sky melts into shades of rose-gold and tangerine, the courtyard becomes a tableau of soft light and quiet beauty. Elegant teas, traditional Goan delicacies and delicate sweets are laid out with thoughtful charm.
The air fills with a comforting blend of aromas warm spices and freshly baked treats. Guests sip, savour, and slow down as the sun sets behind the heritage façade, casting a gentle glow over every corner. It is intimate, nostalgic and effortlessly bespoke.
Together, La Estoria IHCL SeleQtions and The Yellow House IHCL SeleQtions offer two exquisite interpretations of Goa’s festive magic. One dazzles with contemporary poise, the other glows with heritage soul — yet both are bound by IHCL SeleQtions hallmark sincerity, warmth, and instinctive hospitality.
This season, they invite you not merely to celebrate, but to feel — to savour evenings by the pool, to embrace sunsets over tea, to linger over festive meals, and to experience the luxury of being fully present in moments crafted to become memories.
