Goa's Hidden Gem: Aurum Resorts - Unbelievable Luxury Awaits!
Aurum Resorts: My Goa Getaway That Almost Broke Me (in the Best Way) - A Review That's Actually Useful
Okay, people. Let's be honest. Luxury hotels? They're everywhere these days. Promises of "unbelievable" this and "unrivalled" that. But Aurum Resorts in Goa? That's the real deal. Not just because of the ridiculously comfy beds (more on that later), but because of how they've nailed the whole experience, from the moment you arrive, to the moment you're regretting having to leave.
Accessibility: A Breath of Fresh Air
(Important Note for my fellow humans: This review is based on my experience, so check with the hotel directly about specific accessibility needs. But from what I saw…) Aurum actually cares about accessibility. Finding accessible hotels in Goa can be a nightmare, but Aurum seemed to have put a serious amount of thought into it. Elevators? Yep. Wide hallways? Check. I saw several families with kids in strollers moving around with ease. They have Facilities for disabled guests, and the staff seemed genuinely helpful. Finding a truly accessible hotel should be a priority.
First Impressions & Getting There (and the Slight Panic)
Getting to Aurum? Easy peasy. They have an Airport transfer, and honestly, after the chaos of Dabolim Airport, stepping into that air-conditioned car was like a mini-vacation in itself. Car park [free of charge] is a bonus (and necessary in Goa). Car park [on-site] which is quite nice for the city, they also offer Car power charging station. We were a group of four and it was smooth (thank god). The Contactless check-in/out, which is a sanity saver, made us feel safe.
The Room: Where Dreams Go to Literally Nap
Alright, let's talk about the rooms. Because honestly, I could've happily spent the entire trip just in my room. My room was divine. It felt like they’d thought of everything. Air conditioning? Obviously. Free Wi-Fi? Naturally, and it worked everywhere, not just in the lobby! So many hotels falsely advertise this feature. They are Air conditioning in public area. Blackout curtains? YES. Because sleep is sacred, and Aurum knows it. The Bed? Oh, the bed. I swear, I sunk into it like a fluffy, expensive cloud. Extra long bed? Check. I am 6'2", and I could stretch out and still have room. Bathroom phone? This is a nice touch. Bathrobes & Slippers? You bet. Coffee/tea maker and Complimentary tea too. Pure bliss. They also have a Bathroom phone. The In-room safe box, and the In-room safe box are great for a peace of mind. The Hair dryer, and Ironing facilities are a relief. They have On-demand movies so you can chillax. Mini bar is convenient. The Satellite/cable channels is a good touch. The bathroom had Separate shower/bathtub, and a Window that opens.
My only little gripe - I wished I’d had a better view! We got a partial sea view, which was fine, but the photos online made it look like you're practically in the ocean. Ah, well. Can't win 'em all!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Prepare to Gain a Few Pounds (Worth It)
Okay, this is where things get really interesting. Aurum isn't just a hotel; it's a culinary adventure. Prepare to loosen your belt.
- Restaurants: Seriously, they're everywhere. They have Restaurants and Coffee shop.
- The Food: Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant. A la carte in restaurant, Breakfast [buffet], Buffet in restaurant, Breakfast service, Bottle of water.
- Happy hour? Yes. Please.
- Poolside bar: Where you can sip cocktails in your swimwear.
- Snack bar: Perfect for those little cravings.
- Room service [24-hour]: Because comfort.
- Other: They offer Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant.
I'm not going to lie; I went a little crazy at the buffets. They have these amazing, tiny, perfectly-formed pastries. And their curries? To die for. They have Vegetarian restaurant. I loved the Daily disinfection in common areas, Individually-wrapped food options, and Safe dining setup - seeing their commitment to safety really put my mind at ease.
They also have Alternative meal arrangement, which is helpful for dietary restrictions. The Kitchen and tableware items are Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. The Staff trained in safety protocol gave me confidence. The Hand sanitizer were everywhere.
Things to Do (or Not To Do): Relaxation vs. Adventure
This is where Aurum truly shines. They perfectly balance the "do nothing" vibe with the "let's explore" energy.
- Ways to relax: Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Steamroom. Oh. My. God. The spa. I got a massage that left me feeling like a completely new human. Pure bliss. The Pool with view is awesome.
- Swimming pool: The sunbeds? Perfect for napping. They also have Swimming pool [outdoor].
- Gym/fitness: I intended to use the fitness center. I really did. But the lure of the bar was just too strong.
- For the kids: They have Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids meal. Great for families.
- Getting around: Taxi service** and Valet parking is amazing.
- Things to do: Bicycle parking.
Cleanliness and Safety: Seriously Impressed
I'm a bit of a germaphobe, to be honest. So, the fact that Aurum went above and beyond on cleanliness really impressed me.
- Anti-viral cleaning products? Check.
- Doctor/nurse on call? Yep, which is reassuring.
- First aid kit? Present and accounted for.
- Hygiene certification? Absolutely.
- Rooms sanitized between stays? Yes!
- Staff trained in safety protocol? You bet.
- Sterilizing equipment? They’ve got it.
They have Front desk [24-hour] and Security [24-hour] which is great.
Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Matter)
This is where Aurum just spoils you.
- Cash withdrawal? Easy.
- Concierge? Always helpful.
- Convenience store? For those emergency snacks.
- Currency exchange? Super convenient.
- Daily housekeeping? My room was spotless every day.
- Dry cleaning? Yes, and thankfully!
- Facilities for disabled guests? As mentioned, very good.
- Invoice provided? Easy peasy.
- Laundry service? A lifesaver.
- Luggage storage? Problem-free.
- Safety deposit boxes? Always use them!
- Wi-Fi for special events.
- Wi-Fi [free] throughout the resort! Which is awesome. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
- Air conditioning in public area
They also offer a Cashless payment service.
Internet: Speed and Reliability
Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Internet, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Honestly, the Wi-Fi was amazing. Seriously, you could post Instagram stories from the pool.
Rooms and Amenities Recap
- Available in all rooms: Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
The Bottom Line: Book It. Now.
Look, Aurum Resorts isn't just a hotel. It's an experience. It'
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Alright, buckle up buttercup, because this Aurum Resorts Goa itinerary is less "polished brochure" and more "slightly-sunburned, slightly-tipsy diary entry." Let’s dive in, shall we?
Aurum Resorts Goa: A Hot Mess of Relaxation (and Possibly Regret)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Pool Debacle
- 14:00: Touchdown! Goa, here I am! After a six-hour flight (made bearable by aggressive in-flight movie bingeing and questionable airplane snacks), I finally stumble out of the airport. The humidity slaps you in the face like a wet, warm towel. Lovely. The Aurum Resorts driver is waiting… he looks vaguely bored. I get it. Another tourist, another tip.
- 15:00: Check-in, Chaos, and a Questionable Welcome Drink. The lobby looks Instagram-worthy. Gleaming marble, airy spaces… then you actually try to check in. Suddenly, paperwork, slow Wi-Fi, and the faint scent of over-perfumed lilies. I'm handed a "welcome drink" - a lurid green concoction that tastes suspiciously like mouthwash and regret.
- 16:00: The Pool…and the Sunburn Saga. Okay, the pool is gorgeous. Infinity edge, overlooking the beach… I confidently slather on what I thought was sunscreen (turns out, it expired in 2020). Two hours later? Lobster. Absolute lobster. I now resemble a particularly angry tomato. Also, there was a minor incident involving a rogue inflatable flamingo and my dignity. Don't ask.
- 19:00: Dinner at the Resort Restaurant…or Avoid the Carbonara. The restaurant has potential, but the carbonara… oh, the carbonara. It was a crime against pasta. Bland, gluey, and deeply disappointing. The Goan fish curry, however? Divine. Spicy, fragrant, and worth the risk. I devoured it while plotting my escape from the carbonara.
- 21:00: Unwinding (or Trying To). I'm currently in my room, nursing my sunburn with aloe vera, listening to the waves, and fighting the urge to order room service for the sole reason of avoiding that carbonara again. This is Goa. This is supposed to be paradise. Right now it feels like I am in an oven.
Day 2: Beach Bliss (with a side of Sand in Everything)
- 09:00: Breakfast…and the Case of the Vanishing Coffee. Surprisingly decent breakfast buffet. The coffee, however? Weak. Watery. Disappointing. I’m not a morning person, and a good coffee is essential, apparently. I ended up hunting down a proper coffee at a nearby shack.
- 10:30: Beach Time! (Finally!) I managed to survive a night of sunburn. Armed with fresh sunscreen and a healthy dose of skepticism, I hit the beach. The sand is the whitest, finest sand I've ever had the pleasure of ignoring. The water is warm, the waves are gentle… pure bliss. And a constant stream of vendors trying to sell me things. I mean, I'm not mad, I just want to relax.
- 12:00: The Jet Ski Fiasco. I thought, "Hey, I'm on vacation. Time for adventure!" I ended up on a jet ski, careening around the ocean like a confused, slightly panicky seal. I nearly capsized. I screamed. I may have accidentally mooned a group of nuns on the shore. I'll never live it down.
- 13:00: Beach Shack Lunch and the Best Fried Prawns Ever. Found a little shack on the beach, tiny little place with tables right on the sand. Ordered fried prawns. No words can adequately describe the sheer, unadulterated joy of those prawns. Crispy, perfectly seasoned, and accompanied by a cold Kingfisher beer. Life doesn't get much better than that.
- 16:00: Trying to "Relax" (but failing, in style). Spent the afternoon attempting to relax on a sun lounger, which mostly involved battling the wind, dodging beach volleyballs, and contemplating the meaning of life. I ended up falling asleep and waking up with sand in places I didn't know sand could be.
- 19:00: Sunset Drinks and the Ongoing Quest for a Decent Cocktail. Sunset is, as expected, gorgeous. But the cocktail? Still searching for a good one. Drinks are a bit hit-and-miss. But I am having a fun time, I cannot deny that.
- 21:00: Late night dinner, a delicious seafood platter, and a chat with a local. It was great to relax and chat with a local, and learn about the culture. It's so much better than the carbonara.
Day 3: Exploring and the Spice Route Adventure:
- 08:00: Wake up and a new day. I've decided that I need an adventure, that the hotel wasn't enough. I started looking for something more fun.
- 10:00: A drive to a spice farm. The drive was good, and the scenery was great.
- 11:00: It was a great experience, walking through spice gardens. The guide was great, and it was worth the trip. I really loved it.
- 13:00: Lunch Time. Back at Aurum Resort, and I'm looking forward to it.
- 16:00: I'm at the pool again. The sun, the beautiful weather, what's not to love?
- 19:00: Dinner at the resort. I don't think I will order the carbonara.
- 21:00: Goodnight. I think I am starting to get used to the sun.
Day 4: Back Home
- 09:00: Breakfast A final attempt at the buffet, and a final attempt at the coffee.
- 10:00: One last swim
- 13:00: Check Out
- 14:00: Airport
- 18:00: Safe
Final Thoughts:
Goa is…an experience. Chaotic, beautiful, frustrating, and utterly captivating. Aurum Resorts is…fine. Comfortable, but not flawless, in its own way.
I’m leaving slightly sunburned, slightly broke, and with several new stories to tell. Would I do it again? Absolutely. Just…maybe I’ll bring my own sunscreen next time. And steer clear of the carbonara.
And that, my friends, is the truth.
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Aurum Resorts: Your Goa Dream...or Is It? A Totally Unfiltered FAQ
Okay, lay it on me straight: Is Aurum Resorts *really* as ridiculously luxurious as the pictures make out?
Alright, buckle up. Here's the truth bomb. YES. But picture this: you're scrolling through Instagram, drooling over infinity pools. Aurum? It's *that*, amplified. My first thought upon entering my suite? "Did I accidentally book a movie set?" No joke, the marble practically gleamed in the Goan sun. I almost tripped over my own jaw. The staff? They're ridiculously attentive, like they've predicted your every whim before you even *think* about it. Seriously, one time, I casually mentioned to a waiter I was craving a mango smoothie. Boom - five minutes later, a freakin' smoothie appeared, complete with a tiny umbrella. It was simultaneously amazing and slightly unsettling. Like, are they spying on me? But honestly, who cares when the smoothie is that good, right?
What about the location? Is it actually "hidden" or just another tourist trap pretending to be off the beaten path?
Okay, this is where things get a little... complicated. "Hidden gem" is a bit of a stretch. Let's be real, Goa's got no real *secrets* anymore, right? Aurum's tucked away enough that you won't be bombarded with the usual beach bum chaos (thank god). It's more "tastefully secluded," think luxury, but with a smidge of privacy. You *can* escape the crowds, but if you're expecting to be the only people on the planet... well, good luck with that. There were some tourists, but they were the kind who actually appreciate the finer things – not the boisterous beer-soaked types (thank *god!*).
Let's talk food. Is the dining experience as divine as the decor? Because honestly, sometimes luxury hotels can be all looks and mediocre food.
Okay, food. Crucial. Listen, I've eaten some truly awful hotel food in my time, stuff that made me question humanity. Aurum? Holy mother of gastronomy, it was a revelation! First off, the breakfast buffet? Forget every other breakfast buffet you've ever seen. This thing had everything. And I mean EVERYTHING. Fresh fruit that actually tasted like something, pastries that melted in your mouth, eggs cooked to perfection... I could write a whole novella about the breakfast alone (and I kind of want to).
And the dinner? Oh. My. GAWD. One night, I had this seafood platter. I’m not even a huge seafood person, really. But this… this was an *experience*. Lobster, prawns, the works, all cooked with this incredible blend of flavors that just exploded in my mouth. I actually gasped. Seriously. I'm not exaggerating. I might have embarrassed myself a little with the sheer joy I took from it. I devoured it with such enthusiasm the waiter actually gave me a knowing smile. Worth. Every. Penny. (Okay, maybe I spent a little too much on that meal… but *worth it*.)
The one small imperfection? The poolside snacks could've been a tad better. Nothing major, they were fine, but not quite up to par with the rest. But honestly? I was willing to forgive them anything by that point.
Is it kid-friendly? I'm traveling with a small human, and the thought of a screaming toddler disrupting the tranquility makes me shudder.
Here's the tricky part. Technically, yes. They have kids' activities, a kids' pool... But… I wouldn’t necessarily *recommend* it as the ultimate kid-friendly destination. It’s more geared towards adults who need serious R&R. The vibe is definitely quiet luxury, and sometimes, little people and quiet luxury don’t mix well. I saw a few families, and bless their hearts, the parents looked *exhausted*. If your kid is a total angel and loves being quiet, then go for it! But honestly, if I were traveling with a small human, I'd probably pick somewhere a little less… pristine. Unless you’re prepared for some side-eye (and maybe a few complaints at the pool).
Give me the honest pros and cons! Don't sugarcoat it.
Alright, so here's the REAL deal:
**Pros:**
- Unbelievable luxury. Seriously, prepare to be spoiled rotten.
- The Food: Divine. The food is honestly worth the price of admission.
- Service: Impeccable and discreet.
- Location: Close enough to things, but far enough for peace.
- The pool...oh, the pool. Pure bliss.
**Cons:**
- Price: Let's be real, it's not cheap. You'll need to save up. Probably best to start now.
- Hidden gem? More like, slightly-less-touristy gem.
- Not ideal for super-active kids. Though you can probably survive it if you are ready for a lot of work.
- The fear of accidentally touching something expensive and damaging the pristine decor. I was constantly terrified.
What's one thing you'll never forget about your stay?
Okay, this is a tough one. Because there were *so* many moments. But… I think it was actually the sunset. Not the hotel's fault, obviously, it was just… perfect. I was lounging by the infinity pool, cocktail in hand, the sky was ablaze with colour, and for a split second, I forgot all my worries. I literally felt like I was living in a movie. And for that brief, glorious moment, it was absolutely worth every penny and every slightly uncomfortable moment of feeling out of place. Truly unforgettable.
Would you go back?
Ugh, YES. Absolutely. I'm already dreaming of going back. Probably won't be anytime soon, because, you know, the whole saving-money thing. But I’m secretly checking prices daily. It was a truly special experience, the kind that stays with you. So, yeah, if you can swing it? Do it. Just promise me you'll order the seafood platter. And tell me what you think!
